https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/rss NZME Get the latest news from Newstalk ZB. From breaking news to the debate and opinion, we bring NZ the news from around the world as it happens.   Wed, 27 May 2026 18:10:07 Z en https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/world/nasa-outlines-artemis-missions-to-build-long-term-lunar-base-by-2032/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/world/nasa-outlines-artemis-missions-to-build-long-term-lunar-base-by-2032/ More than half a century after astronauts last set foot on the Moon, Nasa is laying the groundwork for a long-term human presence on the lunar surface. The US space agency has unveiled plans for robotic landers, moon vehicles and drones as part of an ambitious programme to establish a permanent base, with contracts awarded to several American companies, including Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin, the ABC reported. “The Moon base will be America’s and humanity’s first outpost on another celestial world,” Nasa administrator Jared Isaacman said. “Every mission, crewed and uncrewed, will be a learning opportunity as we return to the lunar surface, build the infrastructure to stay, and master the skills required to live and operate in one of the most demanding and dangerous environments imaginable.” However, the US is already competing with China, which this week launched its Shenzhou‑23 mission carrying a crew of astronauts to the country’s Tiangong space station. Beijing aims to land astronauts on the lunar surface by 2030 and continues to make steady progress, according to the BBC. Nasa announced a US$20 billion ($34b) programme in March to construct a permanent base at the Moon’s south pole by 2032, powered by nuclear and solar energy, the BBC reported. Nasa has unveiled plans to establish a permanent human presence on the Moon, marking a major step in the return to lunar exploration more than 50 years after the last Apollo landing. Photo / Nasa The first three missions to the Moon are designed to gather information and begin the development of the base. Under the Artemis initiative, the US hopes to return astronauts to the Moon before President Donald Trump leaves office in 2029, according to the ABC. Nasa’s Moon base programme manager Carlos Garcia-Galan said the three missions will involve 25 launches and 21 landings on the Moon. “We’re planning to deliver about four metric tonnes of cargo to the surface of the Moon,” Garcia-Galan said. Nasa’s Moon base plan is expected to roll out in three stages over the coming decade. The first phase involves the first three missions, according to Nasa. The second stage would build essential infrastructure such as power, transport and resource systems. The final phase is planned sometime after 2032 and aims to support long-term human habitation using permanent structures. Garcia-Galan said the base would have surveillance drones around the perimeter. “Then we’ll be able to say, ‘Hey, we’re permanently here and we’re not giving it up’,” Garcia-Galan said. Wed, 27 May 2026 08:50:31 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/trusted-accounts-worker-melanie-kingi-jailed-for-stealing-823k-from-charity-organisation/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/trusted-accounts-worker-melanie-kingi-jailed-for-stealing-823k-from-charity-organisation/ A charity that hired Melanie Sarah Raumiria Kingi knew she had a conviction for stealing from her employer, but decided to give her a chance. However, the 46-year-old took advantage of their generosity by stealing more than $800,000 over four years. Kingi spent the money on household expenses before an addiction took hold in 2023, which saw her gamble no less than $1000 a night on pokie machines, saying winning would give her a “buzz”. She funnelled hundreds of thousands of dollars into bank accounts in her name and that of her husband. Today, she was jailed in the Hamilton District Court on a charge of theft by a person in a special relationship. Kingi, through her counsel Mark Jepson, fought to keep her name a secret, suggesting that if her name was printed, it could identify her former employer, who feared a sudden loss of donations if their name was published. While Judge Garry Collin agreed to suppress the name of the charitable organisation, he said there was no information before him that would see him suppress her name. “Your name should be published because the community is entitled to know about those who steal from community organisations for their own benefit. “Transparency, the interest of future employers favours publication.” He also fired a shot at the gambling institutions that profited from Kingi’s theft, telling them to engage with the charity and arrange to pay the money back. ‘Four bank accounts, an Eftpos card, a Travelex account’ Kingi, who was supported in court by her father and husband, was employed by the charity between 2021 and October 2025 as a senior administrator. She helped a senior staff member execute daily tasks. In that role, she assisted the CEO, but as the role developed, Kingi took on more responsibility around the organisation’s bank accounts and finance. She also gained operating authorisation on a number of their accounts. In an ASB bank account she shared with her husband, Kingi deposited $490,841.55 between July 1, 2022, and September 30, 2025, with references of “Koha” and “Grateful Volunteers”. She made further deposits totalling $10,530 into her own Kiwibank account with references including “maara kai” and “refund”. In a Heartland bank account Kingi shared with her husband, she deposited $100,274.60, and in an ANZ account with her husband, deposited $190,126.77. Kingi put a total of $791,772.92 into accounts shared with her husband, who isn’t employed or associated with the charity. There were also ATM withdrawals, when Kingi used the organisation’s petty cash Eftpos card to take out $24,572.50 between January 1, 2022, and October 31, 2025. She also used the card to top up her Travelex card on five occasions, totalling $7,482.30. The total amount stolen was $823,827.72. Kingi declined to comment when arrested. ‘You stole money almost at will’ Judge Collin noted that the charity knew about Kingi’s previous conviction but decided to “give you a chance”. “They allowed you to work for them notwithstanding your conviction, they gave you a responsible position, eventually as [administration]. “You were given the ability to look after and control financial matters for [charity], which is a big deal. “As part of that, you had access to their bank accounts. No doubt you were involved in discussions about finance ... and raising of money.” Melanie Sarah Raumiria Kingi, 46, in the dock of the Hamilton District Court this afternoon. Photo / Belinda Feek Kingi was in a trusted position, which allowed her to steal money “almost at will”. “This continued over a long period of time. The offending was calculated and was intended to deceive. “This is evident from the coding of the withdrawals.” ‘I always felt like s**t’ Judge Collin said Kingi’s offending was “deliberate, organised and pre-meditated”. Initially, it was used for household expenses, then a gambling and “mild” alcohol addiction emerged. A pre-sentence report stated Kingi developed a sense of entitlement. It noted that the f... Wed, 27 May 2026 08:44:39 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/christopher-luxon-s-staffer-at-centre-of-climate-lobbying-allegations-revealed-as-former-chief-policy-advisor/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/christopher-luxon-s-staffer-at-centre-of-climate-lobbying-allegations-revealed-as-former-chief-policy-advisor/ The National Party staffer at the centre of the Z Energy and Fonterra climate lobbying debacle has been identified as Christopher Luxon’s former chief policy adviser. Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick asked in the House whether Luxon can confirm the person who received the document was his chief policy adviser. Swarbrick did not name the adviser. However, Matt Burgess, a former economist at The New Zealand Initiative, held that role at the time in question. The Herald understands he left the role in October last year. Burgess was named in a report from The Post, citing political sources, as the staffer who received hand-delivered corporate briefing notes from Z Energy and Fonterra in mid-2024. The notes were not disclosed when requested by environmental groups under the Official Information Act in March 2025. Luxon’s office initially said it hadn’t been aware of any meeting between staff and the two companies or any record of receiving a briefing note. However, it later confirmed the document had been handed to a staffer, but there was “no record or recollection of that interaction”. Luxon told the House yesterday the staffer involved had “left a while ago”. The Herald contacted Burgess, who said “I have nothing to add”. Matt Burgess is a former economist at The New Zealand Initiative. Photo / Supplied The document, which came to light this month through a discovery process in the High Court, was prepared as part of climate activist Mike Smith’s case in which he was suing emitters over their emissions. The document contained a potential amendment to climate law to “resolve the uncertainty and risks posed by private law claims like Mr Smith’s”. Earlier this month, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith announced an amendment “to prevent findings of liability for tort for climate change damage or harm caused by greenhouse gas emissions in both current and future proceedings before the courts”. The Prime Minister said it was a Cabinet decision to amend the climate law and “there are many ministers who felt very strongly about this situation”. Luxon refused to confirm Burgess’ identity, when asked by reporters as he walked to the House this afternoon. “I am not going to go into names, as I said yesterday, I don’t think it is appropriate. But the staff member hasn’t worked here for a while.” Prime Minister Christopher Luxon arriving for the post-Cabinet press conference with Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith. Photo / Mark Mitchell Green Party: Govt ‘pimping for corporates’ Swarbrick claimed Luxon and his office were involved in an “alleged cover-up”. “I’m implying, suggesting or making it crystal clear and black and white that it feels very uncredible for a Prime Minister not to know that his chief policy adviser was meeting with the largest company in this country. “It is an alleged cover up. As long as there is not clear information in the public arena about what is going on, the allegations stand. “And actually, it is incumbent on the Prime Minister to be clear on what he knew and when.” Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson said the Government was “pimping for corporate then trying to deny what’s going on”. “Let’s have a big look at who this Government cares about, you are looking at documents that they are covering up because they are pimping for corporates,” she said. Luxon said he had asked Ministerial Services – which employs staff – to “remind all staff of their obligations about record keeping”. The Office of the Ombudsman has since launched an investigation into the handling of information by the Prime Minister’s office. Julia Gabel is a Wellington-based political reporter. She joined the Herald in 2020 and has most recently focused on data journalism. Wed, 27 May 2026 04:24:52 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/business/auckland-s-first-hybrid-electric-ferry-to-launch-on-devonport-route-next-month/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/business/auckland-s-first-hybrid-electric-ferry-to-launch-on-devonport-route-next-month/ The first of two hybrid electric ferries will go into service next month on Auckland’s city-to-Devonport run – marking the first time the technology has gone into commercial service in New Zealand. The Herald joined a preview cruise on the hybrid ferry, christened the Waitematā 1, earlier today. While some vessels in the city’s diesel fleet (average age: 22 years) sound like 10,000 lawnmowers, and smell worse, the hybrid vessel, owned by Auckland Transport (AT), is quiet enough for a whispered conversation. And its operator, Fullers360, says it will be cheaper to run. “Fullers360 testing shows this ferry can deliver energy costs around 70–75% lower than an equivalent diesel vessel when operating electrically," Fullers Group chief executive Mike Horne told today’s passengers. “On the Devonport route, with charging infrastructure in place, replacing one equivalent diesel ferry with an electric-hybrid could cut diesel use by 790,000 litres a year and reduce CO2-e emissions by 2500 tonnes annually,” Horne said. An artist's impression of the building that will hold three megachargers, on Queen's Wharf behind Shed 10 and next to the Cloud. Sweden's ABB won a $27.6m tender to build chargers for hybrid and fully electric ferries. The immediate issue is that the main element of the charging infrastructure – three mega chargers at the downtown ferry terminal – is now not due to come partially online until later this year and completely by mid-2027. The three 3.3-megawatt downtown chargers were originally due to be ready by the end of 2024, but AT ferry electrification programme manager Nathan Cammock said there had been design and consent delays (early in the process, councillor Mike Lee complained the building housing them would be an “eyesore”). How the megacharger building looked this morning. Photo / Corey Fleming In the meantime, onboard diesel generators will be used to keep the Waitematā 1’s batteries topped up during the day. Once the downtown chargers are complete, the Waitematā 1 will switch to all-electric operation. A second hybrid electric ferry is due on the water in about six months. The first of two fully electric ferries – which, like the hybrid, cost around $20 million each – has been on the water for testing since June last year, with still no date to go into service. One charger has been built at Half Moon Bay. A plan for a third at Hobsonville Point is off the table for now amid logistical and funding challenges. The three downtown megachargers, slated to cost $27.6m, looked to be at the very preliminary stages when the Herald visited this morning. The Waitematā 1 (pictured) is the first of two hybrid electric ferries. The second is around six months away. AT has also commissioned two fully electric ferries. The first has been on the water for testing since June last year, with no timeline yet for it to go into commercial service. The second is a few months away. Cammock said a “partial” Half Moon Bay-CBD electric ferry service could be introduced, using only the Half Moon Bay charger, while AT waited for the downtown chargers to be finished and a marine survey to be completed. Top-up charges will take five to 10 minutes as passengers alight. Return to diesel Meanwhile, amid tightened central government and Auckland Council funding, AT is procuring three new diesel ferries, which it says are a necessary stopgap while electric ferry technology matures, and breakdown-prone diesels have to be replaced in short order, in the context of a fiscal squeeze and a need to find short-term savings. Preparing to board: Auckland councillor Richard Hills and Mayor Wayne Brown before today's sailing. Photo / Corey Fleming “The diesel ones are $8m, and this [the Waitematā 1] is $56m by the time you’ve built the chargers and everything to make it happen,” Mayor Wayne Brown tells the Herald. “You’ve got to look at the environmental thing, but money is also part of the environment,” Brown said. Councillor Richard Hills, who cha... Wed, 27 May 2026 04:21:14 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/diphtheria-outbreak-in-australia-how-at-risk-is-new-zealand/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/diphtheria-outbreak-in-australia-how-at-risk-is-new-zealand/ A rare diphtheria outbreak is spreading across the ditch, but are Kiwis at risk of the potentially life-threatening disease in New Zealand? University of Otago professor of public health Michael Baker told the Herald that although the risk to New Zealand remains low, it has risen, given the number of cases in Australia. ABC reported that the number currently sits at 242 cases this year and one confirmed death. Meanwhile, New Zealand has not had a case of respiratory diphtheria since 1998, Baker said. He said the disease has become virtually banished across most of the world due to immunisation, so it was “unusual” to see an outbreak like this. “This is by far the largest outbreak in Australia for decades,” Baker said. What is diphtheria? Health NZ Te Whatu Ora said diphtheria is highly contagious and spreads easily via coughs and sneezes, or through close contact with someone who is infected. The bacteria can also spread through contaminated objects or food. Health NZ said diphtheria can cause throat infections that can lead to breathing difficulties, and can cause skin infections. Australian outbreak and the risk to NZ Australia is currently grappling with an ongoing outbreak of the disease. Northern Territory (NT) Health first declared an outbreak of diphtheria in March, for the first time since the 1990s, ABC reported. The disease has since spread to Western Australia, South Australia and Queensland. The Australian Centre for Disease Control (CDC) has recorded at least 242 cases of diphtheria throughout Australia this year, with 146 cases in the NT. Australian Federal Health Minister Mark Butler said the source of the outbreak should be investigated. “Having an outbreak that is so big, compared to the historical position of a disease most developed countries have consigned to the dustbin of history, does mean we have to examine what went wrong here,” Butler said. University of Otago professor of public health Michael Baker. Baker said generally the countries Kiwis visit most frequently have had good control of diphtheria for decades, but this outbreak “is a change in the normal situation”. He said at this stage the Australian outbreak was still very localised and was in more rural Aboriginal populations, particularly in the Northern Territory and Western Australia. “There is an increased risk of importing it into New Zealand. It’s still small, and of course it’s very much related to where New Zealanders go when they’re in Australia,” Baker said. Baker said the outbreak was an important reminder for people to check their vaccination status for diphtheria. “If we haven’t had a full course of vaccines as a child, or boosters as an adult, then we need to go and get our diphtheria vaccine topped up,” he said. The best protection against diphtheria is immunisation. Photo / Getty Images New Zealand’s Director of Public Health Dr Corina Grey said the Ministry of Health is in regular contact with Australian health authorities about potential health threats, including diphtheria. “While some Australian states are experiencing a diphtheria outbreak, the risk to New Zealand is considered low,” Grey said. In response to the outbreak in Australia, Health New Zealand has issued a public health advisory to healthcare professionals and an advisory to border agencies. “The advisories are asking health professionals and border officials to be alert for diphtheria in returning travellers from Australia and areas where the disease is endemic, including Asia and the South Pacific,” she said. What are the symptoms? Grey said diphtheria often begins with mild, cold-like symptoms but can quickly become severe. Common symptoms can include: Thick, grey-white coating at the back of the throat which can block breathing and cause death; Fever; Sore throat; Headache; Difficulty breathing; Difficulty swallowing; Bad breath; Sleepiness; Throat and neck swelling caused by swollen glands known as a ‘bull neck’; Bark-like cough. Health NZ said dipht... Wed, 27 May 2026 04:06:03 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/sport/nz-rugby-to-cover-moana-pasifika-player-salaries-as-franchise-fights-for-future/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/sport/nz-rugby-to-cover-moana-pasifika-player-salaries-as-franchise-fights-for-future/ By Jonty Dine of RNZ Moana Pasifika players have been thrown a financial lifeline after New Zealand Rugby stepped in to cover the struggling franchise’s immediate costs, following its move into liquidation. The national body confirmed to RNZ it will cover player salaries until the end of July. The Super Rugby team was placed into liquidation on Monday, with this weekend’s season-ending game against the Brumbies in Canberra set to be their last. The support provides some short-term certainty for players and staff as efforts continue behind the scenes to secure the franchise’s long-term future. Coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga said among all the questions and uncertainty, having their salaries paid for the next two months was a significant relief. “Getting that news, it was met with a bit of applause. We’re very thankful to New Zealand Rugby for stepping in at this time. “Having that certainty now, and being able to put some food on the table for the next couple of weeks. We’ll take what we can at this stage. It’s better than nothing and it is the reality of the situation we’re in.” A slew of rumours have been floating around regarding rescue efforts, including the Kanaloa Consortium which is reported to be headed by former All Blacks Jerome Kaino and Joe Rokocoko. “I haven’t spoken to them, but if it eventuates, you’ve got two legends of the game that have a deep understanding around Pacific and what they want to do.” Kanaloa Consortium and the Pacific Rugby Players association said on Tuesday the tender process is still ongoing and they hoped discussions would be finalised soon. Despite weeks of emotional turmoil, Umaga said the squad still lives in hope that the franchise will be rescued. “You’ve got to have some confidence. There’s hope and when there’s hope, there’s a way. “There’s some good people hopefully putting things together to see what the future holds. We have to have hope. Otherwise, you’ll be living in the rain for most of your life and clouds will be grey.” But is living in hope hurting the players? “I don’t think it will damage them at all. For those that can’t find something, then there is a little bit of hope. It could possibly give them another option that they might not have. “It’s not going to be the same for everybody. It’s the way you look at this, instead of thinking ‘why me?’, maybe just asking ‘what have I learned from this?’ and being grateful for the opportunity that we had. “Then ‘how can I build from this if this is something that I want to get into? Maybe I’ve got to keep working hard at it and then things will happen?’.“ The side has endured a miserable season on the field, winless since the opening round and anchored to the bottom of the Super Rugby Pacific ladder. “There is disappointment. I think we’ve gone past that stage now. We’re just looking forward to playing well in our last game.” - RNZ Wed, 27 May 2026 04:00:05 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/sport/all-blacks-nz-rugby-captain-scott-barrett-out-for-up-to-five-months-with-back-injury/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/sport/all-blacks-nz-rugby-captain-scott-barrett-out-for-up-to-five-months-with-back-injury/ All Blacks captain and Crusaders lock Scott Barrett has been ruled out for up to five months with a back injury and will require surgery. Crusaders coach Rob Penney confirmed the forward will need an operation on his back after picking up an issue before his return from a non-playing sabbatical. The timeline of three to five months Penney gave would rule Barrett out of the All Blacks Nations Championship fixtures in July and possibly out of the tour of South Africa. However, there is a chance he could be fit for the two October Bledisloe Cup tests and the November Nations Championship games in Europe. “He’s tried every non-invasive trick you could do to get right and it just hasn’t come off, so he’ll be in the operating theatre by the end of the week,” Penney said. “He was in great shape, he had a great break, and he’d come back very excited. All Blacks captain Scott Barrett could be out for up to five months with a back injury. Photo / Photosport “He’s still contributing as he does really meaningfully behind the scenes, but he’s as frustrated as all of us are for him. “He’s got his head around it now, I guess a pretty special trip to South Africa that he’s going to miss and some other bits and pieces, but ultimately he’s just got to get himself right.” This is the second major injury blow for the Crusaders this week after fullback Will Jordan was ruled out for the rest of the Super Rugby Pacific season with a calf injury. The 28-year-old reaggravated his leg injury after returning from six weeks on the sideline in his team’s 36-32 win over the Chiefs. Prop Tamaiti Williams was confirmed to miss the rest of the season in late March after he was found to have discitis, an infection in one of the discs in his spine. Penney tried to put a positive spin on the adversity some of his top players have faced and argued that the team had dealt with injuries over the past few years very well. “Losing those men is without question disappointing, but it’s allowed a whole other group to step up and take a leadership role and put their own stamp on it, and that’s what you require,” Penney said. “If we go any further into the competition post this weekend, it’ll be on the back of those men really stepping up, and they’re certainly capable of it.” The Crusaders currently sit fourth on the Super Rugby ladder and will face the Hurricanes on Friday evening at One NZ Stadium in Christchurch. Wed, 27 May 2026 03:45:59 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/minister-concerned-govt-s-27m-loan-to-super-rugby-s-moana-pasifika-might-not-be-recovered/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/minister-concerned-govt-s-27m-loan-to-super-rugby-s-moana-pasifika-might-not-be-recovered/ Sport Minister Mark Mitchell can’t say whether the Government will see the return of a $2.75 million loan given to Super Rugby Pacific franchise Moana Pasifika, which has been placed in liquidation. Mitchell says he has asked for advice from Sport New Zealand regarding the loan and whether it can be recovered, acknowledging he was concerned it might not be. “Naturally it’s a concern because it’s taxpayers’ money, but I’m sure that it was invested in good faith. “It’s sad that Moana Pasifika finds itself in the position that it is now but I’m interested in making sure that we’re being good custodians of taxpayers’ money.” Mitchell claims he is unaware of any proposals to keep the struggling franchise afloat, despite one of his coalition colleagues Winston Peters yesterday teasing “good news” about the team’s future. The Herald this week reported the franchise had been placed in liquidation, as the team headed to Canberra for their final game on Saturday. A first liquidator’s report was expected early next week and the team’s debts were likely to heavily outweigh assets. The debts include a Crown loan of $2.75m. Mitchell said he hadn’t discussed whether the Government would invest more money or write off the loan. Mitchell couldn’t say how likely it was the Government could recover the loan. “I don’t know, I’d have to wait for that advice to come back to me.” Yesterday, Peters – the Foreign Affairs Minister – told reporters they would have to wait for “good news” about the franchise. “Of course, I’d love to see them carry on, because the reality is they’ve got a great future, but they’ve gone through difficult times.” It’s understood Peters was in conversations with people connected to the franchise to explore options. It’s understood no imminent announcement is coming from the Government, which is set to unveil its annual Budget tomorrow. Mitchell today said he wasn’t aware what Peters was referring to and hadn’t asked him. “I’m sure that he will let us know in due course.” Peters today referred to a “proposal” that was being assessed. He indicated it could be a funding agreement between the Government and private entities. “We’re trying to find out who else is engaged, who’ll be part of it, and when we get that together, we’ll be able to make an announcement.” He wouldn’t speculate on the extent of any further Government funding: “It could be peanuts for a great outcome.” Adam Pearse is the Deputy Political Editor and part of the NZ Herald’s Press Gallery team based at Parliament in Wellington. He has worked for NZME since 2018, reporting for the Northern Advocate in Whangārei and the Herald in Auckland. Wed, 27 May 2026 03:35:00 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/two-youths-caught-by-police-after-illegal-stag-hunting-in-central-otago/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/two-youths-caught-by-police-after-illegal-stag-hunting-in-central-otago/ Two young people will go through the youth justice process for unlawful hunting after two prize stags were shot and killed on private land. The stags were shot in Central Otago on May 17. Police from Cromwell and Queenstown executed search warrants this morning at addresses in Cromwell and Lake Hayes. Two youths were identified for unlawful hunting. One of the youths was a firearms licence holder. This licence, as well as the firearms, were seized by police during the search warrant. Police also recovered antlers that were believed to have belonged to the two stags. These will be returned to the owner. A police spokesperson said they were pleased to have caught the offenders to hold them to account, but disappointed with unlawful hunting occurring in the first place. “Unfortunately, poaching and unlawful hunting continues to be an ongoing issue across the wider district,” the spokesperson said. “These are not only for personal safety reasons but also for the flow-on effect from the damage caused to rural residents, farmers’ properties and trophy hunting businesses. “Hunting without explicit permission from a landowner, farmer, or forestry manager is illegal. On public conservation land, a Department of Conservation permit is mandatory.” Police urged anybody who has been a victim of poaching to make a report to police via 105 or online. Wed, 27 May 2026 03:31:49 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/invercargill-teen-accused-of-nationwide-bomb-threats-granted-bail/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/invercargill-teen-accused-of-nationwide-bomb-threats-granted-bail/ An Invercargill teenager who allegedly sent nationwide bomb threats has been granted bail despite strong police opposition. Police say the boy, who has automatic name suppression, sent threatening emails to several organisations, including the Department of Corrections and Southland Boys’ High School. The teenager appeared in the Invercargill Youth Court on Tuesday after being arrested on Monday night and charged with two counts of threatening to do grievous bodily harm/threats to kill. His arrest followed an investigation by police into threats sent to educational and public sites across New Zealand. Sergeant Brett Cronin told the court police were “strongly opposed” to granting him bail. But Judge Catriona Doyle granted bail with special conditions. This included a check-in to monitor bail compliance on June 5. The teenager would then reappear at the Invercargill Youth Court on July 3, when he is expected to enter a plea. Bomb Threats There have been several bomb threats to Auckland educational and public facilities in the past week. Auckland Art Gallery was evacuated last Thursday morning after receiving a threatening email, which gallery director Dr Zara Stanhope later described to the Herald as a “hoax threat”. Staff and students at Kiwi College in Albany self-evacuated after an employee received an email with a bomb threat last Tuesday morning, with police attending and clearing the address. That email said explosives were planted inside the building, and allegedly threatened, “you are all going to be blown into bloody chunks”. Finance manager Jay Cheng told the Herald the threat allegedly claimed the Kiwi College facility was “rigged with 22 pounds of C4 explosives”. Brianna McIlraith is a Queenstown-based reporter for Open Justice covering courts in the lower South Island. She has been a journalist since 2018 and has had a strong interest in business and financial journalism. Wed, 27 May 2026 02:55:35 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/sport/sheilla-yama-from-living-a-simple-life-to-becoming-one-of-the-most-feared-female-fighters/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/sport/sheilla-yama-from-living-a-simple-life-to-becoming-one-of-the-most-feared-female-fighters/ By Jonty Dine of RNZ Sheilla Yama didn’t grow up dreaming of being a world champion. The boxer led a quiet childhood with her seven siblings in Papua New Guinea. “No internet, no power, just lamps and traditional houses. It was a simple life.” She wasn’t even aware professional women’s boxing existed. “Phones and technology came later. We used to go up the mountains and climb trees just to get signal. It was crazy, but it was fun looking back now, life back then was very different compared to today.” But after stepping into a boxing gym at 25 purely looking to improve her fitness, Yama found her calling. Already working as a registered nurse, she began inflicting pain as well as healing it. Yama has quickly risen to become one of the most feared female fighters on the planet. “Hard work and discipline. You have to believe in yourself. I know I’ve put in the work, so I’m confident going into any fight.” Yama had previously looked for purpose through pageantry, winning the World Supermodel PNG competition in 2017, but struggling with the pressure it put on her for perfection. However, the discipline she learnt translated nicely to the boxing arena. After winning her first professional bout in 2024, Yama remains unbeaten, her most recent win coming in May against Nailini Helue to claim the IBF international super lightweight title. It took her to a perfect 7-0 career record. Now she is set for the biggest stage of her career, fighting on the undercard of David Nyika versus Floyd Masson on August 8 in Auckland. Her opponent is yet to be confirmed. “The mission is still the same. To be the best fighter in the world.” With such a compassionate demeanour and history in healthcare, aggression doesn’t come easily for Yama. “I don’t know where it comes from, think the switch comes during the fight. Right now I’m just chill.” She said despite her rapid ascension in the boxing world, Yama insists she is still just “a girl from the Islands”. “I’ve just always done it for fun and it still feels fun for me. I never grew up saying I wanted to be a world champion one day. It all just sort of happened slowly and I’m just going with the flow.” However, she is not going to let the opportunity for greatness slip. “We’re already here now, so we might as well take it all the way.” Nyika v Masson What: IBF cruiserweight world title eliminator When: Saturday, August 8, 2026 Where: Eventfinda Stadium, Auckland – RNZ Wed, 27 May 2026 02:46:11 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/world/trump-declares-himself-in-perfect-health-as-80th-birthday-looms/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/world/trump-declares-himself-in-perfect-health-as-80th-birthday-looms/ United States President Donald Trump said an annual medical check-up had gone “perfectly”, as his health faces growing scrutiny with the approach of his 80th birthday. It was Trump’s third medical examination since returning to office last year and follows mounting speculation about issues including bruising on his hands and apparent sleepiness during meetings. “Everything checked out PERFECTLY,” Trump posted on his Truth Social network as he drove back to the White House from the Walter Reed Military Hospital near Washington. The White House later posted a picture of Trump on social media with the caption: “PERFECT BILL OF HEALTH!” Trump’s doctor is expected to release a summary of the medical examination in coming days, although the amount of detail released is entirely at the White House’s discretion. Trump, the oldest US President ever to take the oath, has long been accused of a lack of transparency about his health – and the chronology of his various check-ups during his second term has added to the confusion. He referred to today’s check-up as a “six-month physical”, despite the White House billing it as an annual dental and medical examination when it announced it this month. Trump’s last scheduled annual check-up was in April 2025. But it was followed by an unannounced hospital visit that October, which the White House then also described as an annual physical. The Republican billionaire’s claims about his health are all the more subject to scrutiny given his repeated boasts about his mental and physical vigour compared to Democratic predecessor Joe Biden. Trump turns 80 on June 14 – an event that will coincide with an Ultimate Fighting Championship cage fight held on the White House lawn. “I feel the same as I did 50 years ago,” Trump said during an Oval Office event this month. Trump said that was despite his well-documented love of fast food, steak and Diet Coke, adding: “Maybe junk food is good”. Officially standing at 191cm tall, Trump weighed 101.6kg as of his last full annual medical in April 2025, down from 110.2kg in 2019. He has denied taking weight-loss drugs. Trump has also spoken dozens of times about “acing” a cognitive test that he claims his presidential predecessors have not taken. Vein problem But last northern summer, the White House disclosed that Trump had been evaluated for swelling in his legs and diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency – a common condition in which faulty vein valves allow blood to pool, causing swelling, cramping and skin changes. The revelation came after Trump was seen with swollen ankles on a number of occasions. Since returning to office in 2025, Trump has also often appeared with bruising on his right hand, usually covered with makeup. He also had a rash on his neck during one Oval Office appearance. The White House has attributed the marks on his hand to the aspirin he takes as part of a “standard” cardiovascular health regimen. During a number of White House events, Trump has also been seen apparently closing his eyes for several seconds, although he has repeatedly denied dozing off. After his October check-up, Trump said an MRI taken during the visit showed his cardiovascular health was “excellent”. His doctor, US Navy Captain Sean Barbabella, wrote in a letter released by the White House at the time that Trump’s cardiac age “was found to be approximately 14 years younger than his chronological age”. Presidential age has been a recurring theme in US politics in recent years. During the 2024 presidential election, Biden was forced to drop his bid for a second term at the age of 81 after a disastrous debate against Trump. Biden was the oldest ever president to take office – until Trump began his second term. Trump also holds the record for the third oldest president to be inaugurated, having begun his first term at age 70. - AFP Wed, 27 May 2026 02:41:33 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/magnitude-68-earthquake-possible-on-auckland-faultline-study/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/magnitude-68-earthquake-possible-on-auckland-faultline-study/ By RNZ A faultline in Auckland now considered active has the potential of creating a magnitude 6.8 earthquake if it were to rupture, a new study shows. In a media release, researchers from the University of Auckland say an earthquake caused by the Mangatangi faultline – which runs alongside the Hunua Ranges – would likely result in “serious consequences” for people living in South Auckland and possibly central Auckland, too. The study has been published today in the New Zealand Journal of Geology and Geophysics. According to co-author Dr James Muirhead, the study highlights how little is known about Auckland’s seismic history. The Mangatangi faultline is considered active as it has ruptured within the past 10,000 years. Any fault that has moved within 125,000 is considered active. Dr Muirhead said: “Auckland’s level of hazard is obviously nothing like Wellington’s or much of the South Island, but it may be significantly higher than the public and policymakers believe – we need more factual information to know”. The researchers say continued expansion south of the city is putting more people and infrastructure at risk – given the close proximity to the faultline. Lead author Hannah Martin said although the fault may not rupture for tens of thousands of years, it remains an active fault “with the potential to generate a large earthquake in a region that doesn’t expect one”. Muirhead said although people don’t usually feel them, earthquakes occur in Auckland every year. He and two other authors from the study are continuing to research Auckland faultlines to determine how active they are. They are using advanced mapping, ground-penetrating radar and trenching, according to the media release. One of the researchers, Dr Jennifer Eccles, said: “It’s always better to plan based on evidence rather than on our best hopes or worst fears”. - RNZ Wed, 27 May 2026 01:59:56 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/homeschool-concerns-force-11th-hour-backtrack-on-govt-s-education-bill/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/homeschool-concerns-force-11th-hour-backtrack-on-govt-s-education-bill/ High levels of concern within the homeschooling community have forced the Government to pause legislation introducing “draconian” regulations. The Education and Training (System Reform) Amendment Bill had been set for its third reading in the House today before being passed into law. The bill was intended to clarify responsibilities within the education sector and update regulatory settings. However, today’s schedule for the House’s proceedings had no mention of the bill’s third reading, indicating it had been delayed. It’s understood New Zealand First and Education Minister Erica Stanford had late-night meetings yesterday to discuss the amendment’s potential impact and how to address concerns. This followed an amendment relating to homeschooling regulations – added after the bill went through public submissions – caused significant concern within the community, leading to hundreds of emails being sent to MPs. The amendment would have required people wishing to homeschool children to have an exemption from enrolment at a registered school. A crowd of about 60 people gathered on Parliament’s lawn today to show their opposition to the amendment. NZ First leader Winston Peters meeting with people concerned about an amendment relating to homeschooling. Photo / Adam Pearse NZ First leader Winston Peters went out to meet them. It’s understood Stanford was expected to join him to address the bill’s future but didn’t appear until after Peters had returned inside . Peters, apologising for having to leave, told those gathered he had received extensive feedback about the issue and congratulated them. Stanford confirmed the amendment would be scrapped in a statement today, claiming the Government had “listened to feedback” from the homeschool sector. “The Ministry of Education and the Education Review Office advised, in late 2025 and early 2026, that regulation was required to ensure children educated at home received adequate levels of education, as a result we moved quickly to introduce legislation to provide appropriate checks,” she said. “However, feedback from stakeholders, MPs, coalition partners and those in the education sector show the issue is more complicated than first thought and we will take the time to get this right.” The bill would be referred back to the Committee of the Whole to remove the amendment. Act was quick to claim credit, saying the decision to scrap the amendment was a “major victory” after Act MP Laura McClure had written to Stanford. McClure had warned Stanford the amendment “risked treating good parents with suspicion and imposing unreasonable compliance burdens”. “Draconian new restrictions on homeschooling were a mistake, rushed into law at the last minute,” Act leader David Seymour said. “This is a victory for democracy, showing that people can be heard by politicians and change can result. “It is also a victory for educational freedom, the simple idea that you own your life and can choose your pathway, rather than being a character and a play written by others.” Adam Pearse is the Deputy Political Editor and part of the NZ Herald’s Press Gallery team based at Parliament in Wellington. He has worked for NZME since 2018, reporting for the Northern Advocate in Whangārei and the Herald in Auckland. Wed, 27 May 2026 01:41:33 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/tolaga-bay-incident-leaves-one-person-in-critical-condition-in-hospital/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/tolaga-bay-incident-leaves-one-person-in-critical-condition-in-hospital/ A person has suffered life-threatening injuries after getting trapped under a vehicle in Tolaga Bay, northeast of Gisborne this morning. Emergency services were called to the incident just before 5.30am. Fire and Emergency central shift manager Murray Dunbar said the accident happened at an engineering yard, but further circumstances were unclear. One person was flown to Waikato Hospital in a critical condition, a Hato Hone St John spokesman said. A senior Tolaga Bay firefighter told the Gisborne Herald a truck and trailer unit loaded with metal had fallen on a man. “He was working on a tyre on the trailer when it fell, pinning him by the chest under the rear axle,” he said. “We used airbags to lift the trailer off him.” A WorkSafe New Zealand spokesperson said WorkSafe was aware of the incident and was making initial inquiries to understand the circumstances and determine if an investigation was required. “... our thoughts are with the person who has been critically injured.” Gisborne Senior Station Officer Bernie Bull said the Tolaga Bay volunteers who tended to the man did really well. “The man’s workmates also did a good job.” Wed, 27 May 2026 01:38:24 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/person-dies-in-quad-bike-crash-on-old-tai-tapu-road-south-of-christchurch/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/person-dies-in-quad-bike-crash-on-old-tai-tapu-road-south-of-christchurch/ A person has died in a quad bike crash at a rural property south of Christchurch this morning. Emergency services were called to a property on Old Tai Tapu Road around 6.30am. One person was found dead at the scene. The Herald understands a quad bike or four-wheeled farm bike was involved. A Fire and Emergency NZ shift manager said two crews from Lincoln responded to the incident at around 6.30am. They confirmed the incident did not occur on the road and referred all further inquiries to police. The Serious Crash Unit is examining the scene. WorkSafe confirmed they had been notified of the incident and were working to determine if an investigation would be launched. “Our thoughts are with the family, friends, and wider community affected by this loss,” they said in a statement. “We are making initial enquiries to understand the circumstances and determine whether an investigation is required.” More to come ... Wed, 27 May 2026 01:17:21 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/wintec-campuses-closed-after-potential-security-threat-reported/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/wintec-campuses-closed-after-potential-security-threat-reported/ Wintec has closed its campus sites in Hamilton because of a potential security threat. In a social media post, the institute said it had notified students and staff to leave campus buildings promptly and calmly. “The safety of our students and staff is Wintec’s priority, and is why we have taken this decision to close campuses. “We will provide updates when more information becomes available.” Students and staff received an email and phone alert around 11.25am saying all classes had been cancelled for today because of a potential security threat affecting campus premises. People have been asked to take their belongings and vehicles and leave promptly. Police had also been notified. More to come... Wed, 27 May 2026 01:14:04 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/police-arrest-driver-after-stolen-piha-fire-appliance-tracked-across-city/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/police-arrest-driver-after-stolen-piha-fire-appliance-tracked-across-city/ A fire appliance was stolen from the Piha Fire Station this morning, triggering a police response across Auckland. A police spokesperson said one person has since been arrested. Police were called shortly before 11.30am today by Fire and Emergency NZ staff who reported one of their vehicles had been stolen from Piha. The vehicle was able to be tracked heading east, before Police pulled it over on Hillsborough Road, just off Mount Albert Road, just after 11.30am. The driver was arrested, and charges are pending, police say. More to come. Wed, 27 May 2026 00:58:46 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/business/reserve-bank-decision-will-interest-rates-rise-today/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/business/reserve-bank-decision-will-interest-rates-rise-today/ (function(n){function c(t,i){n[e](h,function(n){var r,u;if(n&&(r=n[n.message?"message":"data"]+"",r&&r.substr&&r.substr(0,3)==="nc:")&&(u=r.split(":"),u[1]===i))switch(u[2]){case"h":t.style.height=u[3]+"px";return;case"scrolltotop":t.scrollIntoView();return}},!1)}for(var t,u,f,i,s,e=n.addEventListener?"addEventListener":"attachEvent",h=e==="attachEvent"?"onmessage":"message",o=n.document.querySelectorAll(".live-center-embed"),r=0;r',c(t.firstChild,i)))})(window); The Reserve Bank is widely expected to leave the Official Cash Rate on hold at 2.25% when it releases its full Monetary Policy Statement at 2pm. But as a curtain-raiser for tomorrow’s Budget, the details should offer plenty to debate. Already, there is a divide between those who think we need to hike rates now to head off inflation and those who believe the economy is too depressed. As well as providing insight into where the RBNZ sees rates heading in the next six months, the Monetary Policy Statement (MPS) will include its first set of full economic forecasts since the Iran war delivered the oil price shock in March. The uncertainty around the full inflationary impact of the oil price shock, and the likely timeframe of the Iran war, will make the RBNZ’s job extremely difficult. BNZ’s head of research Stephen Toplis didn’t hold back in his assessment of the challenge facing the bank. “The RBNZ will get it wrong!” he wrote in his preview of the rate decision. “As will we all, as confusion reigns,” he said. The question the RBNZ needs to answer is: “Will the inflation shock take on an air of permanence?” This is a big problem, as there is almost no way to answer it, Toplis said. You need to know when the war will end, when oil production will meet demand, even if the war doesn’t end, and what ensuing rounds of price increases will emanate from the supply shock, he said. In other words, there is going to be guesswork involved. Meanwhile, most economists are predicting that the RBNZ will bring forward its forecast rate hikes to July or September as it looks to head off oil shock inflation. Liam Dann is business editor-at-large for the New Zealand Herald. He is a senior writer and columnist, and also presents and produces videos and podcasts. He joined the Herald in 2003. Wed, 27 May 2026 00:46:01 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/mayor-wayne-brown-says-tougher-penalities-needed-to-stop-violence-on-auckland-public-transport/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/mayor-wayne-brown-says-tougher-penalities-needed-to-stop-violence-on-auckland-public-transport/ Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown says he believes tougher penalties are needed to deter violence - including jail time - following an “appalling” alleged attack on a city bus.  Brown condemned the incident as Auckland Transport reassured commuters the network was safe.  Yesterday, the Herald reported on a video that had appeared on social media, depicting a woman being threatened and assaulted by a group of teens on an Auckland Transport (AT) bus on Friday.  A separate video, which appeared online on Sunday, showed an apparent vigilante attack on one of the boys allegedly involved at Glen Innes railway station.  Public transport is more popular than ever due to the fuel crisis, and people have a right to be safe using it, Brown told Ryan Bridge TODAY.  The mayor said as a city and country, “we just can’t afford to have that stuff”.  “I don’t want to hear any more of this stuff about ‘oh, they need wrap around care’.  “The wrap around care they’ve got to have is bars. You know, there’s no excuse for that sort of behaviour. We’ve got to stop that.”  He said assaults on public transit were uncommon and happened to a small percentage of users.  Brown earlier told the Herald the alleged assault was “appalling”.  “I’ve been made aware of an incident that’s been circulating on social media,” the mayor said. “This kind of behaviour is appalling.”  Brown said he had been advised police, AT and the bus companies were looking into the incident and expected the agencies to “take appropriate action as required”.  Rachel Cara, AT group manager of public transport operations, told the Herald the agency was supporting police inquiries into both altercations and had shared CCTV footage with investigators.  “These incidents have been highly publicised on social media, creating the impression that Auckland’s public transport network is unsafe. That is not the case.”  Cara said AT staff had quickly escalated both matters to police, and operations had followed up by reviewing the agency’s incident reporting.  “Auckland’s public transport services and facilities feature a wide range of safety features to help keep people safe when travelling, and to support quick responses to incidents when they do occasionally occur,” she said.  “There is always more that can be done to address underlying challenges in our communities that contribute to antisocial behaviour and aggressive behaviour, and Auckland Transport will continue working with police and our partner agencies to support community safety initiatives.”  A spokesperson for Auckland Transport previously told the HeraldCCTV footage showed the driver “followed protocols by radioing for police assistance and pulling over safely to allow passengers to exit”.  “We are following up with tagged passengers to check on their wellbeing.”  Inspector Jim Wilson, Auckland City East area commander, said police were aware of the video and continuing to make inquiries into the alleged assault.  “Police encourage anyone who comes across threatening material posted online to ensure any screenshots are captured and are reported online, to assist our investigation.”  Wilson also addressed threatening comments circulating online following the separate vigilante attack video.  “We strongly advise anyone making threatening comments online or on sharing these videos to cease.”  Anyone with information can update police online now or call 105 and use the incident reference number 260523/2382.  Tue, 26 May 2026 21:16:51 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/world/middle-east-live-updates-iran-accuses-us-of-breaking-truce-after-new-strikes/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/world/middle-east-live-updates-iran-accuses-us-of-breaking-truce-after-new-strikes/ (function(n){function c(t,i){n[e](h,function(n){var r,u;if(n&&(r=n[n.message?"message":"data"]+"",r&&r.substr&&r.substr(0,3)==="nc:")&&(u=r.split(":"),u[1]===i))switch(u[2]){case"h":t.style.height=u[3]+"px";return;case"scrolltotop":t.scrollIntoView();return}},!1)}for(var t,u,f,i,s,e=n.addEventListener?"addEventListener":"attachEvent",h=e==="attachEvent"?"onmessage":"message",o=n.document.querySelectorAll(".live-center-embed"),r=0;r',c(t.firstChild,i)))})(window); Tue, 26 May 2026 20:08:28 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/amisfield-scandal-international-awards-bosses-consider-stripping-celebrity-chef-vaughan-mabee-of-top-honour/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/amisfield-scandal-international-awards-bosses-consider-stripping-celebrity-chef-vaughan-mabee-of-top-honour/ Organisers of one of the world’s most prestigious culinary awards are reviewing the status of the top gongs they awarded to disgraced New Zealand celebrity chef Vaughan Mabee.  The Milan-based Best Chef Awards is considering what to do with the prestigious Three Knives Awards it bestowed on him in 2024 and 2025.  Regarded as one of the best chefs in the world, Mabee resigned as executive chef at Queenstown fine dining restaurant Amisfield after numerous complaints of alleged workplace bullying and lewd behaviour towards female staff.  The Herald revealed his departure in late April, with the chef claiming at the time that he had resigned to spend more time with his family and pursue “several overseas opportunities”.  He objected to the Herald characterising his departure as “sudden”.  In the days that followed, Amisfield management confirmed he had been the subject of workplace complaints for a decade, and had received two written warnings prior to his exit.  Mabee has since apologised, saying he wants to “strive to become that better person I know I once was and can be again”.  But the fallout has been swift; TVNZ and Australian broadcaster SBS have removed from their libraries Taste of Art New Zealand, the show he co-hosted with MasterChef Australia judge Melissa Leong, while Cuisine magazine has removed Amisfield from its prestigious food guide.  Vaughan Mabee says he is committed to becoming a better person.  Now, organisers of The Best Chef Awards have told the Herald they are considering what to do about the prestigious Three Knives Awards Mabee currently holds.  When asked if they were looking at removing the prizes from him, global relationship manager Nadia Werner said: “We are closely monitoring the situation and reviewing all available information.  “Accountability, respect, and professional integrity remain non-negotiable principles for The Best Chef Awards, and for the global culinary community we represent.”  Neither Mabee did not respond to a request for comment, while Amisfield owner John Darby declined to comment.  Vaughan Mabee (left) and John Darby together in Turin at The World's 50 Best Restaurant Awards ceremony last year. Photo / Instagram  The Best Chef Awards have recognised brilliance in kitchens around the world since 2017.  The judging panel - made up of chefs, hospitality industry experts and food critics - compiles an annual list of its top 100 chefs.  Last year, the awards gave 126 chefs a Three Knives status, which it describes as a “global benchmark of mastery and creativity”.  Mabee has twice been awarded Three Knives status: in 2024 and 2025.  In response to written questions from the Herald, Dubai-based Werner said the organisation had zero tolerance when it came to abusive behaviour in the workplace.  “Thank you for bringing this matter to our attention,” Werner said of Mabee’s alleged conduct.  Awards bosses have since updated Mabee’s biography on their  website to indicate he no longer works at Amisfield.  The Best Chef awards bosses have since updated Vaughan Mabee’s biography on their website to indicate he no longer works at Amisfield. Photo / Supplied  “Accuracy and transparency are non-negotiable standards for The Best Chef organisation, and we act swiftly whenever information requires updating,” Werner said.  The Herald provided Werner with copies of its articles on the scandal that surrounded Mabee’s departure from Amisfield.  That included the chef being at the centre of formal complaints of bullying and lewd comments and behaviour to female staffers – in and out of the workplace – for at least a decade.  More complaints were lodged last year, including about Mabee’s alleged conduct at a private staff party celebrating Amisfield being named among the world’s top 100 restaurants.  On the day after the party and subsequent drinking session at... Tue, 26 May 2026 19:25:51 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/mt-wellington-shooting-person-arrested-as-armed-police-prepare-to-raid-house/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/mt-wellington-shooting-person-arrested-as-armed-police-prepare-to-raid-house/ A person has been arrested over a shooting in Mt Wellington, just as police were preparing to raid a property in relation to the incident.  It follows a man being taken to hospital with a serious gunshot wound just after 6.30am on Tuesday.  Armed police searched a house on Ireland Rd, Mt Wellington late last night. Photo / Hayden Woodward  Police had been investigating “a person and location of interest” over the shooting, Senior Sergeant Michael Wickman said in an emailed statement.  They were preparing to execute a search warrant on a house in nearby Ireland Rd late last night when a person drove away from the property, Wickman said.  “[The person] has subsequently been taken into custody in Pakuranga without issue.”  Police carried out the search warrant following enquiries into a location and person of interest relating to Tuesday's shooting. Photo / Hayden Woodward  Some police executing the search warrant were armed as a precaution, he said.  Ireland Rd was cordoned off at both ends around 10.45pm, with the police helicopter and numerous police cars in the area, according to a Facebook post.  A Herald photographer said the person was arrested on Millen Avenue, which is around 4km from Ireland Rd.  Shortly before the search warrant was executed at the Ireland Road address, a person drove away from the property and was subsequently taken into custody without issue at an address on nearby Millen Avenue, Pakuranga. 26 May 2026. New Zealand Herald photograph by Hayden Woodward.  On Tuesday armed officers were seen stationed at the top of the driveway of the Mt Wellington Highway house where the man was hurt.  A specialist in white protective gear could be seen walking around the property’s exterior.  Neighbour Jude Bastain told the Herald he had seen the police at the property before, most recently three weeks ago.  Armed police on Tuesday guarded the Mt Wellington Highway property where a man suffered an apparent gunshot wound. Photo / Lochlan Lineham  Wickman said work was continuing to determine the circumstances of what had happened.  “Police thank members of the public for their patience while there has been an increased police presence.”  He asked anyone who had useful information to contact police through 105, either online or by calling and quoting reference number P066504576.  Information could also be reported anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.  Tue, 26 May 2026 19:18:05 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/govt-spends-more-than-35m-on-ads-telling-drivers-how-to-cut-fuel-costs/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/govt-spends-more-than-35m-on-ads-telling-drivers-how-to-cut-fuel-costs/ More than $3.5 million of public money has been spent on an advertising campaign on how to save fuel as the pressure at the pump continues. The Government agency behind the campaign is applauding it as a success as the Energy Minister talks about the importance of value for money in spending. Azaria Howell reports. As at May 15, the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority, EECA, had spent around $3.55 million on the ‘Stretch Every Tank’ campaign. Ads across media platforms include tips such as smooth and steady driving to save fuel, and removing unused roof or bike racks to lighten the load. Drivers are also encouraged to check tyre pressure and keep on top of vehicle maintenance - all part of a package to help Kiwis save fuel and money. Fuel prices soared after further conflict in the Middle East saw the closure of the Strait of Hormuz - a key shipping channel - and uncertainty in global markets. Media placement cost EECA $3.135 million, creative design and production came out to $340,000, and $75,000 was spent on monitoring and evaluation. The campaign is set to end on June 19. Details have been provided in response to an Official Information Act request from Newstalk ZB. Energy Minister Simeon Brown recently wrote to the agency with a reminder about the importance of prudent spending. EECA said the spend was planned to be reduced “substantially” in later weeks of the campaign, as it “frontloaded” spending to “achieve rapid reach”. At seven weeks in, based on weekly sampling, EECA said 2.9 million drivers could recall the campaign to date, and 2.6 million had found it relevant. Of this, EECA said 1.3 million people had taken at least one fuel saving action, which it estimates showed an average fuel reduction of more than two million litres a week. “Total estimated savings over 7 weeks is almost 15m litres and $50 million,” the agency said. EECA added further information seeking “remains strong” as its web content on fuel saving tips has had more than 355,000 visits. In an interview with Newstalk ZB, chief executive Dr Marcos Pelenur added the agency would count it as a “strong success”. “I would call that a very good return on investment. It’s also why it’s important to evaluate these types of initiatives, which is what we always do at EECA,” Pelenur said. The agency’s boss said all of the advice put together could drop fuel use by 20% - and save Kiwis money. “At the moment, we know that prices are tough. We want to help New Zealanders save every dollar they can on their fuel,” Pelenur told Newstalk ZB. Minister for Energy Simeon Brown separately wrote to EECA chair Elena Trout on May 13 with a “reminder” about spending on information campaigns. Pelenur was CC’d in the memo. Brown called for all proposed expenditure to be subject to a “rigorous assessment of value for money”. “Every dollar EECA spends is a dollar of taxpayers’ money, and New Zealanders rightly expect it to be used responsibly,” Brown wrote, stating the importance of campaigns being “of an appropriate nature and are delivered efficiently and at minimal cost”. Brown said the country is paying $9 billion a year in interest on Government debt, which tripled in real terms under the previous Government. “At a time when businesses and households are being very careful with their spending, every government department and agency needs to be doing the same,” he said. “I acknowledge the importance of people receiving good advice about how to conserve fuel to lower their bills and expect EECA to deliver this information as cost effectively as possible,” Brown added. “There is always an appropriate balance to be found and I am sure EECA understands that.” Pelenur said the letter was clear around value for money: “We support it, and that is what we’re doing with this [fuel saving tips] campaign”. The Government’s Ministerial Economic Security and Supply Chains Group agreed to EECA running a public information campaign on March 25 - to run for 12 weeks to... Tue, 26 May 2026 17:00:40 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/sport/warriors-v-panthers-luke-metcalf-in-extended-squad-origin-duo-mitch-barnett-kurt-capewell-rested/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/sport/warriors-v-panthers-luke-metcalf-in-extended-squad-origin-duo-mitch-barnett-kurt-capewell-rested/ Warriors halfback Luke Metcalf is in line for his long-awaited return after being named on the extended bench for Sunday’s top-of-the-table clash against the Penrith Panthers in Sydney. Metcalf has not featured since round five and his inclusion in Andrew Webster’s 22-man squad gives the Warriors a potential boost before one of their biggest matches of the season. It would be the 27-year-old’s third appearance of the campaign and his first since confirming he would leave the club at the end of the season to join the St George Illawarra Dragons. Metcalf has been sidelined with a hamstring injury and then wasn’t training as he negotiated his deal with the Dragons. Should he play, Metcalf is expected to come into the side as a late inclusion, with Te Maire Martin named to start at halfback after filling the void left by Tanah Boyd’s season-ending ACL injury. But if Metcalf doesn’t take to the field, he will get on the field for the Warriors’ reserves, having been named at five-eighth alongside Jett Cleary in the halves for their clash on Saturday afternoon. Webster has otherwise opted for continuity, making one injury-enforced change to his starting side. Adam Pompey returns in the centres after Roger Tuivasa-Sheck was ruled out for the remainder of the season with an ACL injury suffered in last week’s win over the Broncos. In a surprise move, Webster has elected to rest State of Origin duo Mitch Barnett and Kurt Capewell before Wednesday night’s series opener, with both expected to play key roles for New South Wales and Queensland, respectively. Marata Niukore replaces concussed Eddie Ieremia-Toeava on the bench. The Panthers have named their New South Wales quartet of Isaah Yeo, Nathan Cleary, Brian To’o and Casey McLean on their extended bench and will leave a decision on their availability until later in the week. The Warriors are chasing their first win over the Panthers since Magic Round in 2024. Penrith have won 10 of their last 11 against the Warriors. After the clash with the Panthers, the Warriors have their second bye of the season. Meanwhile, Rocco Berry has been cleared from the injury list for the first time this season, although the news isn’t so good for Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, who is still sidelined with a neck injury and no clear timeline on his return. Morgan Gannon is on personal leave. Warriors: 1. Taine Tuaupiki, 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, 3. Ali Leiataua, 4. Adam Pompey, 5. Alofiana Khan-Pereira, 6. Chanel Harris-Tavita, 7. Te Maire Martin, 8. James Fisher-Harris, 9. Wayde Egan, 10. Jackson Ford, 11. Leka Halasima, 12. Jacob Laban, 13. Erin Clark Interchange: 14. Sam Healey, 15. Tanner Stower-Smith, 16. Demitric Vaimauga, 17. Marata Niukore, 18. Kayliss Fatialofa, 20. Luke Hanson, 21. Makaia Tafua, 22. Luke Metcalf, 23. Jason Salalilo (three to be omitted). Ben Francis is an Auckland-based reporter for the New Zealand Herald who covers breaking sports news. Tue, 26 May 2026 08:27:09 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/crime/judge-warns-defendant-after-outburst-in-wellington-family-violence-trial/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/crime/judge-warns-defendant-after-outburst-in-wellington-family-violence-trial/ Warning: this story contains allegations of family harm that may be upsetting to some readers. A man facing a raft of family harm and violence charges has lashed out at the Crown, describing the prosecutor as a “freak” and “twisted”. At that point, Judge Peter Hobbs intervened, telling the man, whose name is suppressed, that he would not tolerate the man insulting a Crown prosecutor. “I do not like the Crown and what they have done to me,” the man responded. The man is on trial in the Wellington District Court, where he denies 16 charges, including male assaults female, suffocation, assault with a weapon, ill-treatment of an animal, supplying a Class C controlled drug to a young person, and common assault. Because he is self-represented and giving evidence in his own defence, the judge read out the allegations to him. As he did so, the man dismissed each allegation, describing them with a range of terms, including “lies”, “bulls***”, “utter crap” and “completely incorrect”. During his testimony, the man frequently went off on tangents that, at times, were difficult to follow. As a result, he received several warnings from the judge to only give evidence that was relevant to the current charges. ‘A whipped-up woman who wants me in her life’ The charges relate to a woman, whose name is also suppressed, whom he met on Tinder. He later moved in with her and her teenage son. It is during this time that the Crown says the relationship soured, with the mother and son describing how the man was allegedly violent and controlling towards them. The teenager told the court he was repeatedly hit in the face, had spray cans hurled at him and was whacked in the head with a back scratcher so hard that he cried. It is also alleged the man beat the family dog with an electrical cord and dangled it by its legs. Earlier in the trial, the woman described the man as violent and controlling and said the situation resembled a “house of horrors”. But in his evidence, the man alleged she was the controlling one. He told the court that when he moved in, “the house was rat-infested, the dog s*** everywhere” and it was filled with teenagers who “would urinate on the leather couches because they were so high”. In her evidence, the woman said the relationship was initially romantic but began to strain after about eight months, when they were living together. After his arrest, the woman told police, “I want my life back, and I don’t want to see him anymore. I want him to move on like he promised.” Today, the man told the court it was that unwillingness to commit to a romantic relationship that led to these charges, showing the jury a message the woman had texted him. “I want my happy life where I can have someone in my life who loves me as a significant other, you don’t want me, so why should I stay?” the woman’s message said. “This is all about a whipped-up woman who wants me in her life, basically providing everything she wants for free out of me,” he told the jury. “It’s not going to happen. She’s already got everything, so there‘s nothing more to take." It’s a theme he repeated, telling the jury, “she just wants a man, and she wants a partner”. But the man reiterated that he wasn’t interested, “I’m just a man with a broken neck and fighting the system, that’s it.” ‘I’ve been harassed by the Crown and the police’ In his opening address to the jury, the man said he was abused in state care, including being locked in cells from the age of 7. “I’ve been harassed by the police and the Crown. “This woman done this to me, said I suffocated her. That’s a lie, that’s a 100% lie. She had left prior to the incident, left and abandoned her child. She had rehearsed this stuff with the police,” he told the jury. As a result of these charges, he told the jury, he’d spent two years in custody and lost his freedom. ‘How about I punch you in the f***** face?’ During cross-examination by prosecutor Wilber Tupua, the man denied that he was angry while he lived at t... Tue, 26 May 2026 08:23:06 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/auckland/st-cuthbert-s-college-former-staffer-investigated-over-alleged-inappropriate-conduct/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/auckland/st-cuthbert-s-college-former-staffer-investigated-over-alleged-inappropriate-conduct/ A former staff member at one of the most expensive and prestigious schools in the country is under investigation over allegations of inappropriate conduct. Teachers at Auckland’s St Cuthbert’s College were informed this afternoon, with parents and the wider school community told shortly afterwards. Principal Charlotte Avery was in a meeting when approached by the Herald around 2.30pm. St Cuthbert’s College Board chairperson Leigh Melville said in a statement the person was a former junior member of its boarding staff. “The investigation is focused on allegations of inappropriate conduct, including concerns about conversations and interactions with students that may have crossed the boundaries expected between students and staff,” she said. “The safety and well-being of all our students is paramount, and we are treating this matter very seriously.” Melville said as soon as the college became aware of concerns, “immediate action” was taken and the staff member no longer worked for St Cuthbert’s. “Additional pastoral support is being provided to students and the boarding team while this process is underway. “As this matter involves students and an active investigation, it would be inappropriate to comment further. The privacy and well-being of students remains the college’s priority.” Police told the Herald this afternoon they were “not immediately aware” of any charges related to St Cuthbert’s College or its staff. The Ministry of Education wasn’t aware of anything inappropriate when contacted by the Herald this afternoon. St Cuthbert’s College is an elite private girls’ day and boarding school based in Epsom, Auckland. It was established in 1915 and consistently ranks among the top schools in New Zealand for academic results. Families pay $31,544 annually for senior students to attend the school, and an extra $21,608 for boarders. A compulsory blazer at St Cuthberts College costs $350. This isn’t the first time the elite school has been in the news. In 2024 a former teacher at St Cuthbert’s was cleared of wrongdoing after being accused of asking a teenage girl for a kiss and about her previous sexual experience. However, the Teachers Disciplinary Tribunal was at “pains to point out” it did not find the former St Cuthbert’s College student’s account unbelievable. “This process is limited to whether we find the charge proven or not based on all of the evidence, which we do not,” it said in its decision. St Cuthbert's College principal Charlotte Avery began working at the school in 2024 after moving to New Zealand from England. St Cuthbert’s principal, Charlotte Avery, responded by sending alumnae a statement praising the former student for her courage in coming forward, saying it was important such allegations are properly investigated. That same year, a father unsuccessfully attempted to block his daughter from attending the private girls’ school, a move her mother said would have been spurning a “golden ticket” with smaller class sizes, better facilities and outstanding academic results. A Family Court judge ruled that the girl should attend St Cuthbert’s College despite her father’s objections that it was “elitist” and mainly attended by children from privileged backgrounds. He instead wanted her to attend a state school. In 2020 then Race Relations Commissioner Meng Foon spoke out after a teacher at St Cuthbert’s used the N-word during a lesson about white supremacy, prompting protests from some students and their families. The teacher had quoted from African-American activist Malcolm X during the discussion and used the word in full. The principal at the time then instructed staff “that the word is not to be spoken out loud again”. Tue, 26 May 2026 08:16:23 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/auckland/mass-motorcycle-convoy-to-occupy-auckland-harbour-bridge-in-protest-of-unfair-acc-levies/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/auckland/mass-motorcycle-convoy-to-occupy-auckland-harbour-bridge-in-protest-of-unfair-acc-levies/ Police and transport officials say they will be monitoring a planned go-slow motorcycle protest riding a loop over Auckland’s Harbour Bridge this weekend. Motorcycle Advocacy Group New Zealand (MAGNZ) has organised the on-road demonstration in protest of ACC levies. The group is unhappy big-bike registration costs are increasing to about $816 in July – up from $540 in 2025 – with another hike next year to $960. The convoy will kick off on the northern side of the bridge at 12.30pm this Saturday. The mass ride-along will begin at Onepoto Domain on Auckland’s North Shore before heading across the harbour bridge and looping back. The group plans to “occupy” the two left lanes on the motorway with speeds no higher than 40km/h. Traffic normally travels at 80km/h. Police said they are aware of the planned event this Saturday, saying “a group of motorcycle riders plan to convoy over the harbour bridge”. “Police have been engaging with the protest group organisers, who have stated their intention is to ride safely and within the law,” Waitematā district operations manager Inspector Mark Fergus told the Herald. “Police have provided advice to the organisers about options to achieve that aim. Police are working with our roading network partners and will be present on the day. “Our role is to ensure the safety of the riders and commuting public, and to minimise traffic disruption as much as possible while recognising the lawful right to protest.” NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi said it will be working with Auckland Council and police to monitor the impact on the city’s network. MAGNZ spokesman Richard Tohu said the purpose of the protest is to voice disapproval and raise awareness about what he described as “unfair” and “unlawful” increases on ACC levies for large motorcycles. “We have had a few discussions with the police regarding safety because we want this to go off in a safe manner,” Tohu told the Herald. “It’s a lawful protest. We’re not setting out to cause major disruption to traffic, upset the public, that’s not our objective. “We just want to be visible. We need to show the public that there’s an issue that ACC and the Government are ignoring.” More than 170 people have expressed interest in attending the protest in a public Facebook group, while Tohu said “early indications are that it will be well supported”. The protest ride will start at 12.30 on Saturday, May 30. Photo / Motorcycle Advocacy Group New Zealand ACC defends levy rate increases, MAGNZ planning legal actionStewart McRobie, ACC deputy chief executive corporate and finance, said levy rates are considered every three years in consultation with stakeholders, and have been approved by Cabinet. “ACC forecasts the lifetime cost of motorcycle injuries at around $266 million per year in the current levy cycle,” McRobie told the Herald. “Motorcycles make up just 4% of New Zealand’s vehicle fleet, but motorcycle accidents represent 25% of the cost to ACC of all injuries from road crashes. “ACC claims and cost data shows that, while the likelihood of a crash is relatively similar across motorcycle types, the cost and severity of injuries increase significantly with engine size.” ACC said motorcycle accidents represent 25% of the cost to ACC of all injuries from road crashes. Photo / 123rf McRobie said “motorcycles are the only vehicle type that do not cover 100% of their claim costs”. “Previously they were paying 28% of the claim costs and this will increase to 33% from July 1, 2026, and 37% from July 1, 2027. “The remaining 67%-63% is being subsidised by other vehicle owners.” Tohu said he’s not convinced by ACC’s data and MAGNZ has sought legal advice to take the case to court. He said motorcyclists have been divided into arbitrary cc bands, while “power to weight ratio” has been “disregarded”. “They use power to weight ratio when they’re talking about [the learner approved motorcycle scheme] but when they’re talking about ACC levies they disregard that.” A Giveal... Tue, 26 May 2026 04:15:03 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/winston-peters-teases-good-news-regarding-outgoing-moana-pasifika-rugby-team/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/winston-peters-teases-good-news-regarding-outgoing-moana-pasifika-rugby-team/ Government minister and New Zealand First leader Winston Peters is hinting at possible “good news” for the beleaguered Moana Pasifika Super Rugby Pacific franchise, which owes the Crown $2.7 million among its debts. Asked for his views on the impending demise of the Pacific-focused team which is disbanding following an unsuccessful bid to sell the franchise, Peters responded: “Yes, I do, but you have to wait for the good news later on.” Asked if the Government was intervening, Peters said, “No”, but when pressed for clarification of his earlier comment, Peters said: “I haven’t got any answer for you at the present time. “Of course, I’d love to see them carry on, because the reality is they’ve got a great future, but they’ve gone through difficult times. “They just need better, and so does the [New Zealand] rugby union actually, better management.” Asked if he had had conversations with the franchise’s management, Peters made a point of noting he hadn’t had conversations with their management solely. It’s understood there is no imminent announcement coming from the Government, which is set to unveil its annual Budget on Thursday. However, the Foreign Affairs Minister is understood to be in conversations with people connected to the franchise to explore options regarding the franchise’s future. The Herald today reported the franchise had been placed in liquidation, as the team headed to Canberra for their final game on Saturday. New Zealand Rugby would cover the team’s costs related to the upcoming game and pay players in the short term, however both the squad and several dozen support staff, including coaches, were likely to become creditors of the defunct company. The liquidation followed a failed effort to sell the team; Moana Pasifika retained Deloitte in 2025 to run the sale process but no acceptable bid emerged. It appears that parties, including team shareholder the Pasifika Medical Association (PMA), New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and the New Zealand Rugby Players’ Association all had some say in that process. A first liquidator’s report is expected early next week and the team’s debts are likely to heavily outweigh assets. The debts include a Crown loan of $2.7m. Adam Pearse is the Deputy Political Editor and part of the NZ Herald’s Press Gallery team based at Parliament in Wellington. He has worked for NZME since 2018, reporting for the Northern Advocate in Whangārei and the Herald in Auckland. Tue, 26 May 2026 04:11:57 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/sport/nelson-rugby-player-retires-after-serious-injury-that-left-him-stricken-on-field-for-an-hour/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/sport/nelson-rugby-player-retires-after-serious-injury-that-left-him-stricken-on-field-for-an-hour/ A Nelson rugby player has suffered a career-ending injury which left him stricken on the field for an hour. Nelson Rugby Football Club loose forward Kwaid Ahhoi said he’s now “doing a lot better”, but the injury has forced him to hang up his boots. Ahhoi suffered a serious neck injury in the second half of Nelson’s division two clash against Waimea Old Boys at Trafalgar Park on Saturday, causing the game to be abandoned. Players from both teams huddled with arms linked around Ahhoi as he received treatment and waited for an ambulance to arrive for about an hour. Nelson club manager Chris Pugh told the Herald the incident happened about 2pm. Pugh said CT and MRI scans have come back “okay”. “So [it’s] cleared, there’s no major damage at all to his neck.” In a post on Facebook on Sunday, Ahhoi shared a photo of himself in a neck brace and said he’s “doing a lot better than yesterday which is a positive note”. “Unfortunately I will be hanging up the boots (not by choice),” he wrote. “Yesterday was my 65th cap for NRFC and will be the last.” He thanked the club and “everyone who’s checked in on me”. “Been overwhelmed with love and support within the last 24 hours.” In a statement on Facebook, Nelson Rugby Club said “it’s never a nice thing to see a player carried from the field”. “Kwaid and his family would like to let you all know that he is doing well but has an unknown recovery time ahead.” Kwaid Ahhoi suffered a serious neck injury over the weekend, with players from both teams kneeling around him as he waited for an ambulance. Photo / Lisa Trusler / Waimea Old Boys RFC Waimea club manager Shar Lowe told the Herald the club wanted to support Nelson and Kwaid on the day, which led to the decision to abandon the game. Lowe said the club sends “best wishes” to Kwaid on his recovery. Pugh said Ahhoi will be a big loss for the club. “It’s a huge loss because he’s a fantastic club man. But totally understand and have no qualms about it at all. And he’s promised that he’s going to be on the sidelines supporting the boys 100%.” Tue, 26 May 2026 03:54:29 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/sport/crusaders-will-jordan-to-miss-remainder-of-super-rugby-pacific-season-with-calf-injury/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/sport/crusaders-will-jordan-to-miss-remainder-of-super-rugby-pacific-season-with-calf-injury/ The Crusaders have been dealt a severe blow ahead of the Super Rugby Pacific playoffs with star fullback Will Jordan ruled out for the remainder of the campaign with a calf injury. The 28-year-old All Blacks star reaggravated a calf injury in his first game back from a six-week stint on the sidelines during the Crusaders’ dramatic 36-32 win over the Chiefs on Friday. While there was hope it wasn’t serious, the Crusaders say Jordan is expected to miss four to six weeks, which would also put him squarely in doubt for the All Blacks’ opening tests of the Nations Championship in early July. A post to the Crusaders’ social media channels was captioned “2026 has come to an end for Will Jordan”. It is a huge loss for the Crusaders, as they attempt to defend their Super Rugby Pacific title. They currently sit fourth in the standings and must beat the Hurricanes in their final regular-season match and hope the Blues lose to the Chiefs to secure a home finals match in the first round. The Crusaders will name their team to face the Hurricanes at 4pm on Wednesday. While it’s a blow for the Crusaders, it also means Jordan will be in a race against time to feature in Dave Rennie’s first All Blacks squad when they face France in Christchurch on July 4. Along with France, New Zealand also face Italy and Ireland in July. Jordan is currently in a neck-and-neck battle with Beauden Barrett to become the All Blacks’ record tryscorer. Jordan has 45 while Barrett is on 46. Doug Howlett currently holds the record for the most in a black jersey with 49. Rennie will name his first squad for July’s test series in mid-June. Ben Francis is an Auckland-based reporter for the New Zealand Herald who covers breaking sports news. Tue, 26 May 2026 03:44:46 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/labrador-attacked-by-dogs-on-palmerston-north-walking-track/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/labrador-attacked-by-dogs-on-palmerston-north-walking-track/ By Sammy Carter of RNZ Content Warning: This article includes graphic images A woman’s labrador was mauled by three dogs while out with a dog walker in Palmerston North, requiring surgery. Palmerston North City Council is now considering enforcement options. Local Judith Anne Swainson was on her weekly walk through Arapuke Park last Monday with dog Levi, when multiple dogs came around a bend. “I’ve never been in such a horrifying situation,” she said. The dogs were “lashing out” and biting Levi’s neck, legs and ears, she said, while the lab was on his back trying to defend himself. Swainson grabbed a dog by the collar and tried to pull it off Levi, she said. “I just wanted to get Levi away from the dogs, I did not think about anything else.” The person walking the group of dogs attacking Levi came around the corner and ran over to help break up the fight. While the lab recovered quickly after escaping, Swainson noticed his neck bleeding from a large gash. In the stress of it all, both parties took their dogs separate ways and didn’t exchange information. However, after the experience was shared on social media, the dog walker reached out to apologise, Swainson said. Levi has had two surgeries since the attack, mainly to stitch up the neck wound left behind, costing about $2000. The council’s manager of environmental protection services, Caleb Johnson, said three dogs were involved in the fight, and more were present. He said two of the three dogs involved were not registered at the time of the incident. Animal management officers had spoken with the dog walker, who they said fully co-operated with the investigation. The council was considering appropriate enforcement under the Dog Control Act, Johnson said. This could include classifying the dogs as menacing, Johnson said, issuing infringement fines, and pursuing other enforcement options such as prosecution. Johnson said if anyone was confronted by an aggressive dog, they should stop, stand and leave. He said dog attacks in Palmerston North should be reported to the council. - RNZ Tue, 26 May 2026 03:30:53 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/crime/wellington-rape-trial-husband-found-not-guilty-of-raping-wife/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/crime/wellington-rape-trial-husband-found-not-guilty-of-raping-wife/ Warning: This story includes details of alleged sexual offending and may offend some readers. A judge deciding a case of a man accused of raping his wife says the couple’s text messages supported the husband’s proposition that the relationship was a supportive one, albeit one that was unravelling. Judge Noel Sainbury’s comments are contained in his reasons for the verdicts, which were released after a recent judge-alone trial in the Wellington District Court, where the man denied six charges of sexual violation and violent offending against his former wife. During the trial, both gave evidence and conflicting accounts about their marriage of more than 15 years. She described how the relationship had been rocky from the start but had descended into violence, threats to kill and rape. He told the court it was a loving, mutual marriage, where they supported each other’s endeavours until the last few years when her mental health deteriorated. Releasing the reasons for his verdict, Judge Sainsbury said the case turned on his assessment of the credibility and reliability of each. Judge Sainsbury said that while he heard evidence during the trial of the wife’s PTSD, this didn’t make her evidence any less credible. There was no evidence that mental illness caused hallucinations or, in itself, created false memories or delusions, he said. The judge found she was an honest and reliable witness, and her account was plausible. He also found that other witnesses gave evidence that supported the wife’s account, and her diagnosis of PTSD was consistent with her having suffered the type of trauma associated with the allegations. “The possibility that this was an abusive, controlling relationship, in which the defendant offended against the complainant in the manner alleged, is an available conclusion on the evidence. But it is not the only available conclusion.” The judge said the defendant’s evidence was also credible, and he couldn’t discount that it wasn’t true. During the hearing, the defence provided hundreds of messages the pair exchanged on various forums, including Facebook, WhatsApp and email. Judge Sainsbury said while he accepted the Crown’s proposition that the text messages didn’t necessarily reflect the true nature of the relationship, that wasn’t the general tenor of the texts. “While mental illness does not make the complainant’s account less credible, there is weight in the defence position that the complainant viewed the actions of the defendant in a negative light that impacted her ability to be objective and impartial. “That is also illustrated in her understanding and interpretation of the text messages. The complainant’s reading of the text messages did not fit with what they plainly said.” Accordingly, the judge said he couldn’t exclude the reasonable possibility that the husband’s evidence was true, and he found the husband not guilty of all charges. Catherine Hutton is an Open Justice reporter, based in Wellington. She has worked as a journalist at the Waikato Times and RNZ. Most recently she was working as a media adviser at the Ministry of Justice. FAMILY VIOLENCEHow to get help:If you're in danger now:• Phone the police on 111 or ask neighbours or friends to ring for you.• Run outside and head for where there are other people. Scream for help so your neighbours can hear you.• Take the children with you. Don't stop to get anything else.• If you are being abused, remember it's not your fault. Violence is never okay.Where to go for help or more information:• Women's Refuge: Crisis line - 0800 REFUGE or 0800 733 843 (available 24/7)• Shine: Helpline - 0508 744 633 (available 24/7)• It's Not Ok: Family violence information line - 0800 456 450• Shakti: Specialist services for African, Asian and Middle Eastern women and children.• Crisis line - 0800 742 584 (available 24/7)• Ministry of Justice: For information on family violence• Te Kupenga Whakaoti Mahi Patunga: National Network of... Tue, 26 May 2026 03:18:27 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/business/meat-industry-association-appoints-nick-beeby-as-new-chief-executive/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/business/meat-industry-association-appoints-nick-beeby-as-new-chief-executive/ The Meat Industry Association has appointed Nick Beeby as chief executive. Beeby is the chief executive of the New Zealand Meat Board, a role he was appointed to in January 2025. The association’s independent chairman, Nathan Guy, said Beeby brought significant sector expertise and leadership to the role. “His existing chief executive experience in the red meat sector makes this appointment a positive step up,” Guy said. He said Beeby distinguished himself in a high-calibre field of applicants. “Nick stood out for his experience in strategy, market development, quota administration and industry assurance. “He understands the challenges and opportunities facing processors and exporters and will provide clear leadership for the association and its members.” Beeby previously served as general manager, market development at Beef + Lamb New Zealand, and was a past chairman of New Zealand Farm Assurance Incorporated, which oversees the New Zealand Farm Assurance programmes. Guy said the meat industry remained an important contributor to New Zealand’s economy and regional communities. “Nick’s knowledge of the sector will be valuable as MIA continues its work on behalf of members.” Beeby will join the Meat Industry Association on July 1. He replaces Sirma Karapeeva, who resigned from the role in February after six years. Tue, 26 May 2026 02:55:05 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/business/moana-pasifika-in-liquidation-27m-in-public-debt-likely-lost/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/business/moana-pasifika-in-liquidation-27m-in-public-debt-likely-lost/ Super Rugby Pacific franchise Moana Pasifika has been placed in liquidation, as the team heads to Canberra for its final game on Saturday. New Zealand Rugby will cover the team’s costs related to the upcoming game and pay players in the short-term, however both the squad and several dozen support staff, including coaches, are likely to become creditors of the defunct company. The liquidation follows a failed effort to sell the team; Moana Pasifika retained Deloitte in 2025 to run the sale process but no acceptable bid emerged. It appears that parties, including team shareholder Pasifika Medical Association (PMA), New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and the New Zealand Rugby Players’ Association all had some say in that process. A first liquidator’s report is expected early next week and the team’s debts are likely to heavily outweigh assets. The debts include a Crown loan of $2.7 million. Moana Pasifika is in liquidation and the team will play its last Super Rugby game on Saturday. Photo / Brett Phibbs, Photosport Stephen White and John Fisk, both senior managing directors of Teneo Financial Advisory, were appointed liquidators on Monday by a special resolution of Moana Pasifika shareholders. White said he is still working through the company information, but that there don’t appear to be significant assets in the company. He said staff, including players, total between 75 and 80; he confirmed that most players’ contracts run until the end of October 2026, but a handful run until October 2027. New Zealand Rugby spokesman Paul Stevens confirmed that while Moana’s players are privately contracted to Moana Pasifika, NZR will continue to cover the squad’s pay until roughly the end of July, in order for the season to be completed. The unpaid portion of their contracts will likely make them creditors. Despite the liquidation, NZR indicated that it retains some hope that the Moana Pasifika brand and licence can be carried forward. The team’s brand and intellectual property sit within the liquidation process and will be sold if a buyer can be found. The ability to grant a team licence sits with NZR. In a written statement, NZR said: “There continues to be parties interested in the future of Moana Pasifika. To be granted a licence to compete in the competition, those parties are required to present a long-term business plan to NZR. “Interested parties will also have to work with the liquidators to acquire the Moana Pasifika brand and intellectual property.” Ardie Savea of Moana Pasifika with fans in 2025. Photo / Elias Rodriguez, Photosport It’s understood that any new licence holder would need to demonstrate the ability to meet a team’s annual running costs of between $10m and $12m. There are rules against “phoenix companies”, where a successor company is set up after acquiring the assets of a liquidated company. These are broadly limited to preventing the liquidated company’s directors from serving the successor firm. Moana Pasifika never financially stable Moana Pasifika Ltd was established in 2021 and the team played its first Super Rugby Pacific season in 2022. Since inception, it has survived with the help of public money, which included a $3m Sport NZ loan and grants of $1.5m: $1m of which went to Moana Pasifika Ltd, and $500,000 of which went to its original shareholder, Moana Pasifika Charitable Trust. As the Herald has previously reported, taken together, the concessions provided to Moana on its loan have long cast repayment in doubt and raised questions about the financial footing of the team. While the Sport NZ loan bears a notional interest rate of 5%, no interest has ever been paid on it, though $300,000 in principal has been repaid. Tue, 26 May 2026 02:45:10 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/crime/accused-sect-leader-kaixiao-liu-questions-officer-at-auckland-body-in-a-bag-manslaughter-trial/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/crime/accused-sect-leader-kaixiao-liu-questions-officer-at-auckland-body-in-a-bag-manslaughter-trial/ One of the first officers at the scene on the day an unidentified body was found wrapped in plastic recalled today how she held on to the gruesome find for about 30 minutes to prevent it from being swept away by the tide. “I could see a human hand ... and what seemed to be a human body folded in half,” Constable Chelsea Cruickshank told jurors during the second day of the manslaughter and kidnapping trial of accused religious sect leader Kaixiao Liu and his family. Kaixiao Liu, his wife Lanyue Xiao and his parents Xiuyun Li and Jingui Liu have all pleaded not guilty. They’ve opted to represent themselves during the trial, which is scheduled to take up to seven weeks in the High Court at Auckland. The body discovered in the water that morning was eventually identified as 70-year-old Chinese citizen Shulai Wang, who prosecutors said flew to New Zealand to receive religious instruction from Kaixiao Liu while living at his Ōrewa home with five other women who had immigrated from China for similar purposes. The sect was called “The Ark” and Wang had somehow found herself targeted after joining, prosecutors said during their opening address yesterday. The alleged punishments included locking her in a tent at the property, physical discipline, withholding food and being called “evil” by Kaixiao Liu. Prosecutors have said detectives connected Wang to the group via two 10kg SunRice bags that were filled with paving stones and recovered with her body. The serial numbers on the bags were traced to an Albany Pak’nSave, where it is alleged Kaixiao Liu purchased the rice weeks before the body was found. Alleged sect leader Kaixiao Liu (from left), his wife Lanyue Xiao, his father Jingui Liu and mother Xiuyun Li are all on trial in the High Court at Auckland accused of participating in the homicide of 70-year-old Shulai Wang. Photos / Jason Dorday In court today, Cruickshank explained how she had been directed to the scene after a fisherman called 111. He had torn a roughly 15cm hole in the bag to see what was inside but abandoned the effort after noticing Wang’s hand. “He pointed down to the rocks to us, where he had caught the bag with the human hand,” she testified. “The black rubbish bag was half in the water and half caught on the rocks.” Wanting to disturb the scene as little as possible, the officer waited 30 minutes for a boat unit to arrive with a stretcher to lift the discovery from the water. “It looked as if the body was folded into the foetal position,” she said, adding that the body seemed to be bound in black tape and covered in plastic rubbish bags. “It was tightly secured around the body, almost like it was vacuum-sealed.” The body of Shulai Wang, 70, was found in Auckland's Gulf Harbour wrapped in plastic. Photo / New Zealand Police Because he is representing himself, Kaixiao Liu was able to cross-examine the officer himself after prosecutors Emma Kerr and Henry Steele finished with their questions. “Were you scared when you saw that scene?” the defendant asked. The officer said she wasn’t. Although she’d never encountered a body in a bag before, she’d seen plenty of deceased bodies, she explained to him. “Why did not other male colleagues do this for you?” the defendant followed up. Kaixio Liu (left) and wife Lanyue Xiao appear in the North Shore District Court on July 1, 2024. They are now on trial for manslaughter alongside Liu's parents. Photo / Dean Purcell “Because I just did it. I didn’t mind,” the officer said. The defendant asked about the positioning of the body, which jurors were handed photos of. “It looks like they tried very hard to hide it, the way it was wrapped up in duct tape and folded in half,” the officer said. Jurors also heard from North Shore resident Gareth Bennett, who had been walking his dog in the area at around 8pm the previous evening when he saw something floating in the water. It was black plastic and appeared to be partially submerged, with a corner about the size of two rugby balls... Tue, 26 May 2026 02:41:40 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/one-person-dead-after-serious-crash-in-wainuiomata-lower-hutt/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/one-person-dead-after-serious-crash-in-wainuiomata-lower-hutt/ A person has died following a crash in Wainuiomata this afternoon. Police were notified at 12.15pm a car had crashed into a fence on Wellington Rd in the Lower Hutt suburb, and the driver was in a critical condition. The person received immediate medical assistance but died at the scene. The Serious Crash Unit is in attendance and Wellington Rd is closed between Dublin St and Kent St. Tue, 26 May 2026 02:34:29 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/planet-fun-toy-recall-asbestos-found-in-toys-sold-at-farmers-the-warehouse-toyworld-paper-plus/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/planet-fun-toy-recall-asbestos-found-in-toys-sold-at-farmers-the-warehouse-toyworld-paper-plus/ An urgent recall has been issued for several children’s toys after asbestos was discovered. Planet Fun is recalling multiple products sold across major New Zealand retailers after independent laboratory testing detected naturally occurring chrysotile and tremolite asbestos. The asbestos was found in some samples of Funkee Animals and Secret Menu Stretchee Foodz. “The asbestos has only been detected in the interior of the product, and exposure would only occur if the product is torn,” Product Safety New Zealand said. What products are impacted? The affected products are: Funkee Monkee Mega PDQ (Barcode: 622222419295), Funkee Animalz Puppies Mega PDQ (Barcode: 622222422288), Funkee Animalz Axolotl Mega PDQ (Barcode: 622222174590), Funkee Pig Jumbo (Barcode: 622222170899), Funkee Monkee Jumbo (Barcode: 622222168452), Secret Menu Stretchee Foodz Asst PDQ (Barcode: 622222168155). The toys were sold at The Warehouse and Farmers from January 2025 to April this year, and Toyworld and Paper Plus from February 2025 to April this year. What should you do? Planet Fun said people who own these toys should stop using them immediately. People are also advised to double bag the product in ziplock bags and keep it out of reach of children before they dispose of it appropriately. “Return it to the store you purchased it from for a refund. This may require proof of purchase,” Planet Fun said. Planet Fun said people should not dispose of the product in the general waste. The latest Health New Zealand advice said exposure to asbestos does not cause any immediate health problems, but health conditions linked to asbestos can develop over a long period – typically 15 to 40 years. The risk of developing asbestos-related health conditions, such as some types of cancer and lung disease, is linked to the nature and quantity of asbestos and the length of time a person was exposed to it. “There is no safe level, and therefore we try to avoid all exposure,” Health New Zealand said. A recall has been issued for several children’s toys. Photo / Product Safety New Zealand A recall has been issued for several children’s toys. Photo / Product Safety New Zealand A recall has been issued for several children’s toys. Photo / Product Safety New Zealand A recall has been issued for several children’s toys. Photo / Product Safety New Zealand A recall has been issued for several children’s toys. Photo / Product Safety New Zealand Tue, 26 May 2026 02:31:01 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/sport/former-all-blacks-assistant-scott-hansen-to-lead-crusaders-next-season/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/sport/former-all-blacks-assistant-scott-hansen-to-lead-crusaders-next-season/ A changing of the guard is coming to the Crusaders with former All Blacks assistant coach Scott Hansen set to grasp the reins next year.  The Herald understands Hansen – a matter of months after his exit from the All Blacks coaching team – has been appointed to lead the Crusaders from next season as head coach Rob Penney prepares to conclude his three-year tenure.  After a horror first season at the helm, where the Crusaders won four of 14 games, Penney retained his post to guide the red and blacks to their 15th Super Rugby championship last year.  Penney signed a one-year extension following that success.  However, after leading the Crusaders to another imminent playoff push following this weekend’s final regular season match against the Hurricanes in Christchurch, the experienced mentor will step aside to pass the baton.  The Crusaders are understood to have approached the highly regarded Andrew Goodman about the prospect of returning home from Ireland, where he holds responsibility for the national side’s backs and attack, but he is content with his role working under Andy Farrell.  Goodman also joined Farrell’s British & Irish Lions coaching staff in their successful Australian tour last year.  That left a head-to-head battle to succeed Penney and assume charge of the Crusaders between fellow former All Blacks assistants Hansen and Brad Mooar.  Scott Hansen at All Blacks training ahead of last year's test against Wales. Photo / Photosport  Hansen and Mooar are indoctrinated in the Crusaders systems and both had their time with the All Blacks cut short.  Mooar was let go midway through Ian Foster’s reign, with the influential Joe Schmidt helicoptered in as his replacement.  Hansen exited the All Blacks earlier this year after Scott Robertson’s ousting, with Dave Rennie preferring Scotsman Mike Blair as his national attack coach.  Mooar returned to the Crusaders as Penney’s assistant coach last season. He is believed to be well liked among the Crusaders camp and has previous head coaching experience with Southland and Welsh club Scarlets.  In 2022, at the start of Foster’s All Blacks tenure, New Zealand Rugby stumped up a hefty compensation fee to prise Mooar from his Scarlets contract.  Former All Blacks attacking coach Brad Mooar (left) and head coach Ian Foster. Photo / Photosport  Other than stepping in for Tony Brown at the now defunct Sunwolves in 2019, Hansen has largely worked as an assistant coach.  He did, however, play an integral role in shaping the All Blacks in 2024 and 2025 as Robertson’s right-hand man.  Hansen worked alongside Robertson for three years (2020-2022) at the Crusaders, too, before his promotion to the All Blacks.  Two months after his exit from the All Blacks coaching team was confirmed, Hansen hasn’t had to wait long to land another high profile position within New Zealand rugby.  While Hansen’s appointment as Crusaders head coach from next season is yet to be officially announced, he is thought to have been internally rubber-stamped more than a week ago.  It is unclear at this stage whether Mooar, who will be disappointed to be overlooked for the top job, will stay on as assistant coach at the Crusaders next year.  Liam Napier is a Senior Sports Journalist and Rugby Correspondent for the New Zealand Herald. He is a co-host of the Rugby Direct podcast.  Tue, 26 May 2026 01:36:36 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/feilding-diesel-trailer-theft-police-hunt-three-after-trailer-recovered/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/feilding-diesel-trailer-theft-police-hunt-three-after-trailer-recovered/ Three people are wanted by police for allegedly stealing a diesel trailer in Feilding overnight. Police were called just after midnight after the trio was disturbed at an industrial site in Kimbolton Rd. Manawatū area prevention manager Inspector Phil Ward said the offenders left towing the diesel trailer with a utility vehicle, which was also allegedly stolen. “Officers subsequently located the stolen utility vehicle in McCorkindale St,” Ward said. “And this morning, officers have located the stolen trailer alongside Kiwitea Stream, upstream from the location where it was stolen from. “Work is currently underway to recover it and return it to its rightful owner.” Ward said while officers were responding to this incident, another vehicle was seen being driven in a suspicious manner. “The driver was signalled to stop but failed to do so. “He was briefly pursued and road spikes were deployed, bringing the vehicle to a stop.” Ward said the driver was taken into custody after running off. A 20-year-old man has been charged with failing to stop for police and other driving-related offences, and is scheduled to appear in Palmerston North District Court today. If you can help find the alleged diesel trailer thieves, please contact police via 105 and quote file number 260511/9593. Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111. Tue, 26 May 2026 01:29:19 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/the-average-kiwisaver-balance-for-your-age/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/the-average-kiwisaver-balance-for-your-age/ By Susan Edmunds of RNZ KiwiSaver balances have lifted but many people on low incomes will need NZ Super to fill the gaps, and help them get by in retirement, the Retirement Commission says. It has released new data showing the average balance across age brackets and genders. Average balances range from $3512 for those under 17 to $194,276 for those aged 86-plus, although the latter is skewed by a smaller number of investors in that age bracket. The average balance across all members is now $41,286, up 11.3% from 2024. Men’s average is $47,452 and women’s $38,212. Average balances increase with age, and men have higher averages at every level except among the oldest KiwiSaver members. While a third of KiwiSaver members have less than $10,000 in their accounts, the number with larger balances is growing. There are almost 450,000 members with more than $80,000, about 15% of all members. Overall, 70% of members are contributing to KiwiSaver, and about 90% of those who are employed and earning more than $50,000 a year. Michelle Reyers, policy lead at Te Ara Ahunga Ora, the Retirement Commission, said the data showed the scheme was delivering strong results for many people, but also showed where more support was needed. “People on lower incomes, those working part-time or those moving in and out of paid work are much less likely to contribute and their KiwiSaver balances at age 65 reflect those reduced contributions.” She said that would be the case with any scheme linked to workplaces and incomes. “We’re generally going to see those inequities being reflected in retirement savings, which speaks a lot to the importance of NZ Super within our retirement income system, because that doesn’t penalise people for lower incomes or time out of paid work ... it draws attention to the retirement income system as a whole rather than just KiwiSaver.” She said the scheme had another 20 years to run before it reached full maturity, and the trend in balances was going in the right direction. “We’ve seen a doubling in the percentage of people who now have balances over $80,000. We’ve seen the number of balances under $10,000 shrinking. “Those are positive signs of a scheme that is maturing as we head for the 20th year of it next year.” Reyers said, with the planned increase in default contribution rates to 4%, it put people on a path to having adequate retirement income. “When we keep in account that NZ Super is part of that retirement income picture, as well, we’re on the right track and these are positive signs, that we’re seeing in the data.” She said the gender gap in balances highlighted workplace inequities. “Women are actually slightly more likely to contribute to KiwiSaver. “In other work that we’ve done, they contribute the same percentage of their salary into KiwiSaver as well … they’re doing everything right, but the gender pay gap, time out of paid work, all of those things are reflected in these gender retirement savings gaps.” Reyers said the commission would like to see work put into how the system could help lessen the impact of contribution interruptions, such as during paid parental leave. “If you are on paid parental leave and you continue your contributions, the Government steps into the shoes of the employer and will contribute. But if you don’t contribute anything, then nothing goes in at all. We would prefer that everyone who’s on paid parental leave gets those KiwiSaver contributions.” She said the Government incentives in the scheme could also better target low-income earners. “That’s where a difference can be made. Those are people who are less likely to contribute and whose eventual retirement balance really depends much more on the Government contribution than for a higher income earner.” The data showed a 24% average gap between men and women across all ages, and a 36% gap among those aged 56 to 65. About 206,000 people in KiwiSaver are aged over 65 and seemed to be using KiwiSaver as an investment vehicle... Tue, 26 May 2026 01:25:33 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/mukzameel-ali-jailed-for-six-years-for-killing-infant-son-mustafa-in-te-kuiti/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/mukzameel-ali-jailed-for-six-years-for-killing-infant-son-mustafa-in-te-kuiti/ The young mother of a baby violently killed at the hands of his father says she remains consumed by “overwhelming grief”. Tauvalea Law told Justice Layne Harvey in the High Court at Hamilton today that the immense toll from Mustafa Ali’s death would remain with her forever. Her words came as her former partner, Mukzameel Ali, was jailed for six years for the death of their 10-month-old son. Mustafa died on June 8, 2024, after Ali inflicted a blow to his son’s abdomen at their Te Kūiti home. It was so severe that it lacerated his liver and the wall of his large bowel in two locations. “The loss of my son is something I will carry for the rest of my life,” Law said, fighting back tears, as she was supported in the High Court at Hamilton by her mother. “Emotionally, this has left me with overwhelming grief and deep sadness ... and struggle with the reality that my child is no longer here.” Ali was someone, at the time, she trusted to leave her son with, and the pain of her loss was at times unbearable. She had since chosen to forgive Ali, but only “because my faith teaches me to do so and God calls me to forgive”. Law, a Christian, urged the judge to hand down a sentence that not only reflected the seriousness of what happened but also acted as a deterrent to others. Ali, who remained emotionless throughout the 90-minute hearing, was set to defend the charges, but on the eve of his trial in February this year, pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of manslaughter, along with two charges relating to assaults on his partner between February 2023 and June 2024. ‘Terminate the baby’ Ali didn’t want a child. After learning of his new partner’s pregnancy in January 2023, he “immediately expressed concern” and encouraged her to terminate it. However, she wanted the baby, and, initially, misled Ali, believing that she had miscarried. Ali became aware that she was still pregnant some months later, after finding a photo of her pregnancy scan, which she had hidden from him. The pair argued, and Ali slapped her about the face “repeatedly” before pushing her down on the bed, placing his hands on her upper chest and around her neck. He then jumped on top of her with his knees on her abdomen. She didn’t require hospitalisation, and her unborn baby was not harmed. The couple married in mid-July 2023, after meeting in September 2022, shortly before their son’s birth. Their relationship remained “volatile” and, on several occasions, Ali pushed or punched her. ‘Stressed and angry’ On June 8, 2024, Law woke to their son crying at 6am. She settled him in bed between her and Ali and went back to sleep. She got up at 8am, leaving the child sleeping with Ali at 10.50am. She asked Ali to give their son a bath and feed him before family celebrations later that afternoon. Mustafa had been unwell during the days prior, with a high temperature. Mukzameel Ali, 24, in the dock of the High Court at Hamilton this morning. Photo / Belinda Feek Some time after his partner left, Ali fed Mustafa a bottle and some Weet-Bix. The baby vomited and was unsettled. Ali tried to feed him again later in the morning, unsuccessfully. Frustrated, Ali attempted to force-feed Mustafa his bottle, causing prominent bruises to his chin. Unable to feed or settle him, Ali became “stressed and angry”. It was during this time that Ali caused the fatal injury through a violent blow to his abdomen. At 2.16pm, his partner returned and was met at the front door of the house by Ali holding Mustafa in his arms. The toddler was “floppy and cold to the touch”. His partner grabbed the baby and ran outside for help before the couple drove directly to Te Kūiti Hospital. Mustafa was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. He died as a result of a crushing injury to his abdomen, lacerating his liver and the wall of his large bowel in two locations. There was also bruising to his diaphragm, small bowel mesentery, and the back of his abdominal wall. The injury to Mustafa’s liver was so severe tha... Tue, 26 May 2026 01:21:04 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/election-2026-labour-criticises-govt-crime-policies-as-bumper-stickers-but-won-t-commit-to-repealing-them/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/election-2026-labour-criticises-govt-crime-policies-as-bumper-stickers-but-won-t-commit-to-repealing-them/ Labour’s new justice spokeswoman, Camilla Belich, is criticising the coalition Government’s “bumper stickers” crime policies and for prioritising “soundbites” over substance but has stopped short of committing to repeal two of the laws her party finds most problematic. Belich said the party still needed to “have further discussions” about its justice policies and she would not commit to scrapping the coalition’s Three Strikes legislation or recently introduced move-on orders that allowed police to require people, including rough sleepers, to leave an area. Labour has long opposed the Three Strikes legislation that forced judges to give the maximum sentence to criminals who had committed three serious sex, violence or drug offences over their lifetime. Labour repealed the law in 2022 after it was introduced by the prior National-led Government. Labour and its leader Chris Hipkins have faced criticism for its lack of policies ahead of the election and while Belich was unable to even commit to repealing Three Strikes, she provided a hint. “Our policy hasn’t been announced yet; I would be very surprised if that was a law that we continued to support.” Labour leader Chris Hipkins at a previous stand up in Auckland. Photo / Anna Heath Hipkins’ argument for his party’s few policies was that he was waiting to see the Government’s books, with the release of this week’s Budget, before making further announcements. In an interview with Law News, Belich said the coalition Government was releasing crime policies that “are kind of bumper stickers or look like they’re tough on crime but don’t go towards solving the issue”. “We’re not interested in laws that are just put in place in order to get votes and sound tough on crime,” she said. “Our approach is making sure that if we do make changes, they are actually changes that are going to solve an established problem, that make sense and don’t just seem like good soundbites.” Belich said tikanga (Māori customs) should also be incorporated into common law. Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith said in September last year this risked making New Zealand’s justice system “bespoke” and the coalition would be “absolutely prepared” to legislate over the top of these judgments if it needed to in order to provide more clarity. Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith (from left) with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Police Minister Mark Mitchell. Photo / Jason Dorday Speaking to media on Tuesday, Goldsmith said no decision had been made. In response to Belich’s criticism of the coalition’s crime policies, Goldsmith said Belich appeared to be focused on the needs of the “worst repeat and violent offenders” in her opposition to Three Strikes, “which is bizarre to me”. “Finally, we have some indication of their approach to justice,” he said. “And it seems to be that they are focused on the needs of the worst repeat and violent offenders by repealing Three Strikes which is bizarre to me. I think we should be focused on the needs of the victims.” In a high-profile sentencing under the Three Strikes law in 2018, 45-year-old Daniel Clinton Fitzgerald faced seven years in prison without parole after being convicted of trying to kiss a woman on Wellington’s Cuba St without permission. The Supreme Court overturned his sentence and he was later awarded hundreds of thousands of dollars in compensation when the High Court gave him a much shorter sentence. Julia Gabel is a Wellington-based political reporter. She joined the Herald in 2020 and has most recently focused on data journalism. Tue, 26 May 2026 01:13:30 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/world/us-forces-strike-iranian-missile-sites-and-mine-laying-vessels-in-self-defence/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/world/us-forces-strike-iranian-missile-sites-and-mine-laying-vessels-in-self-defence/ (function(n){function c(t,i){n[e](h,function(n){var r,u;if(n&&(r=n[n.message?"message":"data"]+"",r&&r.substr&&r.substr(0,3)==="nc:")&&(u=r.split(":"),u[1]===i))switch(u[2]){case"h":t.style.height=u[3]+"px";return;case"scrolltotop":t.scrollIntoView();return}},!1)}for(var t,u,f,i,s,e=n.addEventListener?"addEventListener":"attachEvent",h=e==="attachEvent"?"onmessage":"message",o=n.document.querySelectorAll(".live-center-embed"),r=0;r',c(t.firstChild,i)))})(window); Tue, 26 May 2026 00:48:50 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/teenage-boy-charged-after-nationwide-online-bomb-threat-investigation/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/teenage-boy-charged-after-nationwide-online-bomb-threat-investigation/ Police have arrested a teenager in Invercargill as part of an investigation into bomb threats sent to educational and public sites across New Zealand.  Public and educational facilities around Auckland, including Unitec and the Auckland Art Gallery, were recently evacuated after a wave of threatening emails.  Acting on information gathered by Auckland-based detectives, Southland police searched an Invercargill residential address yesterday afternoon.  Southland area commander Mike Bowman said a teenage boy was taken into custody without incident.  He was charged with two counts of threatening to kill/do grievous bodily harm and will appear in the Invercargill Youth Court today.  Bowman said further charges may be considered.  Bowman said he wanted to reassure the community that no items of concern or explosive materials were found.  “Initial indications suggest the young person had no capability to follow through on the threats.  “Regardless, threats of this nature are taken extremely seriously, and yesterday’s swift action by police reflects this,” Bowman said.  An alert sent to University of Auckland students.  Spate of recent threats  Police said Operation Irena was an ongoing investigation into recent email threats made to institutions – initially in Auckland and then to organisations across the country.  Yesterday, University of Auckland business school students were evacuated due to a “suspicious object”.  An alert sent to students across the campus asked people to evacuate the building, and to avoid the area, after a suspicious package was found on level one.  On Friday, Unitec students and staff were issued a warning over an “urgent incident”.  A Unitec spokesperson said a bomb threat was received relating to the Mt Albert campus.  Auckland Art Gallery was evacuated on Thursday morning after receiving a threatening email, which gallery director Dr Zara Stanhope later described to the Herald as a “hoax threat”.  Earlier last week, two other educational facilities in the city received bomb threats.  Staff and students at Kiwi College in Albany self-evacuated after an employee received an email with a bomb threat last Tuesday morning, with police attending and clearing the address.  That email said explosives were planted inside the building, and threatened “you are all going to be blown into bloody chunks”.  Finance manager Jay Cheng told the Herald the threat claimed the Kiwi College facility was “rigged with 22 pounds of C4 explosives”.  The University of Auckland also had a bomb scare in one of its buildings on Wednesday, Stuff reported. Police carried out a thorough sweep of the building and carpark before deciding the threat was not credible.  Mon, 25 May 2026 23:22:18 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/mt-wellington-police-incident-armed-police-guard-home-after-person-suffers-serious-injury/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/mt-wellington-police-incident-armed-police-guard-home-after-person-suffers-serious-injury/ Armed police are guarding an Auckland property after a person was seriously injured in an incident this morning. Delays were earlier expected at Auckland’s Mt Wellington Highway as police responded, with officers carrying weapons now stationed at the top of the driveway of a house where a person was harmed. A police spokesperson said the incident, on Mt Wellington Highway between Te Horeta Rd and Rowlands Ave, was reported to emergency services just after 6.30am. Traffic would be disrupted while emergency services work on a person who has been seriously injured, the spokesperson said. “At this stage the road remains open, however, motorists are advised to take alternative routes or expect delays.” A witness said sirens could be heard, and a police helicopter was flying in the area. Armed police outside a Mt Wellington Highway property where a person suffered a serious injury.  A specialist in white protective gear could be seen walking around the outside of a property at the centre of the investigation. Armed police guard a property on Mt Wellington Highway after an incident where a person was seriously injured.  Hato Hone St John said one person was transferred to hospital in a serious condition. One rapid response unit, an ambulance and two road managers were sent to the scene. Mon, 25 May 2026 20:52:44 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/sport/white-ferns-crumble-to-lose-twenty20-series-decider-against-england/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/sport/white-ferns-crumble-to-lose-twenty20-series-decider-against-england/ The White Ferns have been bowled out for just 80 before England cruised to a seven wicket victory in the Twenty20 series decider in Hove. New Zealand lost five wickets for four runs which derailed their innings - going from 29-1 to 33-6. Among those to fall were veterans Amelia Kerr and Sophie Devine who went in the same Dani Gibson over. Gibson finished with 3-14 and fellow spinner Charlie Dean took 3-13. Some late boundaries from Jess Kerr helped get the White Ferns to 80 with Izzy Gaze (17) and Maddy Green (14) the only other players to reach double figures. In the chase, Nansi Patel got the early wicket of England opener Alice Capsey but the home side were never in trouble as they reached the target in the 14th over. England have now won the last seven bilateral T20I series against the White Ferns. “Losing wickets early, and losing wickets in [a] clump - you want to set the tone and get off to a good start but we haven’t been able to,” White Ferns captain Amelia Kerr said. “We bat deep but we haven’t given ourselves a chance.” The two sides will meet again in pool play at next month’s Twenty20 World Cup in England. The White Ferns open their Twenty20 World Cup defence in Southampton against the West Indies on June 13. They also have Ireland, Scotland and Sri Lanka in their group. New Zealand will play warm-up gamers against Bangladesh and South Africa in the lead-up to the tournament. Mon, 25 May 2026 19:29:24 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/auckland/auckland-bus-attack-video-sparks-call-for-stronger-passenger-safety/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/auckland/auckland-bus-attack-video-sparks-call-for-stronger-passenger-safety/ An Auckland councillor has condemned a “vicious” bus attack by a group of youths, calling for stronger safety measures and swifter intervention from authorities.  On Friday, a video appearing to show a woman being assaulted on a bus began circulating on social media.  The young men are seen surrounding and threatening the woman, who asks them: “Why did it take three of you to hit one guy?”  Moments later, the footage becomes chaotic as one of the youths, dressed in a white singlet and dark trousers appears to strike the woman multiple times while another passenger yells “Get off”.  Councillor Josephine Bartley told the Herald she has contacted Auckland Transport (AT) chief executive Stacey Van Der Putten for more details, questioning whether the bus driver had reported the incident.  She said there needs to be quicker action between bus drivers, bus companies and police, and would like to know whether there was live CCTV on the route involved.  “This is not a youth problem, this is violent behaviour,” she said. “Those boys need to be dealt with.  “The only way to deal with this is police – that’s not just kid’s playing up.”  An AT spokesperson told the Herald it has CCTV footage of the incident, and the driver “followed protocols by radioing for police assistance and pulling over safely to allow passengers to exit”.  “We are following up with tagged passengers to check on their wellbeing,” they said.  Police said they were aware of the video and were looking into what further inquiries could be made.  The footage quickly spread online, fuelling anger that appears to have spilled into a retaliatory confrontation at Glen Innes Train Station on Sunday afternoon.  A new video appears to show one of the teens allegedly involved in the bus incident being forced to strip off his pants and do push-ups by a group on their way to the Tour De Hoods event.  The person who filmed the confrontation told the Herald he wanted to teach the teen a lesson.  “We got off the train and noticed him and just hit him up about it,” he said.  “We just thought making him do stuff that would humiliate him was better than hitting him.”  He said he regretted reports another group later allegedly assaulted the teen and stole his shoes.  After allowing the teen to put his pants back on, several riders could be heard telling him to “make the right choices, my bro”.  Tour De Hoods organiser and youth advocate Kimami Ngaluafe said the confrontation could have been handled in “a better manner”, but believed the youths involved were reacting out of anger and disappointment over the alleged assault of an elderly woman.  “The boys reacted out of emotion and I could definitely hear their pain,” he said. “They feel like, if that was their grandma, how would they feel?”  Ngaluafe said he could not condone the violence but he believed a tough-love approach could help the teen reflect on his actions.  “I feel for him. He’s young, he’s navigating life,” he said.  “It’s harsh, but I feel like it’s going to do him some good. I hope it changes the way he treats people and the elderly.  Ngaluafe acknowledged the teen being humiliated online would likely affect his mental health, but said he hoped he would use the experience to learn about respect.  The AT spokesperson told the Herald safety ambassadors supported by transport officers have been deployed to the affected routes and will remain over the next few weeks to reassure passengers.  Anyone with information is urged to contact police via 105 and quote file number 260523/2382.  Mon, 25 May 2026 19:09:28 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/children-of-prisoners-calls-for-court-navigator-to-stop-invisible-sentence/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/children-of-prisoners-calls-for-court-navigator-to-stop-invisible-sentence/ Concerns up to 25,000 children with a parent in jail are falling through the cracks of the justice system.Pillars, an organisation supporting children of prisoners said children with a parent behind bars, serve an invisible sentence. Corrina Thompson leads programme development, research and youth advocacy at the organisation. “These children have committed no crime, yet they are far too often forced to carry this invisible burden of hardship and stigma, that’s completely outside of their control,” she said. New Zealand’s prison population topped 11,000 in early 2026. That’s 199 per 100,000 people, well above the OECD average of 147 and significantly higher than our Australian and Canadian counterparts. Pillars estimates that means up to 25,000 children now live with a parent behind bars. “I think New Zealand has got some careful soul-searching to do around what we are trying to achieve when it comes to our justice system,” Thompson said. Treasury data from 2016 identified having a parent in prison as one of just four key risk factors for poor life outcomes. “Children in our community do not deserve to be seen as New Zealand’s future prisoners. They are children of promise and potential,” Thompson said. Pillars established its Ngā Rangatira Mō Āpōpō, Youth Advisory Panel in 2021, bringing together rangatahi aged 16 to 24 with lived experience of an incarcerated parent. Their recommendations include the creation of Kaiwhatu Kura Whānau – a navigator embedded in the Criminal District Court. The worker would help families from the moment a parent faces a custodial sentence and co-design a support plan to address the child’s needs during a parent’s incarceration. “The point between arrest and prison can take months, sometimes years, and that’s an absolute roller coaster for families when their world has been completely turned upside down,” Thompson said. “Having access to the right support where whānau feel safe, seen and heard is not a nice to have, it’s a critical need that must be built into the system.” She said a purpose-built role like this has the potential to be transformational in the long-term for children whose parents go to prison. The Children’s Commissioner Dr Claire Achmad supports the “powerful advocacy” of the group – and believes the role “would help to make the child’s rights visible”. “The best thing about this idea is that it has been created by rangatahi who have lived-experience. They know best what they need,” Achmad said. But the Courts Minister Nicole McKee said “there are no plans to introduce a court navigator programme for the criminal court”. “I have sympathy for any child who, through no fault of their own, has a parent in prison,” McKee said, “but the Government makes no apology for putting public safety first”. “The best thing for children is if their parents do not commit crimes that send them to prison in the first place,” McKee said. “The responsibility for a parent being separated from their children sits squarely with the person who committed the crime.” But Commissioner Achmad said there’s a lot of potential and promise in this role. “I’ll continue to advocate for it,” Achmad said. “When a parent goes to prison, it’s absolutely crucial that their child does not pay for the consequences,” “We shouldn’t lose sight of solutions that are co-designed and laid out by young people with lived experiences because they know best what is going to work for them.” “It’s incumbent on the state as a primary duty bearer under the Children’s Convention to fulfil and support that child to experience their rights.” Thompson describes the current Government’s direction reinstating three strikes and introducing boot camps as “emotion-led rather than evidence-led approaches to harm reduction”. “The evidence tells us that being tough on crime is getting really strong on housing... mental health and addiction support, on access to employment and education,” said Thompson, “those are the things that in the lo... Mon, 25 May 2026 17:00:44 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/public-sector-cuts-potential-savings-to-be-made-with-hr-payroll-technology-shake-up/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/politics/public-sector-cuts-potential-savings-to-be-made-with-hr-payroll-technology-shake-up/ Significant cost-savings are set to be made through potential cuts to human resources, legal services, technology, and payroll systems, as the Government eyes up reducing duplication. A briefing to new Public Service Minister Paul Goldsmith, prepared and proactively-released by the Public Service Commission, raised various areas of change in the sector. Goldsmith was told there were opportunities for a “unified” public service that focuses on outcomes, being “more connected” and being “fiscally sustainable”. The briefing stated an all-of-Government procurement panel for human resources and payroll systems will soon be launched to establish agreed suppliers for Government agencies. The document added this makes up part of an initiative to “standardise and streamline back-office systems” - expected to save $160 million over the next decade by “de-duplicating” legal, procurement, configuration, and other costs. Finance Minister Nicola Willis has previously pointed to HR departments as a potential area to cut spending. “As much as possible, I’d like one centralised system that everyone’s working from instead of duplicating and reinventing the wheel across multiple departments,” Willis told Newstalk ZB earlier this month. The Government is aiming to reduce the number of departments, increase AI use, and impose a headcount target on the public sector as part of an overall drive for $2.4 billion of savings over the next five years. Technology appears to be a significant focus going forward. In the briefing, officials stated Government agency digital ‘clusters’ are set to be established to share information and technology platforms. The briefing said it would take shape in the form of “logical groupings of agencies” sharing different categories of ICT systems and digital services, rather than having their own. Goldsmith was told the private sector would play a “key role” in delivering a new digital direction, including plans to further use artificial intelligence, and plans to roll out “digital public infrastructure” like a Government app. A target has been imposed to have 10 digital agency clusters underway by June 2028, as well as issuing four million digital identity credentials, and having two million downloads of the Government app. “Digital can enable government to operate more efficiently as a system and to deliver joined-up, worldclass digital government services,” officials said. Technological changes, including through “more efficiently structuring Government” are tipped to deliver significant cost savings. The briefing stated multi-agency technology solutions may cost more or take longer in the short term, but “will deliver clear benefits and savings for government as a whole”. By mid-2028, the Government forecasts potential savings between $200 million and $330 million as a result of the technology services shake-up. “By the endof year seven, these forecast cumulative savings rise to between $2.3 and $3.7 billion, rising to between $3.7 and $5.9 billion by the end of year ten,” the briefing stated. Public Service Commission officials also discussed potential work on the “revolving door” between certain sectors and the Government - in what it called an “ethical transitions” discussion document. The Commission has committed, with the Ministry of Justice, to producing a document exploring the “movement of individuals (elected and non-elected) between government and private sector roles (often known as the “revolving door” phenomenon) and identify potential options to support individuals to make this transition." The PSC said it would provide more advice on the matter. Azaria Howell is a multimedia reporter working from Parliament’s press gallery. She joined NZME in 2022 and became a Newstalk ZB political reporter in late 2024, with a keen interest in public service agency reform and government spending. Mon, 25 May 2026 17:00:44 Z