BEN MORGAN: US lifts long-range missile restrictions, followed by a Russian ‘show of force’

Senior Labour MP Willie Jackson has expressed that the party should have eliminated GST on meat products during its time in government to alleviate the high cost of living. This statement follows criticism of Labour's 2023 election policy, which proposed removing GST from fruit and vegetables, deemed complicated and ineffective. As tax policy discussions continue ahead of Labour's 2026 election policy announcement, Jackson acknowledged that communities feel abandoned by Labour amid rising food prices and...

Foreign Minister Winston Peters has criticized the use of "military language" by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon regarding international trade issues, highlighting their differing views on New Zealand's response to the impact of U.S. President Donald Trump's unpredictable tariff policies. At an event in Hawaii, Peters acknowledged the current "uncertain and anxious" global environment but refuted claims that these developments are unprecedented. This situation underscores the tension between Peters and Luxon as they navigate the challenges...

Ye “Cathay” Hua laundered at least $18 million for Xavier Valent’s drug syndicate and is currently serving a seven-and-a-half-year prison sentence. An investor, Min Hu, who unknowingly invested over $61,000 in Hua's company, is engaged in a complicated court battle to recover her money, which is crucial for her house deposit. This amount, part of which was a wedding gift from her parents, is small compared to the hundreds of millions handled by Hua's enterprise...

Wendy Petrie, a broadcaster, is embracing newfound freedom as her daughters study abroad on sporting scholarships, leaving her with more time alongside her husband, Ross Peebles, and their teenage son, Zach. At 53, Wendy is exploring travel writing and preparing for her first ocean swim, while reflecting on the importance of rekindling her relationship with Ross amid their busy lives. She notes that many friends share similar experiences, emphasizing the need to invest time in...

Tonight's Lotto Powerball draw with a $12m jackpot was not won, but one lucky Kiwi will still receive $1 million. The winning numbers were 23, 10, 15, 22, 32, and 13, with the bonus ball 35 and Powerball 2. While the jackpot went unclaimed, a player did secure the $1m first division prize. Full Article

Pascal Atiga-Bridger and his daughter received community service sentences for smuggling cannabis resin into an Auckland prison, using a baby as a decoy during the attempt. Initially facing charges of supplying and distributing cannabis, which could result in 14 years' imprisonment, the more serious charges were dropped. Despite seeking a discharge without conviction, Atiga-Bridger's daughter was convicted and given 40 hours of community service. Full Article