New Zealand

On day 12 of the Treaty principles bill hearings, the Justice Committee heard submissions totaling five hours. Former Act Party MP Donna Awatere Huata cancelled her submission, while opposition to the bill was voiced by Tauranga Māori Business Association chair Leone Farquhar, Mana Moana’s Nuhisifa Seve-Williams and Tevita Ka’ili, former Māori Party co-leader Marama Fox, activist Tāme Iti, Mark Steel of the Legislative Design and Advisory Committee, and representatives from Epilepsy Waikato Charitable Trust and Kindergartens Aotearoa, all citing concerns over systemic inequities and the bill's potential impact on Māori communities. Full Article

Auckland FC has partnered with My Food Bag for the next three seasons, aiming to enhance game day experiences and community engagement. The partnership will bring exclusive surprises to fans, such as foodie giveaways and unique match day experiences. Auckland FC's Chief Executive and My Food Bag's CEO express enthusiasm for the collaboration, offering fans the chance to Claim Their Steak with a free eye fillet steak offer if the Knights win their upcoming match against Adelaide United FC. Full Article

New Zealand Rural Games, the largest celebration of rural sports, returns for its 10th edition in Palmerston North from March 6th to 9th, 2025, featuring world-class athletes like Jack Jordan and exciting championships in various sports. The event offers a mix of historical games, new activities, and special guests like Olympians and Ministers, all while remaining free to attend thanks to sponsor support. Attendees can enjoy exclusive merchandise, axe throwing, relaxation zones, and more, making it a must-visit for rural sports enthusiasts and families. Full Article

Tim Gow, a Southland breeder, credits his uncle Dr. Scott Dolling for guiding the success of his Shire breed of hair sheep at Mangapiri Downs Organic Stud Farm. Originally running Wiltshires for their hardiness but messy wool shedding, a throwback ram lamb with coarse hair led Dolling to encourage Gow to import German Mutton breeds to cross with his line. By 2011, the trademarked Shire breed proved dominant, known for its strength, longevity, and ability to thrive in harsh conditions, attracting interest from breeders nationwide and abroad. Full Article

Property owners in Ashburton may see a slight decrease in rates rise, with initial workshops suggesting a 9.8% average increase for the 2025/26 year, down from last year's 11.8%. The council is exploring cost-saving measures, particularly in the roading budget, to potentially lower rates further. Final decisions on rates and budget adjustments will be made in upcoming workshops and meetings in March and April. Full Article

Made in New Zealand features McKee Plastics, a company founded in 1975 by William Douglas McKee, focusing on producing durable, locally made agricultural products such as Calf Feeders and water troughs. Based in Feilding, they recently expanded their product range to include steel farm trailers and spray units, aiming to strengthen their national presence and sustainability efforts over the next three to ten years. Full Article

The Lancet Global Health Commission on Medical Oxygen Security highlights the urgent need for improved access to medical oxygen worldwide, especially in low and middle-income countries where the majority of those in need do not receive it. The Commission emphasizes the importance of collective intent, actionable plans, and funding to address this critical issue and prevent unnecessary deaths. With a global commitment to implementing national oxygen plans and securing necessary funding, it is possible to ensure that everyone who requires oxygen treatment can access it, ultimately saving lives and preventing future health crises. Full Article

The Grey Goose, a talented mare, faces a challenge in match fitness as she returns to the track after a hoof issue sidelined her for nearly 100 days. Trainer Jo-Ann Gordon acknowledges the tough competition in the $220,000 White Robe Lodge Weight For Age race at Wingatui, with the weight-for-age conditions and strong field posing additional hurdles for the mare. Despite lacking match fitness and the preference for wet tracks, Gordon remains optimistic about The Grey Goose's chances in the race. Full Article

Canterbury’s regional council aims to limit the average rates increase to 9.9% in their draft 2025/26 annual plan, with some areas in Mid Canterbury facing a higher rise of 17%. Despite a 15-1 vote in favor of the plan, Mid Canterbury councillor Ian Mackenzie expressed concern over the disproportionate impact on certain regions, suggesting the need for further discussion on reducing the rate rise by deferring projects. Changes in public transport investment were attributed to reduced central Government funding, with consultation on the draft plan open until April 3 and hearings scheduled for May. Full Article

Thousands of New Zealanders flocked to Auckland for KFC's limited edition Kentucky Fish & Chips, raising $40,000 for Surf Life Saving New Zealand. The idea originated as an April Fools joke and was brought to life as a fundraising pop-up event offering Tarakihi battered in KFC's secret herbs and spices. Despite overwhelming demand and sold-out stock, the campaign successfully supported Surf Life Saving New Zealand with funds for training and operational costs. Full Article