With the votes cast, New Zealand faces a period of waiting, political finger-pointing and coalition negotiations. Andy Loader examines National's criticism of MMP, Chris Bishop's electoral defeat and the strategic vote-splitting campaign that may have saved the centre-right coalition. With 67 seats provisionally secured, the focus now shifts to special votes and the negotiations that will determine who governs, what policies survive and how…

When eLocal recently asked whether Britain's cake shed craze could take off in New Zealand, we never imagined the answer would arrive in our own inbox. But that's exactly what happened when Queenstown baker Rosie Cunnington got in touch. Her story is one of creativity, courage, community trust and the extraordinary things ordinary New Zealanders can achieve when they're given the opportunity. There are some stories that simply make you smile.…

For decades, successive New Zealand governments have made decisions that have shifted economic power away from Kiwi wage earners towards corporate and financial interests, many controlled offshore. Our only oil refinery is gone, foreign-owned banks generate billions in profits, and dependence on imported energy continues while taxpayers service government debt. Is this the unavoidable cost of globalisation, or the deliberate surrender of New…

Billionaire businessman Guy Haddleton wants National and Labour to cooperate in governing New Zealand, arguing that the country needs stability and long-term economic planning. But his proposal raises a more uncomfortable question: how different are the two major parties when powerful business interests, lobbyists and established institutions already exert influence over government policy? And would cooperation between National and Labour…

New Zealand entrepreneur Jamie Beaton has been named EY Entrepreneur Of The Year, recognising his remarkable journey from launching an education business in 2013 to building an international organisation helping students pursue their academic ambitions. The Crimson Education founder's achievement is another reminder that New Zealand ideas, innovation and determination can compete successfully on the world stage. Report by elocal · A Kiwi…

With Nicola Willis departing Parliament, National's Simeon Brown and Labour's Barbara Edmonds are being promoted as leading candidates for one of New Zealand's most powerful government positions. Both have relevant qualifications and experience, but are either equipped to confront the country's economic challenges? And when business organisations and unions express their preferences, whose interests will the next Finance Minister ultimately…

Racing season is the perfect excuse to dress up, and the right pair of shoes can make all the difference. Whether you’re planning a day at the races, a special lunch or an occasion that calls for something a little more elegant, the new Pitillos collection has just arrived at Halliwell’s of Pukekohe. Spanish Style Meets Everyday Comfort · Designed and made in Spain, Pitillos has built its reputation on bringing together contemporary European…

Retirement should be about enjoying life, making new friends and having the freedom to do more of what you love. At Acacia Cove in Wattle Downs, residents are discovering that the next chapter can be one of the most rewarding. For John, choosing Acacia Cove wasn't a decision made overnight. Having lived locally and experienced retirement villages throughout Auckland, he had a good understanding of what was available. But there was something…

Summer is arriving at Lewis' Mens Fashion in Pukekohe, and with new stock arriving daily, there's never been a better time to refresh your wardrobe. From smart casual clothing and summer shirts to quality footwear and accessories, discover fresh styles from leading menswear brands. Get in store and explore what's new while stocks last! Summer Starts at Lewis' · There's something about the arrival of summer that makes you want to freshen up…

When it comes to creating a beautiful home, the difference is in the detail. And at Craftsman Cabinets in Patumahoe, Jason Michie and his team understand just how important those details are. But don't just take our word for it. Here's what customers Kath and Jay had to say: · “Jason was incredible with the build of our kitchen. He is so knowledgeable and has an amazing eye for detail. His craftsmanship is exceptional and we just love our new…

Why Dan the Man? Because when it comes to looking after your vehicle, Dan knows his stuff! As owner and head mechanic of PS Automotive in Pukekohe, Dan and his team take pride in delivering quality workmanship, honest advice and friendly, personal service. Whether your vehicle needs a Warrant of Fitness (WOF), routine servicing, preventative maintenance, brake repairs, tyres, wheel alignment or mechanical repairs, PS Automotive has you covered.…

Discover refined family living on Grace James Road, Pukekohe, one of the area’s most prestigious addresses. Set on 940 sqm, this impressive five-bedroom, three-bathroom home offers two generous living areas, a beautifully appointed open-plan kitchen and flexible accommodation ideal for families, guests or working from home. Covered patios provide year-round outdoor living, while double internal-access garaging, extensive parking and a peaceful…

Set on 6,887sqm (more or less) just minutes from Pukekohe, 83 Settlement Road offers an exceptional head start for your lifestyle dream. Beautifully landscaped grounds, panoramic rural views and a prepared building platform are complemented by water tanks, wastewater infrastructure, geotechnical reports and architectural drawings. An impressive barn-style building, paddock, farm shed, gardens, fruit trees and extensive site improvements…

Be the first to enjoy this beautifully crafted three-bedroom, two-bathroom home by respected local builder Bosanac Builders. Designed for modern living, the spacious open-plan kitchen, dining and living area flows seamlessly to a generous outdoor deck, while the primary suite features a walk-in wardrobe and ensuite. With a double internal-access garage and quality finishes throughout, this brand-new home offers easy-care living in the thriving…

Immaculately presented in a sought-after Pukekohe location, this low-maintenance brick home offers four bedrooms, two bathrooms and two generous living areas across 152sqm. The light-filled open-plan kitchen, dining and living space flows to a covered outdoor entertaining area, while the private master includes an ensuite. With double internal-access garaging, an easy-care section and schools, parks, shops, cafés and Pukekohe town centre within…

Experience elevated family living in Pukekohe’s sought-after Valley precinct. Spanning three thoughtfully designed levels and offering 241sqm (more or less) of living space, this impressive residence features five bedrooms, three bathrooms and a light-filled open-plan living area flowing to a generous sun-soaked entertaining deck. With a private upper-level primary suite, internal-access double garaging, low-maintenance grounds and easy access…

The second day of negotiations between Russia, Ukraine and the United States has concluded in Abu Dhabi, with European governments still excluded from the principal negotiating table. Washington is attempting to broker a settlement, Moscow is demanding long-term security guarantees, and Kiev is resisting territorial concessions. Meanwhile, Europe's continued military support for Ukraine has become a central point of contention. Is the continent…

Following the conclusion of peace talks in Abu Dhabi, Russia's chief negotiator tells RT that Moscow remains determined to achieve its objectives, accusing European leaders of resorting to personal attacks. US envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff are expected to meet President Putin in Moscow on Thursday. Meanwhile, Washington questions Europe's ability to present a united position, as Ukraine demands European participation in future…

British comedian and political commentator Russell Brand has reportedly been sentenced to ten and a half years in prison following convictions for rape and sexual assault. Yet the continuing investigations into Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and former Labour politician Peter Mandelson have raised wider questions about accountability among Britain's political and royal establishment. Are the differences in legal outcomes simply a reflection of…

On the eve of Veterans Day, House Democrats and Rep. Thomas Massie tried to impeach Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, and the House voted 211–204 to send the resolution to committee. Susan Kokinda shows why, and the third way President Trump chose on Iran. Susan Kokinda · On the eve of Veterans Day, House Democrats and Rep. Thomas Massie tried to impeach Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, and the House voted 211–204 to send the resolution to…

Reports of a furious telephone exchange between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have raised questions about growing divisions between Washington and Tel Aviv over the war with Iran. With both leaders facing political setbacks, renewed military action could carry consequences far beyond the Middle East, including another surge in global energy prices INR Report: Based on reporting by RT, drawing on Israeli…

Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has demanded that Western European governments agree on a single representative for negotiations over the Ukraine conflict by the end of November. His intervention follows trilateral discussions between Russia, the United States and Ukraine in Abu Dhabi, where European governments were absent from the negotiating table. The demand exposes growing tensions over who should influence a settlement, whether…

New Zealand's property market is entering a period of unusually high housing stock, with 37,433 homes available for sale during October — the largest October selection since 2014. While buyers enjoy greater choice, falling asking prices, fewer new listings and a seven-year low in auction activity suggest vendors are facing a more challenging selling environment. eLocal Report: Based on reporting by Susan Edmunds for RNZ, incorporating October…

New Zealand's unemployment rate has climbed to 5.7%, its highest level in nearly 11 years, with 174,000 people now officially unemployed. Businesses remain reluctant to hire, long-term unemployment is increasing, and wage growth is struggling to keep pace with inflation. While politicians point to signs of economic recovery, the latest figures raise a more fundamental question: if the economy is improving, why are so many New Zealanders still…

New Zealand faces a defining choice following an election that has left the formation of its next government uncertain. While political parties negotiate for power, the country confronts a more fundamental challenge: how to rebuild productivity, reduce dependence on borrowing and create lasting national wealth. Renewed oil production in Taranaki and fresh interest in offshore gas exploration raise a compelling question. Could New Zealand's own…

Who really controls American foreign policy? In a revealing interview with George Galloway, Tucker Carlson questions whether President Trump or powerful unelected interests determine Washington's decisions. He argues that the US is effectively at war with Russia and that Trump's promises to end foreign conflicts have been undermined. From Ukraine and Iran to intelligence agencies, political donors and presidential advisers, Carlson raises…

Did Democrats turn Trump's own America First playbook against the Republicans? Former Trump adviser George Papadopoulos joins Rick to examine the GOP's midterm election setbacks, arguing that broken promises, the Iran war, tariffs and immigration policies alienated MAGA voters. With traditionally Republican states turning blue, he says Democrats successfully tapped into voter concerns over living costs, the economy and foreign wars. What does…

Are elections really about serving the public, or are they contests for control? In this opinion piece, Andy Loader examines the growing influence of government and bureaucracy, the tension between socialism and individual freedom, and whether New Zealand's public service remains genuinely accountable to the people it is supposed to serve. This is what elections are all about no matter what some political parties and candidates may say. · They…