The Labour Party is being questioned on how it will fund health policies if capital gains tax (CGT) revenue falls short of projections. Finance spokeswoman Barbara Edmonds maintains confidence in the 3% house price growth assumption used for costings. The party plans to use CGT revenue for maternity scans, GP visits, and cervical screening.

The Australian Bureau of Meteorology has officially declared an El Niño event. Models suggest it could become one of the strongest events in the modern era.

A coronial inquest is examining the death of Stacey Warnecke, who died following a freebirth in 2025. The court heard testimony regarding delayed emergency care and the role of the 'birth keeper'.

Retailer Lincraft is closing its physical store network across Australia and New Zealand to shift to an online-only model. Approximately 300 staff will be affected by the closures.

Police executed warrants in Victoria and New South Wales to investigate the movements of the late fugitive Dezi Freeman. Two men were arrested as part of the investigation into those who may have harboured Freeman.

A former employee of the North Harbour Hockey Association is facing charges of indecent assault against two teenagers. The father of one victim filed a complaint with the Sports Integrity Commission regarding the association's failure to report the matter to police. The association's CEO allegedly claimed they could not get involved in the reporting process.

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) kept the cash rate at 4.35% on June 16, 2026. The bank warned of potential future hikes if inflation remains high.

Lambs Pharmacy on Karangahape Rd is set to close its post office service this Thursday. NZ Post selected the location for closure due to lower customer usage. Owner Suresh Rama and local supporters argue the closure ignores future growth from the City Rail Link.

High-profile psychologist Karen Nimmo has stopped individual client sessions. The Psychologist Board imposed a condition requiring her to work under supervision. A complaint from a former patient is currently under review by the Professional Conduct Committee.

Sunergise has commissioned a 5.3 MW rooftop solar system at Fisher & Paykel Healthcare's Auckland campus. The project features 8,273 modules covering 70,000 m2, making it the largest in New Zealand. Delivered under a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with no upfront capital cost for the client.

Australian media regulator ACMA and UK's Ofcom are investigating safety concerns regarding MAFS Australia. Former participants allege the show failed to disclose partners' criminal histories, including violence and drug convictions. Channel 9 and Endemol Shine Australia maintain that rigorous background checks and safety protocols are in place.

Economists lowered inflation forecasts for New Zealand following a decline in fuel and airfare prices in May. Annual inflation is still expected to exceed 4% in 2026, breaching the central bank's target. Expectations for interest rate hikes in July remain, despite the easing of some price pressures.

The Labour Party proposes free maternity scans for pregnant women as part of its 'Medicard' package. The initiative is estimated to cost $28.6 million annually, funded by a proposed capital gains tax. The package also includes three free GP visits per year and free cervical screening.

A Senate inquiry is reviewing Labor's proposed tax reforms regarding negative gearing and capital gains tax. Business groups warn of reduced housing supply, while proponents argue it will improve affordability for young Australians. The government aims to pass the legislation by July 2.

A biometric identity management project initiated in 2018 was abandoned after wasting at least $32 million. Immigration Minister Erica Stanford alleged officials used 'creative accounting' to avoid Cabinet scrutiny. The Public Service Commission and MBIE have launched investigations into the project's failure and integrity issues.

Australian authorities confiscated over 100,000 live exotic cockroaches in Bathurst, NSW. The insects, valued at AU$200,000, were intended for the pet reptile food market. The government plans to euthanize the insects to protect native biodiversity and biosecurity.

Political strategist and columnist Matthew Hooton has been appointed as the new editor-in-chief of The Post. The appointment has drawn polarized reactions from media figures and political observers. Hooton faces challenges in leading a newsroom and managing a transition in a competitive media landscape.

A 35-year-old woman was critically injured in a shark attack at Coogee Beach. Emergency drone surveillance has been approved for the area following the incident.

Indigenous scholar Tyson Yunkaporta argues that modern society's 'wrong stories' justify environmental exploitation. His book, 'Right Story, Wrong Story', advocates for 'First Law' to restore relationships between people and the land. He suggests that shifting from possession to belonging is key to a sustainable future.

The Karajarri people in northwestern Australia dedicated the Karajarri Jurarr Ngurra, the country's first Sea Country Indigenous Protected Area. The area covers 237,489 hectares of marine and coastal ecosystems, including Eighty Mile Beach. The initiative aims to protect biodiversity while recognizing Indigenous stewardship.

The number of billionaires on the NBR Rich List increased from 18 to 26. Combined wealth of the top 150 individuals reached $129 billion. Nick and Mat Mowbray retained the top spot, while Rocket Lab's Peter Beck surged to third place.

A submarine volcanic eruption near Papua New Guinea has released pumice rafts that are clogging coastal areas. Communities on Lou and Baluan islands are severely affected, with pumice layers several meters thick. The eruption, detected in May 2026, is ongoing and poses risks to marine ecosystems and local transport.

Senate committee is scrutinizing proposed changes to capital gains tax and negative gearing. Economists generally support the reforms as a step toward equity, while business groups warn of negative impacts on investment. Government is considering limited carve-outs for startups.

FCA released a report titled 'Energy Sovereignty for Regional Australia'. The report advocates for electrifying farm equipment to reduce costs and diesel dependence. Case studies suggest significant energy savings by switching from diesel to electric systems powered by on-farm solar and storage.

The 2026 Budget emphasizes fiscal restraint to address inflation and sovereign debt concerns. Economists suggest that while the government's communication is improved, structural productivity issues remain. Monetary and fiscal policies are expected to shift toward more restrictive stances.

Police confirmed that the infant found on Wairau Bar Rd on May 19 was stillborn. Authorities are seeking to locate the family and ensure the mother's welfare.

Rotorua-based tourism business 'Secret Spot Hot Tubs' is expanding to Christchurch Adventure Park. The new site is expected to open in autumn 2027.

ExxonMobil is studying potential acquisition targets, including Australia's Woodside Energy. The move aims to strengthen its position in the LNG market. The interest in LNG has increased following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Australia is experiencing a shift in labor demand toward skilled trades like electricians and plumbers. Government initiatives are focusing on vocational training to address persistent shortages in construction and infrastructure. Skilled migration is being emphasized as a necessary component to meet labor demands alongside domestic training.

Perseus Mining has increased its on-market share buy-back program by A$50 million to a total of A$150 million. The company has already completed the initial A$100 million buy-back. The decision reflects the Board's confidence in the company's balance sheet and cash flow.

Allegations against Marshal Ahluwalia have been referred to the Serious Fraud Office. The allegations involve a video showing him asking for money and campaign donations. Councillors are calling for his resignation.

Lendlease board decided to change its auditor following investigations into three KPMG Australia partners. The investigation relates to whistleblower allegations of misconduct and misuse of confidential board papers.

A Year 11 student from Rangiora High School died following a single-vehicle crash on Loburn Whiterock Rd. One person died at the scene, one is critically injured, and two others sustained moderate injuries.

Tauranga-based Ubco, which was rescued after collapsing in early 2025, has secured new fleet contracts. Australia Post has ordered 1,500 additional units, and NZ Post has placed an initial order for 106 bikes.

Rocket Lab CEO Sir Peter Beck is now the third richest New Zealander with an estimated net worth of $11 billion. Zuru founders Nick and Mat Mowbray remain the richest, with a combined worth of $20 billion. The combined wealth of the 150 richest New Zealanders reached $129 billion.

Major Australian banks predict the RBA will keep interest rates on hold at 4.35%. Inflation remains a key concern, though headline inflation has decelerated. Economists are divided on the timing of future rate cuts, with some predicting 2027.

Major business groups are calling on the government to reject proposed capital gains tax reforms. Critics argue the changes will discourage investment and harm small businesses. The government is facing pressure to consult further before proceeding with the legislation.

Opposition criticizes the 2026 Budget for failing to address productivity issues. Concerns raised over tax relief for property speculators and cuts to public services. Economic forecasts show declining growth and rising unemployment compared to previous projections.

The Supreme Court quashed the 1990 convictions of David Tamihere for the murder of two Swedish tourists. The court cited an unfair trial and the emergence of new evidence over the years. A retrial has been ordered for the case, which dates back to 1989.

The Australian government is planning a A$94 billion high-speed rail link between Sydney and Newcastle. The project aims to address housing affordability and commuting issues. The High Speed Rail Authority has been allocated a preparatory budget of US$462 million.

One Nation has surged in polls to 30% of the primary vote. The Greens remain stable at 12% overall but show strong support among Gen Z voters. Analysts suggest the Greens are struggling to connect with working-class voters.

Papakura Rugby League committee members allegedly abused a referee and spectators during an under-9 match. The match was prematurely stopped by a committee member, causing distress to young players. The Kura Saints manager issued an apology for the behavior, which has been condemned by both clubs.

Palestinians from Gaza arriving in Australia on temporary humanitarian visas face uncertainty regarding their future status. The Opposition has called for stricter scrutiny of the Gaza cohort, labeling them high-risk. The government is considering reducing the annual humanitarian intake from 20,000 to 13,750 places for the 2027-28 financial year.

Labour Party claims the Government quietly pre-allocated over a billion dollars from the 2026/27 Budget. Finance Minister Nicola Willis denies the claims, stating the provision is for potential forecast changes. The opposition is demanding transparency regarding the intended use of these funds.

Warren Sinclair is facing Environment Court proceedings for operating a plastic-burning pyrolysis plant without resource consent. The Northland Regional Council issued four abatement notices which were ignored. The judge questioned the environmental impact of the plant compared to landfilling, while the council emphasized the lack of proper air quality controls.

Shadow Home Affairs Minister Jonathon Duniam announced his intention to step away from politics later this year. The decision will trigger a reshuffle of the shadow ministry.

Opinion piece criticizing the generous superannuation scheme for New Zealand MPs. Highlights specific concerns regarding Chris Hipkins and Andy Foster's use of taxpayer-funded benefits.

A 22-year-old man was arrested after crashing into a commercial building in Palmerston North. Police discovered a loaded crossbow, four samurai swords, a machete, and other weapons in his possession.