Kiwi deemed too ill to stand trial on sex charges living on Sunshine Coast

A Christchurch man accused of multiple sex abuse offences has been found living in a popular Australian tourist spot, after previously avoiding trial due to ill health. Background of the Case Former carpet salesman Ronald Thompson, 69, was due to face trial in 2023 on 18 charges relating to alleged sexual abuse against six victims. … Read more

Temperatures across South Island’s east coast set to drop

A recent spell of warm weather across parts of the South Island is expected to be brief, with a significant temperature drop forecast for the region’s east coast, according to MetService. Temperature Plunge Expected MetService meteorologist Katie Lyons explained to 1News that a cold front originating in the Southern Ocean is moving northward and is … Read more

‘Extremely loud’ exhaust leads police to breath test Holden driver

A 56-year-traditional man is facing court charges after police were alerted to his vehicle’s excessively loud exhaust in a Christchurch shopping mall car park. The incident occurred on Wednesday at Cashel Mall, where officers on foot patrol heard a car accelerating and creating a significant noise disturbance. Details of the Incident According to police, the … Read more

Christchurch couple who found cash in ceiling to be paid $40,000

A Christchurch couple who discovered $232,440 in cash hidden in the ceiling of their home will receive $40,000 from the Crown, following a settlement endorsed by the High Court today. Discovery and Dispute The couple, who have one child, purchased the property in December 2021. In May 2022, an electrician and a homeowner discovered five … Read more

Landlord fined for renting out sheds, shipping containers

A North Canterbury landlord has been ordered to pay nearly $30,000 after renting out unlawful buildings, including sheds and shipping containers. Landlord Breached Multiple Regulations The Tenancy Tribunal found Madeleine Fee committed multiple breaches of the Residential Tenancies Act 1986. These breaches included failing to comply with the Healthy Homes Standards, obligations regarding smoke alarms, … Read more

Jetstar launches new trans-Tasman route out of Christchurch

Christchurch-Perth Flight: A Sign of Growing Trans-Tasman Connectivity Jetstar’s announcement of direct flights between Christchurch and Perth, commencing October 27, 2026, marks a significant step in bolstering travel options between New Zealand and Western Australia. The seasonal service, operating until March 27, 2027, will provide over 30,000 seats annually, catering to both leisure and potentially … Read more

Witness to Christchurch father and son dog attack: ‘It was a bloodbath’

A Christchurch father and his teenage son were hospitalized Saturday afternoon following a violent dog attack described by a friend of the dogs’ owner as a “bloodbath.” The incident occurred whereas the pair were visiting a friend in Bryndwr. Details of the Attack The boy, in his early teens, was initially attacked by two American … Read more

Two men appear in court after alleged gang shooting in Christchurch

Three men have been charged following a shooting in Christchurch on Wednesday evening. Police responded to reports of a firearm being discharged at a house on Hoani St in the Northcote suburb at approximately 9:30pm. Details of the Incident Canterbury District Commander Superintendent Tony Hill confirmed that a 19-year-old, a 31-year-old, and a 40-year-old were … Read more

Flood victims question why lake wasn’t opened

Residents of Little River, a town on the Banks Peninsula, are questioning the Christchurch City Council’s response to recent flooding, specifically why Lake Forsyth wasn’t opened to the ocean before the town was inundated. Recurring Flooding Concerns Little River experienced significant flooding during a deluge on Monday and Tuesday, marking the second time the town … Read more

Highlanders Beat Crusaders: Super Rugby Upset

Highlanders’ Upset Win Signals Shift in Super Rugby Pacific Power Dynamics The Highlanders’ stunning 25-23 victory over the reigning champion Crusaders isn’t just a feel-quality story; it’s a potential harbinger of change in Super Rugby Pacific. The win, sealed by a clutch 78th-minute penalty from Cameron Millar, underscores a growing trend: the gap between traditionally … Read more