Today's latest news

Inside Economics: How low will they go? RBNZ to cut rate today, but will banks pass it on?

ANALYSIS: Liam Dann takes a deeper dive into the week's economic news.

Brookfields Bridge between Napier and Hastings set to be two lanes when rebuilt

Planning for a $35m-plus bridge is under way and a report supports it being two lanes.

Social-lite: Study finds mental health benefit to one-week social media break

New York Times: Improvement was most pronounced in those with more severe depression.

Fake AI videos have a new generation loving 1980s life

AI is making it easier for people to indulge in an idealised 1980s nostalgia.

Black Caps grouped with South Africa at T20 World Cup

South Africa, ranked fifth, lost the 2024 final to India by just seven runs.

Four more arrested over $182m Louvre jewel heist

But the crown jewels stolen in the brazen break-in are still missing.

Simon Wilson: The virtuous, calamitous reality of Western civilisation

OPINION: A recent Herald column celebrated the virtues of the West. Here's a response.

His right foot: A tiny drawing for sale, said to be by Michelangelo

New York Times: Inside the detective work to try to verify an expensive drawing.

Orchid Air: Emirates says trade in premium exports blooming with UAE trade deal

Crayfish, lamb, cherries and orchids are now key exports bound for Dubai.

Govt's parent-income welfare gateway for teenagers blasted by officials

MSD officials said the policy did not tackle deeper causes of problems for young people.

Galloping elite return to trials as summer riches go up for grabs

Elite gallopers trial at two venues as summer riches loom

How Democrats are building their own digital media army

Conservatives have a decade-long head start with podcasts, social media, digital outlets.

The rising star tipped to end Hegseth’s chaotic reign at the Pentagon

His rise comes as defence chief Pete Hegseth faces scrutiny.

An embattled chancellor embodies Britain's struggles

New York Times: Trying to strike balance in goals is fraught with risk for Rachel Reeves.

Letters: Captain Luxon well in command of the 'Right Coalition'

OPINION: Sinking ship? This Government’s in ship-shape.

'I believe there will be 20,000': Brian Tamaki lodges application for new Auckland Harbour Bridge protest

If the application is successful, there will be a protest on January 31.

'They can also be spies': Bed bugs offer new forensic clue for investigators

The study offers police a new forensic tool hidden in mattresses and sheets.

Morning quiz: What is pop star Madonna's last name?

Test your brains with the Herald's morning quiz.

Editorial: Fancy a CGT with your sausage and tomato sauce this summer?

OPINION: Two-thirds back a CGT but want inflation-adjusted, not nominal, gains taxed.

Hawaiian waka welcomed by the tamariki of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei!

Reporter Tu Maia races in as Hōkūleʻa and Hikianalia arrive after 80,000km at sea! He discovers how the crew use whetū, wind, paddles and ancient knowledge to navigate.

Emirates SkyCargo reports demand for premium NZ exports blooming

A giant aircraft is transporting tonnes of precious goods every week, and an airline is hailing a new partnership agreement. Video / Emirates SkyCargo

Home owners stuck with costly fixes after developer collapse and council delays

Developer Treasure North Limited owes more than $1.6m to creditors.

Trump’s Ukraine plan may be an off-ramp for both warring sides

Putin gets path out of political cold, Zelenskyy gets elections and an amnesty for allies.

'Heartbreaking': Major summer festival cancels 2026 date

The 'economic climate' is being blamed for the move.

Construction king finally sells Bay of Islands lodge after slashing price by almost $2m

Waterfront trophy home has hosted countless celebrities.

'What are you doing living in my house?': Restaurant power couple selling their dream home

They fell in love with the waterfront home long before they stepped inside.

Overseas buyer snaps up vintage crib for $4m

The 1950s lakefront home fetched almost double its RV at heated auction.

Thai temple staff find woman alive in coffin

Temple staff heard faint knocks before realising the woman was still alive.

Motorcyclist dies after serious crash near Ashburton

The crash happened at the intersection of Hinds Arundel and Gills Rds.

Where discerning travellers will go in 2026

Don't follow the big crowds and hit these lesser-known gems.

NZ Breakers development player receives anti-doping sanction for cannabis use

Tukaha Cooper returned a positive test while playing for the Southland Sharks.

‘Avoiding udder chaos’: Runaway cow causes stir in suburban streets

Locals used a car to help steer the animal safely into a nearby property.

‘I felt extremely exposed’: Physio removed his top while massaging woman, saying he was hot

Lance Easton had already asked the woman to remove her own top and didn't provide a towel.

'Abhorrent': Auckland police search alleged CBD indecent assault offender

Two offences occurred on Saturday night near Mayor Drive.

Thomas Coughlan: The Govt wants to abolish councils, just not the ones you're thinking of

OPINION: The Government's proposal reveals two truths.

Serious crash in Glen Innes leaves motorcyclist badly injured

Motorists are being urged to use alternative routes as diversions remain.

'Great concerns for her welfare': Police appeal to find 14yo girl missing from Chch

Cobra, 14, was last seen leaving her Christchurch school on Monday last week.

Police accept Jevon McSkimming sex allegations will hurt recruitment

It comes two days out from the Govt officially failing its police recruitment target.

Flights cancelled as Whakaari ash cloud disrupts Bay travel

Sixteen Air New Zealand flights were cancelled as ash drifted over Tauranga.

Market close: NZ market flat despite US bounce

Market leader Fisher and Paykel Healthcare was down 61c to $36.70.

'This is all your fault': Emotion takes hold as footage of teen's alleged murder plays at trial

Rakai Thompson has been accused of murdering his young friend, Te Omeka Akariri-Buckley.

How safe is a journey through the five Stans? One traveller finds out

Each of the five nations was once part of the former Soviet Union.

From retail to renown: Award-winning Whangārei artist finds voice through whakapapa

Studying te reo Māori reshaped Josh Kiwikiwi's sense of identity and transformed his art.

Biggest fine of the year: Real estate agent hit with $10,000 penalty for misuse of vendor funds

"If I have made any mistake, I am happy to do anything to rectify it," Lillian Chen said.

Five tricks to make your run faster, healthier and more fun

New York Times: Upping your pace just a little could make for a more efficient workout.

'Hot days, warm muggy nights': MetService considers issuing heat alerts for NZ centres

Timaru will be New Zealand’s hottest centre tomorrow, reaching 30C.

Namibian politician named after Adolf Hitler projected to win re-election

The 59-year-old councillor says it is ‘too late’ to change his name.

Police alerted as kids' heart charity targeted in alleged fundraising fraud

The charity has publicly distanced itself from a motorcycle ride planned in its name.

Asmund Keilen of Norway wins Nature Photographer of the Year 2025

His image Sundance features a reflection of a lone swift against the sun.

US, Ukraine move closer together on peace plan after lengthy talks

Volodymyr Zelenskyy resisted any deal conceding occupied Ukrainian land.

'Most significant changes since 1989': Govt plan would scrap regional councillors in sweeping overhaul

Mayors would take over regional roles under the new proposal.

How a Pacific flag ended up at the centre of a global oil-smuggling row

Diplomats in Helsinki and London have raised the alarm with New Zealand officials.

Watch: Ministers announce massive shake-up of local government

Local Government Ministister Simon Watts and RMA Minister Chris Bishop said it was the biggest reform of local government since 1989. Video / Mark Mitchell

How Cook Islands‑flagged ships became tied to Russian and Iranian oil trade

NZ Herald business investigations reporter Matt Nippert has been looking into the use of the Pacific flag in the 'dark fleet'.

PM's office clarifies Luxon's suggestion he isn't concerned for National MPs who could lose seats

Chris Bishop has also addressed speculation about a leadership coup.

Teen charged with murder after 17-year-old stabbed in Sydney park

Police say the 17-year-old suffered a single stab wound to his thigh.

Police defend releasing details about body found in Te Anihana Pomana search

Formal identification of the body has not yet been confirmed.

Urban oasis: Inside Ponsonby’s hidden community farm

Tucked in between Ponsonby and Herne Bay is the last place you’d expect to find a farm.

Ariana Grande fan who rushed red carpet deported from Singapore

Johnson Wen was jailed for nine days after admitting being a public nuisance.

Ashburton man charged over Stewart Island hunting death

Jock Davies was on a hunt with his father and brother when he was killed.

Auckland G.A.Y nightclub fire now treated as suspicious by police

CCTV footage from inside the club on Karangahape Rd is now being reviewed.

Second court launches specialist list to cut delays for mentally impaired defendants

Gisborne joins Auckland as only the second court with this specialist list.

Respected guide among two dead after Aoraki Mt Cook tragedy

Two other members of the group were airlifted from the mountain uninjured.

MetService severe weather warning: 25 November

MetService severe weather warning: 25 November. Video / MetService

Watch: Chris Bishop grilled on leadership speculation

Speculation is mounting about Christopher Luxon's future as Prime Minister. Video / Mark Mitchell

Three in, three out as Rotorua Trust announces election winners

Rotorua Trust election brings three new trustees and a shift in leadership.

Police carry out post-mortem on body found in search for Te Anihana Pomana

The 25-year-old was last seen leaving Auckland’s SkyCity hotel on August 21.

Opinion: Why 2026 may be Robertson’s toughest All Blacks challenge

A gruelling 13-test schedule in 2026 will test the squad’s depth and resolve.