Manawatū Local Newsroom

Communities called on to discuss river damage
The public are invited to upcoming river scheme meetings as Horizon Region Council try to assess what damage the Manawatū River caused following this week’s storm.
Published: 4:02PM 18 February 2026
Source: Stuff / The Post. https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360951964/communities-called-discuss-river-damage

What’s on in Manawatū: February 20 - 23
Look out for murder, vengeance and rebellion at the Esplanade this weekend.
Published: 2:09PM 18 February 2026
Source: Stuff / The Post. https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360596480/whats-manawatu-weekend-and-beyond

Booming hobby community fuels shop expansion
While many eyes were on the hotly-anticipated arrival of a pharmacy giant to Palmerston North, a shop trading in fantasy and strategy sparked its own opening day excitement.
Published: 11:00AM 17 February 2026
Source: Stuff / The Post. https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360951443/booming-community-fuels-hobby-lords-expansion

Newly-independent polytechnics given $325m from former owner
The 10 newly-independent polytechnics have been kick-started with more than $325-million from their former owner, super-institute Te Pūkenga.
Published: 8:37AM 18 February 2026
Source: Stuff / The Post. https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360951731/newly-independent-polytechnics-given-325m-former-owner

Big cleanup ahead in Pohangina
Water levels have receded but there is still a big mess in some areas.
Published: 4:00AM 18 February 2026
Source: Stuff / The Post. https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360951513/big-cleanup-ahead-pohangina-after-flooding

Surgical robot target for hospital foundation
The Palmerston North Hospital Foundation aims to raise about $2 million for world-class surgical equipment.
Published: 4:00AM 18 February 2026
Source: Stuff / The Post. https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360951190/surgical-robot-target-hospital-foundation

Father cleared of sexual abuse as jury returns mixed verdicts
The jury returned its verdicts after a second day of deliberations and more than five days of evidence including testimony from the man’s children and former wife.
Published: 7:00PM 17 February 2026
Source: Stuff / The Post. https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360950621/father-cleared-sexual-abuse-jury-returns-mixed-verdicts

Aviation student has charges of sharing child abuse images set aside
Marc Dmello now faces two charges of possessing objectionable material, but entered no pleas when he appeared in his pilot wings at the Palmerston North District Court.
Published: 6:00PM 17 February 2026
Source: Stuff / The Post. https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360951265/aviation-student-has-charges-sharing-child-abuse-images-set-aside

Storms destroy Horowhenua grower's long berry tunnels
Storms across the North Island have destroyed a Horowhenua grower's large berry tunnels, but power to the milking shed has since returned.
Published: 2:12PM 17 February 2026
Source: Stuff / The Post. https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360951411/storms-destroy-horowhenua-growers-long-berry-tunnels

Moutoa floodgates open for first time since upgrade
Horizons Regional Council open the Moutoa Floodway following heavy rain in the region.
Published: 1:28PM 17 February 2026
Source: Stuff / The Post. https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360951170/moutoa-floodgates-open-first-time-upgrade

‘Wild night’ in Pohangina Valley
The Pohangina River was surging down the valley, running over low-lying farmland.
Published: 4:00AM 17 February 2026
Source: Stuff / The Post. https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360950651/wild-night-valley-pohangina-river-surges-after-heavy-rain

Choking risk could have been managed better
A better, well-documented care plan could have helped avoid a patient choking to death while being fed.
Published: 5:00PM 16 February 2026
Source: Stuff / The Post. https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360950611/choking-risk-could-have-been-managed-better

Evacuees return home, thousands remain without power
Riverside residents in Ashhurst and Tararua have returned to their homes as fears of flooding fade, though heavy rain warnings remain in place across the wider Manawatū.
Published: 4:15PM 16 February 2026
Source: Stuff / The Post. https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360950138/homes-evacuated-storm-takes-hold

Shape of Central Districts Water emerging
The committee that will be the connection between three councils and iwi and the Central Districts Water board has been set up.
Published: 3:00PM 16 February 2026
Source: Stuff / The Post. https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360950510/shape-central-districts-water-emerging

Ashhurst residents evacuated as river threatened to breach its banks
Emergency services went door-to-door on Saddle and River roads in Ashhurst, waking locals from their slumber and moving them to the safety.
Published: 2:37PM 16 February 2026
Source: Stuff / The Post. https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360950602/ashhurst-residents-evacuated-river-threatened-breach-its-banks

Daring to give off good vibrations
Being bold and creative has been born as much from desperation as it has ambition for a Kiwi entrepreneur navigating social stigmas as well as traditional market forces.
Published: 4:00AM 16 February 2026
Source: Stuff / The Post. https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360946548/plucky-entrepreneur-bringing-good-vibrations-manawatu

Big splashes and bigger crowds at Manu World Champs qualifier
Hundreds of people turned out to watch scores of competitors make a splash at the Z Manu World Champs’ regional qualifiers in Palmerston North on Saturday.
Published: 4:46PM 15 February 2026
Source: Stuff / The Post. https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360950039/big-splashes-and-bigger-crowds-z-manu-world-champs-qualifier-palmerston-north

Linklater Reserve wool shed for the knackers yard
The transformation of Linklater land from farmland to recreation reserve is almost complete.
Published: 12:00PM 15 February 2026
Source: Stuff / The Post. https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360949053/linklater-reserve-wool-shed-knackers-yard

No rain radar on horizon for Manawatū
As extreme weather becomes more frequent, concern is growing within Horizons District Council that the region isn’t properly prepared.
Published: 11:00AM 15 February 2026
Source: Stuff / The Post. https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360949566/no-rain-radar-horizon-manawatu

Legacy of a mailroom mishap
Letters reveal that, if it were not for a mailroom mishap in 1923, we may have had a very different monument in Te Marae o Hine / The Square today.
Published: 4:00AM 14 February 2026
Source: Stuff / The Post. https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360947792/back-issues-legacy-deplorable-mailroom-mishap

New Zealand Newsroom

Government scraps plans for referendum on four-year term
Coalition agreements secured getting legislation to select committee and no further, the Justice Minister says.
Published: 7:40PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/587223/government-scraps-plans-for-referendum-on-four-year-term

Fatal dog mauling: Animal control staff visited property day before attack
Animal management staff responded to complaints about the dogs four separate times, including the day before Mihiata Te Rore was killed.
Published: 6:14PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/587213/fatal-dog-mauling-animal-control-staff-visited-property-day-before-attack

Reserve Bank leaves official cash rate at 2.25%
Anna Breman says economy is recovering but unemployment remains high, wage growth modest.
Published: 6:14PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/587194/reserve-bank-leaves-official-cash-rate-at-2-point-25-percent

A 'huge crash': Wellington family evacuates property after huge branch hits roof during storm
William Ray, an RNZ employee and Johnsonville resident, said his family were lucky to leave when they did, with the branch now precariously leaning against his house.
Published: 6:32PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/587218/a-huge-crash-wellington-family-evacuates-property-after-huge-branch-hits-roof-during-storm

Nepal's government looks to tighten the rules around who can climb Mt Everest
A Wanaka-based adventure consultant says she agrees that anyone wanting to climb Mount Everest should have previously summited a 7000 metre high mountain at least once.
Published: 7:09PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/587221/nepal-s-government-looks-to-tighten-the-rules-around-who-can-climb-mt-everest

Cyclists thigh-deep in water days after rain
The Petone railway underpass on a nearly-new $70 million cycleway is thigh-deep in water more than two days after the storm and heavy rain in Wellington.
Published: 5:36PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/587202/cyclists-thigh-deep-in-water-days-after-rain

Shortfalls in driver licensing for trucks highlighted in review
The report highlights weaknesses in regulatory practices, processes, and systems including competing priorities, turnover, and IT issues.
Published: 5:40PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/587215/shortfalls-in-driver-licensing-for-trucks-highlighted-in-review

Police search farm effluent ponds and waterways of missing Southland man Kevin Belling
Sixty-two-year old Invercargill man Kevin Belling was last seen on his farm almost a month ago.
Published: 6:01PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/587217/police-search-farm-effluent-ponds-and-waterways-of-missing-southland-man-kevin-belling

Plans to deliver food and meds to more than 100 people trapped near Ngawi in Wairarapa
Two bridges are out of action on the only roads into several rural and coastal communities in southern Wairarapa.
Published: 3:43PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/587205/plans-to-deliver-food-and-meds-to-more-than-100-people-trapped-near-ngawi-in-wairarapa

As it happened: Evacuations as landslip narrowly misses homes in Dunedin
More than 100 locals and tourists are stuck in Wairarapa after bridges were hit, but the road to Banks Peninsula has reopened.
Published: 6:13PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/587131/as-it-happened-evacuations-as-landslip-narrowly-misses-homes-in-dunedin

Wellington Water stops pumping raw sewage directly into Tarakena Bay
Wellington Water had to revert to the short pipe after the pipe into Cook Strait was overwhelmed - but the short pipe has not been used for 24 hours.
Published: 3:18PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/587201/wellington-water-stops-pumping-raw-sewage-directly-into-tarakena-bay

Woman killed by dogs in Kaihu named as Mihiata Te Rore
The three dogs are now in care of Animal Management.
Published: 2:43PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/587195/woman-killed-by-dogs-in-kaihu-named-as-mihiata-te-rore

Wellington and Lower North Island still without power days after weather bomb
Wellington Electricity puts the current outages at over 1000, and expects most properties to have power back on by tonight.
Published: 4:37PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/587181/wellington-and-lower-north-island-still-without-power-days-after-weather-bomb

Police seek help after Mount Maunganui landslide cordon breaches
Police said they believe the people in the images may be able to assist with enquiries into a breach of the Mount Maunganui landslide cordon.
Published: 1:31PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/587190/police-seek-help-after-mount-maunganui-landslide-cordon-breaches

Kaihu community in mourning after woman mauled to death by a pack of dogs
"There's been so many complaints about them in the last year - the council know and haven't done anything," one local says.
Published: 7:48AM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/587123/kaihu-community-in-mourning-after-woman-mauled-to-death-by-a-pack-of-dogs

Police sent to Auckland school after 'threats towards students'
Western Springs College's principal says there was an "altercation" last week and a threat made on social media.
Published: 5:35PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/587178/police-sent-to-auckland-school-after-threats-towards-students

Lane blocked on Auckland's northwestern motorway following crash
Traffic is piling up and motorists have been warned to expect delays.
Published: 12:41PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/587180/lane-blocked-on-auckland-s-northwestern-motorway-following-crash

Antarctic expedition collects evidence that ice sheet melted during previous warm period
Sediment collected from deep beneath the Antarctic confirms what scientists feared.
Published: 10:27AM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/587124/antarctic-expedition-collects-evidence-that-ice-sheet-melted-during-previous-warm-period

Global Newsroom

OnlyFans creator Gemma Doyle apologises after her theft of bikini in Bali sparks death threats
Gemma Doyle, 26, admitted to taking the swimwear after CCTV footage spread online.
Published: 5:00PM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/onlyfans-creator-gemma-doyle-apologises-after-her-theft-of-bikini-in-bali-sparks-death-threats/BKXE23HA6JBSNGBDRBOXUMKE3U/

Baby monkey Punch clings to stuffed toy as fans flock to Japan zoo
Zookeepers in Japan cared for Punch after his mother left him soon after birth.
Published: 3:46PM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/baby-monkey-punch-clings-to-stuffed-toy-as-fans-flock-to-japan-zoo/3ZNW5BVDANGMNO6CW4DHMQ3J6E/

YouTube down: Blank screen and ‘something went wrong’ errors hit users
Downdetector logged more than 5000 issues from about 1.54pm across New Zealand.
Published: 3:10PM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/youtube-down-blank-screen-and-something-went-wrong-errors-hit-users/564LOWYX35ERPE3O2PVCBN3KBU/

Leading Democrat calls Republican Randy Fine ‘an Islamophobic, disgusting and unrepentant bigot’
Leading Democrat calls Randy Fine ‘an Islamophobic, disgusting and unrepentant bigot'.
Published: 3:04PM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/leading-democrat-calls-republican-randy-fine-an-islamophobic-disgusting-and-unrepentant-bigot/premium/TGVF6QCSUVB6HILVDNUXU5MRLQ/

Ten skiers missing in California avalanche, after three killed by two snowslides in French Alps
Avalanches have claimed at least 28 people this northern winter in Europe.
Published: 2:33PM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/ten-skiers-missing-in-california-avalanche-after-three-killed-by-two-snowslides-in-french-alps/C372NG3QMBFR5JGCEROGXGBFSQ/

Teen ran towards the US Capitol with a loaded shotgun before being apprehended by police
No shots were fired, no one was hurt, and Congress was not in session.
Published: 2:10PM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/teen-ran-towards-the-us-capitol-with-a-loaded-shotgun-before-being-apprehended-by-police/LVWWNDHTTNETLGKTG3JHSPHOC4/

German agrichemical giant Bayer proposes class settlement for weedkiller cancer claims
Up to $12b would be used to settle claims that Monsanto's Roundup causes blood cancer.
Published: 1:16PM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/german-agrichemical-giant-bayer-proposes-class-settlement-for-weedkiller-cancer-claims/A5WDHEX3RBFDFP22ZKIKSHS2L4/

‘Payback attack’: Sydney house shot up as ex-Kiwis player Matt Utai undergoes surgery
Video obtained by Australian media outlets shows a hooded gunman firing at a house.
Published: 1:04PM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/payback-attack-sydney-house-shot-up-as-ex-kiwis-player-matt-utai-continues-to-fight-for-his-life/2IKSI4ZREZDNVE6PERVEXOVWNQ/

Bird flu ravaging Antarctic wildlife, scientist warns
The April 2024 strain was first found in five dead skuas in Antarctica.
Published: 12:48PM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/bird-flu-ravaging-antarctic-wildlife-scientist-warns/VSJENAHPO5E2ZHTVTU6SDYIRTI/

US Pentagon strikes three more alleged drug boats in Caribbean and Pacific, killing 11
The latest strikes bring the total number of fast boats hit since September to 43.
Published: 11:58AM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/us-pentagon-strikes-three-more-alleged-drug-boats-in-caribbean-and-pacific-killing-11/LBZG4GLLKZF7HES2KHWQA4IWZQ/

Sports Newsroom

NZ Warrior seek improvement in second NRL pre-season trial against Dolphins
The Auckland NRL club will seek a big improvement in their second hitout against the Dolphins on Friday.
Published: 5:48PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/587216/nz-warrior-seek-improvement-in-second-nrl-pre-season-trial-against-dolphins

Outgoing Netball NZ chairperson denies any pressure to step down
The national body confirmed on Tuesday night the chairperson and three board members were stepping down.
Published: 4:24PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/587204/outgoing-netball-nz-chairperson-denies-any-pressure-to-step-down

Super Rugby Preview: Seven Moana debutants, Barrett back, duel derbies await
Week two of Super Rugby Pacific will see two local derbies in Aotearoa.
Published: 4:34PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/587211/super-rugby-preview-seven-moana-debutants-barrett-back-duel-derbies-await

Luca Harrington finishes sixth in Winter Olympics big air final
New Zealand's Luca Harrington has finished sixth in the men's big air final at the Milan Winter Olympics.
Published: 9:41AM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/587157/luca-harrington-finishes-sixth-in-winter-olympics-big-air-final

Multiple Netball NZ board members step down from roles after 'challenging' year
The board chair and three board members are all moving on from the sporting body.
Published: 7:51PM 17 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/587114/multiple-netball-nz-board-members-step-down-from-roles-after-challenging-year

T20 World Cup: Black Caps beat Canada by eight wickets
The Black Caps have comfortably chased down Canda's total in their T20 World Cup clash.
Published: 9:43PM 17 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/587103/t20-world-cup-black-caps-beat-canada-by-eight-wickets

Broken leg sidelines NZ Warriors veteran Te Maire Martin for start of NRL
Utility Te Maire Martin will miss about three months, after suffering the injury in the Māori v Indigenous pre-season fixture.
Published: 8:51PM 17 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/587117/broken-leg-sidelines-nz-warriors-veteran-te-maire-martin-for-start-of-nrl

'World Rugby needs to help more' - Umaga on Moana resources
Tana Umaga says it is critical for Polynesian players to be visible.
Published: 6:56PM 17 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/587108/world-rugby-needs-to-help-more-umaga-on-moana-resources

Blues captain Dalton Papali'i to leave New Zealand rugby
Papali'i said the decision was extremely tough to make, but the timing felt right.
Published: 8:38AM 17 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/587053/blues-captain-dalton-papali-i-to-leave-new-zealand-rugby

Supreme Halberg Award winner Hamish Kerr sets sights on world record
The Supreme Halberg Award winner has set himself some lofty goals to achieve over the next few years.
Published: 10:31AM 17 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/587064/supreme-halberg-award-winner-hamish-kerr-sets-sights-on-world-record

News In Pictures

Business Newsroom

NZ sharemarket rebounds with 1.6% gain – Market close
The S&P/NZX 50 Index closed at 13,247.02, up 215.4 points or 1.65%.
Published: 6:27PM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/markets/shares/nz-sharemarket-rebounds-with-16-gain-market-close/premium/U6PHQ32MMNBULGJEUIA25NMAFA/

Reserve Bank keeps cash rate steady as early recovery takes shape
Inflation at 3.1% in 2025 is now tipped to drop back into the 1-3% band.
Published: 6:03PM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/economy/official-cash-rate/reserve-bank-keeps-cash-rate-steady-as-early-recovery-takes-shape/premium/QGCA4COW6VDOHN2KJ2PIL6OV7E/

Artificial intelligence: New Zealand needs to embrace AI tools to know what is happening with the economy now – Richard Prebble
OPINION: An AI tool, NZ Prosperity Live, nowcasts how the economy is performing daily.
Published: 4:00PM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/economy/nz-needs-to-embrace-ai-tools-to-know-what-is-happening-with-the-economy-now-richard-prebble/premium/CPVADSUJLVF4XM6F5H4JVMTT64/

Official Cash Rate: New Reserve Bank Governor keeps OCR on hold at 2.25%
The bank said the economy was at an early stage in its recovery.
Published: 2:57PM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/official-cash-rate-new-reserve-bank-governor-makes-first-ocr-decision/5LT3HA4LOBC4JLL6QGHEQMFBAU/

Tech Vault ‘Ponzi’ scheme busted, elderly woman with dementia among cold-calling victims
A liquidator is trying to stop direct debits after cold callers targeted customers.
Published: 2:47PM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/companies/media-marketing/tech-vault-ponzi-scheme-busted-liquidator-says-elderly-woman-with-dementia-among-cold-calling-victims/premium/FIUAEALQNNCZHLTGMX2YHV6CXI/

Fletcher Building cuts 308 corporate jobs, update on Fletcher Living sale
'Paying a lot of attention to corporate overheads and costs in the organisation': Reding.
Published: 1:00PM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/property/fletcher-building-cuts-308-corporate-jobs-update-on-fletcher-living-sale/premium/NLUYS6GHO5H3RMQDW25RUKCUYM/

Canadian gold miner to list on NZ sharemarket as it eyes fast-track Reefton mine bid
The Reefton project targets underground gold and antimony mine for 2029 output.
Published: 12:41PM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/rua-gold-to-list-on-nzx-ahead-of-fast-track-bid-for-reefton-mine/premium/VYPJ2ZF54FAAXH5A2NEPPMGG74/

Spark first-half profit improves, but still falls shy of expectations
A year on from the disaster result that wiped $1b from its value, the telco fronts again.
Published: 10:16AM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/spark-first-half-profit-improves-but-still-falls-shy-of-expectations/premium/4AHBP3KT2NDOHEO4CUJ56GFFNM/

Fletcher Building turns previous half-year underlying loss into $45m profit
Analysts now expect house-building division Fletcher Living to be sold after construction.
Published: 9:23AM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/property/fletcher-building-turns-previous-half-year-earnings-loss-into-45m-profit/TKIDBNYFP5EJROLGYVR5GRG5ZU/

Global Dairy Trade rises 3.6% in fourth straight gain
Whole milk powder, key to Fonterra payouts, rose 2.5% to $6127 per metric tonne.
Published: 9:15AM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/the-country/news/global-dairy-trade-rises-36-in-fourth-straight-gain/77AW2VCYMRCIZIB7EV7AIVQLKU/

Politics Newsroom

Chris Hipkins accuses Winston Peters of 'pure racism' in Parliament
Hipkins has decried an "ugly side to NZ politics", calling out "outright race-baiting" and "direct racism" being expressed in the debating chamber.
Published: 5:47PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/587214/chris-hipkins-accuses-winston-peters-of-pure-racism-in-parliament

Government scraps plans for referendum on four-year term
Coalition agreements secured getting legislation to select committee and no further, the Justice Minister says.
Published: 7:40PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/587223/government-scraps-plans-for-referendum-on-four-year-term

Is Mount Victoria tunnel 'all go', or still under consideration?
The Transport Minister says holding off on a second Mount Victoria tunnel is something under consideration, but the Finance Minister insists the project is "all go".
Published: 7:09PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/587220/is-mount-victoria-tunnel-all-go-or-still-under-consideration

Reserve Bank leaves official cash rate at 2.25%
Anna Breman says economy is recovering but unemployment remains high, wage growth modest.
Published: 6:14PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/587194/reserve-bank-leaves-official-cash-rate-at-2-point-25-percent

Infrastructure Commission clarifies suggestion of Auckland Harbour Bridge toll
The government has been at pains to stress no decisions have been made around tolling the existing bridge.
Published: 4:39PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/587212/infrastructure-commission-clarifies-suggestion-of-auckland-harbour-bridge-toll

Children still no safer than when Malachi Subecz was murdered - latest report
24 tamariki have been killed by someone supposed to be caring for them since Malachi Subecz's death.
Published: 5:19PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/587189/children-still-no-safer-than-when-malachi-subecz-was-murdered-latest-report

Willis calls $9 Auckland crossing toll a 'completely hypothetical scenario'
The Infrastructure Commission says the tolls would help fund a second crossing in the Waitematā Harbour.
Published: 1:30PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/587176/willis-calls-9-auckland-crossing-toll-a-completely-hypothetical-scenario

Pharmac looks to fund two new medicines for chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
Pharmac is proposing to fund venetoclax with ibrutinib or with obinutuzumab.
Published: 5:05PM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/587185/pharmac-looks-to-fund-two-new-medicines-for-chronic-lymphocytic-leukaemia

Charging $9 toll wouldn't cover cost of new Auckland harbour crossing, advocate says
The estimated revenue from the toll is between $7 and $9 billion, while the projected costs of the crossing could exceed $20b.
Published: 7:13AM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/587145/charging-9-toll-wouldn-t-cover-cost-of-new-auckland-harbour-crossing-advocate-says

Severe jail terms needed for owners of 'homicidal dogs', Shane Jones says after Northland mauling
His comments follow the third death of a person by dogs in Northland in the past four years.
Published: 11:47AM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/587147/severe-jail-terms-needed-for-owners-of-homicidal-dogs-shane-jones-says-after-northland-mauling

Incoming law change so MSD can claw back welfare payments off ACC clients
The Minister moved a motion of urgency to introduce the bill.
Published: 9:02PM 17 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/587115/incoming-law-change-so-msd-can-claw-back-welfare-payments-off-acc-clients

Government considers Auckland Harbour Bridge toll to help pay for second crossing
The government continues to mull over its options as to what a new crossing would look like, such as a tunnel or second bridge.
Published: 8:14PM 17 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/587095/government-considers-auckland-harbour-bridge-toll-to-help-pay-for-second-crossing

Contractors want the government to hurry up with new road rules for agricultural machinery
New road rules for agricultural machinery are nowhere to be seen, and in the meantime contractors are still being stung with fines.
Published: 10:00AM 18 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/country/587090/contractors-want-the-government-to-hurry-up-with-new-road-rules-for-agricultural-machinery

Political parties already squabbling over infrastructure plan
The first ever National Infrastructure Plan lays out an independent roadmap for infrastructure investment in the coming decades.
Published: 6:06PM 17 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/587101/political-parties-already-squabbling-over-infrastructure-plan

Employment Relations Amendment Bill debated for final time
Minister Brooke van Velden had declared today a "great day for New Zealand's labour market", but Labour says it's "very sad" and the Greens have opted for the "dark day" descriptor.
Published: 6:55PM 17 February 2026
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/587106/employment-relations-amendment-bill-debated-for-final-time

Entertainment Newsroom

TikTok milk feud: Australian v NZ fans battle over best-tasting milk
"I thought you guys were competitive over the rugby league, not milk?"
Published: 4:31PM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/tiktok-milk-feud-australian-v-nz-fans-battle-over-best-tasting-milk/7B3YVIF6EVAWRC45O5UW7JAGM4/

Shia LaBeouf arrested in New Orleans as reports emerge of split with wife Mia Goth
Reports claim he and Mia Goth quietly separated about a year ago.
Published: 11:58AM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/shia-labeouf-arrested-in-new-orleans-as-reports-emerge-of-split-with-wife-mia-goth/WUKN2772BNFALBBTF3BIRDCW6U/

Stephen Colbert says CBS blocked interview with Texas Democrat over FCC concerns
Lawyers for CBS’ parent company barred airing interview with Senate candidate, host says.
Published: 10:34AM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/stephen-colbert-says-cbs-blocked-interview-with-texas-democrat-over-fcc-concerns/5OWHILKO4NGYVEQ4DYZ54RJ2UY/

President Donald Trump pays tribute to ‘good man’ Jesse Jackson - but alleges he ‘could not stand’ Barack Obama
He died aged 84 after long struggles with Parkinson's disease and progressive PSP.
Published: 10:21AM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/president-donald-trump-pays-tribute-to-good-man-jesse-jackson-but-alleges-he-could-not-stand-barack-obama/DGATYKJVZJGD3F4VZD3WJ25FQY/

Foo Fighters to launch Take Cover tour at Christchurch’s new covered stadium
Christchurch gets the band's first New Zealand show of the 2027 tour.
Published: 9:12AM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/christchurch/foo-fighters-to-launch-take-cover-tour-at-christchurchs-new-covered-stadium/JLRFOKUTVRE4PGPA2UD3LTUKAY/

Tip Top Trumpet Girl returns: Rachel Hunter shares cheeky new ice cream video
The Kiwi supermodel was just 15 when she first fronted Tip Top's now-iconic ads.
Published: 8:30AM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/tip-top-trumpet-girl-returns-rachel-hunter-shares-cheeky-new-ice-cream-video/XP2C4R4LJVHSRMQU5JFUAMTEVY/

Carl Cox Waiheke concertgoers forced to use bushes after 45-minute toilet queues
Wild Estate says it followed Auckland Council’s formula, adding 20% more loos.
Published: 5:00AM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/auckland/carl-cox-waiheke-concertgoers-forced-to-use-bushes-after-45-minute-toilet-queues/VBHIQVPTHZBO5PPVBMQTQNA44E/

Married At First Sight Australia 2026 recap - episode 7: Secret tapes rock Mafs
Brooke discovers secret footage of Chris mocking 'fat people' and women.
Published: 5:00AM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/married-at-first-sight-australia-2026-recap-episode-7-secret-tapes-rock-mafs/JYM2J446RZFSDLWOHI7K6H22PY/

James Van Der Beek ranch fundraiser defended after backlash over $7.9m home
People have questioned the $4.1m from fans to support the late actor's wife and six kids.
Published: 3:33PM 17 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/james-van-der-beek-ranch-fundraiser-defended-after-backlash-over-79m-home/ECY6S2UJXZGNXCTTTIDY5B42VY/

Kim Kardashian helps 12-year-old North West launch NOR11 business brand
Kim Kardashian filed NOR11 trademarks spanning clothes, jewellery and bags.
Published: 3:11PM 17 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/kim-kardashian-helps-12-year-old-north-west-launch-nor11-business-brand/3ZRIAIWXTJGA3N4PRFLR46T5AM/

Lifestyle Newsroom

All Black Beauden Barrett and wife Hannah welcome third baby
Their daughters Billie and Coco appear in photos meeting their new sibling.
Published: 7:09PM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/all-black-beauden-barrett-and-wife-hannah-welcome-third-baby/NRID6LHYCJHLFBQPCGK5OFG7II/

Why having sex before bed can help you sleep
Telegraph: The link between these two innate drives and what you can do to improve both.
Published: 6:00PM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/why-having-sex-before-bed-can-help-you-sleep/premium/GZB46TDSYVGTZOWMHS3ANLYINQ/

Little Bird Kitchen founder lists plant-based cafe and retail brand
The company has 20 listed shareholders, including Flight of the Conchords' Bret McKenzie.
Published: 2:19PM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/little-bird-kitchen-founder-lists-plant-based-cafe-and-retail-brand/PLHUNKV4I5G4XKUOQ6PDITQJ2I/

Do you need these 10 popular supplements?
New York Times: Magnesium, fibre, protein and more – here’s what doctors actually advise.
Published: 12:00PM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/do-you-need-these-10-popular-supplements/premium/TIVYWRCM7VA2DHRNU3ZJVGODXY/

Redroom founder Dominique Francis expecting baby girl via surrogate after 10 rounds of IVF
Dominique Francis turned to social media for a surrogate after 10 rounds of failed IVF.
Published: 10:26AM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/redroom-founder-dominique-francis-expecting-baby-girl-via-surrogate-after-10-rounds-of-ivf/premium/GPEWEDUTMBB6FAJOVEHOH7BKCA/

What a cardiologist eats in a day for better heart health
Washington Post: "My first principle is to eat foods that are delicious."
Published: 6:00AM 18 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/what-a-cardiologist-eats-in-a-day-for-better-heart-health/premium/TEJRFRGZY5GG7DLXSZFUMZMVDQ/

Richie McCaw’s sweet ironing moment before Sports Hall of Fame nod
Richie was inducted into the NZ Sports Hall of Fame alongside Dame Valerie Adams.
Published: 6:26PM 17 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/richie-mccaws-sweet-ironing-moment-before-sports-hall-of-fame-nod/4ICZAVRJGBCDRFGD4NPXW34V4I/

How to sleep with other people: Expert fixes for common bed issues
New York Times: To make sharing a bed better for everyone, try these tools and techniques.
Published: 6:00PM 17 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/how-to-sleep-with-other-people-expert-fixes-for-common-bed-issues/premium/KH4HVMPNTZBALCXR7GACQP5BUE/

What science says we’ve been getting wrong about exercise
Washington Post: For most of human history, living was exercise. It still can be.
Published: 12:00PM 17 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/what-science-says-weve-been-getting-wrong-about-exercise/premium/5NW4QDBGANBHNHYGJIOHDA6FJ4/

Six60 stage surprise serenade for departing New Zealanders at Auckland Airport
The surprise performances marked Auckland Airport's 60th anniversary.
Published: 11:35AM 17 February 2026
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/six60-stage-surprise-serenade-for-departing-new-zealanders-at-auckland-airport/VVUFALWMRZGXXKTHE6XTLLZZYQ/