Wednesday 23 September 2026
54 stories first reported this day, covered by two or more outlets
Former All Blacks captain Scott Barrett to make rugby return with Taranaki in NPC
A back injury following a non-playing sabbatical has prevented Scott Barrett from taking the field since a test match against Wales last November.
4 outlets · Search continues for woman missing near Coronet Peak
Brazilian national Erika Rodrigues Coelho, 47, was last seen on September 18.
+15 outlets · Body found in Waikato River following search for missing man
Police have recovered the body of a man from the Waikato River in Hamilton. The man was reported missing around 1.30am Wednesday near Swarbrick Landing, where his clothes and mobile phone were found. Search efforts involved boats, a helicopter, and drones.
4 outlets · Thirty-four arrested during nationwide drug raids and seizures
Police and Customs conducted 85 raids across New Zealand as part of a coordinated operation with Australian authorities. The week-long crackdown targeted organised crime groups, resulting in 34 arrests and the seizure of thousands of cannabis plants, over 250kg of cannabis, methamphetamine, ephedrine, and four guns.
4 outlets · Homicide investigation launched after child dies in Otautau
A young child who sustained critical injuries at a Southland property on Sunday has died. Police are treating the incident as a homicide investigation. Two teenagers previously charged are expected to face further charges.
4 outlets · Police appeal for information on missing 21-year-old Christchurch man
Police and family are concerned for the welfare of Braydon Hepworth, who has not been seen or heard from since 14 September. The 21-year-old was last seen on England Street in Linwood. Authorities are now appealing for any information regarding his whereabouts.
3 outlets · MBIE confirms $50.7 million wasted on abandoned biometric project
MBIE chief executive Nic Blakely told a select committee that an abandoned Immigration New Zealand biometric project has cost taxpayers $50.7 million. Blakely could not guarantee that these costs would not increase further as the ministry reviews its financial controls.
+26 outlets · WNBA players to join Tokomanawa Queens in 2026
Hailey Van Lith and Charlisse Leger-Walker will play for the Tokomanawa Queens in the 2026 Tauihi Basketball Aotearoa season. Both players currently play for the Connecticut Sun and will join the team following their WNBA commitments.
4 outlets · Teen charged after assault leaves two injured in Clendon Park
A 17-year-old has been charged following an assault in Clendon Park on Wednesday night. Police were called to Kopu Place where two people were injured, with one victim reported to be in critical condition.
3 outlets · Three plans and a $66 million problem: Inside NZ Rugby’s fight to save the game
There may be no desk thumping or finger pointing when key stakeholders attend NZ Rugby's important "Rugby Summit'' in Wellington on Thursday, but no-one should be fooled.
3 outlets · MPs engage in heated final debate before election campaign
Members of Parliament held their final debate on Wednesday afternoon to mark the end of the 54th Parliament. The session featured clashes between party leaders and insults exchanged between MPs. National leader Christopher Luxon opened the debate as politicians prepare for the upcoming election campaign.
3 outlets · Christchurch City Council approves $1.2m for Orana Wildlife Park
The Christchurch City Council voted 13-3 to provide $1.2 million to Orana Wildlife Park during the second half of this financial year. The park previously warned it could run out of cash by March. Councillors have called on the Selwyn and Waimakariri councils to contribute to the funding.
3 outlets · Police seek three men after unprovoked assault on teenager
A 16-year-old boy was punched without warning while waiting for a bus on Swanson Road in Henderson. The assault caused the teenager to stumble into the road and resulted in facial injuries. Police have released footage and are seeking information regarding three people involved.
3 outlets · Black Caps name 16-man squad for T20I series against India
Mitchell Santner will captain a 16-player squad for the five-game T20I series against India starting next month. The team includes openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert, but Rachin Ravindra is unavailable after dislocating his shoulder. Ravindra is expected to be out of action for at least six weeks.
3 outlets · McLaren family petrol station inspires new McLaren Racing logo
The garage is where Bruce McLaren built the car behind his first racing win.
2 outlets · Man linked to US investigation lived in Timaru under stolen identity
Raymond Horsch, who is being investigated by the FBI regarding a Philadelphia property linked to the disappearance of at least seven women, lived near Timaru during the 1980s. Reports indicate he used a stolen identity while residing in South Canterbury.
3 outlets · New CCTV cameras installed in Waikato District hotspots
Fifteen new CCTV cameras have been activated in areas known for vandalism and boy racing across the Waikato District. Waikato police are already using the footage to assist with investigations. The council has indicated that more cameras may be installed if funding becomes available.
3 outlets · South Island motorists urged to take extreme care after overnight snow
A southwesterly flow has brought snow to alpine passes and a funnel cloud to southern Taranaki. State Highway 73 between Springfield and Arthurs Pass Village was closed overnight due to the snowfall. Drivers are being urged to take extreme care on South Island roads.
2 outlets · 'I'm going to have your job b......' - the messages which ended a tenancy
A Kāinga Ora tenant blamed alcohol and frustration for a string of abusive late-night texts targeting housing staff. After previous warnings failed to stop the behaviour, the Tenancy Tribunal has now terminated his tenancy.
2 outlets · Sand and sediment return to Whanganui household taps
Approximately 20 households in the Castlecliff suburb are experiencing sand and sediment in their water supplies. The Whanganui District Council stated the issue occurred when a new water main was commissioned. Despite previous flushing efforts, complaints spiked on Wednesday morning, though officials maintain the water remains safe.
2 outlets · Nine injured in two-car collision in Hamilton
Nine people were injured, including four seriously, in a two-car crash at the intersection of Norton Road and Mill Street. Emergency services were called to the scene around 8.35pm on Wednesday, with six people taken to Waikato Hospital.
2 outlets · Labour would ditch Peters’ realpolitik for ‘moral clarity’
The incumbent foreign minister Winston Peters – and Labour's Vanushi Walters, the woman who could succeed him – differ on how to respond to geopolitical instability
2 outlets · Auckland teenager sentenced for Coromandel smash-and-grab spree
Eighteen-year-old Eli Tinirau faced charges in Hamilton District Court for a series of burglaries and reckless driving in Whangamatā. The spree involved seven businesses and a high-speed police pursuit. Judge Tini Clark did not sentence the teen to jail, accepting he was in crisis mode at the time.
2 outlets · Curb your enthusiasm: What to expect at the Trump-Xi Summit in Washington
OPINION: This week’s summit will mostly be about each leader demonstrating they’re managing their largest rival and are in control of what comes next.
2 outlets · Adam Pompey to move to Australia after Warriors departure
Warriors centre Adam Pompey has been granted an immediate release from the final year of his contract. The 28-year-old will move to Australia to pursue NRL opportunities after making 136 appearances for the club over eight seasons. His new team has not yet been confirmed.
2 outlets · Steven Adams aims for impact after injury rehabilitation
The 33-year-old New Zealander has completed a long rehabilitation process following several seasons of knee and ankle injuries. Adams spoke during media day for the Houston Rockets about his recovery and expressed readiness for the upcoming NBA season.
2 outlets · Canterbury commuters gain access to new Motu Move payment system
Canterbury bus passengers can now purchase Motu Move cards, marking the latest stage of a national public transport payment rollout. The system will eventually allow consistent payment methods across New Zealand. Transport Minister Chris Bishop defended the project despite previous delays to the $1.4bn initiative.
2 outlets · Man arrested after alleged carjackings and stolen vehicle crash in Auckland
A man is in custody following the theft of a vehicle from Manurewa on Tuesday afternoon. Police say the driver crashed the stolen car and allegedly attempted to carjack multiple vehicles waiting at traffic lights before being apprehended near Ormiston Road.
2 outlets · Two people in critical condition after Rānui incident
Two people were taken to hospital in critical condition following a suspected medical event in West Auckland. Emergency services were called to the intersection of Bahari Drive and Swanson Road in Rānui on Wednesday afternoon.
2 outlets · Napier City Council proposes $20m sale of Kennedy Park Resort
The Napier City Council plans to sell the struggling Kennedy Park Resort to an Australian-owned company for approximately $20 million. Under the proposal, Hampshire (NZ) would acquire the resort's assets and operations, while the land would be leased for up to 30 years.
2 outlets · Auckland households and businesses to receive Entrust dividend
More than 374,000 eligible customers in central, east, and south Auckland will receive a $377 payment from Entrust. The annual windfall is expected to be distributed within the next 24 hours.
2 outlets · Tararua residents call for locally owned health clinic
Following the resignation of six staff members from the Pahīatua Medical Centre, community members are advocating for a locally controlled clinic. The resignations occurred during a meeting with Omnihealth management after nurses expressed concerns regarding stress and understaffing.
1 outlet · Man charged with perverting course of justice in Auckland murder case
A 32-year-old man has been charged with attempting to pervert the course of justice regarding a homicide investigation in Auckland. He faces three charges, though interim suppression orders prevent his name and occupation from being released.
2 outlets · Williams Corporation abandons student housing project in Christchurch
Housing developer Williams Corporation has scrapped plans for a student accommodation complex near the University of Canterbury. The project, located on Kirkwood Avenue, faced resistance from Christchurch International Airport. The development was intended to provide dwellings for university students and staff.
2 outlets · ACT and NZ First urge delay on LNG terminal contract
ACT leader David Seymour and NZ First leader Winston Peters have advised against signing a contract for a liquefied natural gas terminal before the upcoming election. Cabinet reportedly decided not to make a decision on the project today, with Seymour stating the Government should keep its options open to secure the best deal.
2 outlets · Vehicle fire in Gulf Harbour tunnel causes smoke plumes
A car caught fire after becoming stuck in a golf course tunnel under Gulf Harbour Drive on Wednesday afternoon. Emergency services responded to the scene near Maylee Crescent, where the fire was quickly controlled. Police reported no injuries and stated the incident was not suspicious.
2 outlets · Basin Reserve honours Luke Woodcock with new viewing room
Former Black Cap and Wellington cricket legend Luke Woodcock was celebrated at the official opening of a viewing room named in his honour at the Basin Reserve. Woodcock is currently undergoing treatment following surgery to remove a brain tumour in February.
2 outlets · Thousands treated in Christchurch Hospital emergency department corridors
More than 14,500 patients were treated in the corridors of Christchurch Hospital's emergency department during the 2025-26 period. This figure is more than triple the amount recorded three years ago. Health NZ reports that the hospital is facing some of its highest demand levels in recent years.
2 outlets · Tasman Council issues battery disposal warning after recovery centre fire
Tasman District Council has reminded residents to use designated bins for lithium batteries following a fire at the Richmond Resource Recovery Centre. The blaze caused debris to fly, prompting the council to warn that these batteries can ignite if crushed or punctured.
2 outlets · Te Pāti Māori proposes $200m fund for Takatāpui commission
Te Pāti Māori has announced plans to establish a Takatāpui commission to support rainbow community health and housing needs. The proposed initiative would involve significant investment to fund charities addressing mental health and education issues.
2 outlets · Privileges Committee declines to investigate Fire and Emergency report leak
Parliament's Privileges Committee has decided not to investigate the source of a leaked Fire and Emergency report published by The Post. The committee stated that a full inquiry would not be a productive use of time because many people had access to the document. No members or staff responded to requests to identify the leaker.
2 outlets · Police return to Christchurch red zone searching for Rowena Walker
Police have launched a search in the Christchurch red zone as part of a routine inquiry into missing woman Rowena Walker. Detective Senior Sergeant Jo Carolan stated that the public may notice an increased police presence in the area on Wednesday.
2 outlets · Person seriously injured in Opotiki vehicle and pedestrian crash
A pedestrian was seriously injured after being struck by a car on St John Street in Opotiki on Wednesday. Police attended the scene near the Duke Street intersection shortly before 12.45pm. Motorists were advised to avoid the area due to traffic delays.
2 outlets · Four charged after elderly man and dog injured in Kaikohe burglary
Three men and a 17-year-old face charges including aggravated burglary following a violent break-in on Cottage Court on September 13. The incident left an elderly man and a dog with serious injuries. Police say the suspects were charged after an investigation into the residential burglary.
2 outlets · Father jailed for involvement in multimillion-dollar drug enterprise
Lawrence Mervyn Olliver has been sentenced to six years and six months in prison at the Christchurch High Court. He completed 18 drug runs, transporting cocaine or methamphetamine between the North and South islands for a Comanchero operation involving his son.
3 outlets · New Zealand Post chief executive David Walsh announces resignation
David Walsh will step down as New Zealand Post chief executive in the first half of 2027. Having led the state-owned service for nearly a decade, Walsh stated he is leaving the company in a strong position. The board intends to begin a formal search for a successor shortly.
2 outlets · Agencies ordered to improve security after major health data breach
The Privacy Commissioner has issued compliance notices to Health NZ and Manage My Health following a cyberattack that exposed the data of 99,416 people. The breach, which occurred in December, affected many individuals in Northland. Both organisations have until next year to strengthen their protections for sensitive patient information.
2 outlets · Dunedin and Waitaki named among world's best places to visit
Dunedin and Waitaki have been included in Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2027 list. The guide highlighted the region's unique attractions, wildlife, and geological features as reasons for tourists to visit.
2 outlets · Taupō landfill set for $4.7 million upgrade to reduce waste
The Broadlands Resource Recovery Centre will undergo a $4.7 million upgrade to help decrease the amount of rubbish sent to the Tauhara Maunga landfill. The council says these changes could reduce landfill waste by up to 8,000 tonnes annually. The project comes as the current resource consent for the site nears expiry.
2 outlets · Three people charged for allegedly posing as detectives in Bay of Plenty
Three people face kidnapping charges after allegedly pretending to be police officers on 13 September. The group reportedly used a retired police vehicle fitted with unofficial lights to detain two youths in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. Police say the individuals involved were impostors.
2 outlets · One person dead after two-vehicle crash on State Highway 10
One person died following a two-vehicle collision in Totara North on Wednesday morning. The crash occurred on State Highway 10 around 7.30am, causing the road to close between Otangaroa Road and Taratara Road. Police have advised motorists to avoid the area due to delays.
2 outlets · Health Minister releases results of health targets
Health Minister Simeon Brown has released the results of recent health targets. While acknowledging significant pressure on the system, Brown stated that health targets are moving in the right direction.
2 outlets · Breakers lose to Brisbane Bullets after leading in ANBL match
The New Zealand Breakers suffered their first defeat of the NBL season, losing 88-85 to the Brisbane Bullets in Brisbane. Despite holding an early lead, the Breakers were overtaken by the Bullets at Pat Rafter Arena. Parker Jackson-Cartwright led the scoring for the Breakers with 26 points.
2 outlets · Rotorua Lakes Council defends delayed food scraps collection rollout
Rotorua Lakes Council has rejected requests for ratepayer rebates following a three-month delay to its new food and green organics collection service. Approximately 26,000 bins have been delivered across the district ahead of the service starting next week. The council maintains the benefits of the system will outweigh the costs.
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