Latest Top 3 News Stories

Manawatū Local Newsroom

What is the strange object seen over the skies of Palmerston North?
Residents in the North Island city have sent emails, pictures and video into Stuff on Friday morning, questioning a strange object spotted in the sky.
Published: 11:02AM 09 May 2025
Source: Stuff. https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/360683218/what-strange-object-seen-over-skies-palmerston-north

Researchers ask how we could survive a nuclear war, in Palmerston North
Residents living near cities would have to produce food to feed city populations in the event of a global catastrophe, like nuclear war or a massive volcanic eruption, a new study has found.
Published: 9:32AM 09 May 2025
Source: Stuff. https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/360683208/researchers-ask-how-we-could-survive-nuclear-war-palmerston-north

Family sleeps in lounge for a month after home invasion
The father, whose own past trauma has been triggered by the incident, felt he could best protect them there.
Published: 5:00PM 08 May 2025
Source: Stuff. https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/360679583/family-sleeps-their-lounge-month-after-home-invasion

Woman pours boiling water on man’s hands during violent ordeal
The young mum says she no longer smokes meth and has moved away from bad influences to focus on raising her newborn baby.
Published: 7:00PM 07 May 2025
Source: Stuff. https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/360679016/woman-pours-boiling-water-man-during-violent-ordeal

What double-murderer Mark Lundy can’t do in the community after prison release
Mark Lundy has been released - here’s some of the conditions he must abide by.
Published: 3:28PM 07 May 2025
Source: Stuff. https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/360681033/what-double-murderer-mark-lundy-cant-do-community

Double murderer Mark Lundy free from prison
After more than 23 years behind bars, the man found guilty of killing his wife and daughter is now on parole.
Published: 12:00PM 07 May 2025
Source: Stuff. https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/360679581/mark-lundy-free

Foot patrols to deter offenders robbing Levin businesses
Police are warning those targeting discount shops, liquor stores and dairies they will be held to account for offending they say is disrupting the community.
Published: 5:00AM 07 May 2025
Source: Stuff. https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/360678638/foot-patrols-deter-offenders-robbing-levin-businesses

It took 88 police callouts and 50 notices before this tenant was kicked out
The tenant repeatedly disturbed neighbours with loud music, revving engines, shouting matches, burnouts, and even a backyard explosion at 3.20am.
Published: 5:00AM 07 May 2025
Source: Stuff. https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/360677761/unruly-tenant-finally-given-boot-over-anti-social-behaviour

Public steps in to help victim of failed theft
One person has been injured and another is in custody after police were called to a car park outside Palmerston North Hospital.
Published: 4:40PM 06 May 2025
Source: Stuff. https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/360679611/public-steps-help-victim-failed-theft

Palmerston North Hospital staff call for more security after violent attacks
A Palmerston North Hospital staff member was knocked unconscious on the same night as another nurse was held up at gunpoint when she left work.
Published: 2:12PM 06 May 2025
Source: Stuff. https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/360679301/palmerston-north-hospital-staff-call-more-security-after-violent-attacks

‘Still scared’: Dairy owner’s fear after gun pointed at wife
Levin dairies, bottle store targeted as retail crime across the country increases 85% in four years.
Published: 5:00AM 06 May 2025
Source: Stuff. https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/360676915/still-scared-dairy-owners-fear-after-robbers-point-gun-wife

Frankie Stevens on touring with the NZ Highwaymen
Frankie Stevens joined the NZ Highwaymen in 2024 after the passing of NZ music legend Eddie Low. The group will be going on tour from May 22.
Published: 5:00AM 06 May 2025
Source: Stuff. https://www.stuff.co.nz/culture/360671523/frankie-stevens-back-road-nz-highwaymen

Wairarapa water consultation wraps up
Public support has swung in favour of a Wairarapa-Tararua water services model, and hearings are now under way.
Published: 4:30PM 05 May 2025
Source: Stuff. https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/360677296/wairarapa-water-consultations-wrap-hearings-under-way

Levin farmers launch mushroom coffee
Mushroom farmers Jude Horrill and Brent Williams have produced a special blend of coffee they say might come with health benefits.
Published: 3:42PM 05 May 2025
Source: Stuff. https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/360677858/levin-farmers-launch-mushroom-coffee

Vote set for sugary drinks ban at Palmerston North council venues
A proposal to ban the sale of fizzy and other sugary drinks at some Palmerston North venues could go flat this week if councillors sour on the move.
Published: 2:00PM 05 May 2025
Source: Stuff. https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/360677527/vote-set-sugary-drinks-ban-palmerston-north-council-venues

New Zealand Newsroom

Nationwide protests erupt over government's sudden change to pay equity laws
"I think they thought it would sneak through and no one would bat an eyelid but they were so wrong."
Published: 7:05PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/560520/nationwide-protests-erupt-over-government-s-sudden-change-to-pay-equity-laws

Light spotted in search for missing British tramper Eli Sweeting
The sister of Eli Sweeting says search parties have spotted a light part-way down Mitre Peak.
Published: 4:36PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/560500/light-spotted-in-search-for-missing-british-tramper-eli-sweeting

South Auckland residents concerned after multiple attacks by roaming dogs
Residents are becoming increasingly concerned as unsupervised and aggressive dogs roam the streets.
Published: 7:06PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/560508/south-auckland-residents-concerned-after-multiple-attacks-by-roaming-dogs

Abuse in care survivors vow to fight on after government opts against new compensation scheme
Abuse in care survivors described the government's changes as an insult, a broken promise and a kick in the guts.
Published: 7:26PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/560522/abuse-in-care-survivors-vow-to-fight-on-after-government-opts-against-new-compensation-scheme

Thunderstorms hit the North Island
MetService says the thunderstorms are moving east-southeast and are expected to bring heavy rain.
Published: 10:01PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/560516/thunderstorms-hit-the-north-island

Nigel Bom inquests hears how he asked others to inject him with meth
Nigel Bom, 37, was found dead in his bed in March 2021.
Published: 7:35PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/560523/nigel-bom-inquests-hears-how-he-asked-others-to-inject-him-with-meth

Woman injured after driver flees Wellington petrol station without paying
A Wellington woman is recovering after she was forcefully flung to the ground while trying to stop someone stealing fuel.
Published: 3:44PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/560494/woman-injured-after-driver-flees-wellington-petrol-station-without-paying

Police investigating 'unexplained' death at rural Northland property
The body of a man was found by ambulance staff at the property off Mangakahia Road.
Published: 6:47PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/560519/police-investigating-unexplained-death-at-rural-northland-property

As it happened: Nationwide protests against controversial pay equity law change
More than 1000 people walked to Brooke van Velden's Auckland office as part of nationwide protests against changes to pay equity law.
Published: 4:19PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/560480/as-it-happened-nationwide-protests-against-controversial-pay-equity-law-change

Government 'completely ignored' Royal Commission recommendation on redress
Opposition parties say using the old redress system and having the Ministry of Social Development administer it cuts out survivor's voices.
Published: 4:28PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/560499/government-completely-ignored-royal-commission-recommendation-on-redress

Hundreds to gather to remember Battle of Te Kahika
Organisers say the event is as pertinent today as it was 180 years ago.
Published: 5:48PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/560512/hundreds-to-gather-to-remember-battle-of-te-kahika

Homeowner blindsided as daily power charges increase 600%
The owner of a Marlborough Sounds property is facing a $3000-a-year bill for just 60 days of use.
Published: 1:31PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/560474/homeowner-blindsided-as-daily-power-charges-increase-600-percent

Watch live: No new compensation scheme for abuse survivors, more funds for current system
But $774 million will be put into the current system instead, minister-in-charge Erica Stanford has announced.
Published: 4:16PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/560463/watch-live-no-new-compensation-scheme-for-abuse-survivors-more-funds-for-current-system

Weather: Thunderstorm warning as 'intense rain' heads for North Island
Multiple orange warnings have been issued for the upper North Island, and it is not looking much better down south.
Published: 2:42PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/560419/weather-thunderstorm-warning-as-intense-rain-heads-for-north-island

Global Newsroom

Indian Premier League suspended due to New Delhi-Pakistan conflict
New schedule details will follow after assessing the situation.
Published: 9:49PM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/cricket/indian-premier-league-suspended-due-to-new-delhi-pakistan-conflict/CVNAHGIHWJCX7IHJ7X3U4U3SNA/

AI video of road rage victim used in court, killer gets max sentence
Woman used AI to create a victim impact statement of her deceased brother.
Published: 7:23PM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/ai-video-of-road-rage-victim-used-in-court-killer-gets-max-sentence/MSWNR6GOQRGQRDUZM55LZSGHZM/

Erin Patterson trial: Son’s testimony reveals family tensions before fatal lunch
He found her building Lego hours after serving the deadly meal.
Published: 6:50PM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/erin-patterson-trial-sons-testimony-reveals-family-tensions-before-fatal-lunch/YSG4EFQZ2JHDJPM7W5YHOW4OPU/

Australian police arrest dozens over LGBTQ dating app-linked assaults
Thirty people, mostly teens, were arrested in Australia for attacks via dating apps.
Published: 4:02PM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/australian-police-arrest-dozens-over-lgbtq-dating-app-linked-assaults/2LBFLHF34JFBJEYCREJO25V2MM/

A most sensitive subject in the White House: Where is Melania?
NY Times: Melania has spent fewer than 14 days in the White House since the inauguration.
Published: 1:44PM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/a-most-sensitive-subject-in-the-white-house-where-is-melania/LJO2UHRGKFDCHBPICVJO53DP5U/

Trump presses Russia for unconditional 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine
He has warned if a ceasefire is not respected more sanctions will be imposed.
Published: 11:57AM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/trump-presses-russia-for-unconditional-30-day-ceasefire-in-ukraine/ZPJE3TNOLFBU5OREIUWPCNXXGU/

New pope named as Cardinal Robert Prevost, takes name Leo XIV
Thousands packed into St Peter’s Square and cheered as the new pope appeared.
Published: 10:25AM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/white-smoke-signals-catholic-church-has-new-pope/V2LFSN444JGHVP6ILTDBKGEHLQ/

What does the papal name Leo mean? The history behind the new Pope’s name
The 267th pope is joining a group of 13 other popes who took the name Leo.
Published: 10:05AM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/what-does-the-papal-name-leo-mean-the-history-behind-the-new-popes-name/Q2C2VIWYW5FSBLGUE6KWPQHZT4/

Pakistan and India accuse each other of waves of drone attacks
India and Pakistan are accusing each other of launching drone attacks.
Published: 9:58AM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/pakistan-and-india-accuse-each-other-of-waves-of-drone-attacks/6YJXAMPGY5BABMVITRHP5OMFDU/

Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff, took a global route to the top post
New York Times: Robert Prevost has pushed back hard against MAGA-style Christian ideology.
Published: 9:56AM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/pope-leo-xiv-the-first-american-pontiff-took-a-global-route-to-the-top-post/MKZXDN7A2BCQHLIPELIEN26BFM/

Sports Newsroom

Super Rugby Pacific: Blues thump Drua, keep season alive
The Blues have reminded everyone that they're still very capable with a big win in Suva.
Published: 9:10PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/560517/super-rugby-pacific-blues-thump-drua-keep-season-alive

NRL: NZ Warriors turn around close-game heartbreak in 'best-ever' start
Their strong 6-2 run through nine rounds is still a long way short of outright club history.
Published: 8:55PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/560526/nrl-nz-warriors-turn-around-close-game-heartbreak-in-best-ever-start

Indian Panthers face ejection from basketball league
The franchise has been given 10 days to comply with a list of remedial conditions.
Published: 5:56PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/indonz/560507/indian-panthers-face-ejection-from-basketball-league

Provinces have confidence in NZ Rugby - but with a limit
New Zealand Rugby recorded a third consecutive financial loss in 2024, just shy of $20 million.
Published: 3:57PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/560496/provinces-have-confidence-in-nz-rugby-but-with-a-limit

Search for women's football teams coaches continue
The Football Ferns and Wellington Phoenix are still waiting to appoint permanent head coaches.
Published: 3:46PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/560495/search-for-women-s-football-teams-coaches-continue

Victoria Cross and Hardham Cup together to mark Petone Rugby Club's anniversary
One of Wellington's oldest rugby clubs will celebrate its 140th anniversary by bringing together two pieces of history.
Published: 1:39PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/560485/victoria-cross-and-hardham-cup-together-to-mark-petone-rugby-club-s-anniversary

Black Ferns must hit the ground running as World Cup looms
The Black Ferns go up against Australia in Newcastle on Saturday as the 2025 World Cup looms.
Published: 12:32PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/560471/black-ferns-must-hit-the-ground-running-as-world-cup-looms

Football: Mount Smart to increase capacity for Auckland FC A-League playoffs
An extra 2700 seats will be added to Mount Smart Stadium for Auckland FC's A-League play-off games.
Published: 12:24PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/560468/football-mount-smart-to-increase-capacity-for-auckland-fc-a-league-playoffs

Football: Date confirmed for Wrexham v Phoenix match
The Hollywood-backed Welsh football club Wrexham will play the Phoenix in Wellington.
Published: 6:31AM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/560403/football-date-confirmed-for-wrexham-v-phoenix-match

Matildas captain Sam Kerr and partner Kristie Mewis announce birth of son
Kerr, 31, and Mewis, 34, announced their pregnancy in November last year.
Published: 8:38AM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/560433/matildas-captain-sam-kerr-and-partner-kristie-mewis-announce-birth-of-son

Equestrian: NZ's Caroline Powell pulls horse right before start of Badminton
Defending champion Caroline Powell of New Zealand was forced to just before the start of the Badminton Horse Trials in England.
Published: 9:53AM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/560444/equestrian-nz-s-caroline-powell-pulls-horse-right-before-start-of-badminton

Netball: Former rival wants NZ teams in Australian comp
The former Diamonds coach says New Zealand needs to get teams into the Australian netball league as soon as possible.
Published: 6:38AM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/560412/netball-former-rival-wants-nz-teams-in-australian-comp

News In Pictures

Business Newsroom

Mt Dobson Ski Area for sale after 50 years, one owner Peter Foote
Peter Foote started building Mt Dobson Ski Area with a $2000 bulldozer.
Published: 7:00PM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/companies/tourism/mt-dobson-ski-area-for-sale-after-50-years-one-owner/LPUS2BT56FGK5MZ6ZPPHQ4N2XU/

NZ sharemarket rises with gentailers leading after Contact-Manawa deal
The NZ sharemarket rose strongly today as gentailers made gains across the board.
Published: 6:03PM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/markets/shares/nz-sharemarket-rises-with-gentailers-leading-after-contact-manawa-deal/HA5C5TFGAVFTFINM265YPW7XNM/

Media Insider: Revealed - TVNZ’s noise, interview rules as RNZ prepares to move in; Kiwi ad agencies take aim at global merger; Untimely deaths of three respected NZ editors
Untimely deaths of 3 respected NZ journalists; NZME set to take on Trade Me for car sales.
Published: 5:43PM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/media-insider/media-insider-revealed-tvnzs-noise-and-interview-rules-as-rnz-prepares-to-move-in-kiwi-ad-agencies-take-aim-at-global-merger-untimely-deaths-of-three-respected-nz-editors/QVFGSZ563RERREAHTYT7EF3KJU/

Media Insider: NZME’s bitter board battle at end - Steven Joyce to be chairman, Jim Grenon to be director, alongside three existing board members
Barbara Chapman will step down as NZME chair; Grenon's three nominees withdrawn.
Published: 5:42PM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/media-insider/media-insider-nzmes-bitter-board-battle-at-end-steven-joyce-to-be-chair-jim-grenon-to-be-director-alongside-three-existing-board-members/666FX2SLTFBSBGAKNL3EX7P6KI/

Butter prices soar to $8.50 amid global dairy surge
The price of butter could reach $9.50 by September.
Published: 5:03PM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/butter-prices-heres-how-much-they-might-still-rise/FGPR7SVQX5G5ZL2ZD23PPXF7TY/

On The Up: Bay of Plenty shopping centre Bayfair marks 40 years
It has grown from 27 stores to more than 140 stores and restaurants.
Published: 5:00PM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/bay-of-plenty-times/news/on-the-up-bay-of-plenty-shopping-centre-bayfair-marks-40-years/55RWKHEVFJEGJCSLDVUMOFYJQ4/

Why Marlborough bach owners face soaring power charges
Marlborough Lines says remote properties can’t access low-user plans.
Published: 4:42PM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/homeowner-blindsided-as-daily-power-charges-increase-600/LZUNLSWIOBGEDMY3IC423QVBCE/

Environment Court rules on Sims Metal after nine fires in five years, $30,000 fine
Training, stockpile monitoring and management and lithium battery handling orders made.
Published: 4:26PM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/property/environment-court-rules-after-nine-sims-metal-fires-in-five-years-30000-fine/WVPT5FN2WBDO7HZZNUZVH5VOZI/

Queenstown’s Zenkuro Sake takes gold award at Tokyo Sake Challenge
Zenkuro was one of two non-Japanese breweries to be recognised at the challenge.
Published: 4:15PM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/queenstowns-zenkuro-sake-takes-gold-award-at-tokyo-sake-challenge/YC35BG7PGFH7RDKKZ3YXMNSMVA/

NZ avocado industry eyes North America, Asia for export growth
NZ Avocado plans to diversify export markets, focusing on North America and Asia.
Published: 3:08PM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/the-country/news/nz-avocado-industry-eyes-north-america-asia-for-export-growth/WXDSOFQDDFERZGWZ4U6KBZAMHY/

Politics Newsroom

Government announces review into Waitangi Tribunal, Seymour calls it 'activist'
Act leader David Seymour says the tribunal has gone well beyond its brief.
Published: 4:44PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/560498/government-announces-review-into-waitangi-tribunal-seymour-calls-it-activist

As it happened: Nationwide protests against controversial pay equity law change
More than 1000 people walked to Brooke van Velden's Auckland office as part of nationwide protests against changes to pay equity law.
Published: 4:19PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/560480/as-it-happened-nationwide-protests-against-controversial-pay-equity-law-change

Watch live: No new compensation scheme for abuse survivors, more funds for current system
But $774 million will be put into the current system instead, minister-in-charge Erica Stanford has announced.
Published: 4:16PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/560463/watch-live-no-new-compensation-scheme-for-abuse-survivors-more-funds-for-current-system

Luxon calls for an ‘all of New Zealand’ effort in India relationship
Addressing an industry gathering in Auckland on Friday, Christopher Luxon urges India and Pakistan to de-escalate the increasingly hostile situation at the border.
Published: 7:38PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/indonz/560502/luxon-calls-for-an-all-of-new-zealand-investment-in-india-relationship

Regulatory Standards Bill claim brought forward by Tribunal
The claimants request for David Seymour to be summoned by the Tribunal was declined.
Published: 5:52PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/560514/regulatory-standards-bill-claim-brought-forward-by-tribunal

Alcohol lobbyists given input on health policies, documents reveal
Industry groups helped develop several initiatives about alcohol harm - including one on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.
Published: 9:13AM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/560404/alcohol-lobbyists-given-input-on-health-policies-documents-reveal

Opposition ramps up to government's pay equity move
Nationwide protests are taking place today in response to the government's controversial pay equity law change.
Published: 11:20AM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/560417/opposition-ramps-up-to-government-s-pay-equity-move

Principals at odds over new relationships and sexuality framework
Consultation on the draft relationships and sexuality framework for school is closing, and some primary principals worry it is too explicit for their pupils.
Published: 9:15AM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/560435/principals-at-odds-over-new-relationships-and-sexuality-framework

Regulatory Standards Bill : Claimant group wants urgent hearing before bill is taken to Cabinet
Toitū te Tiriti also wants an urgent Waitangi Tribunal hearing to be brought forward now the bill is being taken to Cabinet in 10 days.
Published: 6:33AM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/560407/regulatory-standards-bill-claimant-group-wants-urgent-hearing-before-bill-is-taken-to-cabinet

NZ lagging behind most comparable countries on space spend per capita
The government has invested 20 times less per head than the US, and only about half the UK's per capita spend.
Published: 5:07AM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/560396/nz-lagging-behind-most-comparable-countries-on-space-spend-per-capita

Pay equity-affected support worker challenges van Velden to do her job for one week
"I challenge you to give it a go sister," a disability support worker said.
Published: 7:22AM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/560370/pay-equity-affected-support-worker-challenges-van-velden-to-do-her-job-for-one-week

Inland Revenue discovers millions in unpaid tax from property developers and investors
Inland Revenue found the discrepancies in undeclared income tax and GST from the property sector.
Published: 3:08PM 09 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/560481/inland-revenue-discovers-millions-in-unpaid-tax-from-property-developers-and-investors

The small regulatory shift that could have big impacts on mokopuna Māori
Teachers say removing requirements to recognise cultural identity in early childhood centres is recolonisation, and a backward step.
Published: 7:41AM 08 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/in-depth/560288/the-small-regulatory-shift-that-could-have-big-impacts-on-mokopuna-maori

National briefed its MPs two days prior to pay equity overhaul announcement
Officials warned ministers of 'legal risks' if the government talked about its intentions ahead of the new legislation being passed.
Published: 5:42PM 08 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/560368/national-briefed-its-mps-two-days-prior-to-pay-equity-overhaul-announcement

Luxon calls on India, Pakistan to de-escalate tensions as death toll rises
Dozens of civilians die in the worst clash in more than two decades between the nuclear-armed neighbours
Published: 7:27PM 08 May 2025
Source: Radio New Zealand. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/indonz/560358/luxon-calls-on-india-pakistan-to-de-escalate-tensions-as-death-toll-rises

Entertainment Newsroom

Sir Dave Dobbyn shares health update, how Parkinson’s has changed his performing
Dobbyn feels his musicality has been affected, but remains in good spirits.
Published: 5:26PM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/sir-dave-dobbyn-shares-health-update-how-parkinsons-has-changed-his-performing/Z66SORKDTVAXTA7Y4JDPVG46HU/

Friends star Jennifer Aniston’s ‘stalker crashed car through her gate’
Carwyle allegedly drove his car into her Bel Air home's gate after years of harassment.
Published: 4:11PM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/friends-star-jennifer-anistons-stalker-crashed-car-through-her-gate/BXT7PMKXJRFKVPQ2MTFVCUWGUM/

New Zealand International Comedy Festival 2025 reviews
The NZ International Comedy Festival is under way in Auckland and Wellington.
Published: 4:00PM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/new-zealand-international-comedy-festival-2025-reviews/6DR3FQPRVFBFRNOLKJFKPQ5JKU/

Natasha Lyonne on Poker Face season 2, her love for Melanie Lynskey and Taika Waititi
The US actress says she's 'obsessed' with two special Kiwis in her life.
Published: 10:00AM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/natasha-lyonne-on-poker-face-season-2-her-love-for-melanie-lynskey-and-taika-waititi/EWP666UCLJCHJLRNU5LXZ7PMW4/

Lorde reveals world tour for ‘Virgin’ album, no New Zealand gigs
The tour kicks off on September 17 in Austin, Texas.
Published: 8:14AM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/lorde-reveals-world-tour-for-virgin-album-no-new-zealand-gigs/3U6PFYBKIZD5TFW2QNR5UMPZ7Q/

Former NFL star Tom Brady reveals Netflix roast was hard on his children
The roast included jokes about his split from model Gisele Bundchen.
Published: 6:02PM 08 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/former-nfl-star-tom-brady-reveals-netflix-roast-was-hard-on-his-children/EKICSXJI2VHJ5MOZG43DNRAUUU/

Australian actress Lily Sullivan on filming new horror movie Forgive Us All in Queenstown
The apocalypse Western Forgive Us All was shot in the Queenstown-Lakes District.
Published: 2:00PM 08 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/australian-actress-lily-sullivan-on-filming-new-horror-movie-forgive-us-all-in-queenstown/IBYSROO7JNDKPMZFULHNERL7UE/

Apple’s new Everest film Tenzing starts shooting in Nepal with Tom Hiddleston as Sir Edmund Hillary
Tom Hiddleston will star as Kiwi mountaineering pioneer Sir Edmund Hillary.
Published: 6:00PM 07 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/apples-new-everest-film-tenzing-starts-shooting-in-nepal-with-tom-hiddleston-as-sir-edmund-hillary/DNNLSKNZEBEGVKYL24KMIIOSHU/

Pike River film starring Melanie Lynskey and Robyn Malcolm to premiere in Australia with families in attendance
Pike River families will attend the Sydney premiere alongside cast and crew.
Published: 3:13PM 07 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/pike-river-film-starring-melanie-lynskey-and-robyn-malcolm-to-premiere-in-australia-with-families-in-attendance/PELBUWO2MFEH7IEDYKMPF53B24/

Jennifer Aniston ‘at home when man crashed into her gates’
The suspect, around 70, was detained by a security guard at the scene.
Published: 12:36PM 07 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/jennifer-aniston-at-home-when-man-crashed-into-her-gates/4WP3DQDDMRFCVM35EIJ4QO47WI/

Lifestyle Newsroom

36 Hours in Singapore
New York Times: Singapore celebrates its diamond jubilee as a thriving city-state.
Published: 8:21PM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/travel/36-hours-in-singapore/EY4M3E25J5BK3EY7PAXVDAMNVU/

Queenstown’s Zenkuro Sake takes gold award at Tokyo Sake Challenge
Zenkuro was one of two non-Japanese breweries to be recognised at the challenge.
Published: 4:15PM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/queenstowns-zenkuro-sake-takes-gold-award-at-tokyo-sake-challenge/YC35BG7PGFH7RDKKZ3YXMNSMVA/

Lorde reveals world tour for ‘Virgin’ album, no New Zealand gigs
The tour kicks off on September 17 in Austin, Texas.
Published: 8:14AM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/lorde-reveals-world-tour-for-virgin-album-no-new-zealand-gigs/3U6PFYBKIZD5TFW2QNR5UMPZ7Q/

Air New Zealand Skycouch versus Premium Economy: Comfort showdown
In the battle for the space between economy and business, the winner might surprise you.
Published: 7:00AM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/travel/air-new-zealand-skycouch-versus-premium-economy-comfort-showdown/IMXSJPWPHNAR5HDPCUKCPJFSX4/

Excitement in Hamilton as Homegrown music festival’s return to the city is announced
Homegrown is returning to its roots and being welcomed with open arms.
Published: 6:00AM 09 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/waikato-news/news/hamilton-excited-to-be-the-new-location-of-homegrown-music-festival/I77MD7KK2FALDCPJ7ZWXSXAAPM/

Woman wins record for world’s largest Minion collection
Liesl Benecke owns 1035 Minion items, including Swarovski crystal figurines.
Published: 5:55PM 08 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/woman-wins-record-for-worlds-largest-minion-collection/H37W75EZRVDDBESS2FNJ4ULQQQ/

Cara Delevingne’s sheer dress and the trend for going bare down there
The sheer dress trend is back.
Published: 3:02PM 08 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/cara-delevingnes-sheer-dress-and-the-trend-for-going-bare-down-there/Z5HZKAIZ3FCPXLILRC46GG3SKQ/

What Auckland can learn from France’s global cultural innovation – Jack Bourke
OPINION: Cultural spaces can drive community, economic and social recovery in cities.
Published: 1:13PM 08 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/what-auckland-can-learn-from-frances-global-cultural-innovation-jack-bourke/T3CSXRDOZRCGDIW6OFMXJ6CVQI/

Society Insider: Steve Owen swaps houses in $56m property deal; are Smith & Caughey’s and Faradays teaming up?; Ido Drent’s property development success
Plus, actor turns property development mogul, and celebrity stylist celebrates on Waiheke.
Published: 5:00AM 08 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/society-insider-steve-owen-swaps-houses-in-56m-property-deal-are-smith-caugheys-and-faradays-teaming-up-ido-drents-property-development-success/SOBAIBOEFZBMNE5ERD5IFB52UA/

On The Up: Burnett Foundation names Liz Gibbs as new boss to lead NZ towards HIV-free future
New diagnoses are on a downward trend, and zero transmission targets have been set.
Published: 8:00PM 07 May 2025
Source: NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/on-the-up-burnett-foundation-names-liz-gibbs-as-new-boss-to-lead-new-zealand-towards-hiv-free-future/SPBASVVHANAKDIB2OJAN2X34HI/