New Zealand Newspapers

School chemical blown up

A loud boom put an end to a near sevenhour emergency situation following the discovery of an “unstable” chemical at New Plymouth Boys’ High School yesterday. Students were evacuated to school fields just after 9am, when a science teacher discovered...

Will Tararua survive Govt’s ultimatum?

Amayor elected seven months ago is questioning whether his district will exist after the Government’s amalgamation ultimatum. Tararua District Council Mayor Scott Gilmore says it’s a question the council needs to ask itself. It comes after the...

881 ATTACKS ONLY 8 PROSECUTED IN 5 YEARS

More than 800 dog attacks were reported to Tauranga City Council in the past five years – but fewer than 1% resulted in prosecutions. Data obtained by the Bay of Plenty Times shows 881 dog attack complaints were made to the council in the past five...

‘Incredibly unlikely’

Afuture Bay of Plenty super council dominated by Tauranga is “incredibly unlikely”, Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell says. It comes as rural leaders are concerned major local government reform could dilute smaller communities’ voices. Western Bay of Plenty...

From ‘scared’ child to legendary mountaineer

Before ascending mountains from Antarctica to the Andes to Himalaya, Sir Graeme Dingle was once a “painfully shy” child from Gisborne. The acclaimed Kiwi explorer has shared memories from a childhood in Gisborne as he launches a fundraising initiative...

Brush strokes and blood tests:

With a several months’ long hospital stay ahead, Paul Gadsby plans to take an easel and paints with him to help pass the time. But first, the Masterton-based artist is holding an exhibition of his current works as a fundraiser for New Zealand’s...

Kiwi breaks speed barrier

Local Mason Holden plunged head first in a free fall through the sky of about 2km that took just 25 seconds, reaching a top recorded speed of 467.98km/h as he fell. That feat set a new national speed skydiving record. Plummeting that fast is “a...

Amalgamation ‘backstop’

While councils scramble to meet the Government’s tight deadline for amalgamation plans, there appears to be an open-ended timeframe for forced plans. Wairarapa councils are racing against the clock to come up with proposals to comply with the...

Street racer activity ‘relentless’

Residents in the north Waikato town of Waiterimu fear someone will be seriously hurt as ongoing street racer activity plagues the area with sleepless nights, dangerous driving and property damage. The rural settlement, northeast of Huntly, was...

Lumsden leads pub revival

Lumsden has been a town with no beer – but the taps are finally flowing again as the community and visiting tourists raise a glass to the revival of its historic hotels. The change is part of a larger trend across the region where communities are...

Speaking conference attracts overseas visitors

There was plenty of talking when more than 100 toastmasters – including eight international visitors – gathered in Timaru at the weekend. The annual Toastmasters District 72 Conference was held at the Caroline Bay Hall on Saturday and Sunday and...

More public service reform

Finance Minister Nicola Willis will use a pre-Budget speech today to launch a new wave of public service reform, including slashing the number of Government agencies, driving public servant headcount down and leaning heavily into digitisation and AI...

CALL TO HONOUR SUFFRAGE ICON

Whanganui District Council has been called on to acquire a historic church site and turn it into “a fitting memorial” for a women’s suffrage icon. During hearings on the council’s 2026/27 annual plan, Mark Ward made a public submission saying St...

‘We’re really lucky it wasn’t worse’

AWhangārei mother is raising concerns about bullying after her son was allegedly attacked by a group of students from his school. Principals say they take bullying seriously and work to ensure student safety. A Year 11 Whangārei Boys’ High School...

Tears as Tasker found guilty

The children and husband of Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming fought to hold back their tears as they stood together outside Christchurch High Court after her killer was found guilty of murder. Hayden Tasker deliberately rammed Fleming and her colleague,...

Army unveils new homes

The importance of secure and stable housing for military families has been brought home at a ceremony marking the completion of eight new homes at Linton Military Camp. The Defence Force officially opened the doors to the three and four-bedroom homes...

New tolls and Katikati Bypass to be considered

New tolls will be explored for New Zealand’s most-tolled region under a new agreement between Western Bay of Plenty councils and the Government. The long-discussed Katikati Bypass is also on the agenda, earmarked for funding from asset sales. The...

Kawakawa speed hump modified after complaints

AKawakawa speed hump criticised by motorists and discussed at a recent Regional Transport Committee meeting has been modified after concerns over its design and impact on vehicles. At a recent transport committee meeting, concerns were raised with NZ...

Books

Ockham winners announced, Witi Ihimaera’s te reo journey, real-life(ish) encounters with UFOs, YA folk horror from Rachael King and an essay collection that flies in

WHIP UP YOUR OWN TAKEAWAY FAVES

35 EA$Y WAYS TO $AVE MONEY

Wonderful WINDSORS

Garden party season is underway for the royals, with the Prince and Princess of Wales taking their turn to host one of the traditional soirées in the grounds of Buckingham Palace. While senior members stepped out to attend, it was the Windsor women...

A story of real INSPIRATION

Paralysed from the chest down after a summer beach accident, Noah Berkeley is confronting the realities of a life forever changed. But the determined 16-year-old says his focus remains firmly on recovery, resilience and what comes next

Coastguard slipway step closer to launch

An art auction and soirée fundraiser to fix Coastguard Sumner’s slipway has raised about $20,000. Rockfall and silt have built up sat its rescue boat slipway since the earthquakes, severely limiting its ability to launch the all-weather rescue vessel...

Youngster takes a detour from humpback highway

The first humpback whale of the season has been spotted swimming close to the Akaroa township. Akaroa Dolphins posted video of the sighting in the harbour to its Facebook page on Saturday. “With the great humpback migration now in full swing, we were...

Coastguard slipway step closer to launch

An art auction and soiree fundraiser to fix Coastguard Sumner’s slipway has raised about $20,000. Rockfall and silt have built up at its rescue boat slipway since the earthquakes, severely limiting its ability to launch the all-weather rescue vessel...

Coastguard slipway step closer to launch

An art auction and soirée fundraiser to fix Coastguard Sumner’s slipway has raised about $20,000. Rockfall and silt have built up at its rescue boat slipway The Star, January 23, 2025 since the earthquakes, severely limiting its ability to launch the...

HOW WE TRAVEL

Because it is important for our journalists to have first-hand experience, it can be necessary to accept assistance from travel operators. However, we never promise positive coverage in return.

Council is ‘losing touch’

Frustration over rising rates, mounting debt and council leadership boiled over at a public hearing over Tasman’s future. At the Annual Plan hearing held at Tasman District Council (TDC) on Thursday, residents accused the organisation of financial...

Quiz

1. Which NZ film-maker received an honorary Palme d’Or at Cannes? 2. Which pop star is representing Australia at Eurovision: A) Kylie Minogue; B) Natalie Imbruglia; C) Delta Goodrem; or D) Jimmy Barnes? 3. Who’s this “tattooed Pom”, pictured, who...

AFROBITE NZ’S DOMBOLO BUNNY CHOW

“Food has always been my way of telling stories and bringing people together,” says Justina Bain, chef and owner of the newly-launched Cromwell food truck, AfroBites NZ. Bain grew up in Eswatini in a bicultural (Swazi and Mozambican) household and...

Rest easy: A buyer’s guide to modern beds

A QUICK TRIP BACK IN TIME We haven’t always had the luxury of foam and springs. Early humans slept on piles of leaves and branches to stay off the cold ground. By the Roman era, the wealthy stuffed cloth bags with feathers, while everyone else made do...

BROOKE’S BABY

At the end of 2025, Brooke van Velden began thinking about not returning to Parliament. She decided to step aside but was advised by the party to take the summer to make sure. Van Velden didn’t change her mind and in March announced she would retire at...

KARORI

Tender Closing 20 May 2026 at 1pm Open Home Sunday, 11am-11.30am Character features are showcased throughout, including ornate ceilings and beautiful window detailing, while thoughtful upgrades ensure modern ease: a DVS system, underfloor heating, a...

‘I have spent 7 years angry’

The health sector watchdog is apologising and reopening a woman’s complaint after her case received public attention and the Government lauded her advocacy work. It follows the Herald exclusively reporting the details of Charlotte’s allegations of...

Clean living: Protect precious assets

Your new home is pristine, and you want to keep it that way, but each surface needs specific care to look its best. The wrong products can damage expensive finishes, turning a tidy-up into a costly mistake. Read how to clean and protect key surfaces...

Firefighters’ issues continue to smoulder

Gisborne firefighters have highlighted disruptions with some station facilities as nationwide calls continue for a public inquiry into Fire and Emergency funding decisions. Improvements at the Gisborne Fire Station are being made to prepare for the...

MOUNT PLEASANT

287 Cannon Hill Crescent Price: $1,899,000 Open home: May 17, 3.15pm-3.45pm Agents: Brendan Hart 027 510 6525 Cameron Bailey 027 555 7079 Harcourts 6old Licensed Agent REAA 2008 • Stunning architectural residence with sweeping city-to-Southern Alps...

PLUS

Fade Away “I would never fade away on you” will be in your head all day. Lady Marmalade The collab that gave us, “Gitchie, gitchie, ya-ya, da-da”. Out of Reach Remains the go-to song for staring wistfully out a rainy window. Broken Wings The...

Lady Marmalade

The collab that gave us, “Gitchie, gitchie, ya-ya, da-da”.

How to paint your skirting boards like a pro

Skirting boards may just seem like a decorative ribbon wrapped around your room, but they also serve an important purpose in your home, protecting your walls from kicks, scuffs and scrapes. Learn how to paint your skirting boards like a pro for maximum...

Quiz

1 In English, what season is raumati? 2 The Rhine Falls, often described as Europe’s most powerful waterfall, are in which country? 3 Rugby union’s Admiral Brown Cup is awarded to the winner of test matches between which two countries? 4...

Residents raise concerns over $110m loan for port upgrades

Marlborough ratepayers have been weighing up the pros and cons of Port Marlborough taking out a $110 million loan to fund port upgrades ahead of new ferries arriving in 2029. On Wednesday, residents put their questions to staff from the Marlborough...

History-making Japan tour for FAHS first XV

Feilding High School’s first XV have returned from the SANIIX World Rugby Youth Tournament in Japan with more than just international rugby experience under their belts. Coach Justin Lock said the tour was a massive success with the team experiencing...

EDITOR’S LETTER

How many cop dramas with two female leads can you name? One that springs to mind is Cagney & Lacey, a programme from the 1980s about New York detectives, Christine Cagney (Sharon Gless) and Mary Beth Lacey (Tyne Daly). Two more recent series are Vigil...

‘It will ease pressure’

Waikato’s new acute mental health facility is nearing completion, with interior work now underway after the building was fully enclosed and made weather-tight. The new adult acute inpatient facility, which will replace the ageing Henry Rongomau...

A retro charmer

This solid, very spacious 1980s brick and aluminum unit is packed with possiblity. You’ll be delighted with the sunny lightfilled, generous, open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area, and the practical kitchen layout with excellent bench space and...

Funding boost for camp

Once restored, the buildings will house a museum displaying artefacts from archaeological work on the site. The trust aims to have the current stages largely completed within the next 18 months, although full public opening of the restored buildings...

‘We wanted to get married while I could still walk’ Unexpected diagnosis stuns couple

When Thomas Cockburn saw a neurologist in September he thought it was just another step in his recovery from lingering calf and back injuries. The 28-year-old had been kept out of the rugby season, where he played lock for Springston, and had seen...

Birthing unit work to begin

The longawaited Clyde birthing unit was not mentioned in the government’s just announced clinical services plan for Central Otago and the Queenstown Lakes but Health New Zealand says it is progressing. An Ettrick mother says the births of her two...

HOW RAGLAN LANDED THE WORLD’S BIGGEST SURFING COMPETITION

The World Surf League will descend onto the waves at Manu Bay in Raglan from May 15-25, marking the first time a championship tour event has been held in New Zealand. Announced in February, the event will see the world’s top 36 men and 24 women compete...

Kelburn - 2 Glen Road

TIMELESS MASTERPIECE Positioned perfectly, right on the edge of the renowned Botanic Gardens. Peace, privacy and tranquility consume this modern-day masterpiece. A striking Grey Young design, sympathetically extended, with the assistance of architect...

New Zealand Walk: Plenty of variety on Branch Walk way

The 6km Branch Road Walkway in the Pohangina Valley, 16km from Ashhurst, has charm and history and is considered to be a relatively easy walk. It follows the route of an abandoned road linking Pohangina Village with Ridge Road. When Branch Road was...

Safe harbour

Port Marlborough affords myriad picturesque views. Whether glimpsed from London Quay, hills in Picton or vistas along Queen Charlotte Drive, the harbour are has a lot to see. Some of the more intriguing scenes, though, are behind the scenes. Zones of...

TOP & FLOP CROPS

When the American food activist and author Michael Pollan famously railed against eating “anything your great-grandmother wouldn’t recognise,” he was referring to highly processed foods, rather than exotic ingredients. But sometimes I can’t help but...

FROM THE EDITOR

Caleb Clarke has looked sharp as a tack for the Blues this season. He went okay for them in 2025 but could not cross the tryline and didn’t quite look in peak form. There was all sorts happening in the background, as he discusses in our feature...

MAKE YOUR OWN APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

Versatile, easy to make yet effortlessly delicious, comforting and nutritious, pasta is a star in everything from high-end restaurants to family gatherings. Put some culinary magic on your table and captivate your tastebuds with this ultimate selection...

A RECIPE FOR HEIFER MATING SUCCESS

Glenaray Station successfully mate yearling heifers, increasing their reproductive potential

Runway to the world:

The pioneering designers who put Australian Fashion Week on the global stage

URBAN SLOTHS

How these slow creatures cope with life in the fast lane ...

THE RIGHT STUFFAYRBURN CLASSIC 2026

All the ingredients were there this year, for a very different kind of motoring festival experience for New Zealanders. In March 2025, the inaugural Ayrburn Classic showed its potential, confirming what many suspected: it was a successful concept for a...

From the editor

When I was 11, a couple of years after my grandfather had died, my grandmother moved from Dargaville to Napier, where we lived. There was a lot of excitement getting her new house ready for her: choosing wallpaper, scouring secondhand shops for bargain...

ON THE COVER

Romance reigns at this charming cottage in North Canterbury – see page 84. Photograph by Sarah Rowlands

MUSTANG MISHAP

While we always check and double-check material before we burst into print, things don’t always go to plan and the odd mistake and/ or omission is virtually inevitable. In the report on the 2026 Ellerslie Intermarque Concours d’Elegance in our last...

NICOLA CHAN CELEBRATES A DECADE OF DINING AT PARIS BUTTER, AUCKLAND

Ten years in, Paris Butter remains one of New Zealand’s most acclaimed dining destinations. With three hats in the Cuisine Good Food Guide, the Herne Bay restaurant is known for refined dining, polished hospitality and a standard of excellence that has...

Are you future proof?

An interesting trend we have seen over the last five or so years is that a fairly large number of automotive repair businesses just cease to exist at some point. We see this when we get magazines returned or cancelled. Whilst there are many reasons for...

A POSITIVE START TO THE YEAR

It has been a busy start to the year. Our recent member meet-ups around the country were a great success, providing a valuable opportunity to share the Board’s revised strategy and hear directly from members about the opportunities and challenges...

Conversation starter: sunken lounges return

Do the thing! rot

When leaves rot they slowly turn into compost, with the help of all the worms, bugs and tiny creatures that live in the soil. Compost is food and medicine for the soil, keeping our gardens healthy. Leaves that have fallen from trees make brilliant...

84 CAPSULE WARDROBE IDEAS

PLUS SIX TRAILBLAZERS ON THEIR ROAD TO SUCCESS

INSIDE:

D-DAY'S SECRET PIPELINES HAINES HUNTER SE725 UPGRADE ANTIQUE & CLASSIC BOAT SHOW SCHIONNING CAT SKYBORNE FAREWELLED CRUISING ADVENTURE IN NORTHEAST PNG AND BOUGANVILLE AUCKLAND BOAT SHOW 25 YEARS THE CATCH: BERLEY BASICS REFLECTIONS: THE GREG FENWICK...

NOSTALGIA

TO SERVE: MAKES 10 CRÊPES COOK'S NOTE: BATTER ²⁄¶ cup (100 grams) plain flour 1 teaspoon caster sugar pinch table salt 1 large egg 1 large egg yolk 300ml milk 1 tablespoon butter, melted and cooled butter or neutral oil, e.g. canola, for cooking TO...

Fill me in

The cover story for this issue has been brewing for a while. It started as so many articles do: several separate conversations follow the same arc and it’s apparent an idea’s time has come. In no particular order, I was hearing: so much marketing...

You have a voice

After about an hour underground, we started heading back through the cave system. It was properly dark now. The kind of dark where your head torch becomes your entire world. The walls of the cave glowed in the narrow beam of light, wet rock reflecting...

MAKE A DUST EXTRACTOR

Grow apples, pears, medlars and quinces.

When it comes to pip fruit, it pays to do some research to figure out which variety is best suited to your garden. Even a modest-sized section can make room for a small specimen or an espaliered pip fruit tree, and double-grafted trees can give you...

AUTUMN COLOUR

Trees, shrubs and flowers for seasonal drama

Mosgiel

At Elm Grove, the next generation of Kirklands are blending heritage and innovation on the 173-year-old, Taieri, low-cost dairy farm with an A2 colostrum-based skincare range designed for sensitive skin

Wildly Intentional

IN THE EARLY morning light, before the nor’wester has a chance to pick up and the heat settles into the valleys of Central Otago, Sarah Rutherford and Jen Clark are already in their gardens. Yet these are not gardens like you and I have in our...

IMPROVING PASTURE PRODUCTIVITY

A deep dive into utilising pasture well

A historic lifestyle opportunity

This is not only a stunning piece of history, but what a place to live! In the heart of Maraekakaho perched just above the historic woolshed is the Gardeners Cottage from Maraekakaho Station. A lovely two bedroom cottage plus two bedrooms detached from...

4WD and SUV buyer’s guide

The new vehicle market in New Zealand is a 4WD buyer’s paradise. Utes and SUVs are as popular here as anywhere in the world, and our new car sales have been dominated by SUVs and 4WD utes for ages. It’s widely known that Ford’s Ranger is top dog in...

The smart home seller’s guide:

Selling your home now means navigating A Buyers’ market. With more properties listed than there Are Active Buyers, the power shifts. Buyers can Be more selective, And homes may take longer to sell. In this climate, your choice of real estate company...

Fonterra brands gone

Farmer shareholders have said yes to selling off iconic brands to French dairy giant.

Winter a strategic time to buy, sell

When the temperature drops and the days shorten, many buyers and sellers assume the property market hibernates, so they wait for spring to look or list. But for the savvy, winter offers unique opportunities for both buyers and sellers in the real...

Winter a strategic time to buy, sell

When the temperature drops and the days shorten, many buyers and sellers assume the property market hibernates, so they wait for spring to look or list. But for the savvy, winter offers unique opportunities for both buyers and sellers in the real...