Jayden Gerken, 19, was named the top joinery apprentice – cabinetry by the Southern Institute of Technology’s Otago and Southland master joiners award. He completed his apprenticeship in two years and two months at The Turning Point in Gore, where he works on a variety of projects including kitchens, wardrobes, and commercial jobs. Despite leaving school early, Gerken’s dedication to his craft and love for woodworking led him to be recognized as the best in his field.
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Foreign Minister Winston Peters acknowledges the U.S. assertion of acting in "collective self-defence" under the UN Charter following its bombings in Iran, while Labour and the Greens urge the New Zealand government to condemn the attacks as violations of international law. Acting Prime Minister David Seymour is expected to address New Zealand's position during today's post-Cabinet press conference. Need More Context? 🔎
Read moreAll Blacks and Blues winger Caleb Clarke has been discharged without conviction for dangerous driving during an emotional court hearing, which included support from his family. The magistrate highlighted that a conviction would have significantly affected his rugby career, and the ruling came shortly after Clarke was named in the first All Blacks squad of 2025. Need More Context? 🔎
Read moreASB has announced significant reductions in its fixed mortgage rates, aligning with other major banks; the six-month fixed rate drops by 16 basis points to 5.29%, while the one-year fixed rate decreases by 6 basis points to 4.89%. ASB's executive noted that borrowers now pay 2.5% less interest compared to 18 months ago, potentially saving $12,500 annually on a $500,000 loan. Need More Context? 🔎
Read moreAuckland is experiencing a significant rise in dog attacks, with nearly 3000 reported incidents last year, an increase of over 1000 from 2020. Experts attribute this surge to a growing dog population post-Covid, fewer desexed pets, and a lack of owner education, while the Auckland Council notes that actual attack numbers may be under-reported. Need More Context? 🔎
Read moreA buyer, Ningfei Du, successfully canceled a $10 million purchase of an Auckland mansion due to safety concerns after a landslide caused by January 2023 storms, which also resulted in a fatality nearby. The High Court ruled in March that he could recover his $1 million deposit and awarded him over $175,000 in costs. Need More Context? 🔎
Read moreKingirangi Johnson Karanga, a recent parolee, was sentenced to an additional 18 months in prison after holding a gun to his ex-partner in West Auckland, while her toddler walked into the room, urging him to leave. Judge Rebecca Guthrie highlighted the victim's vulnerability during the incident, which influenced the decision to stack the new sentence on top of his existing one for violating parole. Need More Context? 🔎
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