For generations of New Zealand travellers, the brightly wrapped boiled lolly handed out as an aircraft begins its descent has become almost as familiar as the koru itself. Behind that small Kiwi ritual is an equally New Zealand story — a family business that survived economic upheaval, embraced automation and eventually fulfilled a promise made thousands of metres above the Tasman. eLocal Report: Based on reporting by Serena Solomon for RNZ. ·…

Freedom (formerly the NZ Outdoors & Freedom Party) has issued a media release calling on journalists to question former Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins over what it describes as serious failures in government record-keeping during the Covid-19 vaccination rollout. The party alleges that official documents, ministerial diaries, and Cabinet papers reveal a pattern of missing records, unminuted meetings and the omission of myocarditis…

The COVID-19 pandemic changed New Zealand in ways few events have in modern history. While the Royal Commission has now completed its work, new evidence and investigations overseas are continuing to reshape the international understanding of the pandemic and the decisions that followed. Report by eLocal (PART 1) · History rarely stands still. Major public inquiries are conducted using the best evidence available at the time, but they are not…

The relationship between democracy, the Treaty of Waitangi, co-governance and constitutional reform remains one of New Zealand's most contested public debates. In this opinion piece, Andy Loader argues that New Zealand should reaffirm the principle of equal citizenship under one system of democratic government, challenges contemporary interpretations of the Treaty of Waitangi and co-governance, and calls on the Coalition Government to fulfil…

While global energy markets are becoming increasingly unsettled, New Zealand continues to receive a steady flow of fuel shipments. For now, the tankers are still arriving—but with Brent crude climbing above US$100 and geopolitical tensions escalating around key shipping routes, the coming weeks will be worth watching very closely. NZ Fuel Watch – Update 31 July 2026 · Global Tensions Rise, But New Zealand's Fuel Supply Still Holding Steady ·…

New Zealand may technically be creating jobs, but it isn't creating enough of them — and younger New Zealanders are bearing much of the cost. Behind the 5.6% unemployment rate lies a deeper problem of weak growth per person, falling purchasing power and an economy that continues to struggle to offer many New Zealanders the wages and opportunities available across the Tasman. eLocal Report: Based on analysis by Kiwibank economists Jarrod Kerr,…

The latest Roy Morgan poll has injected fresh uncertainty into New Zealand's election race, with The Opportunities Party (TOP) recording its strongest result yet while Labour continues to struggle under Chris Hipkins. Political commentators say the figures highlight growing voter volatility, but caution against reading too much into a single poll. Labour Slumps as TOP Surges in Latest Roy Morgan Poll · New polling sparks debate over Labour's…

The Government has committed to replacing New Zealand's decades-old law governing enduring powers of attorney and supported decision-making. The reforms aim to better protect the rights, wishes and autonomy of people who are unable to make some or all decisions for themselves. Report by eLocal: Based on reporting by Marc Daalder for Newsroom HERE · The Government has announced plans to repeal and replace the Protection of Personal and Property…

Imagine waking up every day feeling like you're on holiday. At Acacia Cove Village, that's not just a dream—it's everyday life. With spacious grounds, resort-style facilities and a welcoming community, retirement becomes a new beginning rather than an ending When Shirley and her husband first considered moving to Acacia Cove Village, she wasn't convinced. · She admits she had reservations. · Being ten years younger than her husband, she…

As the cooler months arrive, Halliwell Shoes in Pukekohe is welcoming the new Autumn / Winter 2026 collection from one of Europe’s most respected comfort footwear brands — Pitillos of Spain. Known for blending modern European styling with genuine all-day comfort, Pitillos continues to build a loyal following among women looking for footwear that feels as good as it looks. · This season’s range delivers a stylish mix of soft leathers, elegant…

Behind the day-to-day flow of insurance repairs at Classic Auto Body Panel & Paint is a workshop still driven by genuine automotive passion. From modern collision work to rare restorations like a 1950s Lancia B24S, the Pukekohe team combines technical expertise, craftsmanship and more than 30 years of local reputation. Walk into Classic Auto Body Panel & Paint in Pukekohe on any given day and you'll find the workshop focused on what has become…

Southern Auckland's Destination Menswear Store · If you've been thinking about updating your winter wardrobe, now is the time. · Lewis' is holding one of its biggest Winter Sales in years, with discounts ranging from 20% to 70% off selected winter stock. · With the sale ending in mid-July, customers are being encouraged to shop early while sizes and styles remain available. · For more than 40 years (est. 1985), Lewis' has been helping…

Few moments in life are more difficult than losing someone you love. · In those first hours and days, emotions can feel overwhelming. There are decisions to make, people to contact, paperwork to complete, and often a sense of uncertainty about what happens next. · At Fountains Funeral Services, we understand that this is not just a process. It is a deeply personal journey. As a locally owned family business, our role is simple: to care for…

Israeli police arrested six suspects after an attack on the historic St. James Armenian Monastery in Jerusalem's Old City. Church leaders say the incident reflects a broader pattern of intimidation and violence targeting Christian communities. INR Report: Based on reporting by RT HERE · Israeli police have arrested six religious Jewish suspects following an attack on the historic St. James Armenian Monastery in Jerusalem's Old City, an…

Breaking news on RT: Thirteen civilians, including at least one child, are killed in a Ukrainian drone attack in Russia’s Tatarstan, with dozens more wounded. · New Delhi rejects US criticism of India’s amended Foreign Contribution Act, noting similar laws exist in Western countries. · Meanwhile, amid energy disruptions and reported Patriot missile shortages linked to the Iran war, Washington highlights the economic damage being inflicted on…

Iran says it abandoned plans for a retaliatory strike against Ukraine after Russia intervened diplomatically, underscoring Moscow's growing role as a mediator between its strategic partners. The comments come amid continuing regional tensions and renewed efforts to prevent the conflict from widening. Iran Says Planned Strike on Ukraine Was Called Off After Russian Mediation · Tehran says a planned military response against Ukraine was halted…

Why would discussion of a substance used for decades in water treatment become so controversial that one of the world's largest video platforms specifically restricts its promotion as a medical treatment? In an interview with Redacted's Natalie Morris, critical-care physician Dr Pierre Kory argues that the story of chlorine dioxide raises much bigger questions about medical research, pharmaceutical economics, censorship and who ultimately…

An upper stage from a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket is believed to have impacted the Moon after drifting through space for over a year. Researchers say the event offers a rare opportunity to study impact craters while highlighting the growing challenge of managing human-made debris beyond Earth orbit. INR Report: Based on reporting by RT HERE. · Scientists tracking space debris believe a discarded four-ton Falcon 9 upper stage crashed into the Moon…

Russia has introduced a landmark cryptocurrency law that brings digital asset trading into the country's regulated financial system. While Russians will soon be able to buy and sell approved cryptocurrencies through licensed exchanges, digital currencies will remain prohibited as a means of payment inside the country. INR Report: Based on reporting by RT HERE. · Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed the Law on Digital Currencies and…

Hamas agreed to disarm. Israel and Lebanon are talking after thirty years. Susan Kokinda shows why the decisive weapon wasn't a bomb — and the Board of Peace that Trump stood up nine days before the war began. By Susan Kokinda · From Camp David, President Trump framed a reported Hamas disarmament agreement as a breakthrough enabled by pressure on Iran, arguing the regional strategic terrain has shifted. The episode highlights two developments…

New findings released by Democrats on the US Senate Finance Committee allege that three of America's largest banks allowed Jeffrey Epstein to move more than US$1 billion through suspicious transactions despite repeated internal warnings. The report raises fresh questions about financial oversight, compliance failures and whether warning signs were ignored while Epstein continued operating. INR Report: Based on reporting by RT HERE. · According…

Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 2 Garaging 1 Floor Area 128 m2 Total Area 128 m2 Description · Brand-new 4-bedroom home in the fast-growing Hunua Views community. This modern single-level design offers open-plan living, stone benchtop, heat pump and internal access garage, with no rear neighbour backing onto a reserve for added privacy. Close to schools, parks, walkways and future Drury Town Centre. Easy motorway access and strong growth ahead.…

Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 2 Garaging 1 Floor Area 160 m2 Description · Brand-New Spacious Double-Story Corner 4-Bed Family Home | Hunua Views · Step into this modern 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom double-story home with a single internal-access garage – designed for easy, low-maintenance family living. · Enjoy open-plan living, quality finishes, and landscaped outdoor spaces in a family-focused neighborhood with parks, walkways, and playgrounds. · -…

Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 2 Garaging 2 Floor Area 153 m2 Porches 1 m2 Total Area 154 m2 Description · Secure the only Lot with a double car garage in this stage. The price is fixed on this 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home. Sitting on a 398sqm corner section, with a seamless indoor outdoor flow from the living to the North facing rear yard. Includes stone benchtop to the kitchen, heat pump, landscaping & fully fenced. · Design Specifications ·…

Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 2 Garaging 2 Floor Area 170.4 m2 Porches 3.4 m2 Total Area 173.8 m2 Description · Don’t miss the opportunity to secure your dream home in the fast-growing Drury area. Located within the exciting new Feldspar Crossing development, this community is set to benefit from significant investment and major new infrastructure. Ideal for first-home buyers, families, or investors, this home is part of a vibrant master-planned…

Whether you're stepping onto the property ladder, looking to downsize, or searching for a smart investment, 33C Harris Street, Pukekohe offers outstanding value in a highly convenient location. This solid brick, two-bedroom home combines comfortable living with exciting potential to modernise and add value over time. Enquiries/Offers over NZ$460,000 · !Image Text · Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms 1 Lounge 1 Garaging 1 Floor Area 95 sqm (more or…