War for Wellington: Inside the legal fight over Wellington’s character areas

A convicted child sex offender, Hare Hiku, 43, was sentenced for indecently assaulting two women at a bus terminal in Whangārei. The incidents occurred on April 4, 2024, when Hiku forcibly kissed the victims without their consent. Need More Context? 🔎

Murder-accused-then-acquitted Philip Polkinghorne is seeking a publisher for his untitled book about his experiences following the death of his wife, Pauline Hanna, in March 2021, which he reportedly worked on during his eight-week trial in Auckland. In related news, TVNZ and Sky are competing for Olympics broadcasting rights, and TVNZ's CEO has discussed the company's financial situation. Need More Context? 🔎

A man named William John Seddon was arrested for repeatedly sexually assaulting a 6-year-old girl while reading stories to her, with police discovering a collection of 19,561 child sex abuse images at his home. Although only 71 of these images were deemed objectionable, six were classified as being in the most serious category, highlighting his disturbing behavior. Need More Context? 🔎

The Crusaders are arguably the most successful sporting franchise globally, having dominated Super Rugby since their first title in 1998, amassing 12 titles and two Aotearoa trophies. With an unmatched home playoff record of 31 wins from 31 finals, their legacy raises the question of whether they are the most impressive playoff team in any sport. Need More Context? 🔎

A man, Lovepreet Gill, 28, led police on a dangerous high-speed chase in Whangārei, reaching speeds of nearly 150 km/h and crashing into another vehicle. He has expressed his intention to return to India but must serve a sentence for two driving incidents before he can leave, with the court noting he was clocked at 140 km/h in an 80 km/h zone. Need More Context? 🔎

A six-year-old boy named Zane Milham tragically lost his life when a boat capsized off the South Taranaki coast near Pātea bar, prompting deep sorrow in his school and community. The incident occurred on Sunday morning, resulting in two fatalities and one person hospitalized, with Milham remembered for his "zest for life." Need More Context? 🔎