Labour leads National on all top five voter concerns in new poll
A new Ipsos poll shows Labour leads National on all top five voter issues in the final week before the election. Petrol prices and healthcare concerns have reached record highs, with fuel costs rising to the third most important issue behind inflation and the cost of living.
Liam Lawson disqualified from Mexican Grand Prix qualifying
Liam Lawson has been disqualified from qualifying for the Formula 1 Mexican Grand Prix at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez. As a result of the decision by stewards, the driver will start the race from the back of the grid.
Tribunal address release a significant factor in Auckland murders
A police review found that the Disputes Tribunal releasing a murder victim's address against his wishes was a significant factor in the killings of Fuk-Fu Joseph Kwok and Mei Han Chong. The review also suggested the homicides might have been prevented if police had acted on information provided by one of the killers.
Invercargill mayor questions timing of government train service loan
Invercargill's mayor has criticised the government's plan to loan councils money for a 12-month Mainlander train trial between Christchurch and Dunedin. The mayor argued that ratepayers should not fund the service while the government is simultaneously requesting spending cuts from local councils.
One person critically injured in Kaikohe single-vehicle crash
One person sustained critical injuries following a single-vehicle crash at the intersection of Te Pua Road and Lake Road in Kaikohe this morning. State Highway 15 is closed, with diversions in place via SH1 and SH12. The Serious Crash Unit is currently investigating the incident.
The Body Shop to reopen in Christchurch mall this Thursday
New owners are relaunching The Body Shop at Westfield Riccarton following the brand's $12 million collapse in 2025. The previous liquidation resulted in 16 store closures and the loss of approximately 70 jobs. The new Christchurch location is expected to create at least 10 jobs.
Abuse and threats increasing for New Zealand women in public life
New Zealand women in the public eye are facing rising levels of abuse, including death threats, insults, and trolling. This relentless treatment is causing many to question if the cost of participating in public life is worth the personal impact.
Final campaign week begins for 2026 election
The final week of the 2026 election campaign has commenced. Voters face various political messages as Labour and National pursue different paths to power under the MMP system.







