Raw Politics picks the best and worst of 2024 – and 2025

Christopher Luxon expressed admiration for the "sheer energy, pace, and relentless drive for innovation" he observed during his recent visit to China. While he maintains a transactional approach typical of a former CEO, he also aims to build personal relationships with global leaders, including President Xi Jinping, whom he first met during a State visit in 2014. Want More Context? 🔎

Vincent Cornell-Cooke made the ultimate sacrifice by giving his lifejacket to his brother Bronson while they struggled to stay afloat after falling off a jetski in Lake Taupō. Despite efforts to keep Vincent above water, he disappeared and was later found deceased, highlighting the tragic heroism of his actions. Want More Context? 🔎

In New Zealand, the rising cost of dairy products, particularly butter, has become a significant concern, with prices nearly doubling in the past 14 months; a 500g block of butter now costs $8.60, up from $4.49 last year. Finance Minister Nicola Willis is engaging with Fonterra's CEO to understand the factors contributing to these escalating prices amidst the country's substantial dairy industry. Want More Context? 🔎

Ōrewa College, located north of Auckland, has requested help in identifying those responsible for significant damage to its sports fields caused by a vehicle on Tuesday night. The school aims to resolve the matter without police involvement and has urged anyone with information to come forward. Want More Context? 🔎

A jury found Julia DeLuney guilty of murdering her 79-year-old mother, Helen Gregory, after a series of text messages that initially appeared loving but were linked to a $10,000 loan request. The crime occurred at their home in Khandallah, Wellington, just months after the request for financial assistance. Want More Context? 🔎

The Court of Appeal has dismissed Michael Topp's appeal regarding his conviction for the murder of his 3-month-old daughter, rejecting his claims of unfair trial and attributing injuries to the infant's mother instead. Topp contended that expert witness testimony had tainted the jury's decision, but the court upheld the original ruling. Want More Context? 🔎