How the Forbes scandal exposed flaws in NZ’s security clearance system – Thomas Coughlan

A female education worker in Auckland has been charged with sexually abusing three boys over a decade, facing up to 20 years in prison if convicted. Appearing in Waitākere District Court, she is accused of offenses involving a 12-year-old and two 14-year-olds, with two charges related to alleged grooming. Want More Context? 🔎

A woman claims her surgeon "overserviced" her nose by persuading her to undergo unnecessary surgery, resulting in a collapsed nostril. She reported feeling humiliated when the doctor refused to discuss the complications, and she later raised concerns with the Health and Disability Commissioner about inadequate risk information and poorly informed pre-surgery tests. Want More Context? 🔎

Leiann Rae Davis, 59, was found unresponsive in her Parnell apartment on Cracroft St after emergency services were called on Thursday night, and she was pronounced dead at the scene. Remembered as a “nice” and “generous” person by her friend Carole Sanford, her death is currently being treated as “unexplained.” Want More Context? 🔎

Candace describes her 12-year-old son Holt and 10-year-old daughter Chase as resilient after the family relocated from Denver, Colorado to Queenstown, New Zealand, escaping rising hostility towards the LGBTQ community in the U.S. The move was prompted by concerns for Chase's welfare as a transgender child amid fears of adverse changes under a potential Trump presidency. Want More Context? 🔎

The winner of the $20 million Powerball draw has claimed their prize, with a person from Christchurch purchasing the winning ticket through MyLotto. This lucky player is now $20,250,000 richer, which includes a quarter share of Lotto First Division, alongside the winning numbers of 19, 21, 11, 35, 6, 33, and the Powerball of 3. Want More Context? 🔎

Plans for a three-storey housing development for individuals in need in Pāpāmoa have faced opposition from neighbors frustrated by a lack of input, following the Tauranga City Council's approval of a non-notified resource consent for a 36-unit project on Beachwater Drive. Backed by the Bay of Plenty Housing Equity Fund, developer Archispace is expected to complete the project by the end of next year. Want More Context? 🔎