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

A committee representative, Arapata Reuben, received an $8000 honorarium for not attending any of the 14 meetings over two years, with no response to contact attempts. Despite standing orders stating absences could result in removal, both councils have not acted due to an ongoing committee review. Other members, including Te Taumutu Rūnanga, Ashburton Mayor, and district councillor, have varying attendance records, with some missing multiple meetings. Full Article

FCB, MBM, and NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi have launched a new campaign called "Don't Let the Drugs Drive" to address the issue of driving under the influence of drugs in New Zealand. The campaign aims to raise awareness and challenge misconceptions about drug driving, highlighting that drugs are present in nearly a third of fatal crashes. Using technology and emotional performances, the campaign educates viewers on the serious consequences of drug driving and marks...

Isaac Redman, a Cantabrian rugby player, is venturing into American football by trialing as a kicker in Florida to pursue a college scholarship and potentially reach the NFL. Inspired by Finn Rudd's success, Redman is adapting his rugby goal-kicking skills to American football, where the ball is firmer and smaller. He aims to follow in Rudd's footsteps by studying in the US while playing football, with hopes of securing a spot on a college team...

The New Zealand immigration system is widely regarded as corrupt and a continuous scam, with various parties involved acknowledging the issues. Recent policy changes, such as the "golden visa" program, have sparked criticism for benefiting the wealthy and perpetuating corruption. Despite attempts by different political parties to address the problem, including NZ First and the Greens, no effective solutions have been implemented to control the influx of immigrants and address the underlying issues of colonization...

A University of Otago study found that New Zealand's "road lobby" uses tactics similar to the tobacco industry to obstruct transport policies favoring walking and cycling. The study analyzed submissions from various trade associations advocating for road-based transport policies, deflecting responsibility for emissions reduction onto individuals and resisting shifts towards active and public transport. These strategies were likened to those used by harmful industries to resist policies they oppose, hindering progress towards more sustainable and...

Pope Francis, elected as Pontiff in 2013, has been hospitalized in Rome due to an "asthmatic respiratory crisis" and subsequent double pneumonia in both lungs, with reports indicating he is in critical condition at 88 years old. Father John Fitzmaurice, Parish Priest at Our Lady Star of the Sea Parish in Howick, expressed gratitude for the global outpouring of support and prayers for the Pope's recovery, highlighting the unity and solidarity within the Catholic Church...