New Zealand's agricultural economy depends on an industrial raw material that rarely makes headlines: sulphur. With international supply routes under pressure, questions are emerging about whether the country has sufficient reserves, alternative suppliers and domestic production capacity to withstand a prolonged disruption Report by eLocal | 17 October 2026 · A Warning That Deserves Examination · New Zealand has spent years debating energy…

In this opinion, Dr Guy Hatchard examines the retraction of a prominent Covid vaccine research paper following findings of fabricated data and falsified images. He questions the integrity of biotechnology research, raises concerns about possible links between mRNA vaccination and autoimmune disease, and challenges New Zealand health authorities to release comprehensive health data for independent scrutiny. His central argument is that public…

As New Zealand approaches the 2026 general election, Andy Loader questions the growing cost of government, the expansion of the public service and whether taxpayers can continue funding an ever-increasing bureaucracy. He argues that voters must distinguish essential public services from political promises that ultimately add to the national debt. How much does New Zealand owe in debt? · As of late 2026, New Zealand's net core Crown debt stands…

Labour has entered the 2026 election campaign promising restrictions on social media access for children under 16, a new digital regulator and stronger controls over technology companies. The proposal raises legitimate questions about protecting young people, but also about whether blanket restrictions can work without imposing new identification requirements and privacy risks on everyone. Report by eLocal · A Promise Made During an Election…

Classically trained musician, former teacher and government adviser Emma Chatterton joins Mykeljon Winckel for a wide-ranging eLocal Conversation about the experiences shaping her approach to politics. As she seeks to succeed Judith Collins in Papakura, the discussion explores her personal journey, her ambitions for a rapidly growing electorate and the questions facing New Zealand's next generation Report by eLocal | eLocal Conversations | 16…

The Health Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal censured Catherine Simpson and suspended her registration for two months over offensive social media posts, but stopped short of ending her nursing career. Health New Zealand subsequently dismissed her for serious misconduct, according to the Free Speech Union, raising questions about free expression, professional standards and the limits of state employment power. Report by eLocal · !Registered…

Finding quality menswear shouldn't mean travelling into the city. At Lewis’ Mens Fashion in Pukekohe, men from across Southern Auckland can find clothing, footwear and accessories for work, weekends, special occasions and everyday life, all under one roof For men who appreciate good clothing, the difference is often in the details. · The right shirt. A well-cut jacket. Boots that are made to last. Smart casual clothing that looks good without…

Discover retirement with more time for what matters at Acacia Cove Village. For resident Jill, village life has brought new friendships, activities close at hand, freedom from home maintenance and the reassurance of a safe and secure community. With independently owned Acacia Cove able to make decisions locally, residents can spend less time worrying about everyday responsibilities and more time enjoying the people, activities and experiences…

Whether you drive a family runabout, a European luxury vehicle or a high-performance car, keeping it properly maintained matters. This October, PS Automotive in Pukekohe is offering the first ten qualifying customers a choice of a $50 fuel voucher or $50 off their standard service Local Expertise for Almost Every Make and Model · When your vehicle needs attention, finding a workshop with the right equipment, experience and technical knowledge…

Discover European comfort made for real life with Josef Seibel at Halliwell Shoes. With German shoemaking heritage dating back to 1886, the collection combines quality craftsmanship, modern styling and everyday comfort. Explore versatile men’s and ladies’ styles, including extra-wide fittings and larger sizes, with features such as quality leather, removable footbeds and lightweight, flexible soles. Visit Halliwell Shoes in Pukekohe and let the…

Discover relaxed family living at 18 Glennron Lane, Waiuku. This well-presented four-bedroom, two-bathroom brick home offers two separate living areas, a spacious master suite, open-plan kitchen and dining, and seamless flow to a sunny outdoor patio. Set on a fully fenced 683 sqm section with double internal-access garaging, it offers space, practicality and easy living close to Waiuku’s schools, shops and amenities. !Image Text · Bedrooms:…

Positioned in an established Pukekohe street, this substantial four-bedroom, two-bathroom multi-level home offers exceptional space for family living and entertaining. Multiple living zones, an office and a large games room with bar provide outstanding flexibility, while the kitchen and dining area flows to covered outdoor entertaining overlooking the swimming pool. A private, versatile home close to Pukekohe’s shops, cafés, schools and…

Discover stylish, low-maintenance living in the heart of Paerata Rise. This beautifully presented 168sqm Platinum Home offers three spacious bedrooms, two bathrooms, a dedicated home office and contemporary open-plan living flowing effortlessly to a generous outdoor entertaining deck. A louvre-covered alfresco area, fully fenced 427sqm section, walk-in pantry and internal-access garaging add everyday convenience. Perfectly positioned near…

Discover spacious, easy family living in this substantial single-level home, thoughtfully designed for comfort, connection and entertaining. With four bedrooms, two bathrooms, two generous living areas and double internal-access garaging, there’s room for everyone. At its heart, open-plan living flows effortlessly to a large outdoor deck and expansive lawn, creating the perfect setting for family life, summer gatherings and relaxed weekends. !Im…

Privately positioned amid beautifully landscaped grounds, this substantial residence delivers relaxed luxury and exceptional space for family living. Three bedrooms, a dedicated office and three versatile living areas flow to expansive outdoor entertaining, manicured gardens and a stunning in-ground pool. With generous garaging, ample parking and a private resort-style setting, this is a home designed for entertaining, unwinding and enjoying…

Treasury hit Bank of America with $1.2 billion in penalties for money laundering failures. Susan Kokinda traces the bank from Countrywide and the 1980s debt crisis to King Charles’ green finance club, and Bessent’s challenge to the IMF. Susan Kokinda opens with the more than $1.2 billion in penalties Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's Treasury imposed on Bank of America on October 13 for violating anti-money laundering and sanctions laws, among…

Donald Trump has accused Vladimir Zelensky of resisting efforts to end the Ukraine conflict, following criticism of Washington’s diplomatic engagement with Moscow. In France, opposition figures blame government policies for weekend unrest as protests and disorder spread across parts of Europe. Meanwhile, Israel’s Defence Minister has threatened a permanent military presence in southern Lebanon ahead of diplomatic talks in Washington, amid…

Ukraine's latest request for European financial assistance has reopened a fundamental question about the war with Russia: how much longer can European governments sustain Kyiv's military and budgetary needs, and who ultimately carries the financial risk? With an additional €70 billion reportedly sought for 2027, divisions are emerging over the scale, accountability and repayment of Europe's commitments. INR Report: Based on RT's October 17,…

US President Donald Trump's latest White House press secretary has departed after only five days in the role, following criticism of her debut briefing and questions about her professional qualifications. The episode raises wider questions about how the administration selects its senior public representatives and communicates with the American public. INR Report: Based on reporting by RT, published 16 October 2026. · Katie Zacharia's brief…

Three years after Hamas breached Israel's security defences, the political battle over who knew what, and when, has reached the courts. With Israelis preparing to vote on 27 October, allegations of ignored intelligence, altered records and delayed hostage negotiations have placed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's handling of the crisis under renewed scrutiny. INR Report: Based on reporting by Charlotte Dubenskij for RT, with additional…

In this episode of Moscow Mules, Chay Bowes and the crew grab the popcorn for Zelensky’s latest public meltdown over the Trump-Putin “Diesel Deal”- and trust us, the PR tears are flowing. While Kiev goes completely dark and recruiters drag naked guys straight out of the shower, the Pentagon is busy flexing its muscles by planning the livestreamed execution of a paraplegic. Sanity has officially left the building, but Vladimir Putin’s ghost is…

What would it take for New Zealand to move beyond managing economic decline and begin building lasting prosperity? In a revealing conversation with eLocal's Mykeljon Winckel, economist and NZ First MP David Wilson explains how his party wants to reshape the country's economic foundations, putting greater emphasis on productive businesses, national ownership, affordable energy and investment that benefits New Zealanders Report by eLocal | eLocal…

From flood-affected communities and rising rates to public asset ownership and economic independence, Sue Grey argues that New Zealand needs a fundamental change in how it is governed. Speaking with eLocal's publisher and Founder Mykeljon Winckel ahead of the 2026 general election, Grey outlines her party's approach to restoring local accountability, rebuilding productive capacity and giving ordinary New Zealanders a greater say in decisions…

New Zealand's decision to abandon domestic oil refining deserves scrutiny beyond the price of petrol. The loss of refining capacity also raises questions about industrial by-products, agricultural inputs and whether successive governments have adequately protected the country's productive economy. The Cost of Losing a Strategic Industry · In March 2022, New Zealand's only oil refinery at Marsden Point ceased operations, ending nearly six…

Andy Loader questions the proposed action plan for Lake Waikare and the Whangamarino Wetland, asking where the cost-benefit analysis, scientific evidence and measurable outcomes are for a project estimated at $1 billion. He argues that government decisions have contributed to the environmental problems, particularly water flows and koi carp, and challenges whether local ratepayers should bear the cost of remediation. Over the last few weeks…

What if the greatest transfer of wealth in New Zealand's history required neither invasion nor the outright sale of the country's assets? What if its citizens retained ownership on paper while gradually losing the authority to determine how their land, water, minerals, forests and infrastructure were used? Imagine, for a moment, that you were writing a political thriller. Your fictional objective is the acquisition of a prosperous island…

Foreign Minister Winston Peters has placed New Zealand among a small group of countries unwilling to endorse a United Nations pandemic declaration, despite most of his Cabinet colleagues favouring support. The decision raises questions extending beyond public health: who controls New Zealand's international commitments, how far coalition agreements reach, and whether the country's foreign policy is moving closer to the sovereignty-focused…