Charities no place for politics

While you enjoy a long weekend break, catch up on some of the best stories of 2025 so far. From beauty to new books, divorce to David Seymour’s school lunches, and new uniforms to semi-naked firefighters, NZME’s Premium Lifestyle, Entertainment and Viva writers bring you insights you won’t find anywhere else, in 22 of our best stories of 2025 so far. For Meadowlark, running a decades-long New Zealand fine jewellery brand requires being made of...

Thousands hospitalized due to severe sandstorm in IraqThis week, Iraq experienced its most severe sandstorm of 2025, resulting in an orange haze that significantly reduced visibility and caused travel disruptions, including halted flights at two major airports. Thousands sought medical attention for respiratory issues, as the massive dust cloud, originating from Saudi Arabia, swept into the country, also affecting Kuwait with wind gusts over 50mph. While dust storms are common in the region, the climate...

Fire crews are battling a blaze in a three-storey apartment building in Henderson, West Auckland. Ten fire trucks and two ladder trucks are on site, with no reported injuries. Roads are blocked and police are controlling traffic as residents watch from the street. Fire crews are responding to a significant fire in West Auckland, with emergency services alerted around 8:24 PM. Roads have been closed, and residents have gathered outside to observe the situation. Fortunately,...

SummaryKevin Barry, a dedicated member of the Western Springs Speedway safety crew, tragically died in a workplace accident at a Whangārei location. In his 60s, Barry was celebrated for his generosity and had served in this role for decades, earning him great popularity among friends and colleagues. A Givealittle page has been established to assist with funeral expenses and support his family during this difficult time. Full Article

SummaryCommunity tensions are rising in Palmerston North regarding the impending release of convicted double-murderer Mark Lundy, who is set to be paroled in May. Lundy was convicted in 2002 for the brutal murders of his wife, Christine, and daughter, Amber, in 2000, with a retrial in 2015 affirming the life sentence with a minimum term of 20 years. The city's mayor has expressed that the community does not want Lundy back, highlighting the ongoing impact...

SummaryMark Lundy, who has been convicted twice for the murders of his wife Christine and daughter Amber, is set to be released on parole next month after spending over 23 years in prison. At 66 years old, he maintains his innocence and faces the challenge of reintegrating into a post-Covid society, as noted by a friend who suggests he will initially feel nervous in public until he becomes just another "faceless" stranger. The brutal killings...