Luxon and Hipkins face off in second leaders' debate
National leader Christopher Luxon and Labour leader Chris Hipkins participated in their second televised leaders' debate. The event, hosted by the Herald and moderated by Ryan Bridge, followed a previous debate between the two leaders last week.
+37 outlets · Australia defeats Kiwis in Rugby League World Cup opener
The Kangaroos secured a 24-22 victory over the Kiwis in the Rugby League World Cup opening match in Sydney. New Zealand players Kalyn Ponga and Dane Gagai made their international debuts during the contest. One Kiwis player suffered a suspected broken arm during the game.
+26 outlets · National and Labour tied in latest 1News Verian poll
National and Labour are tied at 28% party support in the latest 1News Verian poll. The Opportunity Party remains in a kingmaker position, while Chris Hipkins and Christopher Luxon are tied at 20% for preferred prime minister.
+26 outlets · Teaching Council apologises after review finds failures in Timothy Fisher case
The Teaching Council has apologised after an independent review found it failed to act on warnings regarding Timothy Fisher, a convicted child sex offender. The report revealed the council had grounds to cancel Fisher's registration years ago. Education Minister Erica Stanford criticised the council's culture following the findings.
+15 outlets · Electric Avenue to release 4000 extra tickets for local residents
Organisers of the Electric Avenue music festival have announced 4000 additional tickets for the 2027 event at Hagley Park. These passes will be available exclusively to residents of Christchurch City, Selwyn, and Waimakariri districts. The expansion follows an agreement to secure extra space at the Hagley Golf Club.
+15 outlets · Minor party leaders face off in multi-party debate
Five minor party leaders participated in a TVNZ multi-party debate covering major election issues. David Seymour, Chlöe Swarbrick, Winston Peters, Rawiri Waititi, and Qiulae Wong discussed topics including tax plans and supermarket prices. The debate took place without the presence of the National and Labour leaders.
4 outlets · Labour launches Cost of Luxon campaign targeting National's cost of living
The Labour Party has released a campaign titled "The cost of Luxon", claiming a typical family of four pays over $6,000 more annually under the National-led Government. National has criticised the attack, while Labour alleges price hikes in transport, childcare, and fuel have impacted households.
4 outlets · Nursing schools told to limit enrolments to 2025 levels
The Tertiary Education Commission has instructed nursing schools to cap student enrolments at 2025 levels for 2027. This decision follows concerns that there are insufficient clinical placement spots available in hospitals. Health New Zealand has suggested that providers look to aged care and primary care facilities for placements.
+26 outlets · Heavy rain and strong winds forecast for parts of New Zealand
A slow-moving weather front is bringing heavy rain and strong winds across much of the country. An orange heavy rain warning was issued for Buller, while persistent rain has been forecast for the West Coast and Canterbury. Temperatures are expected to drop following the wet weather.
3 outlets · Jordie Barrett challenged to back up Bledisloe Cup win in Sydney
Following a 50-19 victory over the Wallabies at Eden Park, Jordie Barrett has urged his teammates to repeat their performance in the upcoming rematch in Sydney. Assistant coach Tana Umaga praised Barrett's play, suggesting the midfielder could become one of the All Blacks' greatest.
4 outlets · Cold front to bring temperature drop after warm spring weather
A cold front from the Southern Ocean is expected to bring a sharp drop in temperatures across much of New Zealand later this week. Following recent highs of up to 28C, MetService has issued a heavy rain watch for Dunedin and parts of Otago starting Wednesday evening.
4 outlets · Winston Peters decides New Zealand will abstain from UN pandemic vote
Foreign Minister Winston Peters made the sole decision for New Zealand to abstain from a United Nations vote on a global pandemic preparedness declaration. While Peters stated the move protects health sovereignty, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and former Prime Minister Helen Clark criticised the decision.
4 outlets · Police rule out foul play after blood found in Wellington tunnel
A large pool of human blood discovered in the Coutts Street pedestrian underpass in Rongotai has been deemed non-suspicious. Police determined the blood resulted from a woman crashing her scooter in the tunnel. The incident occurred on a Sunday night in early October.
4 outlets · New Zealand joins 30 nations condemning Iran for violent attacks
New Zealand is among more than 30 countries that issued a joint statement condemning Iran for violent attacks, including cyberattacks and sabotage. Foreign Minister Winston Peters released the statement, which recognises the UK's attribution of Iran's involvement in a suspected plot against the RAF Fairford air base.
+15 outlets · Green Party unveils $6 billion economic development plan
The Green Party has released an economic plan worth nearly $6 billion over four years. The party claims the proposal will create 284,000 jobs, which is 64,000 more than current Treasury forecasts. The plan includes rescoping the Government's Investment Boost into an 'Innovation Boost'.
4 outlets · Two teenagers appear in court charged with murdering a toddler
Two 19-year-olds appeared in the Invercargill High Court on Tuesday facing murder charges following the death of a child in Otautau. The toddler died at Starship Hospital after sustaining critical head injuries. Both accused have interim name suppression and were remanded without entering pleas.
4 outlets · One person dies in single-vehicle crash near Morrinsville
A person died at the scene after a car hit a tree near Tatuanui early Tuesday morning. The single-vehicle crash occurred on State Highway 26 near the State Highway 27 intersection. Police have closed the highway east of Morrinsville while they investigate the cause.
4 outlets · Homegrown announces first acts for 20th anniversary festival in Hamilton
The Jim Beam Homegrown music festival will return to Claudelands Oval on April 3, 2027, to celebrate its 20th anniversary. The first wave of performers includes Fat Freddy’s Drop, Sir Dave Dobbyn, Shapeshifter, Gin Wigmore, Savage, Devilskin, The Exponents and more.
3 outlets · Motorcyclist critically injured in Te Puke Highway crash
A motorcyclist sustained critical injuries in a single-vehicle crash near the State Highway intersection on Tuesday morning. Emergency services attended the scene at approximately 7.15am, and the rider was airlifted to Middlemore Hospital. A section of the Te Puke Highway remains closed.
4 outlets · Invercargill man jailed for seven and a half years for sexual abuse
Lindsay Wayne Howley has been sentenced in the Invercargill District Court for sexually abusing a girl for four years. The victim, who was abused as a child by someone known to her mother, provided a victim impact statement during the proceedings. Howley has been placed on the child sex offender register.
3 outlets · Heritage Lifecare acquires New Zealand Aged Care Services
Heritage Lifecare has purchased New Zealand Aged Care Services for an undisclosed amount. The acquisition adds 15 care homes and eight villages to the company's portfolio. This expansion makes Heritage Lifecare one of the country's largest providers of aged care.
3 outlets · New Zealander unable to secure refund after failed Turkish surgery
Helen Watson is seeking a refund after experiencing pain and complications following gastric sleeve surgery in Istanbul last year. Despite paying approximately $10,000 for the procedure, flights, and accommodation, her requests for reimbursement from the Medicana Health Group have been unsuccessful.
4 outlets · Chris Hipkins supports Labour candidate Max Harris in Tāmaki
Labour leader Chris Hipkins visited Glen Innes to support candidate Max Harris in the Tāmaki electorate. Harris is attempting to challenge the contest between National and ACT in the seat. National has criticised Harris over previous comments regarding higher income tax rates.
3 outlets · National MP Sam Uffindell assists motorcyclist after Tauranga crash
National MP Sam Uffindell was one of the first people to assist a woman after she fell from her motorcycle on Te Awanui Drive. The single-vehicle crash occurred near the Tauranga Harbour Bridge on Tuesday afternoon. Police responded to the incident, which caused one lane to be blocked.
3 outlets · Chris Hipkins answers questions at campaign events in Palmerston North and Auckland
Labour leader Chris Hipkins addressed crowds in Palmerston North and Glen Innes as part of the 2026 election campaign. During these sessions, he responded to public questions regarding various policy positions and party stances. The events served as opportunities for the leader to engage with voters and party members.
3 outlets · Police seek information on missing Auckland man Joshua Arnold
Police and family are concerned for the wellbeing of 24-year-old Joshua Arnold, who has been missing for over a week. He was last seen on Kotuitui Road in Wainui on Sunday, 4 October. Arnold, who has autism, was believed to be wearing jeans, jandals and a black sunhat.
3 outlets · Investigation launched after woman dies in North Shore vehicle accident
Police are investigating after a woman was struck by a vehicle at the intersection of Tristram Avenue and Wairau Road on Monday evening. The woman was taken to hospital in critical condition but has since died. Authorities are now seeking witnesses and dashcam footage to assist with their enquiries.
3 outlets · A$AP Rocky to perform one-off show in Auckland this December
US rapper A$AP Rocky will perform at Auckland’s Spark Arena on 12 December as part of his Don’t Be Dumb World Tour. This marks his first New Zealand headline performance in eight years. Tickets are expected to go on sale this week.
3 outlets · Man named following fatal house fire north of Whitianga
Police have identified 65-year-old Benjamin Tanui Davis as the man who died in a house fire on Wharekaho Road last Thursday. Emergency services attended the blaze at approximately 2.25am, and a second person escaped the property unharmed. The death has been referred to the Coroner and is not being treated as suspicious.
3 outlets · Firefighters warn of increased risk as Christchurch temperatures reach 27°C
Christchurch is expected to experience its warmest spring day so far on Tuesday, with temperatures forecast to hit 27°C. Gusty northwesterlies are expected to develop, leading Fire and Emergency New Zealand to urge caution due to an increased risk of fire.
3 outlets · Dashcam footage captures two-car collision at Christchurch intersection
Two vehicles collided during an apparent overtaking manoeuvre at the intersection of Travis Road and Anzac Drive on Saturday. Dashcam video shows the cars driving side-by-side before the impact, which also destroyed a traffic sign. Police reported receiving an erratic driving report around 1pm.
2 outlets · NZTA orders removal of unauthorised election signs in Northcote
Dozens of political hoardings on a North Shore fence must be removed by the end of the weekend. The signs, which include more than 20 National Party hoardings, were erected without permission. NZTA stated the agency must remain politically neutral while ordering the removal.
2 outlets · Mackenzie council focuses on road safety after vehicle mishaps
Four council vehicle incidents, including two near-miss head-on collisions, occurred between July and September. These mishaps have prompted a renewed focus on staff fatigue and road safety in the Mackenzie. Councillors have highlighted the importance of reporting such incidents to police.
2 outlets · Scientist criticises decision to close Palmerston North's FoodHQ research hub
A science advocate has described the decision to close the FoodHQ research hub as problematic for the long term. The move could potentially stifle future food innovation and technological developments in New Zealand.
3 outlets · Auditor-General review of Tauranga Marine Precinct sale finds process appropriate
An Auditor-General review of the $14 million Tauranga Marine Precinct sale to a Christchurch developer found the council followed an appropriate process and considered value for money. However, the review noted that the council could have communicated the sale price to the public more effectively.
2 outlets · Three charged after firearms and suspected drugs seized in Cannons Creek
Two men and a youth face court charges following a firearm discharge in Cannons Creek on 9 October. Police seized four firearms, ammunition, and suspected drugs including ketamine and $10,000 worth of GBL. One of those arrested is reported to be a patched gang member.
2 outlets · Taranaki charity expands space due to rising demand from pensioners
On The House is moving its fortnightly Over 65’s Free Store to a larger venue. The charity reports that demand for the service has doubled since it began two years ago as more elderly customers seek food support.
2 outlets · Two Hokitika buildings closed indefinitely due to earthquake risk
Westland District Council has closed two buildings on Weld Street in central Hokitika because of earthquake risk. The closures include the main council office and the former Mountain Jade building. This will affect the Westland District Library, the tourist information centre, and several other tenants.
3 outlets · Three people found missing at sea near Kiribati
A Royal New Zealand Air Force crew located three people on Sunday aboard a 3.7-metre white fibreglass boat. The group had been missing since 7 October after their vessel disappeared between Abaiang Island and Tarawa.
2 outlets · Kaikōura independent candidate denied opportunity to speak at election meeting
Independent candidate Ted Howard was unable to participate in a Kaikōura electorate meeting held at Balcairn Hall near Amberley on Monday. Despite travelling two hours to attend the event, Howard was declined the chance to speak during the session.
2 outlets · Continuous glucose monitoring could increase life expectancy for some Kiwis
A new study suggests that wider use of real-time continuous glucose monitoring technology could help thousands of New Zealanders live longer. The research, led by Associate Professor Ryan Paul, focused on individuals requiring intensive insulin therapy.
3 outlets · Road closed in Newmarket after gas main is struck
Khyber Pass Road in Newmarket was closed after a gas main was struck on Monday afternoon. Fire and Emergency New Zealand crews responded to the incident, which was reported at 12.44pm. Crews have since clamped the pipe and are assisting the gas authority.
2 outlets · New changes for Auckland FC and Wellington Phoenix ahead of season
New Zealand's A-League sides face significant changes heading into the next season. Auckland FC recently became the first New Zealand team to win the Grand Final, while the Wellington Phoenix finished eighth in their previous campaign.
2 outlets · Canterbury man charged with stealing $57,000 of EV charging cables
Gabriel Verry, 26, appeared in Christchurch District Court charged with stealing more than $57,000 worth of electric vehicle charging cables. He is accused of using garden loppers to remove cables from five locations between 2 October and 12 October. Police are still investigating a series of similar thefts across Canterbury.
2 outlets · French supermarket fridge hack serves as warning for New Zealand
Hackers used a software attack to raise temperatures in several French supermarket fridges to 50C. A cybersecurity specialist says the incident should be a wake-up call for New Zealand retailers. The company managing the control systems noted that most affected units were running outdated software.
2 outlets · Parrotdog bar licence suspended after serving minor in police sting
Parrotdog's Lyall Bay bar has been ordered to close for three days after being caught serving a minor during a police sting. The Alcohol Regulatory and Licensing Authority has also suspended the bar manager's certificate for 28 days.
2 outlets · Man charged after shooting in Māngere leaves two hospitalised
A young man has been charged following a firearms incident on Harwell Place in Māngere last Saturday. Two people arrived at a medical centre with gunshot wounds after an altercation outside a private address. One victim has been discharged from hospital, while the other remains receiving treatment.
2 outlets · National promises visa prioritisation for partners of New Zealand citizens
The National Party has pledged to prioritise work and visitor visas for partners of New Zealanders. This is part of a five-step plan to be implemented within the first 100 days of a new government to encourage young New Zealanders to stay or return home.
2 outlets · Speed limits lowered on several Northland state highway sections
The NZ Transport Agency has reduced speed limits on five sections of Northland state highways following community requests for safer speeds. Some of these areas had their limits increased only last year. The Automobile Association has stated that these frequent changes are confusing for motorists.
3 outlets · National geohazards monitoring centre closes twice in four days
The National Geohazards Monitoring Centre in Lower Hutt has shut down twice within four days. The Public Service Association attributes these temporary suspensions of 24/7 monitoring to public service cuts. One closure occurred between Monday night and Tuesday morning.
2 outlets · West Auckland butcher receives 1000 applications for meat packer role
Reuben Sharples, the managing director of Aussie Butcher in New Lynn, received over 1000 CVs for a single full-time meat packer position. He noted that many applicants possessed skill sets far exceeding the requirements for the job.
3 outlets · Government rejects industry plea for aluminium import tariffs
Commerce Minister Cameron Brewer has declined a request from the aluminium extrusion industry to implement safeguard measures. The industry sought temporary protection against a surge of cheap imports to help local manufacturers adjust to offshore competition.
2 outlets · Creditors unlikely to be paid after Hamilton cafe company collapses
Su’s Investment Limited, which operated The Coffee Studio on Barton St, was placed into liquidation by the High Court on 7 September. Liquidators report the company has no funds on hand and is unlikely to pay creditors, including an estimated $154,027 owed to the Inland Revenue Department.
2 outlets · Expert suggests Liam Lawson helped Max Verstappen return to form
Max Verstappen has achieved back-to-back victories in Singapore's sprint and grand prix. An expert suggests Liam Lawson's recent stint with Red Bull Racing may have helped the team improve its car performance.
2 outlets · All Blacks prepare for second Bledisloe Cup test in Sydney
Following a 50-19 victory at Eden Park, the All Blacks will face the Wallabies again this Saturday at Accor Stadium. Wallabies fullback Tom Wright said the team met on Monday to discuss their heavy defeat.
2 outlets · Two women identified following fatal Auckland highway crash
Police have named Sharron Caitcheon, 66, and Frances Jerome Lyndon, 76, who died in a collision involving two cars and a truck. The crash occurred on Dairy Flat Highway on the afternoon of 5 October. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
2 outlets · Pig causes traffic delay at Sumner pedestrian crossing
A pig named Pumba stopped motorists on Wakefield Avenue in Sumner on Sunday. After breaking away from his owner, the animal was filmed walking towards a pedestrian crossing. Drivers stopped to allow the pig to reach the other side of the road safely.
2 outlets · Wellington pipe repairs could cost ratepayers $80,000 over 25 years
Deputy mayor Ben McNulty says fixing Wellington's ageing pipes could cost every ratepaying household or business more than $80,000 over the next 25 years. Figures from Wellington Water suggest the total cost to repair the city's pipes could exceed $6 billion over two decades.
2 outlets · Nine paediatric respiratory doctors serve the entire country
A national audit by Asthma NZ and the University of Otago reveals that only nine public paediatric respiratory specialists serve all of New Zealand. Fourteen regions currently report having no dedicated service or no specialist care available for children.
2 outlets · Sharesies investor confidence drops amid global volatility
Retail investor confidence among Sharesies customers fell during the September quarter, reaching its lowest level since late 2024. The decline is attributed to rising interest rates and global uncertainty. Consequently, savings activity has increased by 88% as more people move cash into savings instead of the share market.
3 outlets · Potential Canterbury spaceport brings opportunities and satellite risks
New Zealand is positioning itself for a larger role in the global space race through a potential new spaceport in Canterbury. While the project offers investment opportunities, growing satellite dependence increases risks regarding cyberattacks, orbital collisions, and conflict.
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