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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…

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…

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…

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…

An award-winning senior police officer has been charged in connection with an alleged fraud involving nearly $18 million. Police say the alleged offending was unrelated to his duties, but the case raises questions about how public institutions manage conflicts of interest and maintain confidence when one of their own faces serious criminal allegations. Report by eLocal · A senior New Zealand police officer is facing 70 charges under the Crimes…

Labour has proposed a new corporate homicide offence for workplace deaths, drawing support from families of the 29 men killed at Pike River Mine. The proposal raises a central question for New Zealand: how would the new offence differ from existing workplace safety law, and what would be required to prove it? Report by eLocal · Labour has promised to introduce a corporate homicide offence if elected, with a maximum sentence of life imprisonment…