2024 in photos: How the year unfolded

A tragic incident occurred in Kaikohe when a people-mover filled with children was struck by a car, resulting in the death of 11-year-old Staci Walkley, who was discovered trapped beneath the vehicle. Three other children were hospitalized, and while police have identified the two teenage boys in the car that collided with the people-mover, no charges have been filed yet. Want More Context? 🔎

A teenager, now 18, violently attacked or threatened six individuals over 14 months, including kicking a boy in the head with such force that it echoed like a rugby ball through goal posts. During sentencing in a Nelson Youth Court, he was denied the opportunity for a “clean slate” due to the severity of his actions, which included pulling a girl's hair and instilling fear in neighbors. Want More Context? 🔎

A Palmerston North family sold their shop at a loss due to fear after an incident involving Kashayar Heshmat, who, while homeless and untreated for schizophrenia, kissed their 7-year-old daughter on the cheek. Heshmat was sentenced for this incident, along with a series of other indecency offenses and shoplifting charges, which occurred in mid-2024. Want More Context? 🔎

Former National Youth Theatre performers and parents allege that entertainer Cole Thomas Johnston, 28, charged with grooming and raping a girl, worked for the organization during the years of his alleged offenses, although there is no indication of abuse occurring within the group or its awareness of the activities. The organization maintains that it has strict policies to ensure the safety and wellbeing of its students. Want More Context? 🔎

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Education Minister Erica Stanford will hold a press conference today at an Auckland school to discuss significant changes to New Zealand's secondary school assessments. Stanford recently announced the abolition of NCEA, which will be replaced by two new qualifications for Years 12 and 13, marking the most substantial update to the assessment system in over 20 years.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nus_Yn8uLgs Want More Context? 🔎

A 5-year-old girl from Christchurch, Tilly, is in critical condition at a Singapore hospital after developing gastrointestinal symptoms during a family holiday in Bintan, Indonesia, following their trip to Ireland. Her mother, Bridget Hendley, initially believed Tilly had a viral illness from traveling but grew concerned as her condition worsened. Want More Context? 🔎