Category: Public Media

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Notorious criminal charged with historical serious sexual assault

Source: Radio New Zealand

The man has appeared in the Auckland District Court. RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly

One of the country’s most notorious criminals has been charged with a serious sexual assault from nearly 40 years ago.

The man made his first appearance in the Auckland District Court on Wednesday before Judge Kirsten Lummis where he was granted interim name suppression until March 10.

He entered a not guilty plea through his lawyer.

The man, aged in his 70s, is charged with a serious sexual assault of a woman in Auckland’s Onehunga in 1988.

Detective Inspector Scott Beard confirmed to RNZ police had charged a man over a historical stranger sexual assault in Auckland during the late 1980s.

“An investigation was carried out at the time when the alleged rape occurred in Onehunga on 18 June 1988.

“Enquiries available to detectives at the time were unable to identify the perpetrator.”

Do you know more? Email sam.sherwood@rnz.co.nz

In May this year the complainant contacted police to review her case.

“This was assigned to an investigator in the Auckland City Adult Sexual Assault Team.”

Police had since charged the man.

Beard was unable to go into the specifics of the 2025 enquiries given court proceedings are under way.

“However, it is pleasing that we can bring this matter to the courts on behalf of the complainant, given there is no statute of limitations on this sort of offending.”

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

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How crypto price fall could give you a tax refund

Source: Radio New Zealand

The value of cryptocurrencies can be very volatile. In the past year, Bitcoin hit a record high – then fell sharply. CFOTO / NurPhoto via AFP

Investors who have to sell their cryptocurrency for a loss may be able to claim tax back from Inland Revenue (IRD).

IRD has made it clear that people who are trading cryptocurrency should pay tax on their gains.

In July last year IRD signalled it was honing in on people buying and selling crypto who were not declaring their income.

It had identified had 227,000 unique crypto asset users in New Zealand undertaking around 7 million transactions with a value of $7.8 billion.

Last week, accountant Tim Doyle, who specialises in cryptocurrency, told Checkpoint nearly a third of his clients had received letters from IRD calling in tax they owe.

But the value of cryptocurrencies can be very volatile. In the past year, Bitcoin hit a record high – then fell sharply. It is down about 16 percent over the past month.

Deloitte cryptocurrency expert Ian Fay said anyone who bought at the peak of the market and then had to sell could claim a loss in their tax return.

People were taxed on the proceeds minus the cost of the asset and if the cost was more than the sale proceeds, it would count as a loss. “If you bought a few months ago hoping to make a quick buck and need the money you might have to liquidate, and could have a loss.”

But he said it would only be people who sold their assets at a lower price than they paid for them that could claim the loss. People who had suffered a drop in the value of their portfolio but not liquidated might feel worse off but had not generated a loss for tax purposes.

People who bought a few years ago and sold today would pay tax on the proceeds, even if the gain was not as large as it might have been a few months ago.

Many crypto investors held their assets for a long time, he said, and were used to the swings in value. “It goes up, it comes down. It’s still a very volatile asset class.”

Fay said it was important to note that more people were investing in cryptocurrency funds, which were taxed differently. International exchange-traded cryptocurrency funds would usually be taxed under the foreign investment fund (FIF) rules, not as personal property.

Fay said Inland Revenue had dispelled a myth that people could hold on to their assets for a long time to avoid tax on capital gains. Because bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies did not offer income, it determined that people who bought them were doing so with the intention of selling them eventually, so the gains would usually be taxable.

He said some people might think their crypto trading was flying under the radar but Inland Revenue had increased access to data that would enable it to identify transactions.

Even transactions between different cryptocurrencies could generate gains that needed to be taxed, he said.

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Iwi file urgent Waitangi Tribunal inquiry over education Treaty changes

Source: Radio New Zealand

Veteran Māori broadcaster Waihoroi Shortland. RNZ / Peter de Graaf

Northland iwi Ngāti Hine and hapū Te Kapotai are calling for an urgent Waitangi Tribunal inquiry after the government removed school boards’ legal obligations to give effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

The claimants say the amendments to the Education and Training Act 2020, and the reset of the New Zealand Curriculum – Te Mātaiaho, undermine Māori rangatiratanga, partnership, and equity in education.

A statement of claim was filed on 19 November 2025 on behalf of Te Kapotai (Wai 1464/1546) and Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Hine (Wai 682/49), alongside a joint application for urgency.

The claimants argue the legislative and curriculum changes are inconsistent with Te Tiriti o Waitangi and cause “significant and irreversible prejudice” to Māori including:

  • Schools being unable to uphold treaty guarantees of tino rangatiratanga and partnership.
  • Unilateral Crown decision-making affecting Māori children and their whānau.
  • Immediate damage to the Treaty relationship between Māori and the Crown.
  • Loss of cultural safety, erosion of kaupapa Māori foundations, and disproportionate harm to tamariki Māori.
  • Unequal access between Māori children to te reo Māori, tikanga, and mātauranga across schools.
  • Increased resourcing burdens on the sector and school boards to adapt to the changes.

Claims submitted to the Tribunal state that the legislative and curriculum changes remove, weaken and deprioritise Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Veteran Māori broadcaster Waihoroi Shortland said that the legislative changes amounted to a modern re-enactment of the Treaty Principles Bill “by stealth,” effectively eliminating Te Tiriti from the statute book.

He argued the Crown’s actions form part of a “long pattern of removing Māori nationhood from law and policy.”

Kara George said the Crown had failed to engage with hapū, creating “culturally unsafe, assimilationist educational environments” and affecting tamariki Māori language, identity, and well-being.

Tumuaki Maia Cooper said the changes had led to burnout for kaiako, removed kaupapa Māori foundations from school practice, and eroded equity settings for tamariki Māori.

Educator and grandparent Arona Tipene said the changes were destabilising for Māori whānau and kaiako, led to a loss of cultural safety in schools, and disproportionately affected Māori children who rely on Te Tiriti obligations for protection of their identity, belonging, and well-being.

She said the removal of these foundations could cause permanent harm to current and future generations.

The claimants argued there is no alternative remedy for these breaches of Te Tiriti, and that urgent Tribunal intervention is required before the amendment comes into force in November 2026.

The Tribunal has directed the Crown and other interested parties to respond by Wednesday, 3 December.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

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All Whites to play at home before 2026 World Cup

Source: Radio New Zealand

All Whites captain Chris Wood will be back in Auckland before the FIFA World Cup. Shane Wenzlick / Phototek.nz

The All Whites will play two final home games ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, with New Zealand set to host its first ever FIFA Series in March.

The FIFA Series brings together four competing nations to play international fixtures against other top sides.

Which teams will travel to New Zealand for the event are yet to be confirmed.

The All Whites took part in the inaugural FIFA Series in 2024, held in Egypt, where they faced the hosts as well as Tunisia.

Due to travel and competition requirements, all matches will be played in Auckland, but New Zealand Football are exploring options to bring the team back later in the year, after the World Cup, with at least one game in the South Island.

New Zealand Football chief executive Andrew Pragnell said one of the requirements of hosting was a sole location to “maximise training time ahead of the FIFA World Cup”.

“This is massive, we know how excited people are for the FIFA World Cup 2026 already, and to have two final games at home against strong international opposition and properly see the team off is huge.”

The FIFA Series games will be played during the 23 – 31 March international window with exact dates and venue information still to be announced.

The matches are supported by the Government’s Events Attraction Package.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

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Police charge another teen with murder in relation to killing of Kyle Whorrall

Source: Radio New Zealand

Kyle Whorrall was attacked at an Auckland bus stop and later died in hospital. SUPPLIED

Police have made another arrest in relation to the murder of American PhD student Kyle Whorrall.

The 33-year-old man was attacked at a bus stop in Meadowbank on 19 April and later died in hospital.

Police say they have arrested a 17-year-old male who has been charged with murder and aggravated robbery.

… More to come

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Andrew Coster breaks silence after resigning from Social Investment Agency

Source: Radio New Zealand

Andrew Coster pictured during his time as Police Commissioner. (File photo) RNZ / Nick Monro

Former Police Commissioner Andrew Coster has broken his silence after resigning as chief executive of the Social Investment Agency.

RNZ revealed on Wednesday Coster had resigned after the police watchdog’s damning report into police’s response to allegations of sexual offending by former Deputy Police Commissioner Jevon McSkimming.

In a statement to RNZ, Coster said his resignation was “a result of my acceptance of full responsibility for the shortcomings” identified in the Independent Police Conduct Authority’s report.

“I regret the impact on the young woman at the centre of this matter and sincerely apologise to her for the distress caused.

“I accept that I was too ready to trust and accept at face value Deputy Commissioner McSkimming’s disclosure and explanations to me. I should have been faster and more thorough in looking into the matter.”

Do you know more? Email sam.sherwood@rnz.co.nz

Coster acknowledged he should have more fully investigated the allegations when they were brought to his attention, “rather than assuming that their previous disclosure to senior Police staff a few years earlier would have resulted in an investigation if necessary”.

“It is clear that Police’s handling of the whole matter was lacking and that I was ultimately responsible for those matters. It was sobering to read of a number of missed opportunities which should have proceeded differently and more appropriately.”

Coster welcomed Sir Brian’s acknowledgement that the report made no finding of corruption or cover-up, nor did the IPCA find any evidence of any actions involving officers consciously doing the wrong thing or setting out to undermine the integrity of the organisation.

“I made decisions honestly. I acted in good faith. I sought to take all important factors into account with the information I had at the time. While it is not possible to alter past events, I am prepared to take responsibility – I got this wrong.

“I want to apologise to all members of the NZ Police. They work hard every day to keep our communities safe. I know they have been adversely affected by these events.”

Coster said it had been a “very challenging time” for his family and himself.

“The support we have received has been deeply appreciated. I have devoted my professional life to the service of others – it is my intention to do so again at some point in the future.”

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Intense rain, blustery wind and thunderstorms hit Auckland

Source: Radio New Zealand

File photo. RNZ / Jessica Hopkins

MetService is forecasting downpours across the North Island on Wednesday, with possible thunderstorms in some places, and a number of watches and warnings in place.

A heavy rain warning is in place from 11am until 11pm on Wednesday for Bay of Plenty and Gisborne/Tai Rāwhiti north of Ruatoria and the inland ranges, thunderstorms and downpours are also possible in these areas.

MetService a severe thunderstorm warning for the areas of Rodney, Gulf and Albany.

Just after 1pm, the MetService weather radar detected severe thunderstorms near Warkworth, Puhoi, Kaukapakapa, Kaipara Flats and Ahuroa.

These severe thunderstorms are moving towards the southeast, and are expected to lie near Orewa, Whangaparaoa and Silverdale at 1.37pm and near Auckland and Inner Hauraki Gulf at 2.07pm.

The agency says these thunderstorms are expected to be accompanied by very heavy rain.

Meanwhile, there are reports that a tornado went through a motor camp in rural Manawatū and overturned a caravan.

Emergency services were called at 12.36pm and Fire and Emergency has confirmed that there is at least one person is injured.

Meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane said the most notable warning was for Bay of Plenty, with 80 to 120 millimetres of rain set to fall before the end of the day.

“With thunderstorms in the mix we could see shorter periods of more intense rain bringing those possibilities such as flooding as well as slips and difficult driving conditions.”

Thunderstorms may also occur in Taranaki and Whanganui, she said.

MetService has issued weather warnings and watches for much of the North Island on Wednesday. Supplied / MetService

A severe thunderstorm watch is in place for a large part of the North Island including Coromandel Peninsula, Waikato, Bay of Plenty and Taupo from 1pm-6pm on Wednesday.

Some of these thunderstorms may become severe on Wednesday afternoon with localised downpours of up to 40mm/h, large hail and strong wind gusts of up to 90km/h.

MetService said there was even a slight chance of a tornado, but that thunderstorm activity was expected to ease by Wednesday evening.

Northerly winds are forecast to turn southwesterly with gusts of up to 90km/h forecast.

Heavy rain watches are in place for a number of places throughout the day including Northland, Auckland, Great Barrier Island and Coromandel Peninsula, Taranaki, Wairarapa, the eastern hills and ranges in Wellington, and central North Island areas including Waikato and inland Whanganui.

There are also strong wind watches in place later on Wednesday for Northland, Auckland, Taranaki, Horowhenua to Wellington, parts of the Tararua and Hawke’s Bay districts and Wairarapa.

In the South Island heavy rain watches are in place for the Kaikōura Coast and the Chatham Islands, where a strong wind watch is also in place.

There may also be thunderstorms in Central Otago on Wednesday afternoon or evening.

Wind watches are also in place for Marlborough and parts of the Nelson region from 5pm Wednesday until 3am Thursday.

Makgabutlane said things were set to improve from Thursday onwards.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

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Lewis Clareburt leaving NZ to chase LA 2028 Olympics swimming medal

Source: Radio New Zealand

Lewis Clareburt during the Men’s 400m Individual Medley Heats at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Photosport

Two-time Olympian Lewis Clareburt is leaving New Zealand to chase his dream of a swimming medal at the LA 2028 Olympic Games.

The 2024 400m Individual Medley World Champion has announced he’s moving from Auckland to Melbourne where he’ll join Nunawading Swim Club in January 2026.

Clareburt will be coached by internationally renowned coach Jolyon Finck, and will train with Olympic athletes who also specialise in the medley disciplines.

The double Commonwealth Games swimming champion was forced to relocate to Auckland at the end of 2023 when he struggled to get lane space at the Wellington Regional Aquatic Centre, which was shared by other sports and the public.

Clareburt won gold in the 400 medley and the 200 butterfly at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham and made the 400 medley final at the Tokyo Olympics.

“We’re looking to create a really strong medley training group in Melbourne,” Clareburt said.

“At the moment there’s a really successful medley training group in the US and they’re winning all the medals internationally. If medley swimmers from Australia and New Zealand want to be on the podium we need to have a similar group in the southern hemisphere and that’s what we’re looking to set up.

“Being surrounded by this group day-in day-out is going to allow me to keep developing my swimming and pushing myself. I’m also 26 and have lived in New Zealand all my life, so this is an exciting opportunity for me and my partner to live in another country and experience a different culture.”

The 26-year-old paid tribute to the team which has supported him in Auckland.

“I can’t speak highly enough of my time in Auckland. Mitch Nairn has been an amazing coach and my physios and strength and conditioning team have been awesome,” he said.

“I’ll still be racing for New Zealand and I’ll be back home quite often for competitions and camps so it’s going to be a great mix for me and I’m excited for a new challenge which should help me reach my goals.”

Swimming New Zealand head of high performance Graeme Maw said the organisation was looking forward to supporting Clareburt as he builds toward LA2028.

“We’re excited to see Lewis continue to develop and chase his goal of a podium finish in LA,” Maw said.

“Swimming New Zealand has a strong and supportive relationship with Lewis and with his new coach in Melbourne, and he will remain fully supported by SNZ as he builds toward upcoming pinnacle events.”

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

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First live show for new Christchurch stadium revealed

Source: Radio New Zealand

Six60 and Synthony will perform in Christchurch on 16 May, the first live music set at the city’s brand new One New Zealand Stadium.

The Once in a Liftetime event will culminate in a collaboration between the twin headliners performing Six60’s biggest hits, event organisers confirmed on Wednesday.

The long-awaited 30,000 multi-use arena in the central city is due to open in April.

Six60, the Dunedin set which has become one of the biggest New Zealand bands of all time, said it was a “real honour” to play the first ever show at the venue.

“Christchurch has backed us from day one, it was the first ever city to book us for a live gig, so being able to open a venue built for its future is really special. We can’t wait to put on a night that Christchurch deserves.”

Synthony, the music and light extravaganza centred around orchestral reworkings of dance and electronic tracks, has become an international phenomenon.

Duco Events promoter David Higgins said it was a privilege to for the New-Zealand-born project to be part of the historic night.

“This show is a landmark moment for live entertainment in Aotearoa, a new world-class venue, and an all-NZ bill. It’s the kind of night that will define what’s possible here,” he said.

Fresh off selling out the Christchurch Town Hall last month, the lineup also includes local country singer-songwriter Kaylee Bell. Christchurch up-and-comers Cassie Henderson and Castaway are also slated to perform.

Wednesday’s announcement coincided with details unveiled by the government around its $70 million major event fund.

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said the Six60 and Synthony double-header would receive funding through its Events Boost fund.

“Today’s acts and events are just the start, offering something for hundreds of thousands of fans and visitors, along with a big boost to New Zealand’s economy,” Upston said.

Events in 2026 including the Auckland concert of American nu-metal icons Linkin Park and the electronic music festival Ultra Music Festival in Wellington would also be supported through the fund.

“From music to sports fans to art enthusiasts, we’re investing in an exciting and diverse line-up because major events don’t just attract visitors – they inject life and energy to cities and town, creating vibrant communities and unforgettable experiences,” she said.

“The economic benefits are huge – hotels fill up, restaurants and cafes thrive, tills ring in our shops, and local businesses see a surge in customers.”

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Tornado reportedly tears through Manawatū motor camp

Source: Radio New Zealand

File picture. Connor Diver

Fire crews have rushed to a motor camp in rural Manawatū after reports a tornado went through and overturned a caravan.

Emergency services were called to Dudding Lake at 12.36pm.

FENZ shift manager Murray Dunbar said a fire truck was at the scene alongside ambulance staff who were assessing four patients.

Dunbar confirmed at least one person had injuries.

St John said a patient has been taken to Whanganui Hospital in a moderate condition.

Rangtikei District Council said it had been informed of a tornado and asked people to avoid the area until otherwise advised.

The council said its staff was assessing damage and would keep people updated as more information came to hand.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand