Auckland engineer Shyamal Shah has been sentenced to two years in prison for a $1 million fraud scheme against Watercare. The case highlights the complexities of public sector corruption and the personal struggles that led to the crime.

New Zealand's Junior Tall Blacks achieved a historic fourth-place finish at the U19 World Cup, but players and families faced a $5000 cost to participate. This issue highlights ongoing funding challenges in New Zealand basketball.

The chair of the Ponsonby Rugby Club, Greg Edmonds, is unsurprised by the withdrawal of the rich-listers' proposal for the Auckland Arena at Western Springs Stadium. The private development, backed by figures like Anna Mowbray and Ali Williams, has been abandoned due to challenges in securing public land for a private asset. The Western Springs Bowl proposal is now the leading contender for the stadium's future.

The death toll from catastrophic flooding in Texas has risen to 108 as rescue teams face further challenges from heavy rain. Recovery efforts continue in one of the worst natural disasters to hit the region in recent years.

Paul Darragh, a well-known New Zealand artist, is set to create a new public sculpture in Tauranga's city centre. The work will be part of the Font Public Art Trust's ongoing initiative to bring world-class contemporary art to the region. Known for his vibrant, abstract style, Darragh aims to create a piece that is joyous, uplifting, and emotionally engaging for the public.

Alex Walker has announced her re-election bid for the position of Central Hawke’s Bay Mayor in the 2025 local elections. Facing competition from local resident Will Foley, Walker emphasizes her commitment to efficient governance and community-focused leadership.

A West Auckland nurse with a fractured ankle completed her shift due to a lack of staff, highlighting chronic understaffing in district nursing services. Nurses are calling for urgent action to address the growing crisis in patient and staff safety.

Jordie Barrett, the All Blacks' second five, praises the British & Irish Lions as a 'juggernaut' with a deep understanding of each other's game. His insights, drawn from his recent experience with Leinster, highlight the Lions' cohesive and dynamic play under coach Andy Farrell.

A rare bee attack in the French town of Aurillac left 24 people injured, with three in critical condition. The incident is believed to have been triggered by Asian hornets threatening a beehive. Emergency services responded swiftly to treat victims and secure the area.

A tragic drowning in Fiordland National Park claimed the life of 10-year-old Tegan Chen, described as a very active and happy girl. The coroner's report highlights the circumstances of the accident and the safety measures taken in response.

Sir Peter Jackson partners with Colossal Biosciences to bring the South Island giant moa back from extinction. Explore the scientific, cultural, and ethical dimensions of this groundbreaking project.

Two crew members were killed and two injured in a drone and speedboat attack on the Greek-operated Liberian-flagged vessel Eternity C in the Red Sea. This marks the first fatal shipping incident since June 2024 and raises concerns over maritime security in the region.

Jock Davies, a 21-year-old from Tapanui, has been identified as the man who tragically died during a hunting trip on Stewart Island. Tributes have poured in for the young hunter, whose resilience was highlighted in his battle against leukaemia. Authorities are investigating the incident, which has sparked reactions from hunting and safety organizations.

The Royal Commission of Inquiry into the Government’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic is examining the impact of lockdowns on Auckland and Northland in 2021. Testimonies highlight the challenges faced by vulnerable groups, including the disabled, Pasifika community, and elderly, as well as the effectiveness of public health measures and the economic fallout for businesses.

Police in Napier discovered five military-style semi-automatic firearms in children’s bedrooms during a search warrant. The 42-year-old man arrested has been charged with unlawful possession of prohibited firearms and multiple other offenses. The case highlights the importance of responsible firearms ownership and public safety.

Rocket Lab has surpassed a $30 billion valuation, driven by a surge in its share price and the involvement of 32,000 New Zealand investors. The company's growth is attributed to factors including the fallout between SpaceX and Donald Trump and the development of its new Neutron rocket.

Auckland Transport has spent $147,000 on social influencers to promote sustainable transport options. The campaign, which ran from May 2024 to May 2025, aimed to reduce car dependency and ease congestion. Critics argue the approach is costly and ineffective, while supporters believe it helps shift public behavior.

The Black Ferns have added Ruby Tui and Krystal Murray to their squad as injury cover ahead of their final test match before the World Cup. The experienced players will provide depth and competition as the team prepares for the international tournament.

President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a high-stakes meeting at the White House, discussing a potential ceasefire in Gaza and broader regional diplomacy. The meeting highlighted the close relationship between the two leaders and their shared vision for peace in the Middle East.

Israel and Hamas are reportedly considering a new U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal aimed at halting the 21-month-long conflict in Gaza. The proposal includes a 60-day truce, hostage releases, and increased humanitarian aid. Mediators include the United States, Egypt, and Qatar.