Returning to a different New Zealand after 32 years away

A man accused of stealing vital equipment from a rescue helicopter is now facing three additional burglary charges and appeared in court with an unusual sovereign-citizen speech, challenging the court's jurisdiction. He was remanded in custody until next month, with mental-health reports requested. The defendant is accused of various thefts and burglaries, including unlawfully taking vehicles and stealing goods from multiple businesses in Dunedin. Full Article

A road rage incident at a Woolworths carpark in Wainuiomata left a man seriously injured, leading to the arrest of a 23-year-old man charged with wounding with intent. Police are seeking information from witnesses, including occupants of a Toyota Corolla and another vehicle who attempted to calm those involved. The vehicle involved has been seized for forensic examination, and anyone with information is urged to contact Police or Crimestoppers anonymously. Full Article

Fire crews from Beachlands, Clevedon, and Otara responded to a grass fire in Whitford sparked by downed powerlines, burning a 10x20 meter area on Whitford-Maraetai Road; two fire trucks and a water tanker were deployed, with the fire extinguished at 3.27am and monitored until powerlines were de-energized. No buildings or property were damaged in the incident. Full Article

Some aspects of next year’s Waitangi commemorations may be moved back down to Te Tii Marae, as both political and Māori leaders believe it is an appropriate place for political debates. The move is supported by Waitangi Treaty Grounds Trust chair Pita Tipene, who believes the lower marae is significant for discussions and debates, as it was where the initial conversations took place in 1840. Despite past controversies and political tensions at the marae, there...

Inundated with end-of-year reading lists, the summer holidays led to a diverse array of reading choices for many. Some highlights include Una Cruickshank's "The Chthonic Cycle," exploring organic gems through captivating essays, Vivek Shanbhag's novella "Ghachar Ghochar," delving into family dynamics and hidden truths, and Danielle Hawkins' "Take Two," a charming romance set in rural New Zealand. Andrea Vance's "Blue Blood" offers a concise overview of Aotearoa's political landscape, while Barbara Comyns' "Who Was Changed...

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