BEN MORGAN: Weather, North Korean support, and the US election shaping the campaign

Outgoing National party board member Peter Goodfellow has identified economic shocks and escalating trade wars as significant threats to the party's re-election in 2026. After nearly 20 years of service and a 13-year tenure as party president, Goodfellow retired during the National's 89th annual conference in Christchurch, where he expressed gratitude to party members and recognized his wife, Auckland Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson, for her support. Want More Context? 🔎

A woman has been charged after a two-year-old girl was discovered inside a suitcase on a bus in Kaiwaka, Northland. The incident occurred around 12:50 PM when a passenger alerted the driver, who found the child after noticing the suitcase moving. Want More Context? 🔎

A pharmacist was found guilty of allowing a colleague to take the blame for stealing thousands from the cash register over three years and subsequently lied to the Pharmacy Council and her new employer about the investigation. As a result, she has been suspended from practicing for a year and must fulfill specific conditions before returning to her profession. Want More Context? 🔎

A landlord's final inspection of a rental property revealed unexpected items, including baseball bats and chains, modifications to the garage, and a flatmate still residing there with a dog. The Tenancy Tribunal was shown photographs illustrating the tenant, Jessica Michelle Duffy, left the house in a squalid state, with unwashed dishes, personal items in the bathroom, and significant rubbish accumulation. Want More Context? 🔎

A global travel company, Intrepid Travel, is shifting some of its Europe tours out of peak summer season as New Zealanders become increasingly concerned about climate change and its impact on travel safety. This change is reflected in a trend towards spring travel to popular destinations like Italy, Spain, and Portugal, with nearly three in four Kiwis recognizing the growing importance of travel insurance. Want More Context? 🔎

In New Zealand, the prevalence of eating disorders has risen over the past decade, with social media identified as a significant contributing factor. Individuals like Rose have experienced detrimental effects from platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where exposure to idealized body images and diet culture has exacerbated their struggles with body image and disordered eating. Want More Context? 🔎