Treaty principles bill hearings, day four: Former PM, former minister say scrap it

Police are treating the death of 65-year-old Simon Bird in Wellington as a homicide after he was found outside his home. Detective Inspector Nick Pritchard stated that Bird's body was discovered following a welfare check by a friend, with police now investigating his movements leading up to his death. Authorities are appealing for information from anyone who had contact with Bird recently and have recovered his vehicle for forensic examination, reassuring the public of their...

A weeks-long freshwater case between Ngāi Tahu and the Crown concluded with closing submissions accusing the Crown of being adversarial and dismissive of rangatiratanga claims. Ngāi Tahu argued for legal recognition of chiefly authority over freshwater, highlighting degradation of waterways and the need for cooperation in managing water resources. If declarations are made, it could lead to a new regime co-designed by Ngāi Tahu and the Crown, with potential for future negotiations and legislative changes...

The decision on new public toilets in Ashburton Cemetery is on hold after a tied vote between councillors. Options included building a new facility in the cemetery center for $288,345 or on both sides for $598,944, with Mayor Brown initially suggesting no toilet at all. Councillors voted 5-5 on the center option, but the decision was postponed pending more information on usage and funding, to be presented at the next council meeting. Full Article

The US president announced a global tariff programme imposing new import duties on nearly every trading partner, with a baseline 10% tariff on all goods, including New Zealand. The policy will dramatically raise prices at home, sparking market turmoil and concerns of global retaliation. Despite the impact, countries are already building new trade relationships that bypass the US, signaling a shift in the world trade order. Full Article

Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay emphasizes New Zealand's commitment to free trade amidst the announcement of a 10% tariff on goods entering the United States. Despite the potential impact on consumers, McClay asserts that New Zealand remains competitive in the U.S. market and will continue to pursue new trade opportunities while advocating for a rules-based trading system. He highlights the importance of understanding the consequences of tariffs on the global economy and plans to...

The 2025 Cleveland National Art Awards in Dunedin feature 220 selected works by artists from New Zealand, with a prize pool of $18,000 awarded across four categories. Dean Raybould's gHosttrunk won the supreme award, and other winners include Mark Graver, Innocenza Toritto, Samantha Sutherland, and Joel Potter. The exhibition runs until April 26, with free entry and works available for purchase, along with a People's Choice Award with a $1000 prize. Full Article