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Andrew Korybko argues that disputed reports of a possible Russian drone attack on Southern Europe raise another possibility: could Ukraine stage a false-flag incident designed to implicate Moscow and intensify NATO involvement? Pointing to Ukraine’s demonstrated drone capabilities in the Mediterranean, he examines the incentives, escalation risks and why a direct crisis-control channel between Russia, the US and European NATO could be critical Z…

Spacious and versatile, this four-bedroom Waiuku home offers relaxed family living across two levels. Featuring two generous living areas, an open-plan kitchen and dining space, elevated balcony views, established gardens and expansive lawns, there is room for everyone to enjoy. A large internal-access double garage adds everyday practicality, while schools, shops, cafes, parks and Waiuku's outdoor attractions are all within easy reach. !Image…

Generous family living meets a peaceful Karaka setting in this substantial five-bedroom home. Spread across two levels, it offers a spacious open-plan kitchen, dining and living hub, flexible ground-floor fifth bedroom, multiple outdoor entertaining areas and attractive water views. The master suite includes a walk-in wardrobe and ensuite, while double internal-access garaging, easy-care grounds and convenient motorway access complete this…

New Zealand pre-election accounts show a materially stronger near-term fiscal position than Treasury forecast at the May Budget, with smaller deficits, $15 billion less planned borrowing and a larger projected surplus in 2028/29. The improvement is welcome for taxpayers and households, but Treasury figures also show why the outlook should be read carefully: much of the fiscal gain comes from higher tax revenue associated with stronger nominal…

Andy Loader continues his examination of MMP by turning to what happens after election day. He argues coalition negotiations can hand smaller parties significant influence over who forms the government and what policies emerge. His proposed solution is greater transparency before voters cast their ballots: require parties to declare in advance which other parties they would be prepared to negotiate with Part 1 click here · Obviously after the…

A Bay of Plenty police sergeant has been acquitted after a jury heard he punched a woman five times while she was being held in a police cell. The verdict resolves the criminal charge, but the case raises a separate public-interest question about how force used against people in custody is authorised, recorded and independently scrutinised Report by eLocal · A Tauranga jury has found a police sergeant not guilty of injuring with intent to…

The latest 1News Verian poll has National and Labour level on 28 percent, while the Greens have risen to 16 percent. The numbers could leave Opportunity holding the balance of power, but the seat projections depend on electorate results and post-election negotiations that no poll can settle Report by eLocal · New Zealand's election contest has become increasingly fragmented, with the latest 1News Verian poll showing neither major party close to…

Sir John Key has urged National supporters to give both votes to National, warning that strategic voting could cost the party experienced ministers. Winston Peters has rejected that argument, using the dispute to make a wider case for New Zealand First’s economic programme and its leverage in post-election negotiations Report by eLocal · Former Prime Minister Sir John Key and New Zealand First leader Winston Peters have opened a revealing…

Russia reports overnight strikes on Ukrainian military and logistics targets, including in Kyiv. Moscow's foreign minister says Russia seeks no further confrontation but warns that Europe's militarisation risks escalating the conflict. In Munich, protesters, including students, oppose German resources being directed towards Ukraine rather than domestic needs. Meanwhile, Saudi airstrikes reportedly hit civilian areas in Yemen's Taiz province as…

Who checks the figures when councils and banks demand payment or enforce debts against people's homes? In this opinion, Tracy Lynch examines mortgage balances, council rates, development contributions and the records underpinning enforcement decisions. Her central question is straightforward: can institutions demonstrate the authority, calculations and financial records supporting their demands? The question is no longer simply: “Do you owe…