Wellington mayoral candidate Ray Chung refuses to drop out of the race despite sending a lewd email spreading sexual rumors about Mayor Tory Whanau, sparking controversy and prompting a backlash from supporters and officials.

Newly released video footage from the murder trial of Chrishan Raju has captured the final moments of Joeli "Skunks" Rankin, who was later stabbed to death in an Auckland Kāinga Ora flat in February 2024.

The U.S. State Department is set to begin issuing layoff notices to employees as part of the Trump administration’s plan to downsize the government. The move has raised concerns about the department’s future and the impact on morale.

A high-profile donor has withdrawn support for mayoral candidate Ray Chung after a controversial email was made public, sparking a debate over political ethics and accountability in local government.

The All Blacks have made a last-minute change to their starting lineup for the second test against France, with Caleb Clarke ruled out due to injury. Emoni Narawa has been called into the starting XV, marking a significant moment in his international career.

A new study reveals that bull sharks are staying longer in Sydney's waters as ocean temperatures rise, potentially leading to year-round presence in the future.

A 14-year-old boy has been sentenced to three years and three months in prison for the fatal stabbing of 16-year-old Enere McLaren-Taana at the Dunedin bus hub last year. The emotional sentencing highlighted the tragic impact on the victim's family.

New Zealand's All Whites have reached their highest FIFA ranking in over a decade, marking a major achievement in the team's history as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup.

Roturua police are intensifying efforts against illegal dirt bike riders, as concerns grow over the potential for fatal accidents in the city. Acting Rotorua area commander Inspector Phil Gillbanks warns that if the current pattern of behavior continues, it could only be a matter of time before someone is killed.

A Cook Islands MP has raised concerns over the government's failure to adjust the tax-free threshold in line with a recent minimum wage increase, potentially leading to higher taxes for low-wage workers.

A 20-year-old man from Whanganui is missing after a possible car accident in a flooded river, according to local authorities. Police believe Kahu Gill may have been swept away in the river's powerful currents.

Police in New Zealand are warning scrap metal dealers to be vigilant as a surge in copper thefts coincides with rising global copper prices. The thefts pose significant risks to infrastructure and public safety, and authorities are urging dealers to report any suspicious activity.

The legacy of Fijian rugby continues as the Flying Fijians prepare to face Scotland, with the sons of former players stepping onto the field to carry on their fathers' traditions.

An Israeli airstrike near a medical center in Gaza has killed 10 children and six adults, with no immediate truce in sight. Ongoing ceasefire talks show little progress, as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens.

The Royal Commission of Inquiry into the government's response to the Covid-19 pandemic is focusing on vaccines and mandates as it enters its fifth day of hearings.

A car crashed into a house in Hamilton, leaving two people in critical condition. The driver was then assaulted by neighbors, prompting a police investigation into the incident.

Wellington City Councillor Ray Chung faces criticism for allegedly circulating a malicious and sexist rumor about Mayor Tory Whanau, sparking a conversation about standards in public office and the challenges faced by women in politics.

Lorde has announced her Ultrasound World Tour for New Zealand in 2026, with shows in Auckland and Christchurch. The singer will return to Aotearoa after a three-year gap, promoting her new album 'Virgin' and offering fans an exciting opportunity to see her live. Wellington, however, is not included in the tour.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron have announced a new migration deal and plans to support Ukraine, aiming to strengthen bilateral ties and address rising immigration concerns.

The iconic Hermès Birkin bag, originally sketched on an air sickness bag, has sold for a record €7 million (approximately NZ$8.6 million) at a Paris auction, cementing its status as a timeless cultural icon.