New Zealand
Waitaki rejoins Southern Waters after Crown approval
The council expects around $80 million in water debt to transfer to the regional partnership next year, leaving its net debt at around $20 million.
Multiple hospitals worse than leaky Hutt, says Bishop
Hutt South MP Chris Bishop says Hutt Hospital needs repairs but several other New Zealand hospitals are in worse condition.
ACC reverses weekly compensation denial after 8-year dispute
A review has overturned ACC's rejection of weekly compensation payments following an eight-year dispute, raising questions about the agency's handling of similar claims.
Pedestrian critically injured in Hamilton crash, highway closed
A section of State Highway 1C in Frankton was expected to remain shut for several hours while police investigate a collision that left one person in critical condition.
Body recovered from Wellington waterfront near Te Papa
Police divers found the man's body after he was seen entering the water but not resurfacing on Saturday afternoon.
Avondale Racecourse to close after 136 years amid uncertainty over site's future
The 35-hectare site, which includes 10 sports pitches and a weekly market, will transfer to New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing after the final race day on 15 July.
Health NZ adds 103 temporary beds for winter, 30 more than planned
Hospitals across the country will have 103 extra beds in place by mid-July, up from an initial target of 71, as the health system responds to winter pressures.
Race Relations Commissioner relaunches religious diversity policy
The updated statement follows consultation with faith groups who have raised safety concerns about both online and public threats.
Waitaki declares state of emergency as flooding swamps Oamaru
Heavy overnight rain has forced evacuations and closed State Highway 1 north of Oamaru, with emergency services responding to dozens of calls across the district.
Person dies following single-vehicle crash north of Auckland
Emergency services were called to Port Albert Road on Sunday evening where a vehicle had left the roadway.
Soldier demoted after threatening officer at Waiouru camp
Acting Corporal Jared Deal was reprimanded and reduced to sapper for threatening to kill a captain following a December 2024 cocktail party.
Orange rain warning for coastal Otago, red upgrade possible
MetService has issued an orange heavy rain warning for coastal Otago until Monday morning, with snow warnings across much of the South Island.
Two critical, 13 injured in Canterbury two-vehicle crash
A collision between a car and van on Greendale Road in Darfield left two people critically injured and required six ambulances and two critical-care units to attend.
Six Christchurch businesses burgled in 90-minute spree
Police believe the break-ins at a pharmacy and multiple liquor stores early Saturday morning are connected, with offenders using stolen vehicles to carry out the raids.
Missing 10-year-old West Auckland girl found safe
The child went missing from a park on Saturday afternoon.
Air Force fires Harpoon missiles from P-8 for first time
A New Zealand crew launched anti-ship missiles during a major Pacific military exercise, striking a target vessel.
Home bowel test rolls out to free up colonoscopy capacity
A new test for people with bowel cancer symptoms will be available from 1 July 2026, with health officials expecting it to cut colonoscopy referrals by up to 30%.
Govt to expand early language programme to 525 centres
A programme targeting language delays in preschoolers will expand from 65 to 525 centres after a trial showed gains in oral skills and self-regulation among children aged 18 months to 5 years.
Govt assessing support for Wairarapa farmers after heavy rain
Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says MPI staff are working with the Rural Support Trust to determine whether a formal adverse event classification is needed.
Victim Support staff criticise CEO response to culture concerns
Current employees say James McCulloch dismissed their workplace complaints in an email describing suggestions of ongoing problems as disrespectful and offensive.
Auckland Airport refunds drivers after double-charging error
The airport has apologised to taxi and rideshare drivers who were incorrectly charged twice for drop-offs.
Death and five hospitalisations linked to suspected GHB overdoses
A drug checking service found at least one substance marketed as GHB was actually a different compound, 14BD, which takes longer to act and can lead users to take additional doses.
Waikato Hospital ward delayed until 2027
A 28-bed ward at Waikato Hospital will open a year later than planned, with Health Minister Simeon Brown citing acoustic testing and site issues for the delay.
Patient dies in Waikato Hospital ED after being found unconscious
Witnesses describe a packed waiting room and resuscitation attempt after a man was discovered unresponsive in a toilet during Monday night's emergency department shift.
Health NZ apologises to 800+ patients over paused colonoscopies
More than 800 Manawatū patients were told their surveillance colonoscopies would be paused in 2024, with patient advocates now asking what comes next.
DOC admits years of oversight failures on Far North campgrounds
The department says it failed to maintain proper contracts or financial controls for three Te Paki campgrounds, with $1.8 million in disputed revenue at the centre of an external investigation.
Immigration NZ repays $44k after staff lacked authority to fine
Twenty-one companies have been refunded approximately $44,000 after Immigration New Zealand staff issued infringement notices without proper authorisation.
Adoption loophole allowed 21 children into NZ despite trafficking probe
A woman investigated for people trafficking in 2017 was able to adopt 10 more young people afterwards, prompting law changes to close gaps in overseas adoption rules.
Driver jailed for filming sexual assault in rural Otago
A man has been sentenced to jail after recording a sexual assault on a teenage girl while he was driving in rural Otago.
Man sentenced after biting baby's hand while caring for child
A 28-year-old Dunedin man received 6 months' supervision after admitting to assaulting a baby in his care, initially claiming he acted during an aggressive dream.
Massage therapist convicted of assaulting 15 women
Neil Yardeni sexually assaulted more than a dozen women during massage sessions, continuing to offend even after police warned him about his conduct.
Construction starts on $5 million Clyde maternity unit
The new primary maternity facility will replace Alexandra's existing unit and is scheduled to open in mid-2027 after a 14-month build.
EPA seeks climate data on Coronet Peak expansion plan
The Department of Conservation says NZSki has not shown how its proposed 40-year Doolans Basin development would remain viable under climate change.
Orange warnings as front brings rain, wind and snow to South Island
MetService has issued orange-level warnings for heavy rain and damaging winds as a weather system moves up the South Island from Friday, with snow forecast to fall as low as 400 metres.
Demand for tracking devices for at-risk people jumps 30%
WanderSearch, a Canterbury-based charity providing location devices for vulnerable people, has seen requests surge in the past six months.
Auckland Zoo pulls flamingos from display ahead of avian flu
The zoo's flamingo flock, the only one in Australasia, has been moved behind the scenes as officials prepare for the disease's expected arrival in New Zealand.
Ombudsman says Dunedin hospital ward treatment amounted to torture
Ward 10A at Wakari Hospital will close after inspectors uncovered prolonged seclusion, unlawful restraints and patients denied basic necessities including toilet access.
NZ records warmest June since 1909 as Christchurch hits 26°C
The nationwide average temperature reached 10.6°C last month, with a climate scientist noting he was not surprised by the latest record.
Warrant issued for man wanted on assault-related offences
Police are seeking Perema Meads, 45, who is known to be present at multiple North Island locations.
Weather front approaching lower South Island on Friday
An active front is expected to reach southern regions on Friday night.
Science and Social Sciences curriculum to be released in August
The updated National Curriculum for Years 0-10 will roll out from 12 August 2026, with Science and Social Sciences first, ahead of mandatory implementation in 2027.
Whangārei judge appointed to lead Family Court
District Court Judge La-Verne King will become Principal Family Court Judge in November, replacing Judge Jackie Moran who has held the role since 2018.
Environmental reporting bill passes first reading
Proposed changes to the Environmental Reporting Act 2015 would adjust reporting timeframes and strengthen data collection to better track long-term environmental trends.
Dunedin couple sentenced for arson attacks across city
Christopher Tilby received 3 years' imprisonment while Kelly Kilpatrick was sentenced to community detention after the pair pleaded guilty to multiple fires in November 2025.
Chef awarded $32,000 after employer's visa threats
An Employment Relations Authority ruling has ordered payment of more than $32,000 in wage arrears to a head chef whose employer warned his work visa could be cancelled.
Man jailed over Molotov cocktail attack, five arsons
A man has been imprisoned after he and a woman were sentenced for five separate arson offences, including an attack in which a petrol bomb was hurled at a property.
Teaching Council cancels registration over student relationship
A learning support coordinator has had their registration cancelled after [forming an inappropriate relationship](https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/361001732/teacher-struck-over-inappropriate-relationship-vulnerable-student) with a 16-year-old student.
Man charged over nine-minute attack on North Shore bus
A 37-year-old will appear in court on Friday facing charges over an unprovoked assault that lasted nine minutes and was captured on CCTV.
Police cite 'Let's purge NZ' post in Tamaki licence revocation
Brian Tamaki's firearm licence was revoked after police determined a social media statement made him unfit to possess firearms.
Advisory group proposes ending ECE teacher pay parity
A ministerial advisory group has proposed ending the pay parity scheme for early childhood teachers, presenting three alternative funding frameworks including options to simplify the current five-tier funding structure.
Waikato Hospital modular ward delayed until next year
A temporary ward meant to ease pressure on Waikato Hospital's emergency department will not open this year, the Health Minister has confirmed.
Auckland Council approves budget with 7.9% rates rise
The council has signed off on a budget featuring a 7.9% average rates increase and $106 million in operating cost cuts.
Early language programme to expand to 525 centres
The Enrich scheme will grow from 65 to 525 early childhood services after a trial found children showed stronger oral language skills and self-regulation.
Govt unveils stillbirth registry site but $37 fee remains
A new website for registering stillborn babies includes grief support and fewer traumatic questions, but families say the $37 certificate fee should be waived.
Teacher loses registration after third drink-drive conviction
The Teachers Disciplinary Tribunal has deregistered a teacher following a third conviction for driving under the influence of alcohol.
Phonics test given to Year 1 students mislabelled 'feast' and 'coats' as fake words
Year 1 students received a phonetic test containing mislabelled words, including genuine words incorrectly marked as fake.
Three major cyber breaches recorded in first quarter of 2026
New Zealand recorded three C2-level cybersecurity incidents in the first quarter of 2026, the first such breaches in more than four years.
Police Commissioner Richard Chambers under IPCA investigation
Richard Chambers says he strongly rejects allegations against him, as Police and the Independent Police Conduct Authority investigate complaints dating back to November 2025.
Catholic church moves to sell Christchurch school land
St Thomas of Canterbury College's Australian-based owners plan to sell the school's property, with the sale connected to compensating victims of sexual abuse.
Police guard Invercargill home after person found critically injured
An unresponsive person was taken to hospital in critical condition after police were called to a Kew property.
Police investigate suspicious fire at Tauranga mall
Arson is suspected after a blaze broke out at a Tauranga shopping centre late Wednesday night.
Police seek 19-year-old after shot fired at Auckland home
Junior Simolo is wanted on serious firearms charges after a gun was discharged at a Point England property on 29 June.
Police issue warrant for dangerous man over Point England shooting
Authorities have named a suspect and warned the public he is considered dangerous.
Community Magistrates to take on expanded court role
New legislation will allow Community Magistrates to hear guilty pleas and conduct trials for lower-level offences, with reforms expected to free up more than five full-time judges.
Corded blinds to meet mandatory safety standards
New regulations will require corded window coverings to meet international safety benchmarks after eight children died from cord entanglement since 2008.
New website launched for stillborn baby registration
A dedicated portal called Whetūrangitia removes the need for grieving parents to use the SmartStart system designed for live births.
Black ice forms on South Island roads as temperatures drop to -6°C
Overnight temperatures fell to -6°C, forming widespread black ice across South Island roads and footpaths and creating hazardous conditions for morning commuters.
Man killed in Wellington crash named as Gregory Diggins, 62
Police have identified the victim of a 19 June State Highway 1 crash in Wellington as Gregory David Diggins of Lower Hutt.
Cape Palliser road closed after slips isolate residents
South Wairarapa's coastal road will remain shut to non-residents until at least Matariki, with slip clearing expected to take more than a week.
Taranaki farmers dispute Crown costs claim after land seizure withdrawn
Tony and Debbie Pascoe face approximately $400,000 in outstanding court costs despite the Crown withdrawing its compulsory acquisition action following a Supreme Court ruling.
Minister says MSD emergency housing targets are agency's responsibility
Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka has distanced himself from performance agreements that tie MSD managers' outcomes to reducing emergency housing numbers, saying implementation is the chief executive's purview.
One-third declined emergency housing get no alternative support
Ministry of Social Development figures show around 30% of applicants turned away from emergency housing receive no other housing assistance, despite government statements that declined applicants receive support through other pathways.
Minister defends govt response to Gloriavale child safety concerns
The Education Review Office flagged serious child safety concerns at Gloriavale in December, but Oranga Tamariki did not respond for nearly six months after a letter went to an unmonitored inbox.
Patient dies in Waikato Hospital ED after nine-hour wait
A man in his mid-50s was found unconscious in a toilet at Waikato Hospital's emergency department after waiting more than nine hours, prompting two reviews and a referral to the Coroner.
Air Force fires missiles from Poseidon for first time
Two AGM-84 Harpoon missiles struck a decommissioned vessel during Exercise Valiant Shield near Guam, marking a new capability for the maritime patrol fleet.
Selwyn District rates and water bills up 8.8%
Properties with water and sewage connections will see a $280 increase as council rates and water charges rise together.
Asbestos fibres detected in air from children's play sand
New research has confirmed airborne asbestos release from recalled play sand products, prompting government agencies to update advice and businesses to revise recall notices.
El Niño declared in Pacific, scientists warn of potential record intensity
Scientists have warned the El Niño event now officially declared in the tropical Pacific could become the most intense ever recorded, with expected effects on New Zealand's spring weather.
Forestry directors face personal liability for Gisborne cleanup costs
Three directors of Samnic Forest Management have lost their High Court appeal against being held personally liable for slash cleanup costs, putting their homes and assets at risk.
Audit Office to examine nearly $1.5 billion learning support spending
The inquiry will assess whether the Ministry of Education is delivering value for money from the system supporting children with disabilities, with findings due in September.
Coroner rules resident acted lawfully in fatal stabbing
A homeowner who killed a Mongrel Mob member during an armed home invasion has been found to have acted in self-defence with no criminal liability.
Cult leaders convicted of manslaughter after police identify remains in bin bag
A husband and wife who led a cult have been found guilty of manslaughter following a complex police investigation that identified human remains and uncovered evidence including gold bars worth $2 million.
Filipino authorities recommend homicide charges for NZ coaches
Tab Baldwin and Grant Dearns are recommended to face homicide charges in the Philippines over a hazing incident.
NZ Muscle expands recall over milk allergen labelling
The recall now covers additional creatine products containing undeclared milk, as a food safety investigation continues.
Christchurch businesses hit by series of ram raids
At least seven stores across the city have been targeted since Tuesday, with police investigating potential links between the break-ins.
PM backs Police Commissioner as conduct investigation continues
Richard Chambers faces an Independent Police Conduct Authority investigation into complaints about his behaviour towards women, but Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says he retains confidence in the commissioner.
Climate activist takes govt to court over emission lawsuit block
Mike Smith has launched High Court proceedings challenging the government's decision to stop his climate change case against major emitters, alleging the process was unlawful and influenced by corporate lobbying.
Porirua by-election set for October following councillor's death
Nominations open 9 July for the Onepoto General Ward seat left vacant by Mike Duncan's sudden death.
Power companies gain authority to remove risky trees near lines
New regulations allow electricity line owners to assess and cut down trees that threaten power infrastructure, and set planting restrictions in rural areas.
Pharmac to widen cholesterol drug access from October
Eligibility restrictions on Rosuvastatin will be removed, allowing clinicians to prescribe the medication based on clinical need rather than set criteria.
Tower cranes go up at New Dunedin Hospital site
Three tower cranes are being installed at the inpatient building as the project moves from groundwork to vertical construction.
Bird flu arrival in NZ 'a matter of when, not if', minister warns
Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard says poultry prices could be affected as New Zealand prepares for an outbreak following confirmed cases across the Tasman.
Govt to regulate blind cords after child's death
New safety regulations for window blind cords will be introduced following the death of a child in a cord accident.
Shots fired at Auckland home after entry attempt fails
Police are searching for an offender who discharged a firearm at a Point England property on Monday night after being unable to gain access.
Wairarapa flooding continues as Wellington recovers from storm that cancelled 200 flights
State Highway 53 remains closed near Martinborough while more than 2500 households are still without power following Friday's storm that brought winds exceeding 150km/h.
Soldier demoted after threatening to kill superior officer
Acting Corporal Jared Joseph Deal was sentenced to a reprimand and demotion to sapper after being convicted of threatening to kill a captain at Waiouru Military Camp.
SH3 through Awakino Gorge closed after overnight slip
A debris barrier successfully caught material from the land movement, but the highway will remain closed pending a geotechnical assessment.
MP calls for Lineside Road intersection closures after crashes
Waimakariri MP Matt Doocey wants two intersections on State Highway 71 permanently closed after three accidents in a week.
Rural families face school transport costs after Ministry review
Families in Manawatū are paying hundreds of dollars in transport costs after Ministry rule changes left students ineligible for funded buses to Palmerston North schools.
Rāwene residents urged to conserve water after leak
A water leak depleted the Northland township's reservoir, prompting calls for residents to limit water use until Saturday midday.
Wellington council orders review of $600,000 library website
An independent expert will examine whether the website project delivered value for money, with findings due before mid-September.
Valentines tightens food safety rules after norovirus outbreak
The restaurant chain has introduced stricter protocols across all stores following a norovirus incident, while the company defends its 'A' hygiene rating.
Pedestrian critically injured after Ōtāhuhu collision
A person was struck by a vehicle on Māngere Road on Thursday evening and taken to hospital with critical injuries.
Driver dies in single-vehicle crash on West Coast highway
A motorist was killed when their vehicle crashed on State Highway 6 near Kumara Junction early on 26 June 2026, with one lane reopening by midday.
DOC seeks sightings of entangled whale off Otago
Search teams have lost track of a whale spotted swimming with a large pink buoy caught on it off the Otago coast.
West Auckland therapist charged with indecent assault
Police are seeking other potential victims after a man in his 40s was charged with two counts of indecent assault at a Glen Eden clinic.
Fast-track panel demands assurances on catastrophic mine failure costs
Santana Minerals faces a 30-point information request covering indemnity guarantees, lizard relocation alternatives and water quality risks for its proposed Central Otago gold mine.
Family injured as truck tyre hits car on Auckland motorway
A mother and her three children escaped serious injury after a truck tyre detached and struck their vehicle on State Highway 1, with the driver still unidentified.
Two charged after Hawke's Bay drug raid seizes meth, cocaine
An 18-year-old and a 24-year-old face drug supply and ammunition charges following police searches in Wairoa and Raupunga.
Supreme Court rejects infrastructure consultant's appeal over unpaid work
The country's highest court has turned down a final appeal in a dispute over unpaid infrastructure consultancy spanning four years.
Youth programme graduates 14 as unemployment nears 15%
A charity employment programme for vulnerable young people has celebrated 14 graduates as new figures show youth unemployment for 15-24-year-olds has reached nearly 15%, roughly three times the rate for the wider working population.
Five injured in three-vehicle crash on Kawarau Bridge near Queenstown
One person was airlifted to Dunedin Hospital after a collision on the bridge on Saturday morning.
Principals reject government's $85 million student assessment tool
Some school leaders say SMART is not accurate for measuring achievement and cannot yet deliver the reporting it was designed to provide.
Tranzit to run Hawke's Bay buses with electric fleet from 2027
Go Bus will lose its urban street routes in Hawke's Bay next year when Tranzit takes over with an all-electric vehicle fleet.
Christchurch businesses hit by series of ram raids and break-ins
Police are investigating whether a series of break-ins across the city this week are connected, with no arrests made as of Friday afternoon.
Fire service visits Canterbury landowners after 11 burn-offs spread
Eleven burn-piles escaped control during strong nor-westerly winds on Saturday, stretching firefighters across the region.
New Zealander in Australia faces four more extremist material charges
The 24-year-old man was initially charged in February after Border Force officers found violent content on his phone at Perth Airport.
Chief Victims Advisor challenges Auckland Uni complaint processes
Ruth Money says the University of Auckland's handling of bullying and harassment complaints falls short of what should be expected from a leading educational institution.
Auckland Harbour Bridge may close amid wind gust warning
NZTA warns lanes could shut for short periods tomorrow afternoon if gusts hit 90-95km/h between 1pm and 6pm.
Fire crews tackle blaze at Auckland CBD tavern
Mr Murdoch's pub on Fort Street was evacuated after a fire broke out on the second floor on 25 June.
Marlborough Council to consult on beach driving penalties
The council will ask residents whether it should gain powers to issue infringement notices after 156 vehicle trips were recorded in a banned zone over summer.
Rotorua bin rollout pushed back to October, $300,000 extra cost
Supply issues tied to the Iran conflict have delayed the new kerbside collection system by three months, but the council says ratepayers will not bear the additional cost.
South Island highways closed as ice and snow hit central routes
State Highway 73 and parts of State Highway 8 remain shut after a cold snap left ice across central South Island routes.
Man arrested after ramming police car in Auckland
A 21-year-old fled from police on Auckland motorways before being spiked near Drury early Thursday morning.
Severe gales batter lower North Island: 60+ flights axed, thousands lose power
A slow-moving low pressure system has brought gusts exceeding 150 km/h to Wellington, forcing mass flight cancellations and leaving more than 6300 people without electricity in Taranaki and over 2500 properties affected in Wellington.
WorkSafe closes Kindercare chemical burns case, cites human error
Five children and two adults were injured when industrial sanitiser was mistakenly applied to a water slide at a Christchurch daycare in December 2025.
Health experts warn against DIY prostate cancer test kits
Medical professionals are cautioning men against at-home testing following a surge in kit purchases after Jeremy Clarkson's cancer diagnosis.
Porirua teen in Bali ICU fighting meningitis after family holiday
Ashen Phaipanya, 16, has been in intensive care in Indonesia since falling critically ill with bacterial meningitis and pneumonia during a birthday trip.
Doctor arrested over $180,000 student loan debt as 70% of overseas borrowers default
A doctor detained at Wellington airport last month highlights a wider problem: nearly 114,000 New Zealanders living abroad hold student loans, with defaulters owing $2.5 billion.
NZ Muscle recalls creatine over undeclared milk allergen
Two creatine products sold nationwide have been pulled from shelves after an undeclared milk allergen was identified, with Food Safety investigating the company following social media complaints.
Wellington bedrooms hit CO2 levels 10 times safe target
A study of 20 Wellington homes found half had nighttime CO2 concentrations above 2000ppm, with poor ventilation affecting sleep quality and next-day performance.
Teachers union developing extremism guidelines amid classroom concerns
The PPTA is commissioning an expert to create guidance for teachers after reports of increased homophobia, anti-Semitism and misogyny in secondary schools.
Australian man jailed for life over Perth murder of New Zealander
Tobias Nuttall, 33, will serve at least 18 years before parole eligibility after stabbing Alisha Hendren-Krippner nine times at her Perth home in August 2025.
Cook Islands fisher recounts seven days adrift at sea
Apiuta Apiuta survived a week lost at sea after his outboard motor failed, enduring storms that threw him overboard twice before a New Zealand Defence Force aircraft located him.
Underwater machine designed to remove Bay of Islands caulerpa enters sea trials
A $5 million submersible built to strip invasive seaweed from the seafloor has entered final testing at Omākiwi Cove, with capacity to clear nearly 1.5 rugby fields a day.
Six charged over alleged 93kg meth smuggling operation
Customs says organised crime groups are targeting young New Zealanders on social media to act as drug couriers, with 22 people arrested since January.
Nationwide roadside drug testing starts next week
Police will deploy tongue-swab tests across the country from Wednesday, with drivers who test positive facing an immediate 12-hour ban and fines up to $400.
Govt expands child exploitation filter as AI abuse reports surge 400%
Internal Affairs has begun blocking AI-generated child sexual abuse material after reports jumped from 151 in 2025 to 267 in the first three months of 2026.
Young bowel cancer patients face months-long delays, study finds
Half of New Zealanders diagnosed with bowel cancer before age 50 waited more than six months for diagnosis, with nearly a third misdiagnosed despite presenting with symptoms.
Hundreds protest 17% Waitaki rates rise despite council cut from 22%
Waitaki ratepayers delivered a 5000-signature petition to the mayor after the council reduced its rates increase from 22% to 17%.
Racing committee report proposes high-risk gambling products
A TAB New Zealand advisory committee has put forward a proposal to permit high-risk gambling products. The Problem Gambling Foundation has criticised the recommendation.
WorkSafe reverses decision on orchard supervisor death probe
The workplace safety regulator will now investigate a fatal collision between an ATV and tractor after initially declining to do so.
Driver, 21, charged after alleged police car ramming
A 21-year-old faces charges after allegedly reversing into an unmarked police vehicle during a pursuit in the early hours of the morning.
Pedestrian killed in early-morning Waikato highway crash
A fatal collision on a Waikato highway in the early hours has resulted in a road closure and major delays for motorists.
Driver dies in early morning crash near Kumara Junction
A motorist has died following a single-vehicle collision on the Taramakau Highway, with the Serious Crash Unit investigating the circumstances.
Orange wind warning issued for Wellington, Marlborough Sounds
Gusts reaching 130km/h are forecast overnight, with power companies warning residents to prepare for outages as debris and branches threaten lines.
Fire crews extinguish blaze at central Auckland restaurant
A commercial kitchen fire on Fort Street triggered a six-truck response, but sprinklers contained the blaze before firefighters arrived.
Journal pulls article questioning racism claims in psychology
A Māori author's article was removed after the publisher said it did not align with organisational values.
Temperature records falsified in Canterbury Uni food poisoning case
An investigation into a food poisoning outbreak at a University of Canterbury hall has found the Students' Association falsified temperature records for meals it prepared.
Man behind $11.12 million illegal lottery avoids prison
Waiariki McIlroy-Jones will serve six months community detention and 250 hours community work for operating illegal lotteries that an official described as the country's largest.
Bar manager admits stealing from pub, disputes amount
Sophie Elizabeth Perniskie, 33, has admitted taking money from her employer but is contesting certain aspects of the prosecution case.
Prison officer wins $36,883 after dismissal ruled unjustified
The Employment Relations Authority found a prison officer's dismissal was unjustified after he struck a prisoner he said was attacking him.
Teacher pleads not guilty to assault charges, keeps name suppression
A teacher charged with four counts of indecent assault and one count of impeding breathing has entered not guilty pleas, with the court extending name suppression until an October trial.
Soldier guilty of threatening superior officer at court martial
A military panel convicted the soldier of death threats and insulting language but cleared him of a headbutting charge after nearly three hours of deliberation.
Taranaki to host medical students from 2028
Māori health providers say the region is ready to train doctors from the New Zealand Graduate School of Medicine, with clinical placements starting in 2028.
Primary teachers turn to scripted lessons under new curriculum
School leaders say the practice should be a temporary scaffold as teachers adapt to structured teaching methods in maths and literacy.
Half of young bowel cancer patients wait over six months for diagnosis
Research surveying 353 people diagnosed before age 50 found nearly a third were initially misdiagnosed, with common symptoms dismissed as IBS or stress.
IPCA probe of Police Commissioner began in December, complainant not interviewed until 4 June
Richard Chambers has been under investigation by the Independent Police Conduct Authority since December 2025, but one complainant was not interviewed by police until 4 June 2026.
Human Rights Commission chief under investigation
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith has confirmed complaints about Chief Commissioner Stephen Rainbow are being examined by an independent investigator.
Canterbury Uni food poisoning: falsified temperature records found
An investigation into a November 2024 outbreak that sickened 164 students found the University of Canterbury Students' Association did not follow food safety rules and falsified chicken temperature logs.
Minister seeks meeting to apologise over girl mistakenly sedated
Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey has written to the family of an 11-year-old autistic girl who was wrongly restrained and sedated at Waikato Hospital, requesting a meeting to apologise in person.
One person critical after Nelson incident
Emergency services responded to an incident near Nelson Police Station on Wednesday morning, with one person taken to hospital in a critical condition.
Wellington Council weighs shift to land-value rates system
A proposed switch would calculate rates on site worth alone, with apartment owners and outer suburbs potentially benefiting while vacant lots face higher bills.
Pedestrian critically injured at Auckland Port link
The Port link to Auckland's Southern Motorway was temporarily closed after a pedestrian was critically injured, with diversions cleared by 3.30pm.
NZDF keeps door open to AI targeting tech used in Iran war
The Defence Force has not ruled out adopting Maven targeting software in future, citing the need to maintain interoperability with Australia as a top priority.
NZ agencies monitor after bird flu found in Australia
Biosecurity agencies are tracking the situation after Western Australia confirmed H5N1 in a seabird, with officials saying New Zealand has prepared for potential arrival.
Expert warns NZ birds may be at risk as H5N1 detected in Australia again
A second H5N1 case in Western Australia has prompted an Otago virologist to warn that New Zealand's threatened seabirds may be vulnerable when the strain arrives here.
Abuse survivors say redress system still failing one year on
A year after the government raised average payments to $30,000, advocates say the system remains inadequate and continues to fail those harmed in state care.
ERO: Online learning at Te Kura fails at-risk students
The Education Review Office says distance learning cannot provide the consistent adult contact and supervision that vulnerable young people need.
Alternative education enrolments double as ERO warns of system failure for at-risk students
More than 8000 students now study outside mainstream schools, with the Education Review Office warning of a system failure and calling for urgent reform.
NZ passenger leaves quarantine after cruise ship virus outbreak
One New Zealander and five Australians have been released from a Perth facility after six weeks of isolation following their exposure to a hantavirus outbreak that killed three people.
Community refugee sponsorship scheme to become permanent
The programme will expand to 200 places annually from 1 July, quadrupling its current capacity within New Zealand's overall 1500 refugee quota.
Seven NZ students win NASA internships through Space Scholarship
The postgraduate students will spend three months at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California working on projects from astrovirology to power electronics.
Four research projects launched to support hornet eradication
Scientists will model Auckland risk areas and develop readiness guides for the apiculture sector as part of the yellow-legged hornet response.
Rolleston SH1 bridge construction to start this month
Fulton Hogan will build a bridge over State Highway 1 and the railway line, with completion scheduled for late 2027.
Three bridges to be repaired in Ōtorohanga region
Work will begin next week on flood-damaged bridges on State Highway 3 and State Highway 39, with traffic management in place.
Whaikaha awards $1.7m to disability sector leadership
Disability community organisations will receive funding to strengthen governance capability, with investment targeting historically underrepresented groups.
GP funding formula overhauled after 86% clinic vote
General practices will receive $120.6 million in additional annual funding under a new formula targeting areas of greatest health need, in the first change to the distribution model in more than 20 years.
Community pharmacies get $26.6m funding boost
Health New Zealand has agreed to a 3.16% uplift worth $26.6 million, enabling pharmacists to treat additional common conditions including conjunctivitis and scabies.
Aged residential care sector gets $79 million funding boost
Health New Zealand will increase funding to aged care providers by 4% in 2026/27, with facilities expected to accept weekend hospital discharges where clinically safe.
Hospices to receive $12 million funding boost for palliative care
Health New Zealand will distribute $12 million to hospices in the 2026/27 year, following a review that found government support ranging from 22% to 91% across providers.
Four of five mental health targets now met, quarterly data shows
More than 84,000 people accessed primary mental health support in the latest quarter, up from 73,000 a year earlier, as wait time targets continue to improve.
Health wait times improve across all five government targets
Emergency department waits, cancer treatment, elective surgery, specialist assessments and childhood immunisation all showed gains in the first quarter of 2026.
Kaikōura rock lobster fishery to close for three months
Both recreational and commercial fishing will be banned from 1 July to protect breeding female lobsters and allow younger stocks to mature.
Public consultation opens on catch limits for 22 fish stocks
Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones has launched a consultation on proposed fishing changes, including tarakihi reductions and snapper increases.
Education reforms pass Parliament, create property agency
A new Crown entity will manage school buildings and ERO will take over regulatory functions for early childhood education, private schools and hostels under legislation passed this week.
Small councils split on govt amalgamation deadline
Southland's mayor says his council has spent two years preparing to merge, while Ōpōtiki's leader calls the August timeline ridiculous.
IPCA finds police unjustified in allowing ex-partner into home
Officers let a man into his former partner's Manukau home to collect belongings despite a court protection order, then issued a safety order forcing her to leave for 24 hours.
Driver arrested after rush-hour pursuit across Auckland
A 54-year-old man was arrested after leading police on a pursuit across multiple motorways and suburbs during Tuesday afternoon peak traffic.
Third Mt Eden prison staffer investigated over sexual harassment
A Corrections Department employee from the Mt Eden prison health team is being investigated for alleged sexual harassment, joining two other senior staff already under scrutiny.
Witnesses refusing to cooperate in Kaikohe teen death probe
Police say people in the Mid North know what happened when 18-year-old Jahkani Hamilton was killed on a dirt bike in May, but are choosing to stay silent.
Auckland officer Matthew Rogers charged over objectionable material
Rogers is one of three police staff facing prosecution after a review of internet usage triggered by Jevon McSkimming's resignation.
Gulf Harbour trial: Defendant calls actions after death 'panic decision'
Lanyue Xiao denies kidnapping and manslaughter charges over the death of Shulai Wang, whose body was found wrapped in plastic in Auckland's Gulf Harbour in March 2024.
Gulf Harbour trial: grandparents' lawyers deny involvement in death
Lawyers for two grandparents on trial over the death of 70-year-old Shulai Wang say their clients focused on childcare and had minimal contact with the deceased woman.
Soldier denies assault and threats at court martial
A serviceman facing three charges claims he encountered a senior colleague by chance after a cocktail function, with no ambush or violence against the officer.
Wellington pharmacy leak exposes 29 patients' private messages
A Unichem Petone pharmacy has removed sensitive patient information from the internet after a website error [made private messages publicly accessible](https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/health/616376/pharmacy-scrambles-to-scrub-internet-of-patients-private-messages).
Teachers' union to develop guidelines amid rise in extremist views
The Post Primary Teachers' Association is hiring an expert to create guidance after increasing reports of students expressing homophobia, anti-Semitism, racism and misogyny in classrooms.
Schools evacuated nationwide after wave of anonymous threats
Police are investigating anonymous email threats sent to schools, media and institutions across New Zealand on Tuesday, which they assess as low risk but are treating seriously.
Heavy rain watches issued for northern NZ, severe gales forecast for central regions
MetService has issued heavy rain watches for eastern Northland, Auckland and inland Tasman on Wednesday, with severe gales forecast for central New Zealand on Thursday.
Search teams honoured for 20-day Mt Aspiring operation
Volunteers and search dogs received a Gold Award for a 20-day operation to find an Argentine tourist who disappeared in Mt Aspiring National Park in 2025.
Burst water main floods central Wellington buildings
Fire crews are pumping water from building basements on Willeston Street after a private water main ruptured early Wednesday morning.
Pedestrian seriously injured in Taupō crash
A person was struck by a vehicle on Kiddle Drive this afternoon, prompting road closures and a Serious Crash Unit investigation.
Aratere grounding report makes no recommendations after Interislander fixes identified
The Transport Accident Investigation Commission has released its final report on the 2024 Aratere ferry grounding, making no formal recommendations after Interislander addressed safety gaps in training, change management and auditing.
Bottom trawling covers 1.7% of NZ waters, new data shows
Government data for the 2024/25 fishing year shows the trawled area within New Zealand's territorial sea and Exclusive Economic Zone represented 1.7% of the total area and was concentrated in specific fishing grounds.
Kindergartens to seek parent donations after 0.48% Budget rise
Kindergartens received a 0.48% subsidy increase in Budget 2026, well below the 1.5% granted to other early childhood services, prompting warnings of cost cuts and donation requests.
Auckland rates to rise 7.9% after council approves budget
Auckland councillors voted 14 to seven to approve Mayor Wayne Brown's annual budget, which includes $106 million in operating cost cuts and $3.6 billion in capital spending.
Coroner finds systemic failures in pepper-spray death at Mt Eden prison
Caleb Moefa'auo died in custody four years ago after being pepper-sprayed during a confrontation over a towel, with his family still awaiting an apology.
Multiple people rescued from Hamilton house fire
Fire and Emergency crews rescued multiple people from a roof fire in Frankton, Hamilton, on Saturday morning.
Gulf Harbour trial hears evidence of thin women at house
Detectives described finding three very thin women and bags of stones at an Orewa house linked to the death of 70-year-old Shulai Wang, whose body was found wrapped in rubbish bags in Gulf Harbour.
Oranga Tamariki acknowledges failures in baby death case
A review found practice standards were not fully met in the case of nine-and-a-half-month-old Mustafa Ali, killed by his father in June 2024.
Worker dies in Auckland electro-magnet manufacturing accident
One person has died and another was seriously injured in a workplace accident at an electro-magnet manufacturing facility in Mt Wellington on Thursday afternoon.
Fatal Christchurch house fire began in bedroom, no charges to be laid
Fire investigators have confirmed the blaze that killed a three-year-old girl and her mother originated in a bedroom, ruling out an electrical fault as a cause.
One in five Asian patients missed interpreter at Waikato Hospital
Research found 21% of patients with limited English proficiency did not receive language support when signing surgical consent forms in 2022 and 2023.
50,000 more children in material hardship than three years ago
Nearly 170,000 children were facing material hardship in 2025, with New Zealand tracking away from its 2028 target of reducing the rate to 6%.
Coroner decides against inquiry into Norman Lee's death
Norman Lee, 90, died of pneumonia in 2020 after being locked in a dark room for up to 16 hours a day by his son, who was jailed in 2022.
Manurewa High School to close early due to staffing shortage
The school will release its nearly 2300 students early on Friday after 29 staff were absent, well above normal levels.
State Highway 1 south of Levin reopens after crash leaves one critical
A three-vehicle crash involving a truck closed the highway with no diversions available, leaving motorists stranded.
Orange heavy rain warnings issued for South Island
MetService has issued orange warnings for Westland, Buller, Tasman and ranges between Nelson and Marlborough, with up to 450mm of rain forecast in some areas.
Three injured as truck crash closes SH1 bridge south of Levin
A truck became wedged between guard-rails on Manakau North Rail Overbridge after a crash involving three vehicles, with one person airlifted in critical condition.
Boy dies after leaving West Auckland school bus
A child under 10 years old has died after leaving a school bus while travelling home from a West Auckland special needs school on Monday.
Canterbury man charged over alleged chop-shop exporting to UAE
A 48-year-old has been arrested after police say 27 stolen vehicles were stripped at a Kaianga business and parts shipped to the United Arab Emirates.
Universities receive $234m to fund enrolments as fees rise
Budget 2026 delivers funding to cover 99% of university enrolments, but subsidy rates remain frozen and students face fee increases of up to 6%.
Man who ran $11.12 million illegal lottery scheme avoids prison
Waiariki McIlroy-Jones and his company pleaded guilty to running unlicensed lotteries that generated $11.12 million in sales from 69,500 participants, but sentencing has been reserved until June.
Grandmother denies knowing victim in Gulf Harbour manslaughter trial
Xiuyun Li told police she had never heard of Shulai Wang, whose body was found wrapped in plastic and weighted with stones in Gulf Harbour two years ago.
DOC launches external investigation into regional operations
The Department of Conservation has commissioned an external investigation into its Northern North Island region following concerns about iwi relationships and debt management.
Tiaki Wai lowers water price rise to 12.8% after public pushback
Wellington region water charges will rise by 12.8% in 2026-2027, down from an initial 14.7% projection, after the water authority revised its prices following public concern.
Budget allocates $153.6m for Health NZ cyber security upgrades
Health NZ will receive $153.6 million to strengthen cyber security monitoring and upgrade IT systems, alongside $300 million from its own budget for digital modernisation.
Bluebridge cancels Connemara sailing due to mechanical fault
Passengers were rescheduled on to other sailings while the fault was repaired, with the issue unrelated to problems experienced this year.
One dead, two critically injured in Taupō crash
A two-vehicle collision on Te Heuheu Road on Friday evening left one person dead at the scene and two others critically injured.
WorkSafe investigating after boy dies following school van incident
A boy under 10 who attended a school for children with special needs died on Monday after leaving a school van, prompting a WorkSafe inquiry into transport safety systems.
More than 1 million New Zealanders vaccinated against flu
Health NZ has announced the milestone ahead of winter, with vaccinations available through GPs, pharmacies and other providers nationwide.
Fire crews contain hazardous substance leak at Auckland port
Fire and Emergency responded to a spill on a container ship at Fergusson Wharf on Saturday morning, with crews leaving the scene after providing cleanup solutions.
Orange heavy rain warnings issued for South Island regions
MetService has issued orange warnings for Tasman, Buller, Westland and the Richmond Ranges from Sunday, with up to 600mm of rain possible by Tuesday.
Christchurch council seeks housing interest for red zone land
The council's regeneration committee has issued a request for information covering 12 hectares of edge areas within the 602-hectare Ōtākaro Avon River corridor.
NZTA awards design contract for SH2 Waikare Gorge realignment
HEB Construction will design a 260-metre bridge to span the gorge, with early works expected to begin later this year.
Alternative education overhaul urged as most students leave without qualifications
An Education Review Office report says the current system for 8000 struggling teens needs better funding and more in-person support, with too many students ending up on benefits or in crime.
Ferry sailings axed as swells hit Cook Strait, heavy rain lashes North
Multiple Interislander and Bluebridge crossings have been cancelled through Friday as six-metre swells are forecast, while MetService warns of up to 100mm of rain for Coromandel and Bay of Plenty.
Wellington air quality worsens despite city's wind advantage
Black carbon levels on Manners Street rose 15% between 2023 and 2025, driven by increased diesel bus use in the capital's centre.
Five Northland flood evacuees remain displaced five months on
Five people are still living at Ngātiwai Marae after losing their homes in the January storms, with infrastructure requirements blocking their return to off-grid land.
Food Safety investigating NZ Muscle over alleged breaches
New Zealand Food Safety is examining claims made in a YouTube video about labelling issues and warehouse practices at the supplements retailer.
2300 customers hit by fibre outage in central Auckland
Ponsonby, Grey Lynn, Westmere and Western Springs lost internet service on 23 June, with Chorus estimating full restoration by 5am today.
Elective surgery waits improve but emergency department times see minimal gain
Nearly 65% of patients received elective treatment within four months in early 2026, up from 57% a year earlier, while emergency department performance rose by just 0.2 percentage points.
Local publishers lose $100 million in education contracts to offshore firms
New Zealand education publishers say they have been shut out of government contracts worth around $100 million over two years, with foreign-owned companies winning tenders for mathematics resources.
Pharmac to fund new ADHD medication brand from October
Rubifen LA will offer an additional treatment option for ADHD patients facing supply shortages, including a new 60mg strength not previously funded.