National proposes lower student loan repayments for graduates staying in New Zealand
The National Party plans to reduce compulsory student loan repayment rates from 12 to 10 cents for every dollar earned above the threshold from April 2027. This policy aims to reward those staying in the country while introducing tougher penalties for graduates who move overseas to avoid debt repayment.
4 outlets · Patients face 24-hour waits at Wellington Hospital emergency department
Patients at Wellington Hospital's emergency department have faced wait times exceeding 24 hours this month. One patient reportedly fell and hit his head while waiting 12 hours to be seen. Health Minister Simeon Brown has described the current situation as unacceptable.
4 outlets · Person dies after car and e-motorcycle collision in Flat Bush
A person has died following a collision between a car and an e-motorcycle on Eros Road in East Auckland. Police were alerted to the crash around 1.30pm on Sunday. Initial reports indicated critical injuries before the fatality was confirmed.
3 outlets · State highway 58 closed in Waitaki following fatal single-vehicle crash
State Highway 58 has been closed near Happy Valley Creek Bridge in Waihemo following a single-vehicle crash on Sunday morning. Police were called to the scene around 8.10am, where one person was found deceased. Motorists are advised to use alternative routes and expect delays while a serious crash unit examines the scene.
3 outlets · Three players win Lotto First Division as Powerball rolls over
Three players won $333,333 each in Saturday's Lotto First Division draw, with winning tickets sold in Auckland and via MyLotto to players in Auckland and Invercargill. Another three players won $333,333 each via Strike Four. The Powerball jackpot has rolled over to $25 million.
3 outlets · Fire damages two properties in Ōtaki
A large fire in Ōtaki damaged a house and spread to a neighbouring property on Sunday evening. Fire and Emergency New Zealand crews responded to the blaze, which was escalated to a second alarm before being extinguished.
2 outlets · Bright green fireball seen across North Island sky
A bright green meteor was observed streaking across the North Island sky. Sightings were reported from Waikato and Bay of Plenty to Waikanae, with footage captured by the Tauranga Astronomical Society. Fireballs Aotearoa suggests the object likely landed in the sea.
2 outlets · Severe gales and snow forecast for parts of New Zealand
A strong westerly weather system is bringing severe gales to the Tararua District and Hawke’s Bay south of Hastings from Sunday evening. Meanwhile, snow is expected on several South Island alpine roads and at unusually low levels in Otago and Southland.
3 outlets · ACT proposes new fishing policies and stricter penalties for election campaign
The ACT Party has released an election policy aimed at preventing marine life overharvesting. The plan includes introducing heavier fines for rule breaches, setting new shellfish limits, and permanently banning scallop dredging. Additionally, the party proposes establishing a new fisheries management area in the Hauraki Gulf.
2 outlets · Franz Josef faces similar flood hazards to Nepal disaster
Researchers warn that Franz Josef faces risks from landslide-dam floods similar to the recent disaster on the Nepal-Tibet border. In Auckland, people held a candlelight vigil to honour victims of the Nepal floods, where five New Zealanders are believed to be missing.
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