Heavy rain and severe gales forecast for South Island
MetService has issued multiple orange heavy rain and strong wind warnings for parts of the South Island. An active front is expected to bring severe northwest gales and significant rainfall, including up to 200 millimetres in the Westland Ranges starting Monday morning.
+15 outlets · One dead and five injured in Waikato two-vehicle crash
One person died and five others were injured following a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Monckton and Arapuni roads in Parawera on Sunday night. Emergency services were called to the scene around 8:40pm, and Arapuni Road remains closed while police investigate the crash.
3 outlets · Air New Zealand short-haul cabin crew cancel Christmas strike
More than 400 Air New Zealand staff have withdrawn their strike notice originally planned for 18 December. The short-haul cabin crew, who work domestic, Tasman and Pacific routes, reached an agreement in principle with the airline. This avoids potential disruptions during the Christmas period.
3 outlets · One person dies in single-vehicle crash in Mataura
A person died at the scene following a single-vehicle crash on Oakland Street in Mataura on Saturday night. Police were called to the incident around 10.05pm. The Serious Crash Unit has examined the scene, and the death will be referred to the coroner.
3 outlets · Homicide investigation launched after man found dead in Tauranga
Police have launched a homicide investigation after a man was found dead at a Fraser St address in Parkvale on Sunday. Emergency services were called to the scene around 11.40am. One person is currently assisting police with inquiries while a scene examination is conducted.
3 outlets · Teenager found after escaping youth justice facility near Christchurch
A teenager who fled the Te Puna Wai o Tuhinapo facility in Rolleston on Saturday morning has been located. Police used an Eagle helicopter to find the boy at 4.15am today. Oranga Tamariki has confirmed that he is back in custody.
+15 outlets · Temporary fireworks bans issued for parts of South Canterbury
Fire and Emergency New Zealand has implemented temporary fireworks bans in the Mackenzie Basin and around Lake Clearwater. Starting Monday, 15 December, the restrictions aim to reduce wildfire risks during the summer. Officials noted the dry and windy climate makes these areas particularly vulnerable to fire hazards.
3 outlets · Chris Hipkins promises a different Labour Party for 2026
Labour leader Chris Hipkins says the party will look different in the 2026 election compared to 2023. Following the end of Labour's six years in government, Hipkins stated that different national challenges require different solutions.
3 outlets · Man arrested after allegedly ramming police car in Christchurch
A 37-year-old man has been arrested after allegedly driving dangerously and ramming a police vehicle in Bromley. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon. Police are considering a range of charges, and the man is expected to appear in court.
2 outlets · Sex offender handed five-year supervision order by High Court
The High Court in Wellington has issued a five-year supervision order for Nathaniel James Mahoney. Mahoney previously received a 10-year prison sentence following convictions for sexual and physical violence. One of his victims was raped after meeting him at a pop culture convention.
2 outlets · Firefighters tackle large vegetation fire in Whanganui District
Fourteen fire crews and four helicopters were deployed to combat a large forestry blaze near Parikino on Sunday evening. The fire occurred in an area of vegetation along SH4. Emergency services have advised motorists to make way for responders in the area.
2 outlets · Newcastle Jets defeat Wellington Phoenix in A-League Men match
The Newcastle Jets secured a 3-1 victory against the Wellington Phoenix at Sky Stadium on Sunday. Three goals scored within eight minutes during the second half helped the Jets move from last to eighth place on the league table. Ifeanyi Eze scored a late goal for the Phoenix.
2 outlets · Annual Geminids meteor shower to be visible in New Zealand
The annual Geminids meteor shower will be visible across New Zealand skies starting Sunday night. The best time to view the display is between 2am and sunrise on Monday morning. This meteor shower originates from debris left by the 3200 Phaethon asteroid.
3 outlets · Experts urge compromise as Family Court orders impact Christmas
Experts are calling for compromise as Family Court orders affect how children spend the holiday season. Some children are required to follow strict alternating schedules, such as staying with a parent for four-week periods, rather than following family traditions.
3 outlets · Thousands attend Avatar 3 premiere in Wellington
Thousands of people gathered on Courtenay Place for the Australasian premiere of Avatar: Fire and Ash at the Embassy Theatre. Cast members including Sam Worthington and Cliff Curtis walked the red carpet alongside director James Cameron. The production involved a peak crew of 1,600 people over three years.
4 outlets · Four people injured in Taranaki car crash
Four people were injured in a single-vehicle crash on South Road near Ōkato on Saturday night. One person sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to Taranaki Base Hospital, while others were taken to the hospital in moderate condition.
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