New Zealand

The global conservative backlash is leading to setbacks in women's rights, with gender disparities worsening and legal protections lagging behind. In the US, the overturning of Roe v Wade threatens abortion rights, while initiatives like Project 2025 aim to restrict reproductive health services. Online abuse and harassment against women are also on the rise, impacting mental health and safety. Women in New Zealand are not immune to these challenges, with concerns about potential restrictions on abortion and toxic masculinity contributing to the erosion of women's rights. Full Article

Gabi Lardies explores Auckland, rediscovering the city's hidden gems and cultural spots, reflecting on her past experiences in London and the colonial mindset. The Auckland Arts Festival showcases local talent, highlighting Aotearoa's real cities and people. Behind the Story discusses the ethical choices faced by those with hereditary conditions when starting a family, with a personal touch from journalist Liam Rātana. Full Article

Emily Scovell organized a panel discussion with female leaders to encourage conversations about AI on International Women's Day, addressing the lower adoption rate of AI by women compared to men. She views AI as a helpful co-worker in her role as Chief Strategy Officer at Group M, emphasizing the importance of experimenting with AI tools and actively working against gender disparities in AI adoption. Scovell recommends incorporating AI into both personal and professional life, normalizing its use within the organization, and understanding its limitations and biases. Full Article

Publicis Groupe has agreed to acquire Lotame, a leading identity solution provider with a vast global data marketplace, to enhance its AI strategy. The acquisition will merge Lotame's extensive data sources and identity solution with Publicis Groupe's profiles, enabling clients to reach 91% of internet users with personalized messaging. Lotame will join Epsilon, expanding global identity coverage, expertise, and regional product focus, while the deal is expected to close in the second quarter of 2025. Full Article

The former Outram Primary School infant building, located at the Taieri Historical Society’s museum, has undergone extensive renovations to restore its appearance. Funding for the upgrades was secured through grants and donations, with local contractors carrying out much of the painting and repairs. The preservation of this historic structure, dating back to the 1800s, will ensure its legacy for future generations to enjoy. Full Article

The Ashburton Pipe Band is sending a group of newcomers to compete at the 2025 New Zealand Pipe Band Championships in Invercargill. Pipers Charlotte McDowell and Nickola Forde, along with side drummers Ma’ake Vaipulu and Tisi Vaipulu, are all under 12 and will be participating in the street march event for the first time. Despite their age, the band is proud of their progress and looks forward to their future growth in all three competition categories. Full Article

The Ashburton district council plans to invest $20,000 in a Flock-Off bird deterrent system to address pigeon issues at Te Whare Whakatere, the new $62.1m library and civic centre. Chief executive Hamish Riach states the technology will offset cleaning costs of $15,000 annually, with a payback period of 18 months, and may be expanded to other council buildings if successful. The system uses electromagnetic pulses to deter birds harmlessly, with no danger to the public, pets, or birds themselves. Full Article

A power outage at Auckland's Greenlane Clinical Centre resulted in the deferral of 50 surgical procedures and 85 outpatient appointments due to a water leak damaging circuit boards in Building Four. Health New Zealand's acting director mentioned patient care being affected, with three floors impacted, including the surgical unit. Efforts are ongoing to restore full operational capacity at the clinic. Full Article

Health Minister Simeon Brown will be speaking at an invite-only Health Forum in Auckland after a week of rapid-fire announcements. Hosted by BusinessNZ, the forum is expected to feature more announcements and insights into the future of healthcare under Brown's leadership. Brown's speech will conclude a busy week of engagements and interactions with various stakeholders in the healthcare sector. Full Article

James (Jim) Grenon, a Canadian billionaire residing in New Zealand, has acquired a significant shareholding in NZME and proposed to remove current directors and appoint new ones, with support from 37% of shareholders. Grenon's previous ventures, The Centrist and NZNE, focus on trans rights, Treaty coverage, and vaccine issues, challenging mainstream news agendas. This move has caused fear and instability within NZME, raising concerns about the future direction of the media company under Grenon's influence. Full Article