A track star is born

The Government proposes eliminating the practical driving test for attaining a full licence, aiming to streamline the licensing process and make it more affordable, according to Transport Minister Chris Bishop. He noted that New Zealand is an “outlier” compared to countries like Australia, which implement longer learner periods and reduced demerit thresholds instead of a practical test. The proposal, set for public consultation, includes new safety measures: a clean driving record requirement for restricted drivers,...

Laleni Saini is coping with the loss of her husband, Sorav Saini, who died in a machinery accident at a timber mill over a year ago. As she navigates her grief, she is also managing the challenges of single parenthood and financial responsibilities with little emotional support. Her determination to seek justice for her husband's death has been a driving force in her life during this difficult time. Full Article

Paula Bennett described Parliament as a “cesspit of bullying and nastiness” during her appearance on the NZ Herald podcast Ask Me Anything, expressing that she does not miss her time in the House. She also confirmed that she will not challenge Wayne Brown for the Auckland Mayor position, ending speculation about her candidacy after a year. Bennett credited Dame Jacinda Ardern for effecting significant change while discussing her experiences and the release of journalist Ali...

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...