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New Zealand's unemployment rate has climbed to 5.7%, its highest level in nearly 11 years, with 174,000 people now officially unemployed. Businesses remain reluctant to hire, long-term unemployment is increasing, and wage growth is struggling to keep pace with inflation. While politicians point to signs of economic recovery, the latest figures raise a more fundamental question: if the economy is improving, why are so many New Zealanders still…

Are elections really about serving the public, or are they contests for control? In this opinion piece, Andy Loader examines the growing influence of government and bureaucracy, the tension between socialism and individual freedom, and whether New Zealand's public service remains genuinely accountable to the people it is supposed to serve. This is what elections are all about no matter what some political parties and candidates may say. · They…

A Democratic blue wave has swept across America, handing the party control of Congress and overturning historic Republican strongholds. Voters cite rising living costs and shrinking household budgets as reasons for change. In Texas, James Talarico claims a landmark Senate victory after campaigning against US funding for Israel, potentially setting up a clash with pro-Israel Democrats. Iran's parliament speaker says the result reflects American…

Armenia's parliament has descended into chaos, with lawmakers trading punches, throwing chairs and suffering injuries as tensions between Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's government and the opposition reach boiling point. Behind the extraordinary scenes lies a deeper struggle over disputed elections, political freedoms, relations with Russia and the country's increasingly controversial alignment with the European Union. INR Report: Based on…

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's attendance at a G20 gathering in Atlanta has exposed divisions between Washington and European governments over diplomatic engagement with Moscow. With European ministers reportedly refusing to participate in a traditional group photograph alongside Lavrov, the dispute raises a larger question: can international diplomacy succeed when governments refuse even symbolic engagement with their adversaries? INR…

Angry crowds reportedly stormed an alleged secret military prison near Kiev amid accusations that mobilised Ukrainian men were tortured and denied medical care, sparking violent clashes with authorities. Meanwhile, claims that Israel is pressuring Washington to strike Iran's nuclear facilities raise fears of severe retaliation. As Americans prepare to vote in the 2026 midterm elections, US defence contractors are pouring millions into both…

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has accused European governments of repeatedly failing to honour agreements intended to resolve the Ukraine conflict, arguing that their record has undermined their credibility as future peace negotiators. As Washington prepares to broker another round of talks, Moscow is questioning whether European participation would contribute anything meaningful to a settlement. Europe Under Scrutiny · Russian…

Elevated to capture sweeping views, this impressive 315sqm Navigation Homes residence sits on a generous 1041sqm section. Featuring four bedrooms, three bathrooms, three living areas and a dedicated office, it offers exceptional family flexibility. Enjoy spacious open-plan living, balcony entertaining and a luxurious master suite. Downstairs provides extended family living with a kitchenette and separate access potential. Complete with massive…

Beautifully renovated and set on a generous 1045sqm (more or less) section, this impressive four-bedroom family home offers space, comfort and exceptional entertaining. Featuring contemporary open-plan living, a modern kitchen, expansive outdoor decking and a separate rumpus room, there's room for everyone. The upstairs master suite boasts an ensuite, walk-in wardrobe and private balcony. Complete with double internal-access garaging and…

With New Zealand heading to the polls on 7 November 2026, Andy Loader examines the leaders of the country's political parties, assessing their political judgement, leadership styles, electoral success, policies and personal character. Political leadership is the process of guiding and influencing people, groups, or whole countries to make and carry out public decisions. · Good leadership requires a balance between ethical character and…