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On September 22, 2025, the autumnal equinox marks equal day and night globally, signaling the start of fall in the Northern Hemisphere. This year, it coincides closely with a partial solar eclipse on September 21 visible mainly in the Southern Hemisphere. Earlier, a total lunar eclipse on September 7-8 was widely observed across Asia, Australia, and parts of Africa and Europe.
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On Monday, Tom Phillips, who had been on the run since December 2021 with his three children, was shot dead by police in Waikato, New Zealand, after a robbery and shootout. His children, aged 9, 10, and 12, were found safe at a remote campsite. Authorities are investigating how Phillips evaded capture for nearly four years and whether he had accomplices.
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A New Zealand High Court dismissed Kim Dotcom's legal challenge against his extradition to the U.S. to face charges related to Megaupload. The ruling follows a 13-year legal battle, with Dotcom arguing political motivation and disproportionate treatment. The decision may be appealed before further steps in the extradition process.
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Australian bank ANZ is facing a potential record fine after admitting to widespread misconduct, including failing to refund charges to deceased customers, misreporting bond data, and misleading statements about interest rates. The Australian regulator ASIC seeks AU$240 million in penalties, citing serious breaches affecting nearly 65,000 customers.
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A 13-year-old boy in New Zealand ingested up to 200 high-powered magnets bought online, leading to emergency surgery. Despite a ban since 2013, these magnets remain accessible via online marketplaces like Temu, raising enforcement and safety issues.
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Priscilla Thakoor begins a three-year term as Mauritius' first female central bank governor, replacing Rama Sithanen. Meanwhile, New Zealand is set to appoint its first female governor of the Reserve Bank, who is also a foreigner, amid leadership reforms. Australian pension fund appoints new CEO as political and economic shifts continue.
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New Zealand will introduce two new pathways for skilled migrants from mid-2026 to address workforce shortages amid record emigration and economic challenges. The move aims to attract experienced workers, support businesses, and counteract the high number of citizens leaving the country.
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A Wellington man has been convicted of murder and arson after setting a fire at Loafers Lodge in May 2023, killing five residents. The jury rejected his insanity defense, and he will be sentenced in November. The fire exposed unsafe conditions in many boarding houses across New Zealand.
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As of early October 2025, New Zealand maintains its position of not recognizing Palestinian statehood amid ongoing Gaza conflict, diverging from allies like the UK, Canada, and Australia who have recently recognized Palestine. Foreign Minister Winston Peters cites concerns that recognition now could hinder ceasefire efforts. The US has proposed a 20-point Gaza peace plan with mixed international reactions, while Israel rejects expanded Palestinian recognition.
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During a July visit to New Zealand, Kash Patel, a senior US government official, presented inoperable 3D-printed replica pistols to three top security officials. The gifts, which could have been made operable, were destroyed following advice from New Zealand authorities to ensure compliance with gun laws. The incident highlights New Zealand's strict firearm regulations post-Christchurch attack.
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As of late October 2025, rugby union is navigating significant transitions: Eddie Jones reflects on his England coaching tenure and Japan role; Australia dominates England in rugby league; the Rugby Championship tightens with South Africa leading; and a breakaway league, R360, backed by Middle Eastern investors, threatens rugby's traditional global structure.
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The 2027 Rugby World Cup will feature 24 teams, with the draw scheduled for December 3. The tournament begins in Perth on October 1, ending in Sydney on November 13. The format includes a new knockout round, increasing opportunities for more nations to advance.
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A new update from the EAT-Lancet Commission emphasizes that adopting a plant-rich planetary health diet could prevent 40,000 early deaths daily worldwide and cut food-related emissions by half by 2050. The diet promotes vegetables, fruits, grains, legumes, with modest meat, aligning health and environmental goals. Recent studies reinforce the importance of reducing red meat, especially in high-income countries, to combat climate change and improve health outcomes. The report urges policymakers to incorporate these findings into climate strategies, highlighting food systems as the largest contributor to environmental degradation and societal inequality.
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South Africa's women’s cricket team secured a significant win over India, with De Klerk’s powerful innings and two wickets. Meanwhile, England and Bangladesh played a tense match, with controversial umpiring decisions. Australia and New Zealand face weather disruptions in their ongoing T20 series, as teams aim for back-to-back World Cup titles.
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Three personal stories highlight the impact of burnout, immigration challenges, and life changes. A London-based freelancer shares her quiet quitting journey, a Parisian romance unfolds after burnout, and a US student faces surveillance and immigration issues amid activism. These stories reveal the human toll of modern pressures.
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All 75 crew evacuated safely after the HMNZS Manawanui foundered near Upolu, Samoa, on October 6, 2024. The vessel caught fire and sank due to crew failings, with environmental and operational assessments ongoing. New Zealand has committed full compensation to Samoa and is working on wreck management.
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A new rugby league, R360, backed by Mike Tindall and funded by private investors, aims to launch in 2026, challenging the sport's traditional structure. Major unions warn players that joining R360 will make them ineligible for international selection, raising concerns over the sport's unity and future.
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Recent years have seen a series of deadly attacks on houses of worship worldwide, including synagogues, mosques, and churches. These incidents, often linked to extremist groups, have heightened fears among religious communities. Authorities are increasing security measures, but the threat persists, impacting the sense of safety for worshippers today, October 10, 2025.
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A family of four was discovered dead in their San Francisco home, with police describing the scene as suspicious. The victims, believed to be relatives, were found without signs of disturbance. Authorities are investigating the cause of death, with no current threat to the public. The case remains unresolved as of today, October 10, 2025.
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England became the first European team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, with other teams from Africa, Asia, and Oceania also securing spots. Forty-three teams will qualify through continental tournaments, with two more in intercontinental playoffs scheduled for March. The three host nations qualify automatically.
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Recent updates to the Henley Passport Index show notable declines for the US, UK, Pakistan, and India, while China and several Asian countries have improved their rankings. The US has fallen out of the top 10 for the first time in 20 years, reflecting changing global mobility and diplomatic shifts.
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The High Court of Australia upheld the government's decision to refuse Candace Owens a visa, citing her controversial views that could incite discord. Owens, a conservative influencer, planned a 2024 speaking tour but was denied entry due to concerns over her inflammatory comments on various communities.
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On October 18, 2025, the 2015 Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA) officially expired amid the reimposition of UN sanctions via the snapback mechanism. Iran declared all deal provisions terminated, suspended cooperation with the IAEA, and rejected sanctions as unjust. Despite ongoing diplomatic rhetoric, nuclear talks remain deadlocked following recent military strikes and mutual accusations.
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A 16-year-old app founder shares his journey from early success to building a $30 million business, while new AI tools enable creative projects like photo apps and coding experiments. Industry leaders promote AI's role in coding and scaling startups, highlighting a shift towards AI-driven innovation.
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England's cricket team faced rain delays and a challenging start in the third ODI against New Zealand at Mount Maunganui. Harry Brook's 135 was a highlight, but dropped catches and rain-affected conditions impacted the match, which New Zealand ultimately won. The series is tied 1-1 with one match remaining.
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A severe storm with winds up to 230 km/h hit New Zealand, causing widespread damage, power outages, and flight cancellations. The storm also coincided with a major industrial strike involving over 100,000 workers, disrupting public services amid ongoing weather warnings. Authorities warn more severe weather is expected.
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Multiple lawsuits and investigations reveal health risks linked to Drax's biomass operations and indoor wood burning. Workers and residents report serious health issues, while authorities face enforcement challenges. New studies highlight the ongoing public health and environmental costs of biomass and domestic wood use.
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Multiple legal cases involving sexual misconduct have surfaced recently. A UK ex-BBC DJ faces historic charges, a former police deputy in New Zealand admits to possessing illegal images, and a Nigerian actress alleges family arrest orchestrated by her estranged husband. These cases highlight ongoing issues of misconduct and abuse.
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The All Blacks aim to extend their unbeaten record against Scotland, which stands at 32 matches, as they prepare for a historic match at Murrayfield. Key players are injured, and captain Scott Barrett is returning for rehab, adding complexity to the team’s prospects.
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Michelle Obama expressed skepticism about the US being ready for a female president, citing ongoing gender biases. She made these remarks during her book promotion, emphasizing that men still need to grow up before women can lead effectively. The comments follow recent election results and ongoing political debates.
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Multiple Australian schools in the ACT and Brisbane have closed after asbestos traces were found in children's play sand products. The recalls involve products sold by retailers including Kmart, Target, and Officeworks. Authorities emphasize low airborne risk but prioritize safety, leading to widespread closures and investigations.
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Deputy Police Commissioner Jevon McSkimming faces charges of viewing illegal sexual images, including of children, on work devices. The case has sparked outrage, revived debates on police integrity, and exposed past misconduct cover-ups. The scandal threatens to undermine public confidence in NZ law enforcement.
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High-profile UK billionaires and entrepreneurs are relocating abroad due to recent tax reforms, including inheritance and non-domicile rules. The departure of figures like Lakshmi Mittal and others highlights concerns over a growing brain drain and economic impact ahead of the upcoming Labour budget.
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Four climbers encountered trouble on Aoraki (Mount Cook) in New Zealand. Two were rescued unharmed, but a guide and a client were found dead after falling near the summit. Authorities continue recovery efforts in challenging alpine conditions. The victims' identities are not yet released.
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In July, US FBI Director Patel gifted plastic 3D-printed revolvers to New Zealand officials. The weapons, modeled on toy guns, met legal definitions as firearms under NZ law. The officials surrendered the guns, which experts say could be easily made operable, raising concerns over security and safety.
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Four climbers on New Zealand's Aoraki faced tragedy when two were rescued and two others found dead after a fall near the summit. The incident highlights the mountain's dangerous terrain, with over 240 deaths recorded since the early 20th century. Authorities continue investigations.
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Hakyung Lee, a South Korean-born New Zealand citizen, was sentenced to life imprisonment for the 2018 murders of her two children, aged six and eight. She admitted to killing them with medication overdose, claiming mental health issues after her husband's death. The court ordered psychiatric treatment and a minimum of 17 years non-parole.
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Ralph Menzies, convicted of murder in 1986, was scheduled for execution by firing squad but died naturally before the process could proceed. The Utah Supreme Court paused his execution due to his worsening dementia, with a new competency hearing planned for December. Menzies was convicted of abducting and killing Maurine Hunsaker.
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New Zealand's Attorney-General announced an independent investigation into the disappearance of Tom Phillips and his children, scrutinising government agency actions. Phillips vanished in 2021, was killed in a police shootout in September 2025, and the inquiry aims to assess if authorities did all they could to protect the children.
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A man in Auckland is accused of swallowing a limited-edition Fabergé octopus pendant inspired by James Bond after allegedly stealing it from Partridge Jewelers. The pendant was recovered from his gastrointestinal tract without medical intervention. Meanwhile, the historic Winter Egg sold for a record NZ$33 million at auction, highlighting the enduring value of Fabergé's craftsmanship.
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In 2025, top athletes Duplantis and McLaughlin-Levrone dominated their events, setting multiple world records and winning major titles. Meanwhile, Australian sprinter Edward Osei-Nketia, now representing Australia, aims for Olympic medals in 2028, marking a significant shift in his career.
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A curious baby fur seal wandered into a New Zealand craft beer bar in Richmond, hiding under a dishwasher. Staff safely evacuated the animal, which was later released on nearby Rabbit Island. The incident highlights the increasing contact between wildlife and humans due to conservation efforts.