Capital city, gateway to New Zealand’s life and politics.
New Zealand has confirmed its first mainland detection of H5 bird flu after a brown skua found on Petone beach has tested positive. Authorities have said there is no evidence of mass mortality or poultry infection, but surveillance and a targeted vaccination programme for endangered captive birds have been activated as officials monitor wild populations.
Harry Brook has expressed willingness to become England’s Test captain following Ben Stokes’s retirement; he would also captain England across all formats if offered, after prioritising England cricket and forgoing most overseas franchise leagues.
Super Typhoon Bavi has direct-hit Rota with winds over 150 mph, triggering warnings for Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. Officials warn of catastrophic damage and prolonged outages as the storm tracks westward toward the Philippines and Taiwan amid El Niño-linked warming.
Nauru has officially changed its name to the Republic of Naoero, reverting to its traditional designation. The government says the move strengthens national identity and heritage; the UN and several foreign ministries have updated their listings accordingly. A referendum was not pursued, with lawmakers endorsing the change after “extensive discussions.” The transition will also affect the country’s international code and demonym.
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.
England fast bowler Brydon Carse has been removed from the squad for the second Test against Pakistan while the Cricket Regulator investigates a Derby nightclub incident in which footage shows him in handcuffs. He remains in consideration pending the investigation; Sonny Baker is called up to replace him.
Brydon Carse has been stood down from England’s squad for the second Test amid an ongoing investigation by the Cricket Regulator into an incident in Derby. He has been replaced by Sonny Baker as the team prepares for the Lord’s clash.
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.