Stories from New Zealand

The world's rarest parrot species, the kakapo, has begun breeding again after a four-year hiatus. This development marks a milestone for the conservation of the species in New Zealand.

A report by the Asia New Zealand Foundation indicates 83% of Pasifika people prefer New Zealand as a regional partner. This compares to 58% who prefer Australia, according to the findings. The report suggests Pacific New Zealanders want the country to play a larger role in the region.

An urgent Waitangi Tribunal hearing regarding government changes to the education sector concluded today. A crown memorandum filed ahead of closing submissions revealed that proposed legislation weakening obligations to treaty principles will not be introduced before August. NZEI Te Riu Roa, an education union, is one of the claimants in the case. The hearing involved submissions regarding the impact of these changes on treaty principles.

The New Zealand cabinet has signed an agreement to begin negotiations with McCullen Brothers and Nova Marine for a new 78-meter vessel. The ship is intended to provide shipping services to the Chatham Islands to ensure the resiliency of the island. The vessel will transport livestock, groceries, products, resources, and gear. Most goods entering or leaving the island rely on these maritime services, excluding some air freight. The new boat is expected to be in operation by the end of next year. The local council receives $4.2 million annually from internal affairs to assist with expenses. According to Minister for Regional Development Shane Jones, the island is largely funded by New Zealand taxpayers, including investments in the wharf, airport, and wind farm.

Eight little blue penguins were killed at a colony located at Long Beach, according to a Dunedin woman. The incident has caused local distress. The source did not specify the cause of the deaths. The incident was reported by the Early Childhood Council. A local woman reported the deaths to the Department of Conservation. The deceased birds were likely juveniles rather than chicks.

Lightforce Solar is opening a new branch in Queenstown to meet rising demand for solar installations. Data from the Electricity Authority shows more than 10,000 new installations occurred in the past year, representing a 4% increase. John Harmon of Lightforce Solar stated that high power bills and energy resilience are the primary drivers for household adoption. The average cost for a household solar installation is up to $35,000, according to Harmon.

A couple from Christchurch has taken Kmart to the disputes tribunal following exposure to asbestos-contaminated sand. The couple's three-year-old twins played with the product, which was part of a recall notice issued by the retailer in November last year. The family was instructed to evacuate their home after the sand tested positive for asbestos. Eli Crisp is cited in relation to the case. The ordeal reportedly cost the family tens of thousands of dollars. The couple is seeking compensation under the Consumer Guarantees Act. The incident involves the contamination found within the sand product.

The New Zealand Education Ministry confirmed one case regarding school non-attendance is currently before the courts. This follows the establishment of an attendance prosecution unit last year. Education Minister David Seymour stated the government will be tougher on non-attendance, distinguishing between those who cannot attend and those who will not. Seymour noted that the action demonstrates the government's seriousness regarding the issue. The ministry indicated that enforcement will target those who choose not to attend school rather than those unable to do so.

Sam Altman was present in Auckland today to attend jury selections. The broadcast noted that Altman and Elon Musk have been critical of one another. During preparations, OpenAI sought to include testimony regarding Elon Musk's potential use of ketamine, though the request was denied. The two individuals are expected to provide conflicting testimony.

Parents of three-year-old twins are accusing Kmart of downplaying the risks associated with asbestos-contaminated sand. The family expressed concern that the retailer's instructions were to simply dispose of the material rather than investigate further. Al Crisp and David Dingwall are seeking compensation from a dispute tribunal after discovering tremolite asbestos in their home. Consumer NZ head of research Gemma Rasmussen stated that under the Consumer Guarantees Act, goods must be of acceptable quality and safe to use. The testing process for the residents cost tens of thousands of dollars. The couple alleges Kmart downplayed the risk in a recall notice on the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment website. They have lodged complaints with WorkSafe, MBIE, and the Commerce Commission. Al Crisp noted that for everyday people, determining responsibility is difficult.