New Zealand

* Sir Michael Hill built an international jewellery empire starting with a single Whangarei store. * He founded a prestigious violin competition and created The Hills golf course near Arrowtown. * Tributes praised his creativity, mentorship, philanthropy and inspiration to generations of Kiwi entrepreneurs. Sir Michael Hill, the founder of the iconic Michael

Southland has retained its position as the strongest performing region in KiwiBank’s 2025 “Regional Divide” report, with Invercargill’s construction boom driving the local economy. KiwiBank’s annual heat-map, released on 1 July, again awarded Southland a score of 5/10 — the highest in the country, matched only by

The government will stop councils progressing plans soon to be replaced by new laws Councils must withdraw any plan changes not yet progressed to hearing stage Exceptions include natural hazard planning and Treaty settlements already underway The government has announced it will halt mandatory council planning work under the current

* Experts have confirmed that a shipwreck in Newport Harbour is Captain Cook’s HMS Endeavour * The final report follows twenty-five years of global underwater and historical archaeological research * Only 15 percent of the ship remains, with efforts now focused on its protection and preservation After 250 years, the final resting

* New system blends government records with yearly surveys to deliver faster, cheaper population statistics. * Monthly inflation index from 2027 aims to sharpen decisions on rates, benefits, and budgets nationwide. * Minister says overhaul will restore confidence in Stats NZ by “measuring what matters” for every community. New Zealanders have filled out

New figures released today showing a decline in New Zealand’s gas reserves is a stark reminder why the Government is taking decisive action to bolster the industry and seek more investment in exploration and production, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. “New Zealand needs a secure supply of affordable and

* Legislation aims to return education decisions to regional polytechnics and industry leaders * Industry Skills Boards to replace Workforce Development Councils from January 2026 * Te Pūkenga to be phased out as changes roll out over two years The government has started a major overhaul of New Zealand’s vocational education and

* Sir Bob Jones passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family after a brief illness * He built a vast property empire and founded the New Zealand Party to challenge government * Sir Bob was a lifelong boxing fan, commentator, and published author of twenty six books Sir Bob Jones, a