# Best in New Zealand

> Latest New Zealand trends and Things To Do


## Posts

- [Unzipped: What the Deadly Ponies Team Actually Carries to Work](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/unzipped-what-the-deadly-ponies-team-actually-carries-to-work/): There’s something quietly intimate about asking someone to unzip their bag. It’s a small act of trust – an invitation into the everyday rituals, the chaos, the preparedness, the personality. So I headed to the Deadly Ponies HQ to do exactly that: sit down with the team and find out what they actually carry to
- [NEWSFASH: The Collections, Closures & Cultural Moments Defining February](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/newsfash-the-collections-closures-cultural-moments-defining-february/): New-season collections are landing with intent, heritage brands are making global plays, and one much-loved local label is taking its final bow. From sculptural tailoring and punk-coded jewellery to Super Bowl campaigns and last-chance pop-ups, here’s what’s moving fashion forward right now. Glassons – EDT 2026: Elevated, Effortless, Unapologetically Fluid Glassons’ seventh EDT capsule feels
- ['Just a disaster': Dream fishing trip for friends ends in nightmare](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/just-a-disaster-dream-fishing-trip-for-friends-ends-in-nightmare/): Two Whanganui women say what should’ve been a dream fishing trip ended up being a nightmare – one they don’t want anyone else to have to go through. Patsy Deverall and Selah Weingott, 70 and 69 at the time, booked a trip with South Taranaki Fishing Charters in January 2022. Crossing the infamous Pātea bar,
- [Off-duty Kiwi cop arrests protestors who attacked UK's Crown Jewels](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/off-duty-kiwi-cop-arrests-protestors-who-attacked-uks-crown-jewels/): A Waikato police officer on holiday in the UK has been praised for intervening after protesters smeared custard on the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London. Senior Constable Mark Strongman – who has been in the police for over 29 years – was visiting the tourist attraction on Saturday morning with his wife and
- [Govt’s feral cat changes 'validate' Nelson Tasman rules](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/govts-feral-cat-changes-validate-nelson-tasman-rules/): Nelson Tasman’s approach to cat control is well aligned with the Government’s move to add feral cats to its Predator Free list, council representatives say. The region changed several local cat rules last year, including new cats needing to be microchipped, desexed, and registered on the New Zealand Companion Animal Register. Last month, Conservation Minister
- [The internal journey of a $33,500 swallowed stolen Fabergé pendant](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/the-internal-journey-of-a-33500-swallowed-stolen-faberge-pendant/): A pendant swallowed by a man during an alleged theft at an Auckland jewellery store made headlines around the world and raised the question how exactly it was “recovered”. Police were called at 3.30pm last Friday to the store where a man was accused of picking up a Fabergé James Bond Octopussy Egg pendant and
- ['Pretty low act': Macrocarpa bench seat stolen from DOC site](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/pretty-low-act-macrocarpa-bench-seat-stolen-from-doc-site/): The Department of Conservation says it is “disappointed” in the theft of a significant macrocarpa bench, the second such incident in as many weeks. In a post online, the Department of Conservation said the substantial macrocarpa bench had been stolen from the Oparara Valley – a 14km point-to-point trail in the Kahurangi National Park on
- [Carers ruled government employees – minister mulls options](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/carers-ruled-government-employees-minister-mulls-options/): The Minister for Disability Issues is seeking advice on the Supreme Court’s decision that two parents who care full-time for their disabled children are employees of the government and should received the same benefits and protections. Louise Upston asked the Disability Support Sevices, a government unit that was responsible for supporting disabled people and their
- [Marmite and ducks: Voting for Quote of the Year begins](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/marmite-and-ducks-voting-for-quote-of-the-year-begins/): One-liners from under pressure politicians, some frank conservationists and one of our most successful athletes are in the running for Massey University’s Quote of the Year. After a round of public nominations, the top 10 quotes had been chosen by a panel of communications experts and voting was now underway. The 2025 list was dominated
- [School lunch provider cleared over mouldy meals in Christchurch](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/school-lunch-provider-cleared-over-mouldy-meals-in-christchurch/): New Zealand Food Safety has found no food safety risks with the government’s school lunch provider after an investigation into mouldy lunches found at a Christchurch school. Rotten meals were served to some students at Haeata Community Campus last Monday. NZ Food Safety said the most plausible explanation is that lunches meant to be served
- [Mark Lundy's night-time curfew lifted, making friends – Parole Board](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/mark-lundys-night-time-curfew-lifted-making-friends-parole-board/): Convicted murderer Mark Lundy is expanding his social contacts, but isn’t able to have his own social media accounts. He was otherwise fully compliant with conditions imposed on his release from prison when parole was granted earlier this year, according to a monitoring report released today by the Parole Board. The board had relaxed some
- [Govt app launched – to eventually hold digital driver licences](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/govt-app-launched-to-eventually-hold-digital-driver-licences/): A new app that allows users to access government information and services from their phones – and will, eventually, hold digital driver licences – has been released today. Digitising Government and Public Service Minister Judith Collins said the govt.nz app was a secure and easy way for people to access what they needed, and was
- ['Earn as You Learn' pilot to expand into more regions](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/earn-as-you-learn-pilot-to-expand-into-more-regions/): A Government programme aimed at bridging the gap between high school classroom learning and hands-on skills is set to expand into new regions after saying its pilot delivered “standout results”. The Earn as You Learn pilot was launched in Waikato in February this year, and would expand into the Hutt Valley and Canterbury next year,
- [Parliament chamber shut to public for rest of year after protest](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/parliament-chamber-shut-to-public-for-rest-of-year-after-protest/): Parliament’s Speaker Gerry Brownlee has shut the chamber’s gallery to members of the public for the rest of the year after pro-Palestine protesters disrupted proceedings by shouting and throwing papers at MPs. By Craig McCulloch of rnz.co.nz He called the decision “very disappointing” but necessary given protesters had indicated they intended further action. The directive
- [Man killed in Auckland bus stabbing named, accused killer in court](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/man-killed-in-auckland-bus-stabbing-named-accused-killer-in-court/): Police have named the man killed in an Auckland bus stabbing on Monday night. A 36-year-old man accused of stabbing two people on the bus appeared in court earlier today, charged with murder and causing grievous bodily harm. A homicide investigation was launched after the separate stabbings on the vehicle travelling from Glen Innes towards
- [Rotorua Night Market returns to city centre, ending 'foolish' trial](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/rotorua-night-market-returns-to-city-centre-ending-foolish-trial/): Rotorua’s Night Market will return to the inner city after Rotorua Lakes Council voted to end a trial move to Kuirau Park, two months after it began. By Mathew Nash of Local Democracy Reporting Elected members voted eight-to-three to return the market to its previous Tūtānekai St location “as soon as reasonably practical”, in the
- [Black Caps in the box seat at the basin](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/black-caps-in-the-box-seat-at-the-basin/): The Black Caps have ripped through the West Indies on the first day of the second test in Wellington, but it’s come at a cost. Late on day one the West Indies were dismissed for just 205, with a top score of just 48 from Shai Hope to put the Kiwis well in the ascendancy
- [Fatal bus stabbing: How safe is public transport really?](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/fatal-bus-stabbing-how-safe-is-public-transport-really/): Fears have resurfaced over violence on public transport in the wake of a horrific fatal bus stabbing earlier this week – even as transit operators insist services are safe, with Auckland officials pointing to millions of incident-free journeys. A 59-year-old man died, and a 51-year-old man was seriously injured after being stabbed in what police
- [Hastings is getting 180 new bus stops – but not everyone’s onboard](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/hastings-is-getting-180-new-bus-stops-but-not-everyones-onboard/): A shake-up of Hawke’s Bay’s bus network has frustrated some Hastings residents who don’t want bus stops installed outside their homes. By Linda Hall for Local Democracy Reporting Blair Kyle and his neighbour, directly across the road, received letters from the Hastings District Council advising them it “will be establishing a new bus stop outside
- [Booze ban in Wairarapa hotspots to combat 'intoxicated menacing groups'](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/booze-ban-in-wairarapa-hotspots-to-combat-intoxicated-menacing-groups/): A temporary holiday booze ban has been put in place for two popular Wairarapa coastal hotspots after residents complained of drunk and “menacing” holiday makers. By Sue Teodoro of Local Democracy Reporting Masterton District Council approved the short-term ban at its meeting on Wednesday. The ban, passed under the council’s alcohol control bylaws, prohibits the
- [Plans underway for 4km predator proof fence at base of Farewell Spit](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/plans-underway-for-4km-predator-proof-fence-at-base-of-farewell-spit/): An ambitious plan to build a predator proof fence across the base of Farewell Spit is underway after it was initially dismissed years ago as being impossible. Healthpost Nature Trust has begun construction of the fence which will eventually be 4km long, protecting wildlife at the country’s largest spit from harm. Grant Williams has been
- [IKEA 'bowled over' by demand at NZ store](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/ikea-bowled-over-by-demand-at-nz-store/): By Susan Edmonds of RNZ People shopping from IKEA are having to wait for their orders – but one marketing expert says it probably won’t stop them going back for more. The home furnishings giant opened its first New Zealand shop in Auckland last week, with online deliveries around the country. A spokesperson said it
- [Ruth Richardson agrees to debate country's fiscal position with Nicola Willis](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/ruth-richardson-agrees-to-debate-countrys-fiscal-position-with-nicola-willis/): Former finance minister Ruth Richardson has agreed to a challenge from the current Finance Minister to debate her. On Tuesday morning, Nicola Willis challenged Richardson, who was finance minister from 1990 to 1993, to a debate. The challenge, Willis said, was because the Taxpayers’ Union was preparing to launch a pressure campaign against her. Richardson
- [Australian social media ban: What you need to know](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/australian-social-media-ban-what-you-need-to-know/): It’s social media D-Day for more than a million young Australians, who, in theory, shouldn’t be able to access their online accounts from today. Major social media companies, including Meta and Snapchat, have spent recent weeks removing under 16s, to comply with the Federal Government’s world first ban. Its aim, according to Australia’s online safety
- [The OCR is down, so why are home loan rates rising?](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/the-ocr-is-down-so-why-are-home-loan-rates-rising/): Wholesale rates are getting the blame for the fact that two weeks after the official cash rate was cut, one major bank has increased some of its fixed-term home loan rates. Westpac said on Tuesday it was increasing its home loans over two- to five-year terms by 30 basis points. That takes a two-year fix
- [Speed, alcohol and inexperience factors in Nelson teen's fatal crash](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/speed-alcohol-and-inexperience-factors-in-nelson-teens-fatal-crash/): A Nelson teenager was fleeing police at about 183km/h when she lost control of the vehicle and smashed into a tree. Tieylr Saige Ayrton, 17, died from a head injury sustained in the crash on Rutherford Street in March 2022. The girl was under the influence of alcohol and driving on a restricted driver licence
- [Up to 26,000 NZers' devices infected with malware Lumma Stealer](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/up-to-26000-nzers-devices-infected-with-malware-lumma-stealer/): The country’s cyber agency is alerting tens of thousands of New Zealanders that their device has been infected with malicious software. The National Cyber Security Centre was sending emails to around 26,000 email addresses on Wednesday warning about the malware Lumma Stealer, which was designed to steal sensitive information like email addresses and passwords. Some
- [Mt Eden prisoner dies 11 days after attack, homicide probe launched](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/mt-eden-prisoner-dies-11-days-after-attack-homicide-probe-launched/): A homicide investigation has been launched following the death of a Mt Eden Corrections Facility prisoner. Detective Senior Sergeant Martin Friend said officers were notified by Corrections about a serious assault at the prison on November 29. He said the male victim was taken to hospital with critical injuries. “He has remained in intensive care
- [News in 90 Seconds December 10](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/news-in-90-seconds-december-10/): The morning’s headlines in 90 seconds, including a man arrested after a murder on an Auckland bus, new material about Ghislaine Maxwell and Jeffrey Epstein to be released, and malware warning for thousands of New Zealanders A man’s arrested after two stabbing attacks on an Auckland bus. Tracks in Tongariro National Park will reopen today
- [Auckland Transport says bus stabbing attacks 'deeply concerning’](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/auckland-transport-says-bus-stabbing-attacks-deeply-concerning/): The 36-year-old man accused of stabbing two people in separate incidents aboard a bus is due to appear in court today, as Auckland Transport describes the event as “deeply concerning”. One man died yesterday, and another was seriously injured after being stabbed by the same person at different times aboard the number 76 bus as
- [Man jailed for 'disturbing' child sexual abuse material](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/man-jailed-for-disturbing-child-sexual-abuse-material/): A 55-year-old man has been sentenced to five years and two months’ imprisonment for possessing “disturbing” child sexual exploitation material, including of infants under the age of two. Warning: Details in this article may be distressing to some readers. Helplines are provided. Alexandre Harpur, a repeat offender, was sentenced on Tuesday at the Christchurch District
- [Tongariro wildfire now 80% contained – nearly 300ha scorched](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/tongariro-wildfire-now-80-contained-nearly-300ha-scorched/): Firefighters, backed by helicopters, continue to battle a large vegetation fire at Tongaririo National Park that broke out yesterday afternoon. Emergency services were called to the blaze just after 1.10pm yesterday, where Fire and Emergency NZ said multiple fires had merged into a single large one. In an update this afternoon, Incident Controller Assistant Commander
- [Economy blamed for Dunedin agency’s demise](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/economy-blamed-for-dunedin-agencys-demise/): A Dunedin recruitment agency has been put into liquidation owing more than $500,000 amid “brutal” conditions in the job market. DKW Personnel (Dunedin) Ltd ceased trading and was placed into liquidation in May. The liquidator’s six-monthly report, made public last week, estimated the total shortfall to creditors at $540,942. A preferential claim was received from
- [Hipkins 'adamant' briefing by Coster about McSkimming 'never happened'](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/hipkins-adamant-briefing-by-coster-about-mcskimming-never-happened/): Labour Party leader Chris Hipkins says he is “adamant” former police commissioner Andrew Coster did not brief him about an affair Jevon McSkimming had prior to his promotion to deputy police commissioner. In an interview with TVNZ’s Q+A with Jack Tame which aired on Sunday, Coster claimed he told Hipkins about the affair in July
- ['Anytime, anywhere': Willis challenges Richardson to debate](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/anytime-anywhere-willis-challenges-richardson-to-debate/): Nicola Willis has challenged former National Party Finance Minister Ruth Richardson to debate the country’s books at Parliament. The Taxpayers’ Union is poised to launch a “pressure campaign” targeting Willis in an effort to convince her to cut spending and reduce debt. Heading into National’s caucus meeting on Tuesday morning, Willis said it was clear
- [Forest stakes sold to fund](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/forest-stakes-sold-to-fund/): A 38% stake in Taieri Forests Ltd and 100% of the assets of Otago Estate Ltd have been sold to APG Asset Management — Europe’s largest pension investor. Yesterday, New Forests, a global investment manager of nature-based real assets and natural capital strategies, announced its $A700 million ($NZ802.6m) Australia New Zealand Forest Fund 2 had
- [Govt reveals big consenting reforms, 'once-in-a-generation shift'](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/govt-reveals-big-consenting-reforms-once-in-a-generation-shift/): The Government has unveiled its mega-overhaul of New Zealand’s planning system in a radical but long-awaited shift, which it hopes will become active in 2029. The proposed sweeping new rules will affect the way all buildings and infrastructure are planned, and mean big changes for anyone doing work needing a consent. Up to 22,000 or
- [Big project for Calder Stewart](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/big-project-for-calder-stewart/): South Otago-based Calder Stewart is developing a new ingredient warehousing and distribution facility at a cost of more than $15 million at South Auckland business park Drury South Crossing. The 3500sq m facility is being built for multinational food ingredients brand Langdon. Construction begins in March and completion is scheduled for November next year. A
- [Tower ordered to pay $7 million penalty for misleading customers](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/tower-ordered-to-pay-7-million-penalty-for-misleading-customers/): Insurance firm Tower has been ordered to pay a $7 million penalty after overcharging more than 61,000 customers by $11 million through misleading multi-policy discount claims. The High Court in Auckland handed down the penalty after the general insurer admitted breaching the Financial Markets Conduct Act by misleading customers in invoices about its multi-policy discount
- [Man, 36, arrested in downtown Auckland over fatal bus stabbing](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/man-36-arrested-in-downtown-auckland-over-fatal-bus-stabbing/): A man who allegedly attacked two people on an Auckland bus last night has been arrested, police say. One man died and a second man was seriously injured after being attacked by the same person in two separate incidents aboard a bus in the east of the city. The incidents occurred on the number 76
- [Man dies after drowning at Auckland's Kariotahi beach](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/man-dies-after-drowning-at-aucklands-kariotahi-beach/): A 26-year-old man has died after drowning at an Auckland beach on Monday night. Police were called to Kariotahi Beach around 7.10pm to reports of two men “experiencing difficulties in the water and struggling to return to shore”. Surf Life Saving’s Search and Rescue team responded with one rescue watercraft and two inflatable rescue boats.
- [Five arrested over alleged firebombing of Ōrewa cafe](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/five-arrested-over-alleged-firebombing-of-orewa-cafe/): Five people linked by police to the Head Hunters gang – including a teenager – have been arrested after a café on Auckland’s North Shore was allegedly gutted in a firebombing last month. Around 11.20pm on November 1, emergency services were alerted to a fire at the Sunflour Café following reports of flames coming from
- ['Some dickhead': Chris Bishop's office 'smashed up' by vandal](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/some-dickhead-chris-bishops-office-smashed-up-by-vandal/): Housing Minister Chris Bishop says “some dickhead” has vandalised his office in Lower Hutt. In a post to social media, Bishop said the office in the suburb of Wainuiomata had been “smashed up”. “Office is closed for today. My apologies to those who need to come in for appointments today.” Chris Bishop shared photos of
- [Further arrests related to motorcyclist killing in Mt Wellington](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/further-arrests-related-to-motorcyclist-killing-in-mt-wellington/): Two further people have been arrested in an ongoing homicide investigation after a motorcyclist was allegedly run down and stabbed in Mt Wellington last Friday. The investigation, named Operation Hawkin, has been underway since December 5 after a man with critical injuries presented to an Auckland medical centre. He later died in hospital. Police said
- [Poll: Third of voters still back Luxon as best leader for National](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/poll-third-of-voters-still-back-luxon-as-best-leader-for-national/): Just over a third of voters believe Christopher Luxon is the best person to lead National, while almost the same number want someone else from the party’s frontbench in the top job, a new 1News Verian poll reveals. The poll, conducted between November 29 and December 3, found 35% of those surveyed backed Luxon as
- [Major bank lifts longer-term mortgage rates](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/major-bank-lifts-longer-term-mortgage-rates/): A major bank has increased its longer-term fixed home loan rates while cutting its six-month rate, citing a sharp rise in wholesale interest rates. Westpac is lifting rates on two- to five-year terms by 30 basis points (0.30%), while cutting its six-month special rate by 20 basis points (0.20%) to 4.69% per annum. The bank
- [Tower Insurance fined $7m after overcharging for a decade](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/tower-insurance-fined-7m-after-overcharging-for-a-decade/): Insurance company Tower has become the latest financial services company to suffer a multi-million dollar penalty for misleading tens of thousands of customers and financially costing them. The High Court has penalised the company $7 million for more than a decade of overcharging customers because it did not properly apply multi-policy discounts. The civil case
- [Neighbours fume over plans to axe trees for solar farm](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/neighbours-fume-over-plans-to-axe-trees-for-solar-farm/): Whakatāne District Council has thrown its support behind residents of a country lane distressed about Genesis Energy’s plans to axe their trees. However, Genesis says removing the trees is the only viable option to make room for 33kV power lines to tie its planned solar farm to the national grid connection point in Edgecumbe. Putiki
- [Cold-smoked salmon recalled over possible presence of Listeria](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/cold-smoked-salmon-recalled-over-possible-presence-of-listeria/): A recall has been issued for two cold-smoked salmon products sold in the South Island due to the possible presence of Listeria monocytogenes. The affected products included Ahi Mokopuna Limited Partnership’s Akaroa King Salmon brand Mānuka Cold Smoked Slices (100g) with a use-by date of 29 Dec 25 (Batch No. 46780); and Mānuka Cold Smoked
- [NZ navy ship shadowed by seven Chinese warships](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/nz-navy-ship-shadowed-by-seven-chinese-warships/): A New Zealand navy ship sailing in East Asia was shadowed by seven Chinese warships, the Defence Force has confirmed. HMNZS Aotearoa was sent to the East China and Yellow Seas last month, to carry out surveillance and deterrence activities in an effort to bolster United Nations Security Council sanctions against North Korea. Bridge watchkeepers
- [Body found after house fire in Auckland's New Lynn](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/body-found-after-house-fire-in-aucklands-new-lynn/): An investigation is underway after a person was found dead after a house fire in Auckland’s New Lynn yesterday afternoon. Emergency services were called to the house on Kohekohe Street at around 1.23pm. A total of five crews, comprised of 20 firefighters, responded to the blaze, which was extinguished. A scene guard remained in place
- [Police divers called in after swimmer goes missing in Auckland lake](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/police-divers-called-in-after-swimmer-goes-missing-in-auckland-lake/): Police are looking for a missing swimmer in Auckland who failed to resurface after falling into a hole while in waist-deep water. Emergency services were called to Lake Wainamu in Bethells Beach at around 6.10pm. Senior Sergeant Jon Winthrop said a 23-year-old man was in waist-deep water with three friends at the time of the
- [Police confirm deaths of two people in large house fire in Foxton Beach](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/police-confirm-deaths-of-two-people-in-large-house-fire-in-foxton-beach/): Two people have died in a house fire which broke out in Foxton Beach today, police have confirmed. A Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) spokesperson said crews were called to a house fire at Foxton Beach — which is about 5km west of Foxton and 90 minutes north of Wellington — shortly after 5am.
- [Schools' spending on cruises, travel, hospitality scrutinised](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/schools-spending-on-cruises-travel-hospitality-scrutinised/): Auditors have called out schools for spending their money on boat cruises, food for local families and travel for principals – and in some cases their partners. The auditor-general’s annual report on schools’ 2024 accounts said more schools than the previous year were struggling financially or spent money inappropriately, and many still failed to plan
- [Firefighters, helicopters continue to battle Tongariro wildfire](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/firefighters-helicopters-continue-to-battle-tongariro-wildfire/): Firefighters, backed by four helicopters, continue to battle a large vegetation fire at Tongaririo National Park that broke out yesterday afternoon. Emergency services were called to the blaze just after 1.10pm yesterday, where Fire and Emergency NZ said multiple fires had merged into a single large one. In an update this morning, Incident Controller Assistant
- ['Horrific' – Manhunt after two stabbed on Auckland bus, one fatally](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/horrific-manhunt-after-two-stabbed-on-auckland-bus-one-fatally/): One man has died and a second man has been seriously injured after they were attacked by the same person in two separate incidents aboard a bus in east Auckland yesterday. The incidents occurred aboard the number 76 bus travelling from Glen Innes towards Ōrakei, when police were notified by ambulance about two separate assaults
- [Selwyn's property boom pumps up district's coffers](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/selwyns-property-boom-pumps-up-districts-coffers/): Selwyn District Council is on track to collect millions more in rates than planned this year due to continued growth and unexpectedly high property revaluations. It is also set to underdeliver on its capital projects programme. The first finance and performance committee meeting of the term last week provided budget progress from July until to
- [Qantas announces flights to Gold Coast, Samoa from Auckland](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/qantas-announces-flights-to-gold-coast-samoa-from-auckland/): Qantas has announced two new services out of Auckland alongside the imminent opening of a new lounge at the city’s airport as a trans-Tasman rivalry with Air New Zealand heats up. The Australian airline will launch new routes to Samoa and the Gold Coast from mid-2026. Both services will operate three times a week and
- [Kiwi allegedly tried to smuggle 21kg of heroin through Sydney Airport](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/kiwi-allegedly-tried-to-smuggle-21kg-of-heroin-through-sydney-airport/): A New Zealand national has been charged after allegedly attempting to smuggle 21kg of heroin hidden in his luggage through Sydney Airport. The 21-year-old man arrived at Sydney Airport on board an international flight from Thailand on December 7 when he was selected by Australian Border Force (ABF) officers for a baggage examination. Officers searched
- [Vaginal swab left in woman for six weeks after giving birth](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/vaginal-swab-left-in-woman-for-six-weeks-after-giving-birth/): A woman was left feeling “scared to death” after vaginal packing was mistakenly left in her body for six weeks before being found at a post-natal GP check. The woman’s ordeal was detailed in a Health and Disability Commissioner (HDC) report released today after an investigation into what happened at the public hospital operated under
- [Man accused of swallowing $33k pendant appears in court](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/man-accused-of-swallowing-33k-pendant-appears-in-court/): A man accused of swallowing a Fabergé locket worth more than $33,500 during an alleged theft at an Auckland jewellery store has appeared in the Auckland District Court. He was remanded in custody without a plea until next Monday. Police had been called at 3.30pm on November 28 to the store in Auckland city where
- [Pair lose jobs at Givenwell](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/pair-lose-jobs-at-givenwell/): Two high-profile appointments to Dunedin-based startup Givenwell are casualties of a restructure after just several months in their positions. Former professional rugby player Craig Hudson, once the face of Xero in New Zealand, joined Givenwell as chief customer officer three months ago to help scale its impact in workplace wellbeing. His part-time appointment was followed
- [Helicopters battle large fire in Tongariro into the night](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/helicopters-battle-large-fire-in-tongariro-into-the-night/): Residents have been urged to prepare for evacuation as helicopters battle a large vegetation fire in the vicinity of Tongariro National Park – just a month after a massive blaze scorched 3000 hectares in the area. Emergency services were alerted to the fire just after 1.10pm on Monday. Fire and Emergency NZ said the fire,
- [Auckland man fined $9800 for 'serious neglect' of animals](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/auckland-man-fined-9800-for-serious-neglect-of-animals/): An Auckland man has been fined $9800 and had restrictions placed on how many cows and horses he can own after pleading guilty to three charges under the Animal Welfare Act. Kevin Maurice Dell, aged 70, pleaded guilty to the charges after being prosecuted by the Ministry for Primary Industries. He has been disqualified from
- [Customs officers seize $15.75m of cocaine at Port of Tauranga](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/customs-officers-seize-15-75m-of-cocaine-at-port-of-tauranga/): Customs officers at the Port of Tauranga have intercepted an estimated 45kg of cocaine – with an estimated street value of $15.75 million – during routine inspections. The container originated in Houston, US, and travelled via Balboa, Panama before arriving in Tauranga on December 4. It had been risk-assessed prior to arrival as part of
- [Contactless fares on Wellington buses and trains by April 2026](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/contactless-fares-on-wellington-buses-and-trains-by-april-2026/): Wellingtonians can expect to tap onto buses and trains with their phone or debit card by April 2026 as regional councillors push forward with a $5.5m ticketing upgrade. Across buses and trains, the contactless system would work much the same as it does in Auckland for adults and wouldn’t include concession fares such as for
- [Kmart forced to recall more coloured sand products](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/kmart-forced-to-recall-more-coloured-sand-products/): Kmart has been forced to recall yet more coloured sand products. Testing has found asbestos in licensed sensory activity sets branded with iconic kids’ shows Paw Patrol, Frozen and Bluey. The store has sold approximately 684 units in New Zealand. “The product may cause a risk to health as asbestos has been detected in some
- [Poll: Te Pāti Māori support crashes after weeks of in-fighting](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/poll-te-pati-maori-support-crashes-after-weeks-of-in-fighting/): Te Pāti Māori’s support has dropped to 1% in the latest 1News Verian poll following weeks of negative publicity over disputes within the party. Today’s result marks a major fall off for Te Pāti Māori, which recorded 7% in the poll just a year ago following the hīkoi that saw tens of thousands make their
- [Who's up and who's down? Party leaders react to new 1News poll](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/whos-up-and-whos-down-party-leaders-react-to-new-1news-poll/): Party leaders have reacted to a declining Te Pāti Māori in the last 1News Verian poll of the year. The poll showed support for Te Pāti Māori had dropped to 1% following weeks of negative publicity over disputes within the party. The party recorded 7% in a poll just a year ago following a hīkoi
- [Gang link in fatal Mt Wellington motorcyclist stabbing](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/gang-link-in-fatal-mt-wellington-motorcyclist-stabbing/): A second man has been charged with murder after a motorcyclist died on an Auckland street last Friday. In an update this evening, police said further arrests had been made in the case after a first suspect charged with murder appeared in an Auckland court earlier today. Detective Inspector Scott Beard said the investigation headed
- [Cliffside Tasman road returns to two lanes after three-year wait](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/cliffside-tasman-road-returns-to-two-lanes-after-three-year-wait/): More than three years after a slip first closed Stafford Drive in Tasman, the scenic road has finally opened to two-lane traffic. The road, just north of Māpua, was closed by a slip during the August 2022 storm before re-opening to a single lane the following December after around 700 cubic metres of material was
- [Hawke's Bay residents outraged as illegal dumpers start burning rubbish](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/hawkes-bay-residents-outraged-as-illegal-dumpers-start-burning-rubbish/): Frustrated Puketapu residents fed up with ongoing fly-tipping in the area say the offenders are taking it to another, far more dangerous level by setting their rubbish on fire. There were eight deliberately lit fires across Hawke’s Bay in November, with four of them on one road – Springfield Rd in Puketapu. The latest on
- [Teens arrested after aggravated robbery in Auckland's Mt Wellington](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/teens-arrested-after-aggravated-robbery-in-aucklands-mt-wellington/): Two teenagers have been arrested after an aggravated robbery outside a Mt Wellington petrol station overnight. Auckland City East Area Commander Inspector Jim Wilson said a man was approached on the forecourt of the petrol station on Mt Wellington Highway shortly after 11.30pm. “Two males approached the victim and wanted him to buy items from
- [Is it the end of the lavish Kiwi office Christmas party?](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/is-it-the-end-of-the-lavish-kiwi-office-christmas-party/): Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to remember the excessive workplace Christmas parties in days of yore. They were expensive, wild and at times, a cesspool of bad behaviour. These parties were also fun (for some people, anyway) and had their own style of creativity with odd ways of rewarding employees for their hard
- ['Utter nonsense': Mitchell denies Coster's McSkimming allegations](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/utter-nonsense-mitchell-denies-costers-mcskimming-allegations/): Police Minister Mark Mitchell says claims from former police commissioner Andrew Coster that he knew more than previously admitted about allegations made against Jevon McSkimming are “complete and utter nonsense”. Mitchell said he was first informed of misconduct allegations regarding the disgraced former deputy police commissioner last November. In an interview with TVNZ’s Q+A with
- ['Seek shade': One centre tipped to hit 34C, heat alert issued](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/seek-shade-one-centre-tipped-to-hit-34c-heat-alert-issued/): A heat alert has been issued for Hastings as sweltering temperatures in the North Island are forecast to continue. MetService meteorologist Heather Keats said a heat alert has been issued for Hastings, which was expected to hit 34C today. “The temperature is forecast to be very hot for this location. We advise you to keep
- [Arrest after shooting in Papakura leaves man critically injured](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/arrest-after-shooting-in-papakura-leaves-man-critically-injured/): A 20-year-old man has been arrested and charged after a shooting in the Auckland suburb of Papakura left another man critically injured over the weekend. Emergency services were called after a man was shot on Maadi Pl at around 2.30am on Saturday. He was rushed to Auckland City Hospital in a critical condition and is
- [Why your credit card might offer you less generous rewards](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/why-your-credit-card-might-offer-you-less-generous-rewards/): Credit card reward schemes are predicted to continue to become less generous, as the Commerce Commission clamps down on card fees. Since December 1, domestic Visa and Mastercard payments have been subject to new caps on interchange fees, which are paid to the card issuer for each credit or debit card transaction processed. Caps for
- [Outlook brighter for next year, ASB believes](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/outlook-brighter-for-next-year-asb-believes/): By Gyles Beckford of RNZ ASB Bank has raised a flag of confidence over the economic outlook for next year, driven by a mix of lower interest rates, solid exports and consumer spending. Chief economist Nick Tuffley said the economy has turned the corner after recession. “We’re seeing clear signs that the recovery is gathering
- [John Campbell: Where to now for a divided Te Pāti Māori?](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/john-campbell-where-to-now-for-a-divided-te-pati-maori/): Analysis: At the last election, Te Pāti Māori won six of the seven Māori electorates. Other stories dominated the 2023 election, of course – the change of government and the negotiations that shaped the incoming National-Act-New Zealand First coalition. But winning six of seven seats was a triumph. A party born, in 2004, out of
- [Biosecurity NZ urge Aucklanders to watch for hornets as more found](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/biosecurity-nz-urge-aucklanders-to-watch-for-hornets-as-more-found/): Biosecurity New Zealand urges Aucklanders to be on the lookout for yellow-legged hornets or nests, as numbers of the pest keep climbing. Thirty-three queen hornets have so far been found in the Glenfield and Birkdale areas of the North Shore — two more since Friday — 21 with developed nests or signs of nests. Biosecurity
- [George St demolition granted, plans for use uncertain](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/george-st-demolition-granted-plans-for-use-uncertain/): A pair of heritage buildings in Dunedin’s main street have been given the green light for demolition, but plans to develop them into new apartments are up in the air. Oakwood Properties Ltd has been granted a two-year extension by the Dunedin City Council for resource consent to partially demolish and redevelop two heritage buildings
- [Brighter 2026 in sight for NZ economy as recovery gathers pace - ASB](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/brighter-2026-in-sight-for-nz-economy-as-recovery-gathers-pace-asb/): New Zealand’s economy is showing clear signs of recovery after a turbulent year marked by recession, according to ASB’s latest economic forecast. ASB chief economist Nick Tuffley said the outlook for 2026 was looking positive, driven by lower interest rates, resilient exports, and renewed consumer confidence. “We’re seeing clear signs that the recovery is gathering
- [Prediction market’s rise offers some quirky fun](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/prediction-markets-rise-offers-some-quirky-fun/): Think you know whose name will appear on the Epstein list? Wager on it. That’s the sales pitch of Polymarket — the world’s largest predictions platform. The site was launched in 2020 as the brainchild of Gen Z’s first self-made billionaire — Shayne Coplan — and ever since, Polymarket has exploded in popularity. In the
- [Lotto Powerball rolls over to $15m as two players win $500,000](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/lotto-powerball-rolls-over-to-15m-as-two-players-win-500000/): Two lucky players from Auckland have each won $500,000 in last night’s Lotto draw as Powerball rolls over to $15 million. The winning tickets were sold at Woolworths Lynn Mall and on MyLotto to a player from Auckland. “Anyone who bought their ticket from Woolworths Lynn Mall or on MyLotto should check their ticket as
- [Seasonal goods fresh from the farm vision for store](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/seasonal-goods-fresh-from-the-farm-vision-for-store/): Fresh, local and seasonal. That has been the vision behind North Otago farming couple Nick and Kate Webster expanding their business to include the Totara Store, which opens its doors tomorrow. The building — just south of Oamaru and once the local community’s hall — previously housed Brydone Wholefoods which closed earlier this year. It
- [Tramper dies, another rescued from remote West Coast track](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/tramper-dies-another-rescued-from-remote-west-coast-track/): A tramper has died and another has been rescued from a remote track on the West Coast. Police said they were notified of a personal locator beacon being activated close to the Klondyke Rahu saddle in Victoria Forest Park at around 6.30pm on Friday. “Police Search and Rescue attended and located a tramper and a
- [Murder charge laid after motorcyclist fatally stabbed in Auckland](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/murder-charge-laid-after-motorcyclist-fatally-stabbed-in-auckland/): Police have charged a 21-year-old man with murder after a motorbike rider was fatally stabbed following a collision in Auckland’s Mount Wellington on Friday. Detective Inspector Scott Beard told 1News the incident began just after just after midday on Friday when a collision occurred between a motorbike and a blue Nissan March on Harris Rd.
- [Two injured in 'massive rollover' at Wairarapa jetsprint champs](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/two-injured-in-massive-rollover-at-wairarapa-jetsprint-champs/): Two people have been injured after a jet boat crashed during the opening round of the New Zealand Jetsprint Championship in the Wairarapa this morning. Emergency services were called to the Tauherenikau Racecourse near Featherston at about 10.45am on Sunday. Wellington Free Ambulance confirmed both occupants of the boat were taken to Wairarapa Hospital in
- [Family violence refuge fully booked out over weekend as pressure mounts](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/family-violence-refuge-fully-booked-out-over-weekend-as-pressure-mounts/): An Auckland family violence refuge says it would likely have had to pay for women and children to stay in hotels and motels this weekend, because their beds are full. Shine Refuges has two safe houses, but only one of the 10 beds was available on Friday. Presbyterian Support Northern oversees Shine and social services
- [New measles locations of interest identified](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/new-measles-locations-of-interest-identified/): No new cases of measles have been reported over the weekend, but Health New Zealand say they are “concerned” about several newly identified locations of interest. Individuals who were present at any of the 11 new locations of interest are considered close contacts and are at higher risk of being infected, Health NZ said in
- [Two kiwi chicks give hope for species once thought extinct on mainland](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/two-kiwi-chicks-give-hope-for-species-once-thought-extinct-on-mainland/): Two tiny little spotted kiwi chicks have given conservationists proof that a species thought extinct on mainland Aotearoa for nearly 50 years is not only surviving, but breeding on the West Coast. The discovery followed the revelation earlier this year that kiwi pukupuku species had survived in the rugged South Westland wilderness. Until March, kiwi
- [Government weighs UK-style jury trial cuts to ease NZ court delays](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/government-weighs-uk-style-jury-trial-cuts-to-ease-nz-court-delays/): Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says he is closely watching the UK’s plan to scrap jury trials for offences carrying sentences of less than three years, a key change the New Zealand Government is also considering to help speed up court processes. “We’re watching with great interest, it’s been an issue that’s been raised here in
- [Kiwi skier Alice Robinson secures back-to-back giant slalom wins](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/kiwi-skier-alice-robinson-secures-back-to-back-giant-slalom-wins/): New Zealand skier Alice Robinson has secured her second straight women’s World Cup giant slalom victory Saturday (local time) at Mont-Tremblant, Canada. The 24-year-old led after the first run and had a combined time of 2m 16.18s in the first of two races at the resort northwest of Montreal. “I was a bit nervous this
- ['I acted honestly': Andrew Coster speaks out in exclusive interview](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/i-acted-honestly-andrew-coster-speaks-out-in-exclusive-interview/): Ex-top cop Andrew Coster says ministers went too far in alleging there may have been police corruption involved in the Jevon McSkimming case, defending his own actions as honest mistakes in an exclusive Q+A interview. READ MORE: Exclusive — Coster says he told Hipkins and Mitchell about McSkimming Speaking out for the first time since
- [The NZ population is aging – do our nurses know how to treat older people?](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/the-nz-population-is-aging-do-our-nurses-know-how-to-treat-older-people/): A recent study suggests our nurses are trained to view elderly patients in a narrow, impersonalised way. Senior nursing lecturer Samantha Heath reports. Life expectancy in New Zealand has increased dramatically over the past five decades. In 1970, men lived on average to 68. Today, it’s over 80. These gains reflect major advances in public
- [Oranga Tamariki aims to use new design for young offenders' boot camp](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/oranga-tamariki-aims-to-use-new-design-for-young-offenders-boot-camp/): Oranga Tamariki aims to run its second boot camp for serious youth offenders in March next year using a new design. The Children’s Minister, earlier this week, in a scrutiny hearing said no date had been set. The ministry told the same hearing it was “giving some thought” to running a second one prior to
- [Kiwi on life in Australia: 'I'm not paying for mould poisoning anymore'](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/kiwi-on-life-in-australia-im-not-paying-for-mould-poisoning-anymore/): Lucy Griggs, a 24-year-old social media manager from Wellington, spoke to 1News’ Polly Wenlock about her experience after moving overseas. Griggs is one of many thousands making the move to Australia – Stats NZ data released this month showed a net migration loss of 46,400 Kiwis in the September 2025 year. That was the result
- [Greens critical of Govt's traffic-light system for beneficiaries](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/greens-critical-of-govts-traffic-light-system-for-beneficiaries/): The Green Party is criticising the $8 million cost to set up the Government’s traffic-light system for beneficiaries, which includes new non-financial sanctions, calling it “smoke and mirrors”. The Greens have drawn attention to the number, after Ministry of Social Development (MSD) bosses revealed, during Scrutiny Week, that just 12 people had received non-financial sanctions
- [Te Pāti Māori tensions expected to loom as party AGM goes ahead](https://bestinzealand.co.nz/te-pati-maori-tensions-expected-to-loom-as-party-agm-goes-ahead/): Te Pāti Māori will gather for its long-awaited Annual General Meeting in Rotorua today, after months of turmoil that led to the expulsion of two of their six MPs. Mariameno Kapa-Kingi will now attend the full AGM following a high court ruling reinstating her to the party, while Tākuta Ferris remains expelled and won’t be

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