Ham wins race for Kiwi Christmas favourite

Loveni Enari reflects on his experiences in both New Zealand and Europe over the past three decades, pondering the changes in the country and the impact of personal loss. Despite plans to attend the Rugby World Cup and reconnect with family, the death of his sister-in-law causes him to reconsider his priorities and the significance of faith in Pasifika culture. As he grapples with grief and conflicting emotions, he contemplates the beauty of life and...

In a Christmas message, the author reflects on the true meaning of the holiday season, highlighting the contrast between joyous celebrations and the loneliness experienced by some. They discuss the controversy surrounding the song "Fairytale of New York" and criticize the censorship of its lyrics. Ending with a poem by James K Baxter and a toast to good health and peace, the author emphasizes the importance of independent voices in media. Full Article

Police conducted a search on Aoraki Mount Cook for missing climbers Kurt Blair and Carlo Romero, alongside an unnamed Canadian national. The search was previously called off on December 6, but due to a change in weather, a further search was conducted at a "location of interest." While the search was unsuccessful, a ski pole was found, and police remain in contact with the families as they continue the process to formally suspend the search....

A Killer Beez gang member, Joshua Baker, was sentenced to four and a half years in prison by Justice Mathew Downs at the Auckland High Court for multiple incidents involving firearms during a violent feud with the Tribesmen gang in May and June 2022. Baker, along with others, fired shots at homes in Flat Bush and Henderson, narrowly missing occupants including a woman and her young children. The judge emphasized the premeditated and gang-related nature...

Amy Walsh's 19-year-old daughter, Maia Johnston, went missing in the bushy hills surrounding Totara Park after falling down a waterfall, sparking a 42-hour search involving volunteers and police. Johnston was found with broken bones and facial injuries, but alive, bringing relief to Walsh and her family. Johnston faces multiple surgeries but is expected to recover, with a Givealittle page set up to support them during her hospital stay. Full Article

In 2024, StopPress interviewed Leisa Wall, Co-Chief Creative Officer at FCB Aotearoa, to reflect on the year and discuss upcoming trends. FCB Aotearoa celebrated long-lasting partnerships with clients like Mitre 10 and Pak n Save, utilized digital technology and AI for impactful results, and highlighted the power of storytelling in the industry. Their biggest challenge was getting a team member to wear shoes, and they look forward to continuing impactful work in 2025, particularly in...