Flash flooding in Wairoa, funnel clouds seen as storms batter North Island

Severe storms brought flash flooding to streets in Wairoa on Saturday, prompting a series of severe thunderstorm watches and heavy rain warnings across the North Island. The disruption began with a severe thunderstorm warning issued for Wairoa at 11am, renewed twice before being lifted in the early afternoon. According to MetService, conditions were “favourable for … Read more

Thieves strip heritage trains in ‘extensive’ burglary at Auckland railway

Heritage Under Siege: The Rising Threat to Historic Railways The recent burglary at Glenbrook Vintage Railway in New Zealand, where thieves stripped valuable copper and irreplaceable parts from historic locomotives, isn’t an isolated incident. It’s a stark symptom of a growing problem: the vulnerability of heritage railways to theft and vandalism. While the immediate loss … Read more

Person found dead on highway north of Auckland, police seek information

A person was found deceased on Kaipara Coast Highway in Makarau, Auckland, early this morning, prompting a police investigation and a public appeal for information. Investigation Underway Following Fatal Incident Police responded to a call at approximately 5:20 am regarding the incident. Detective Senior Sergeant Ryan Bunting stated that the person was discovered on the … Read more

Hundreds hunt for beloved runaway horse: ‘worst nightmare’

Auckland rider Erin Swainston faced a terrifying situation on Sunday when a rogue wave separated her from her horse, Scooter, on Muriwai Beach. The incident sparked a 24-hour search involving hundreds of people both online and on the ground. A Sudden Turn of Events Swainston and Scooter were enjoying a day at the beach when … Read more

Auckland rings in 2026, fireworks light up Sky Tower

Auckland’s New Year’s Display: A Glimpse into the Future of Celebratory Experiences Auckland’s spectacular 2026 New Year’s Eve celebration, featuring a dazzling fireworks display from the Sky Tower and a synchronized light show on the Harbour Bridge, wasn’t just a party – it was a preview of how cities worldwide are evolving their approach to … Read more

Power cuts, trees down as heavy rain, gales batter upper North

A powerful low-pressure system is sweeping across New Zealand, bringing widespread disruption as 2025 draws to a close. Weather alerts have been upgraded to warnings for much of the North Island and the northern South Island, threatening to impact summer plans and New Year’s Eve celebrations. Widespread Warnings and Disruptions Orange heavy rain and strong … Read more

Three fishermen rescued after boat sinks in Manukau Harbour

Three fishermen were rescued from the Manukau Harbour late last night after their boat sank. The incident occurred approximately 2km from Puketutu Island. Search and Rescue Operation The group contacted police shortly after midnight, but were initially unable to pinpoint their exact location. A search and rescue operation was immediately launched, utilizing the Police Eagle … Read more

Auckland Lotto player strikes it lucky with $5.5m Powerball prize

An Auckland resident is beginning the week significantly wealthier after winning $5.5 million in Saturday night’s Powerball draw. The winning ticket was purchased at New World Green Bay. Winning Numbers The $5.5 million prize is comprised of $5 million from Powerball First Division and an additional $500,000 from Lotto First Division. The winning numbers were … Read more

What prisoners will have on their Christmas dinner menu

New Zealand prisoners will be preparing their own Christmas meals this year, gaining hands-on experience in the kitchen under the guidance of qualified instructors. The initiative, announced by Commissioner Custodial Services Leigh Marsh, aims to provide inmates with valuable skills while ensuring a traditional holiday meal. Christmas Dinner Behind Bars For prisoners in New Zealand, … Read more

Multiple people in hospital after synthetic cannabis use in Auckland

Multiple people in Auckland have been hospitalised in the last 24 hours after using synthetic cannabinoids, leading to an urgent warning from health authorities. Rising Concerns Over Synthetic Cannabinoids The recent hospitalisations are described as “of serious concern” by the drug watchdog High Alert, and represent a growing trend of increased hospital cases linked to … Read more