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Investigative journalist Nicky Hager has turned his attention to the New Zealand Taxpayers’ Union, alleging that the organisation sits within a wider network of politically aligned advocacy groups whose relationships are not always apparent to the public. But some of the book’s strongest allegations remain disputed, and Newsroom notes there is no conclusive evidence of coordination between the Taxpayers’ Union and the coalition Government Report…

Sue Grey West Coast–Tasman candidate lawyer and NZ Outdoors & Freedom party leader says her exclusion from the Taxpayers’ Union’s Greymouth election debate highlights the questions about political influence, gatekeeping and supposedly independent political organisations raised by investigative journalist Nicky Hager in his new book Dirty Work. Hager’s investigation focuses on the New Zealand Taxpayers’ Union and political influence on…

Andy Loader challenges changes to Simon Watts' Local Government (Systems Improvement) Bill, arguing that they strengthen council chief executives' control over information available to elected councillors. He questions the implications for democratic accountability, ratepayers' rights and council oversight, while raising wider concerns about co-governance and the coalition government's commitment to equal representation. Thanks to last-minute…

Set on 1.12ha (more or less) of established, park-like grounds, this beautifully maintained Franklin lifestyle property offers privacy, space and picturesque rural views. The generous 353sqm (more or less) single-level home features four bedrooms, three bathrooms and multiple living areas, ideal for family life and entertaining. With six-car garaging, substantial shedding and easy access to Pukekohe, schools and motorway connections, this…

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has reportedly urged Vladimir Zelensky to stop Ukrainian strikes on American-linked vessels as Washington continues funding Ukraine. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov disputes allegations concerning Bucha and Russian drones threatening Europe, and questions the UN Secretary-General’s response. Meanwhile, China condemns unilateral US sanctions as illegal after Washington threatens to bar Iranian airlines…

Labour has promised to leave residential landlords’ mortgage-interest deductions in place if it forms the next government, drawing a positive response from property investors. The decision removes one proposed source of uncertainty for landlords, but its effects on rents, house prices and first-home buyers remain open to examination Report by eLocal Labour leader Chris Hipkins has confirmed that his party will not reverse the current…

Winston Peters says New Zealand will eventually recognise Palestinian statehood, but he wants evidence of a credible electoral process before that decision is made. His latest comments bring the distinction between recognising a people’s right to self-determination and assessing the institutions of a future state into sharper focus Report by eLocal · New Zealand’s recognition of Palestinian statehood is a question of timing rather than…

Winston Peters says New Zealand's nuclear-free policy strengthened national identity but also carried costs that deserve examination. His remarks raise a wider question about whether New Zealand's foreign-policy independence should be measured by its willingness to disagree with powerful allies or by its ability to make decisions in its own national interest Report by eLocal · Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters has challenged the…

After millions of Russians have their say at the ballot box, the ruling party is celebrating - as preliminary results give United Russia a firm majority as it vows to keep up its work amid current challenges. The Russian election commission presents the preliminary results noting that the voting process went smoothly despite threats and attacks from Ukraine. The Donbass sees a record turnout as it takes part in Russian federal elections for the…

Te Pāti Māori proposes using public money to help establish Māori-owned supermarket chains. The announcement raises questions about access to business funding, who would bear the financial risk, and how the proposed investment compares with other demands on New Zealand’s public purse Report by eLocal · Te Pāti Māori has proposed $100 million in seed funding for Māori-owned supermarket chains and regenerative and organic farming training as part…