LIVE@12:45pm – Conflict Expansion and Opportunism Within a Lame-Duck Window

Vector is addressing power outages in central Auckland caused by a helium balloon and an underground cable fault, with crews working to restore power. Traffic warnings are in place for the long Anniversary weekend, with congestion reported in Auckland, Gisborne, and Waikato, including closures on State Highway 1. Music events in Tauranga, Taupō, and Whitianga are expected to contribute to road congestion during the weekend. Full Article

2025 brings a new year of local television and films, with TVNZ, Three, Whakaata Māori, and Sky/Neon showcasing a variety of content including factual shows, dramas, comedies, and returning favorites. Highlights include dramas like Tangata Pai and Secrets at Red Rocks, as well as comedies like Warren's Vortex and Vince. Documentary series such as Miriam Margolyes in New Zealand and Queer Aotearoa: We've Always Been Here offer intriguing perspectives on New Zealand's history and culture....

Regulators are investigating anti-competitive practices in sectors like petrol, groceries, construction, and bank rates, now shifting focus to other retail areas. LagardèreAWPL has gained a near-monopoly on convenience stores in New Zealand airports, recently securing an exclusive duty-free contract at Wellington Airport. The investigation raises concerns about big retailers potentially engaging in anti-competitive behavior in the shopping sector. Full Article

2024 was a year where local heroes shined, with nine Kantar Ad Impact Award monthly winners being from Kiwi brands. These ads showcased emotional storytelling, humor, and authentic insights, resonating with the local market and driving brand equity and sales. Wonky Box's 'The Wonky Box Why' took home the Supreme Ad Impact Award for its sustainable and engaging marketing, promoting food waste reduction and local agriculture. Other notable mentions include Pak'nSave's 'No Loyalty Cards' and...

Neil Brown, the current Ashburton district mayor, is taking his time to decide on a potential third term, with a final decision expected by March. Brown remains focused on his current responsibilities, including budget workshops and road funding decisions, as he navigates the final 10 months of his second term. He emphasizes the importance of delivering services to the community and addressing key issues such as water delivery reforms and the construction of a new...

The government will restructure the country's seven crown research institutes into three public research organizations, including a Bioeconomy PRO, Earth sciences PRO, and Health and Forensic Science Services PRO, as well as an advanced technology PRO. Callaghan Innovation will be dissolved, and a new Prime Minister’s Science, Innovation and Technology Advisory Council and Invest New Zealand agency will be established. The reforms aim to maximize economic value from the $1.2 billion in government funding to...