All prepped for Polyfest

Six individuals were injured during a violent brawl in Tahuna, Waikato, sparked by a confrontation over burnouts performed by three men in a vehicle. Police reported that the altercation, which occurred on Tahuna-Ohinewai Rd around 7:20 PM, involved multiple assaults as bystanders attempted to intervene. Need More Context? 🔎

A blind and deaf man, Paige Johnson, critically injured in a hit-and-run at a pedestrian crossing in Rotorua, has died in Waikato Hospital. The 24-year-old was struck by a motorcyclist while walking home, and police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident while providing support to the family. Need More Context? 🔎

New Zealand has paused funding to the Cook Islands due to concerns over a controversial deal with China, confirmed by Foreign Minister Winston Peters. The funding will not resume until the Cook Islands Government takes steps to restore trust, following Prime Minister Mark Brown's recent signing of a strategic partnership with China, raising international concerns about China's influence in the Pacific. Need More Context? 🔎

The latest Ipsos NZ issues monitor survey reveals that following the Government's Budget, voters have lost confidence in the National Party's ability to manage inflation and the cost of living, favoring Labour instead. Labour is seen as more capable in addressing 11 of the top 20 issues facing New Zealand, while National only leads in three areas: the economy, crime, and defence. Need More Context? 🔎

As flames consumed their Lyttelton home, Jess and Mikey Reardon feared they had lost everything, including their 87kg St Bernard, Summit. Fortunately, after a frantic search, both Summit and their cat Ting were found safe, with the couple expressing gratitude for their survival despite losing all their belongings in the Friday 13th blaze. Need More Context? 🔎

Asahi's non-alcohol subsidiary in New Zealand, including Charlie's juices and Phoenix Organics, continues to incur losses and relies on its Japanese parent for support, recording a net loss of $7.18 million for the 2024 financial year. Since Asahi's acquisition in 2011, the Better Drinks Co has accumulated losses of $104.2 million, with total equity plummeting from $49 million in 2013 to negative $7.9 million in 2024. Need More Context? 🔎