Articles from ‘elocal magazine’

Hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders routinely check for tax refunds, but far fewer realise Inland Revenue also holds unclaimed money that may rightfully belong to individuals, families, businesses and estates. With more than $600 million currently recorded as unclaimed, it may be worth taking a few minutes to search. eLocal Report: Based on reporting by RNZ HERE. · Report by eLocal · Many New Zealanders may be unaware that Inland Revenue…

As the cooler months arrive, Halliwell Shoes in Pukekohe is welcoming the new Autumn / Winter 2026 collection from one of Europe’s most respected comfort footwear brands — Pitillos of Spain. Known for blending modern European styling with genuine all-day comfort, Pitillos continues to build a loyal following among women looking for footwear that feels as good as it looks. · This season’s range delivers a stylish mix of soft leathers, elegant…

Dolly Parton, 1946–2026 · The voice was unmistakable. The hair was impossible to miss. But it was the heart beneath both that made Dolly Parton an American treasure. By Moon Geezer Talk · Dolly Rebecca Parton was born January 19, 1946, in the mountains of East Tennessee, the fourth of 12 children raised in a one-room cabin. Her family had little money, but they possessed the stories, faith and mountain music that would shape nearly everything…

The Fairphone 6+ has launched in the United States with an unusually simple proposition: when something wears out or breaks, replace the part rather than the entire phone. With a removable battery, replaceable components, expandable storage and long-term software support, Fairphone is betting some consumers would rather own their smartphone for longer than continually replace it. eLocal Report: Based on reporting by Monica J. White for New…

An angry exchange inside New Zealand’s Parliament has developed into a diplomatic dispute after China formally protested comments made by Foreign Minister Winston Peters. The confrontation has raised questions about parliamentary conduct, foreign interference, free speech and whether criticism of authoritarian government can be separated from remarks directed at an individual’s country of birth Report by eLocal · China has lodged an official…

While global energy markets are becoming increasingly unsettled, New Zealand continues to receive a steady flow of fuel shipments. For now, the tankers are still arriving—but with Brent crude climbing above US$100 and geopolitical tensions escalating around key shipping routes, the coming weeks will be worth watching very closely. NZ Fuel Watch – Update 31 July 2026 · Global Tensions Rise, But New Zealand's Fuel Supply Still Holding Steady ·…

The COVID-19 pandemic changed New Zealand in ways few events have in modern history. While the Royal Commission has now completed its work, new evidence and investigations overseas are continuing to reshape the international understanding of the pandemic and the decisions that followed. Report by eLocal (PART 1) · History rarely stands still. Major public inquiries are conducted using the best evidence available at the time, but they are not…

The Human Rights Commission says the Government's proposed review of Treaty of Waitangi clauses could weaken constitutional protections while increasing legal uncertainty and litigation. The Government rejects that view, arguing the reforms are intended to create greater consistency and improve certainty across New Zealand's laws. Report by eLocal · The Human Rights Commission (HRC) has called on the Government to abandon its proposed overhaul…

Police say more than $800,000 in assets linked to a convicted drug-dealing operation will now be forfeited to the Crown. The case highlights the use of New Zealand's criminal proceeds legislation to strip offenders of assets believed to have been acquired through organised crime. Report by eLocal · A Wairoa couple convicted of supplying and distributing methamphetamine has been ordered to forfeit more than $800,000 in cash and assets following…

Russia has announced the arrest of one of its own citizens on allegations of espionage linked to New Zealand's Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS). New Zealand officials have declined to comment on what they describe as potential operational matters, while cautioning against relying solely on Russian state media reports. Report by eLocal · Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) says it has arrested a Russian citizen accused of spying for New…