New Zealand

Gun licence fees will not skyrocket after the government found $44.9 million to fund the new firearms system. Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee said the Budget 2026 funding would prevent licence fees rising to six and a half times their current level. "This funding ensures New Zealand can

Childcare centres will get extra funding six months early after the Government brought forward a $40 million boost. Associate Education Minister David Seymour announced the 1.5 percent subsidy increase will now come in July 2026, instead of January 2027. "There are few things as important to Kiwi parents

New Zealand will return to budget surplus a year earlier than expected, with Finance Minister Nicola Willis delivering a disciplined Budget 2026 focused on getting the books back in order. Treasury now forecasts a $2.6 billion surplus in 2028-29 under the government's preferred measure, compared to a

Charities and not-for-profits can earn $10,000 tax-free instead of $1,000 under new Government rules. Revenue Minister Simon Watts and Community and Voluntary Sector Minister Louise Upston announced the changes after Inland Revenue's review found existing tax rules lacked clarity and could undermine credibility. "Last year,

Police can now release the name of the man who was found deceased at a Sommerville Street, Andersons Bay, property on Friday 22 May. He was Douglas Alexander Senior, 58, from Andersons Bay. Police extend our deepest condolences to Douglas's family and friends during this difficult time. The

The Government has scrapped controversial homeschooling regulations after fierce opposition from families and ACT MPs forced Education Minister Erica Stanford to back down. The Education and Training Amendment Bill was due for its final reading today but will now return to committee to strip out the homeschooling provisions entirely. Stanford

Classic Kiwi songs will stay in copyright for longer under changes to protect artists from losing control of their work. The Government will extend copyright protection for music recordings from 50 years to 70 years after publication. Other works get protection for 70 years after the creator's death.

The Government has created a super-ministry to handle cities, housing and the environment. The new Ministry for Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport will absorb the Ministry for the Environment, Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Ministry of Transport, and local government functions from Internal Affairs. Legislation passed this week clears