Wellington City councillor Tony Randle dies unexpectedly
Wellington City councillor Tony Randle has died unexpectedly over the weekend. Representing the Takapū/Northern Ward, the 65-year-old was known for his focus on public transport and evidence-based decision-making. Politicians have begun paying tribute to the councillor.
Hato Hone St John activates major incident response after record call volume
Hato Hone St John activated its Emergency Operations Centre after receiving a record 2,562 emergency calls on Saturday. This follows a week of sustained high demand, with the daily record being broken three times. Te Whatu Ora stated there was no immediate evidence that emergency departments have been affected.
Greens propose $2.44 billion trust to fund marae
The Green Party has proposed establishing a $2.44 billion permanent trust to support marae. Co-leader Marama Davidson stated the fund would provide certainty for these critical infrastructure sites. The proposed Te Waonui a Tāne policy would involve a trust governed by hapū and iwi.
National announces three budget responsibility rules for re-election pitch
The National Party has unveiled three fiscal rules aimed at reducing debt and controlling government spending. Finance spokesperson Nicola Willis stated the policies would target a return to surplus by 2028/29 and aim to lower debt to below 40% of GDP.
One person in critical condition after alleged Auckland CBD stabbing
Police were called to Karangahape Road near Pitt Street at approximately 4.20am. One person was taken to Auckland City Hospital with critical injuries. Two people are currently in police custody following the incident.
Heavy rain warning issued for eastern Bay of Plenty
An orange heavy rain warning is in place for the eastern Bay of Plenty from Sunday afternoon. MetService forecasts up to 90mm of rainfall, which may bring flooding risks. While much of the country faces overcast conditions, a weather front is expected to bring warmer air to New Zealand.
Police appeal to find missing 59-year-old woman from Whanganui
Police are seeking public assistance to locate Sharon, a 59-year-old woman reported missing from Whanganui. She was last seen around 11am on Monday, 27 July, near Kent Road in Saint Johns Hill.
Two arrested after multi-town pursuit in central North Island
Two people are in custody following a 2.5-hour police pursuit across the central North Island. The fleeing vehicle allegedly evaded road spikes and crashed into two vehicles, including a police car, before hitting a fence near Palmerston North.
Major earthquake could strand most Wellington commuters
A University of Auckland study suggests a magnitude 7.5 earthquake on the Wellington Fault could immediately strand 90 per cent of local commuters. Simulations indicate that parts of the capital's road network could remain cut off for several months following the event.
Water tankers and toilets deployed in Ohakune after pipe damage
A major underground water pipeline in Ohakune was damaged by a magnitude 5.9 earthquake near Taumarunui. Ruapehu District Council has provided water tankers and portable toilets while asking residents to conserve water. Supplies may not be restored and potable until Monday evening.
Napier player wins $1m Lotto jackpot as Powerball rolls over
A MyLotto player from Napier won $1 million in Saturday night's Lotto First Division draw. While one person claimed the top Lotto prize, the Powerball jackpot was not won and has rolled over to $10 million.
West Auckland community mourns death of businessman Rob Teina
Rob Teina, a 40-year-old businessman and West Auckland sports supporter, has died following a heart attack. The Supreme Plumbing owner and jiu jitsu fighter was a local community stalwart. A Givealittle page established to assist his family has raised more than $78,000.
Christchurch red zone campers told to relocate by February 2027
Up to 60 people living in a makeshift camp on Christchurch's red-zoned land must move by February 2027. The city council is clearing the area to develop a wetland, coastal forest, and stormwater channel. Some residents, including pensioners and families, have expressed concerns about where they will go.








