New Zealand politician and businessman, Prime Minister since 2023
Sir Sam Neill has died in Sydney at age 78, his family has said. The actor had been diagnosed with stage three angioimmunoblastic T‑cell lymphoma in 2022 and announced in April that he was cancer‑free after trial treatment. Family statements described the death as "sudden and unexpected" and asked for privacy.
The US has imposed new 10%–12.5% tariffs on imports from 60 trading partners, saying they have not effectively enforced bans on goods produced with forced labour. The levies replace expiring temporary duties and include product exemptions, while trading partners from Brazil to Australia have criticised the move and markets have reacted with caution.
The United States has expanded a 12.5% tariff to 60 trading partners, citing failures to enforce bans on goods made with forced labor. Australia and New Zealand object, while Japan and South Korea seek clarification. The move broadens trade frictions and could lift prices for consumers and disrupt supply chains.
Luxon has secured a caucus-backed renewal of leadership ahead of the November election, while facing ongoing questions about his grip on the National Party amid a string of missteps and weak polls. The party declares unity, but observers warn the underlying tensions persist.
New Zealand's government has introduced a bill requiring social media platforms to verify users are over 16, with penalties of up to 10% of global revenue for non-compliance. The measure is debated in Parliament, with coalition partners divided and opposition undecided, as lawmakers race to act ahead of elections.
A public inquiry into the disappearance of four-year fugitive Tom Phillips and his three children has found police, Oranga Tamariki and other agencies underplayed harms and missed opportunities. The inquiry has prompted government apologies and a pledge to implement recommendations.