Christmas family fare | Otago Daily Times Online News

NZME has partnered with BBC Studios to represent their premium podcasts in New Zealand, adding to their extensive library of local and international content. This partnership allows NZME to offer BBC Studios' shows like Global News Podcast and Football Daily to their audience and advertisers. BBC Studios chose NZME for their market influence and expertise, following a recent collaboration with Triton Digital in the digital audio industry. Full Article

Trainee electrician Bradley Carl Payne was fined $10,000 by the New Plymouth District Court for unsupervised electrical work that endangered lives. In March 2022, Payne installed conductors and fittings to a shipping container in south Taranaki, leaving an exposed live wire that shocked the property owner. Judge Tony Greig found Payne guilty of two charges of unauthorized prescribed electrical work and one charge of negligently endangering life, emphasizing the importance of expertise and qualifications in...

The Metservice has issued weather warnings for Auckland, including heavy rain and strong winds, with a possibility of 75-85km/h winds between 10am and 4pm today. The New Zealand Transport Agency has also issued a strong wind warning for Auckland Harbour Bridge, urging caution for motorists and preparation for possible lane closures. Auckland Emergency Management advises residents to secure outdoor items, check drains, and be cautious while driving in heavy rain to ensure safety during the...

University of Auckland senior lecturer Dr Amy Lovell is researching the impact of good nutrition on survival rates for children with cancer, with a focus on the importance of nutrient-rich foods like fruit and vegetables. Her work aims to develop national guidelines for nutrition for children with cancer, addressing challenges such as malnutrition during treatment and the risks associated with being underweight or overweight. The guidelines will empower families to make healthy food choices and...

Shane Reti, previously in the health portfolio, was demoted by Christopher Luxon due to poor polling and challenges in the healthcare system. Despite his background as a GP, his lack of ministerial confidence and vision contributed to his downfall. Past careers do not always translate to success in politics, as demonstrated by successful politicians like Helen Clark and Bill English who had extensive political backgrounds. Full Article

Auckland Transport spent $3.5 million on advertising in 2024, facing criticism for prioritizing marketing over public service, with campaigns like 'Bus to the Mall' drawing backlash. Mayor Wayne Brown emphasized the importance of service delivery over branding, leading to government reforms aiming to return transport decision-making to elected representatives. Despite fare increases, AT's initiatives like the 'Pothole Promise' have seen success in addressing public needs efficiently and cost-effectively. Full Article