Luxon and Hipkins face off in final leaders' debate
Christopher Luxon and Chris Hipkins participated in their third and final head-to-head debate hosted by Stuff. The session was described as pugilistic and heavy on blame, with both leaders failing to offer significant new solutions.
+37 outlets · Chase & Status to headline Forsyth Barr Stadium in March 2027
British drum and bass duo Chase & Status will perform a South Island exclusive show at Forsyth Barr Stadium on 5 March 2027. This marks the stadium's first major concert in nearly three years. The announcement follows news that Bryan Adams will also perform an acoustic show in Dunedin next year.
+26 outlets · National surges to 32% in latest 1News Verian poll
The National Party has risen four points to 32% in the latest 1News Verian poll, increasing its lead over Labour. Labour has dropped to 27%, marking its lowest result since the last election. The poll was released 18 days before the election and ahead of the final leaders' debate.
+26 outlets · Crown says evidence against Scott Watson remains overwhelming
The Crown has argued in the Supreme Court that the case against Scott Watson remains overwhelming, despite his lawyers' claims that police primed a key witness. Watson is appealing his convictions for the 1998 murders of Ben Smart and Olivia Hope in the Marlborough Sounds.
+15 outlets · Body recovered in search for missing Waihī Beach kayaker
A body believed to be the missing kayaker was recovered near Waihī Beach on Wednesday. The man went into the sea on Tuesday morning, and his kayak and body were brought to shore with assistance from the Navy and Coastguard. Formal identification is currently ongoing.
+15 outlets · New poll shows Labour leading National in neck-and-neck election
The latest Post/Freshwater Strategy poll shows Labour at 29.7% and National at 27.6%. The Opportunity party is positioned as a potential kingmaker with 5.4%, narrowly clearing the threshold for Parliament. No major party coalition appears to have enough seats to govern.
+15 outlets · Two teenagers injured after falling from Ferris wheel in Greymouth
Two 15-year-old girls fell approximately 12 metres from a Ferris wheel at AgFest in Greymouth on Saturday. The incident, which reportedly occurred when a seat broke, also injured a girl standing below. WorkSafe is investigating the accident at the Greymouth aerodrome.
+26 outlets · One person injured in car and train collision near Dunsandel
A person sustained moderate injuries after a car and train collided at a level crossing on Frasers Road on Tuesday morning. The incident occurred near Dunsandel and caused delays on State Highway 1. Emergency services, including a helicopter and ambulance, responded to the scene.
+15 outlets · Labour unveils plan to address emergency department overcrowding
The Labour Party has released an Emergency Department Recovery Plan in Auckland. Led by Chris Hipkins and Ayesha Verrall, the policy pledges an urgent audit of hospital capacity and reviews of wait times and bed shortages. The plan aims to tackle staffing issues and improve patient discharge processes.
+15 outlets · New Zealand-India free trade agreement officially begins
New Zealand exporters can now use the free trade agreement with India. Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay stated that 57 per cent of exports, including wool and sheep meat, are now tariff-free.
+15 outlets · Thousands call for review of Selwyn water pricing after bill hikes
More than 2,500 Selwyn residents have signed a petition urging a review of water charges following an 18 per cent price increase in July. Residents, including a dialysis patient, have reported significant financial pressure from rising costs and fixed charges issued by Selwyn Water.
4 outlets · White Ferns lose second T20 against Australia by 40 runs
The White Ferns fell to a 40-run defeat against Australia at North Sydney Oval, leaving them 0-2 in the three-match series. Chasing 168, New Zealand reached 127-8 after struggling against the Australian attack. Ash Gardner scored 84 runs to help secure the Rose Bowl for the hosts.
4 outlets · Football Ferns to host Philippines in two-match Wellington series
The Football Ferns will play the Philippines at Porirua Park on 29 November and 4 December. These home fixtures follow the cancellation of the team's matches in Panama due to a magnitude 7.7 earthquake. The series serves as a rematch of the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup encounter.
4 outlets · Search for missing Queenstown woman moves to recovery phase
Police have transitioned the search for 47-year-old Erika Rodrigues Coelho into a recovery phase. She has been missing since 18 September after being last seen near Skippers Saddle. Her rental car was located at the site on 21 September, but extensive land searches have failed to find her.
4 outlets · Qiulae Wong responds to allegations of toxic Opportunity Party culture
Opportunity Party leader Qiulae Wong has responded to allegations from former board members regarding toxic culture and internal power struggles. While Wong intends to investigate the claims, she maintains that the party currently has a positive culture. Recent polling suggests the party could hold the balance of power in the 2026 election.
4 outlets · Former officer admits stealing police-issued Glock pistol
Steven John Karehana has pleaded guilty to stealing and unlawfully possessing a police-issued Glock pistol. The former constable, who previously featured in a police recruitment campaign, had received a leadership award upon graduating from police college.
+15 outlets · Chris Hipkins says funding gang-linked programme was a mistake
Labour leader Chris Hipkins has stated that his party was wrong to provide public money to a Mongrel Mob-run addiction programme. While he noted the funding began under a National-led government, he said it was a mistake to continue contracting gang associates for social services.
3 outlets · Man rescued after dangling from Auckland skyscraper with parachute
Emergency services rescued a man who became stranded on the facade of an Albert Street building in central Auckland. The individual was caught by a parachute approximately 23 to 25 storeys above the ground. Following a high-angle rope rescue, the person was reported to have sustained minor injuries.
3 outlets · Waipounamu Contracting enters liquidation owing $9.9m after director's death
Waipounamu Contracting Limited has been placed into liquidation following the death of director Iain Andrew Nellies. The Southland agricultural contracting firm owes $9.9 million, and liquidators suggest unsecured creditors are unlikely to receive any funds. A clearing sale of plant and machinery will be held.
3 outlets · Orionid meteor shower expected to peak overnight
The annual Orionid meteor shower is set to reach its peak from Wednesday midnight through to sunrise on Thursday. Stargazers across Aotearoa may see the display as Earth passes through debris from Halley’s comet. Weather conditions across much of the country are expected to be good for viewing.
4 outlets · Rising Australian unemployment may reduce trans-Tasman migration appeal
Economists suggest the appeal of moving to Australia may decrease as the Australian unemployment rate rises to 4.7%. While this remains lower than New Zealand's 5.6% rate, it represents the highest level of unemployment in Australia in a decade.
4 outlets · Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns name debutants for Christchurch World Cup matches
The Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns will feature five debutants during their Rugby League World Cup double header in Christchurch this Sunday. Jacob Laban and Tanner Stowers-Smith will debut for the Kiwis against the Cook Islands, while Tenika Willison and Chantay Kiria-Ratu will earn first caps for the Kiwi Ferns against France.
3 outlets · Chris Hipkins extends preferred prime minister lead in latest poll
Labour leader Chris Hipkins has increased his lead over National's Christopher Luxon to 13 points in the latest The Post/Freshwater Strategy poll. While Hipkins holds a significant advantage in personal appeal, the major parties remain nearly tied in the party vote as the election approaches.
3 outlets · Winston Peters condemns violence following attack on Australian MP
New Zealand leaders have expressed support for Australian independent MP Helen Haines, who remains in critical condition after an attack. Foreign Minister Winston Peters stated that violence has no place in politics, while Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has passed on New Zealand's thoughts to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
3 outlets · Former Environment Southland chief executive received large final payout
Wilma Falconer received $474,077 during her final two months as Environment Southland chief executive before retiring on 29 August 2025. The total payment included a six-figure severance amount and a car. The council has declined to specify what the severance payment related to.
+26 outlets · Xero apologises for handling sexual misconduct complaint against Rod Drury
Xero has issued an unreserved apology to former employee Ally Naylor following an independent review. The firm expressed regret over its handling of a 2017 whistleblower complaint alleging unwanted sexual contact by founder and former chief executive Rod Drury. Drury has previously denied all allegations of wrongdoing.
3 outlets · Ryan Fox to compete in Australian Open this December
New Zealander Ryan Fox has confirmed he will play in the Australian Open at Melbourne's Kingston Heath Golf Club from 4-7 December. Following his British Open victory in July, Fox aims to become the first New Zealander to win the tournament.
3 outlets · Man charged after allegedly pointing laser at police helicopter
A 28-year-old man faces aviation charges after allegedly shining a laser at the Eagle helicopter over Mount Eden. The aircraft was targeted for up to 30 seconds during a flight at approximately 2.50am on Tuesday. Police used onboard technology to track the light to a house where the man was arrested.
3 outlets · Police watchdog finds investigation into Rachel Molloy's death inadequate
The Independent Police Conduct Authority has released findings into the 2022 investigation of Rachel Molloy's death in Mt Eden. The watchdog found that police failed to objectively examine the scene and provided inadequate communication to the victim's family. While later enquiries were thorough, initial conclusions were reached without sufficient evidence.
4 outlets · Trade Me bans sale of raw pounamu
Trade Me has removed all current and future listings of raw, uncarved pounamu from its platform. Ngāi Tahu has described the decision as a major breakthrough in the fight against illegal smuggling. Finished pounamu items, such as pendants, remain available for sale.
3 outlets · Rare South Island moa egg to be gifted to Ngāi Tahu
A rare South Island moa egg will return to New Zealand after being purchased for approximately NZ$18,500 at a US auction. De-extinction company Colossal Biosciences acquired the egg, which has been in a private American collection for 60 years, and will gift it to Ngāi Tahu.
3 outlets · Hipkins narrowly wins final leaders' debate against Luxon
Chris Hipkins and Christopher Luxon concluded their final election campaign debate on Stuff. While the two leaders traded arguments regarding the economy and cost of living, Stuff readers voted Hipkins as the winner of the encounter. This marks the end of three debates between the Labour and National leaders.
2 outlets · Police oppose takeover of Manurewa bottle shop linked to drug dealing
Police are opposing a businessman's attempt to take over a Manurewa liquor store. Two current owners and their son have been charged with selling Kamini, an Indian herbal medicine containing opium. Authorities are seeking to cancel the store's off-licence and want the business shut down.
3 outlets · Hundreds attend Christchurch debate on Canterbury freshwater challenges
Hundreds of people gathered in Christchurch on Monday night to hear politicians discuss rising nitrate levels in Canterbury's drinking water. The debate follows the consent of tens of thousands of additional dairy cows this year. Geochemist Dr Kevin Brown opened the event by discussing nitrate increases in the Selwyn area.
4 outlets · Christchurch stadium named among world's most beautiful sporting venues
The One NZ Stadium has been recognised by UNESCO as one of seven venues globally for its design and sustainability. The $683m facility will compete for World Titles at a ceremony in Paris this December.
2 outlets · Taranaki conservationists use AI to protect native bush from pests
Two Taranaki conservation initiatives are using artificial intelligence to help protect native environments. The 800 Trust uses acoustic sensors and AI to manage pests across 1600 hectares of farmland and forest. While these smart devices can track pests like possums, the high cost remains a barrier for many conservation groups.
2 outlets · Political parties propose various policies regarding KiwiSaver ahead of election
Main political parties have introduced substantial KiwiSaver policies as the election approaches. While these proposals are far-reaching, commentators suggest the scheme's impact on the election outcome may be limited. There is a call to ensure the focus on KiwiSaver's value continues beyond the voting period.
2 outlets · Watch the final Stuff leaders' debate between the two Chrises
The two Chrises faced off in the final Stuff leaders' debate before the 2026 election. The full debate is available to watch online, and experts have provided their assessments on the outcome.
2 outlets · Seven in 10 voters believe health system is in crisis
A 1News Verian poll shows 70 per cent of voters believe New Zealand's public health system is in crisis. While 28 per cent view the system as facing challenges rather than a crisis, National spokesperson Simeon Brown stated the party inherited a system in crisis.
2 outlets · House destroyed by fire in Palmerston North suburb
A single-storey home on Kōwhai Ave in Takaro was destroyed by a large fire on Tuesday evening. Fire and Emergency New Zealand responded to the blaze, which was reported around 6.20pm. Hundreds of onlookers reportedly gathered on nearby streets to watch the flames.
2 outlets · Barry Capill sentenced to 14 years for historical child sex offending
Barry Capill has been sentenced to 14 years and four months in a Nelson court for historical child sex offending. The sentencing follows repeated abuse involving three survivors.
2 outlets · BioOra opens new cancer treatment facility in Christchurch
Health Minister Simeon Brown has officially opened BioOra's new biotechnology facility in central Christchurch. The site will manufacture advanced blood cancer treatments, with the company aiming to treat its first patient in 2028. The National Party has pledged to invest $25m into the firm if re-elected.
2 outlets · Woolworths removes all in-store butchers from South Island supermarkets
Woolworths has eliminated in-store butcher roles across its South Island supermarkets, transitioning to a centralised meat processing model. The company cited recruitment difficulties for the change, while the Workers First Union estimates approximately 80 positions have been lost.
2 outlets · Australian company seeks gold exploration permit in Golden Bay
Siren Gold has applied for a five-year exploration permit for a 4,000-hectare block in Sams Creek, Tasman. This follows a rejected bid for a mining permit on the conservation land. The company states the new application focuses on exploration, environmental studies, and community engagement rather than immediate mining.
2 outlets · Christchurch council to trial number plate monitoring for freedom campers
A six-month trial using automatic number plate monitoring will begin in Christchurch on 22 October. The initiative aims to assess compliance rates among freedom campers, ensuring vehicles possess the required self-containment certificates and green warrant cards.
2 outlets · NZ First promises to double tax rebate for video game makers
New Zealand First has proposed increasing the tax rebate for video game developers from 20c to 40c for every dollar spent. The party aims to retain local talent by more than tripling the maximum annual payout for individual studios.
2 outlets · Speaker warns of astronomical rise in threats against NZ MPs
Speaker Gerry Brownlee says threats against New Zealand MPs have increased significantly in recent years. A specialist parliamentary security team has managed over 200 requests for assistance in a three-week period, leading to increased security measures in Parliament.
2 outlets · Last person charged in Te Atatū drag event protest pleads guilty
Phineas Mann has pleaded guilty to male assaults female in the Auckland District Court. He was the final of seven people facing charges following a protest at a children's drag king event in West Auckland. Five other group members previously pleaded guilty to common assault charges.
2 outlets · Large bee swarm settles on parked car in Birkenhead
A large swarm of bees settled on a vehicle in a Birkenhead carpark on Tuesday. The incident occurred while a driver was asleep inside the car. Onlookers were advised to keep their windows closed to avoid the swarm.
2 outlets · ACT proposes industry awards and funding for school trades courses
The ACT Party plans to introduce industry awards as an alternative to University Entrance to support trades training. The policy includes providing schools with $2000 per student for each industry-led subject and consolidating various vocational pathways into a single uncapped system.
2 outlets · Three charged after West Harbour dairy burglary and car spike
Three people have been charged following an alleged burglary at a West Harbour dairy early Tuesday morning. The suspects allegedly stole bread and vapes before their getaway vehicle was spiked by police in Henderson.
2 outlets · ACT candidate Paul Henry to announce education policy in Auckland
ACT list candidate Paul Henry and education spokesperson Laura McClure are scheduled to unveil a new education policy in Auckland this afternoon. This announcement follows Henry's recent campaign activities, including a speaking engagement in Whitianga.
2 outlets · Secret reserves established to protect Kaikōura little blue penguins
The Kaikōura Wildlife Centre Trust and several organisations have created new reserves at undisclosed locations to protect kororā. These safe havens aim to shield the little blue penguins from the threat of curious humans. The project involves community volunteers, the Kaikōura District Council, Environment Canterbury and the Department of Conservation.
2 outlets · Christchurch contractor fined for failing to provide Inland Revenue information
Larnce James Schimanski has been fined $3500 after pleading guilty in the Christchurch District Court. The labour-only contractor failed to provide information requested during an Inland Revenue investigation into suspicious tax refunds. Schimanski had previously claimed his laptop was broken when the investigation commenced.
2 outlets · Historic Havelock North mansion put up for sale by court order
A historic 654-square-metre luxury estate on Black Barn Road is being sold following a court order. The six-bedroom property in Havelock North is being offered on an 'as is, where is' basis with no vendor warranties. The home is valued at more than $4 million.
2 outlets · West Auckland gastropub The Attic to close after 17 years
The Attic Bar and Restaurant in New Lynn will close its doors on 25 October. The family-owned business cited health concerns and mounting economic pressures as the reasons for the decision. The gastropub has operated at its Totara Avenue location for 17 years.
2 outlets · Four injured in Dunedin school vehicle crash
Four people were injured in a two-vehicle crash on Kaikorai Valley Road on Tuesday morning. Police confirmed that one of the vehicles involved belonged to Kaikorai Valley College. The road was not blocked following the incident.
2 outlets · Consumer NZ identifies poor-performing products in latest awards
Consumer NZ has released its latest Yeah, Nah Awards to highlight products and services that let New Zealanders down. The findings include a poorly performing Dr. Coffee H1 machine and downsized chocolate products.
2 outlets · Christian Horner says Liam Lawson promotion made him uncomfortable
Former Red Bull boss Christian Horner has stated he was uncomfortable with New Zealander Liam Lawson being promoted to the senior team for the 2025 Formula 1 season. Lawson was demoted back to Racing Bulls after two races alongside Max Verstappen, following a period where he failed to score points.
3 outlets · Emergency services investigate sudden death in Mangawhai Heads
Police and emergency services are investigating a sudden death in Mangawhai Heads following a call regarding a hazardous substance on Tuesday morning. Authorities were alerted to the incident shortly after 8am. Police have stated that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.
2 outlets · Rotorua emergency housing footprint shrinks to a single motel
Emergency housing in Rotorua has declined from 62 motels to just one, which currently accommodates approximately 12 households. This reduction follows increased availability of public housing and easier access to private rentals, easing the demand that previously made the city a focal point of the national housing debate.
4 outlets · Highlanders hire North Harbour coach Jimmy Maher for 2027 season
The Highlanders have appointed North Harbour head coach Jimmy Maher as an assistant coach on a one-year contract. The appointment, announced by head coach Jamie Joseph, follows Maher's recent performance during the NPC campaign.
2 outlets · Construction progresses on the Ōtaki to North of Levin highway
Work has begun on the 24-kilometre Te Pae o Tararua highway, the final section of the north Wellington corridor. Large earthworks and bridge construction are currently underway. The project is expected to open in late 2029.
2 outlets · Ministry modelling suggests more students may fail new secondary curriculum
Documents released under the Official Information Act show the Education Ministry's modelling predicts high failure rates for the new secondary school qualification. While an optimistic scenario suggests nearly 30% of Year 12 students could fail, a pessimistic estimate indicates the figure could reach almost half.
4 outlets · Labour releases online safety policy targeting tech giants
The Labour Party has unveiled an online safety policy that expands on National's social media ban proposal. The plan aims to address platform algorithms and addictive design to tackle the root causes of online harm.
2 outlets · New Zealanders involved in efforts to protect coral reefs
New Zealanders, including ministers and pest control experts, are working to protect Pacific coral reefs from bleaching caused by warming oceans. Researchers are using innovative methods, such as utilizing seabird excrement, to help these ecosystems combat the threats posed by rising sea temperatures and potential El Niño events.
2 outlets · Wedding rings recovered after fire destroys New Plymouth family home
A fire destroyed a Frankleigh Park home on Saturday night while Cameron Hooper was at work. The family, who have no insurance, lost most of their possessions, though their wedding rings were later found in the wreckage. Neighbours and strangers have provided support to the family following the blaze.
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