Trade talks a step in the right direction

The Vince Geddes In-Depth Journalism Fund, supported by the Auckland Radio Trust, aims to provide financial and editorial support to freelance journalists for producing high-quality, in-depth journalism. The fund will allocate $30,000 in 2025 through two intakes, offering three grants of $5,000 each, with applicants required to submit a one-page pitch outlining their proposed project. A panel of senior editors from The Spinoff will assess submissions based on criteria like originality, relevance, and feasibility, providing...

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached by the opposition-led parliament due to his attempt to impose martial law, leading to the possibility of his removal by the Constitutional Court in the next six months. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo became acting president, urging national security readiness amid concerns over North Korea. Yoon, facing personal scandals and low approval ratings, vowed to fight for his political future, sparking political turmoil in South Korea. Full Article

Israeli soldiers have been denied visas to enter Australia due to concerns of war crimes in Gaza, while facing no such requirements in New Zealand. Israel has a visa-waiver for three months in New Zealand, allowing soldiers to enter for "rest and recreation" from Gaza. The Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa is urging the government to suspend visas for Israeli soldiers due to alleged involvement in war crimes and genocide in Gaza. Full Article

A child has tragically died after a water-related incident at Motutawa Avalon Park in Lower Hutt, as reported by the police. The incident occurred on Saturday evening when the child was found unresponsive in a body of water and despite CPR efforts, they could not be resuscitated. The police have stated that the death will be referred to the coroner for further investigation. Full Article

Counties Manukau Police are seeking to speak with an individual regarding an assault near Manukau Institute of Technology. The assault took place on Davies Avenue on November 28, with the victim sustaining minor injuries. Anyone with information is urged to contact police with reference number 241128/9446 or provide anonymous tips through Crimestoppers. Full Article

Chris Hipkins reflects on a quiet year at the Beehive bar on Christmas Eve, sharing a drink with an old man and looking forward to the upcoming year. Christopher Luxon acknowledges the challenges of the past year and his current standing in the polls, while David Seymour boasts about his political power and dismisses indigenous voices. Winston Peters sarcastically sings "Feliz Navidad" while criticizing the hikoi protesters and advocating for respect and productivity in New...