Conservation Minister Tama Potaka is facing backlash over amendments to a bill aimed at protecting 19 areas of Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf, allowing commercial fishers to continue using ring nets. Meanwhile, Australia is taking steps to protect over half of its ocean space by 2030, including the establishment of a high seas marine protection area and restrictions on seamount trawling in the South Pacific. Despite criticism, Australia’s efforts in nature repair are commendable, while New Zealand’s hesitation on conservation measures has raised concerns about its commitment to environmental stewardship.
Full Article
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s press secretary resigns amid allegations of recording sex workers
The deputy chief press secretary to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Michael Forbes, has resigned following serious allegations against him. Reports indicate he allegedly recorded audio and took photographs of women in compromising positions without their consent. While Forbes declined to be interviewed, he issued a statement apologizing to the women affected and acknowledging the harm caused; a police complaint was filed last year after concerning images and recordings were found on a client's phone in...
Read more