Spark confirms job cuts as it outsources to AI, networking partner

An Auckland entertainer, 28-year-old Cole Thomas Johnston, has been charged with 12 offenses, including rape and grooming, related to a girl he met in a drama group. Johnston, an actor and musician with international experience, has denied the allegations, expressing that he is "devastated, deeply shaken and utterly shocked." Want More Context? 🔎

The Government is advancing the Marine and Coastal Area (Maca) bill, which impacts Māori customary rights to the foreshore and seabed, despite a recent Supreme Court ruling questioning its necessity. Treaty Negotiations Minister Paul Goldsmith confirmed plans to pass the bill by the end of October, following a 2023 Court of Appeal decision that criticized the stringent requirements for Māori to obtain customary marine title. Want More Context? 🔎

The New Zealand wine industry is set to face significant challenges due to US President Donald Trump's recent decision to increase tariffs on exports from New Zealand to 15%, impacting the sector worth approximately $750 million annually. NZ Winegrowers' advocacy general manager, Sarah Wilson, expressed concerns about the substantial adverse effects this will have on local wine growers. Want More Context? 🔎

Auckland's CBD is experiencing a revitalization with significant projects like the $5.5 billion City Rail Link and the $1 billion New Zealand International Convention Centre nearing completion. However, many sites remain vacant, some for nearly four decades, raising concerns about the city's development and the fate of planned projects that are delayed or abandoned. Want More Context? 🔎

A friend of Canadian woman Helen Poon, who died in a crash due to damaged road signs and markings at a vandalised intersection, condemned the actions of those responsible for the destruction. Margareta Dovgal emphasized the severe consequences of such reckless behavior, urging individuals to understand the critical importance of maintaining traffic safety infrastructure. Want More Context? 🔎

The family of a woman charged in a shocking case involving a toddler found in a bus's luggage hold expressed surprise, claiming they were unaware of the incident until approached by the media. The tight-knit Northland community is in disbelief, as the accused is from a well-known local family and was previously viewed as a bright and promising individual. Want More Context? 🔎