Ben Morgan’s Pacific Update: Australia announces $ 4.7 billion missile purchase

A local Queenstown group, MYDC, partnered with The Komunal Cafe to host iftar dinners during Ramadan, fostering inclusivity and community spirit. Attendees from all over Queenstown gathered to break fast together, with Muslims and non-Muslims enjoying Malaysian dishes and expressing gratitude for the positive experience. The organisation, focused on youth development, continues to empower young people through entrepreneurial opportunities and community engagement beyond Ramadan. Full Article

The Pams Afghan Oat Baked Bars have been recalled due to potential metal contamination during production. Consumers are advised not to consume the affected batch with Best Before date of 16/01/2026 and to return it for a refund or discard it. The products were sold at various stores nationwide, have been removed from shelves, and there have been no reported injuries, with investigations ongoing to prevent similar incidents. Full Article

Federated Farmers supports a review of genetic technology legislation, emphasizing the importance of protecting a farmer's right to choose whether to use it. Feds president Wayne Langford presented the organization's diverse views to the parliamentary health select committee, highlighting the need for controls to prevent the spread of GE organisms onto properties of farmers who do not want it. The focus is on finding a pathway forward that respects individual farmers' choices while considering the...

Police are treating the death of 65-year-old Simon Bird in Wellington as a homicide after he was found outside his home. Detective Inspector Nick Pritchard stated that Bird's body was discovered following a welfare check by a friend, with police now investigating his movements leading up to his death. Authorities are appealing for information from anyone who had contact with Bird recently and have recovered his vehicle for forensic examination, reassuring the public of their...

Environment Canterbury's former chair criticized his colleagues for allowing staff to continue planning work despite impending legislative changes, labeling them as 'acting like emus'. While some councillors argued that the work should proceed as directed in the long-term plan, councillor Peter Scott expressed concerns about potential wasted resources in light of impending Resource Management Act reforms. The council ultimately decided to continue work on updating the Canterbury Regional Coastal Environment Plan, incorporating recent Government announcements...

A weeks-long freshwater case between Ngāi Tahu and the Crown concluded with closing submissions accusing the Crown of being adversarial and dismissive of rangatiratanga claims. Ngāi Tahu argued for legal recognition of chiefly authority over freshwater, highlighting degradation of waterways and the need for cooperation in managing water resources. If declarations are made, it could lead to a new regime co-designed by Ngāi Tahu and the Crown, with potential for future negotiations and legislative changes...