The headlines over the past week have been dominated by the Middle East, ceasefires, the Strait of Hormuz and oil prices. While those events certainly deserve attention, here in New Zealand the ships continue to tell a reassuring story. Looking at our latest shipping data and comparing it with previous weeks, the fuel supply chain remains active, and importantly, fuel prices are now beginning to reflect that stability. · Christchurch appears to…

New Zealand First leader Winston Peters has used a wide-ranging interview with Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown to argue that New Zealand has reached a critical economic crossroads, warning that the 2026 General Election could determine whether the country reverses decades of declining productivity or continues along its current path. Report by elocal · The interview forms part of Auckland Unfiltered, a series produced by The Office of the Mayor of…

The Question Nobody Is Asking · As New Zealand heads towards another General Election, Labour leader Chris Hipkins has challenged voters to ask a simple question: · "Are you better off than you were three years ago?" · It is a fair political question. · But perhaps it is not the most important one. · The question New Zealand should be asking is this: · If hundreds of billions of dollars of household wealth disappeared following the Covid…

The behaviour of two police officers - who withheld vital evidence in an investigation which led to the wrongful conviction of Alan Hall in the 1980s - has been described as an "unforgivable miscarriage of justice". By Matthew Theunissen · The two men still cannot be named, but Justice Gault amended a suppression order on Monday, meaning it can be revealed for the first time that the two defendants were police officers involved in the…

The global oil shock triggered by tensions in the Middle East has interrupted New Zealand's economic recovery, but Kiwibank economists believe the economy remains resilient enough to avoid a deeper downturn. Report by elocal · In their latest weekly commentary, "Stuck in a Rally: Markets Eye a Peaceful Break," Chief Economist Jarrod Kerr and Economist Alexandra Turcu argue that while uncertainty remains elevated, financial markets are…

After one of the most dramatic housing booms in New Zealand's history, the market has now spent more than three years largely moving sideways. While many homeowners continue to wait for prices to recover to their 2021 highs, economists argue there is another side to the story: housing affordability has improved significantly. Report by elocal · After one of the most dramatic housing booms in New Zealand's history, the market has now spent more…

A new High Court challenge by climate activist Mike Smith has expanded what was already one of New Zealand's most significant climate law cases into a broader constitutional debate about the relationship between Parliament and the courts. Report by elocal · Rather than focusing solely on climate policy, Smith's latest legal action asks a more fundamental question: should the Government legislate to prevent an active court case from proceeding…

The Free Speech Union has criticised the decision by New Zealand Police and the Firearms Safety Authority to revoke Brian Tamaki's firearms licence following recent public comments. While reiterating its opposition to those comments, the organisation argues that if criminal laws have been broken, the matter should be determined by the courts rather than through administrative action. The Free Speech Union condemns the actions of the NZ Police…

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…

For buyers looking to secure a position in one of Auckland’s most active growth areas, this is a timely opportunity. Why Drury Is Moving · Drury is rapidly transforming into a major residential and commercial hub in South Auckland. · Significant investment is already underway, including: · New schools and education facilities Transport upgrades and planned rail connections Expanding retail and commercial centres Community infrastructure…

Have you ever wondered what retirement village living is really like? Perhaps you've been thinking about downsizing, looking for a more relaxed lifestyle, or simply want to explore your options without any pressure. At Acacia Cove Village, we'd love to welcome you to our FREE Sales Seminar and Open Day on Wednesday, 22 July at 10:00am. · This relaxed and informative morning has been designed to answer your questions and give you a genuine feel…

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…

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…

An analysis by geopolitical commentator Fyodor Lukyanov argues that diplomatic understandings reached during earlier discussions between Russia and the United States have been overtaken by developments on the battlefield. As military and political circumstances evolve, he suggests previous negotiating frameworks are rapidly losing relevance. INR Report: Based on reporting and analysis by Fyodor Lukyanov, originally published by RT. · Earlier…

Iran warns the US-brokered deal that suggests the disarmament of Hezbollah, could leave ethnic groups in Lebanon, shattered, and turning on each other. Exactly the same scenario we are witnessing in Iraq right now and previously in Syria. · As a six-month-old baby becomes the latest victim of Ukraine's attacks on civilians, one senior Russian diplomat says the West will just turn a blind eye to such crimes, as usual. · Kenya demands local…

A former senior aide to then-UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has pleaded guilty to using confidential government information to place bets on the timing of the 2024 British general election. The case has intensified scrutiny of how privileged information can be misused for personal gain. INR Report: Based on reporting by RT. · Former MP admits offence · Craig Williams, a former Conservative MP and parliamentary aide to then-Prime Minister Rishi…

Calls to review one of Ukraine's highest-profile international honours have emerged in the Czech Republic after President Vladimir Zelensky recognised a military unit with a title linked to the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA). The move has reignited debate across parts of Europe over historical interpretation, wartime legacy and diplomatic relations INR Report: Based on reporting by RT. · Czech political party calls for award review · According…

Fresh financial commitments announced at the latest Ukraine Recovery Conference have prompted renewed debate about Europe's long-term priorities. A commentary by historian Tarik Cyril Amar argues that while support for Ukraine continues to expand, many European nations remain under pressure from unresolved domestic economic and social challenges. INR Report: Based on reporting and analysis by historian Tarik Cyril Amar, originally published by…

Israel has announced plans to develop a space-based laser weapon capable of targeting satellites, signalling a further expansion of military competition into space. Defence officials say the proposed capability would give Israel a strategic advantage in an increasingly contested domain. INR Report: Based on reporting by RT. · Israel outlines ambitious defence objective · Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has announced that Israel is…

For almost a century the world has suffered from a collective guilt syndrome. A perfect narrative has been build to sustain it, which made Israel and its inhabitants untouchable. · If it weren’t by biblical inheritage, than the Second World War has given Jews the right for their ‘Promised Land’. The surviving Jews of the holocaust couldn’t be denied their ‘righteous place on earth’. Everyone questioning that right was immediately labeled an…

Italy is reportedly seeking to limit NATO's long-term financial commitments to Ukraine, highlighting growing debate within Europe over defence spending, national budgets and the duration of Western support for Kiev. INR Report: Based on reporting by RT, originally published by RT. · Italy seeks flexibility on future commitments · According to reports cited by RT, Italy is resisting language in a proposed NATO declaration that would commit…

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 150.11 m2 Porches 0.9 m2 Total Area 151.01 m2 Description · A Turnkey Fixed-price home & land package offering 4 bedrooms and a rare double garage near the motorway! Stylish standalone home with designer kitchen, open-plan living, walk-in robe & ensuite. In a growing area near new Ngākōroa School (Y1–8), future train station & great access. Includes heat pump and stone benchtop. Act fast! · …

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 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…