Winston Peters says concerns over China’s efforts to gain political influence in New Zealand should be taken seriously. This comes as Hilary Clinton stated that warnings by experts should be heeded. Simon Bridges has said he is not concerned but any interference should be guarded against. It is expected that the budget will see an increase in funding for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade with a renewed focus on engagement in the Pacific. Talisa Kupenga reports: Winston Peters, Minita Take Tāwāhi. Simon Bridges, Kaiārahi, Nāhinara.
Police on the East Coast say they have the highest drink driving rate in New Zealand and Māori men are main offenders. They are now working to raise awareness of the issue of recidivist drink drivers in the community through the Whakamanahia Programme. Aroha Treacher reports: Dean Plowman, Pirihimana, Tairāwhiti. Te Ariki Dewes, Ngāti Porou.
Drivers are being challenged to change one thing they do in order to make them safer on the road as part of Road Safety Week. The focus is on distractions, the use of phones while driving and motorists not wearing a seatbelt.
More volcanic fissures have appeared on the Leilani Estate near Mount Kilauea in Hawai’i. Lynette Amoroa reports: Mileka Lincoln, Reporter Hawai’i News Now, Mai i Pāhoa, Hawai’i.
Residents of Houhora in Northland are anxious after numerous sightings of Great White Sharks in the harbour. One fisherman believes the sharks are more common due to the warmer water and an increase in food for the predators. Rāniera Harrison reports: Marutuāhu Paul, Ngāti Pūkenga. Dave Stewart, Ringi Hī Ngohi.
The campaign for zero waste now includes the Māori initiative “Para Kore” who are part of the call for a reduction in plastic waste entering the oceans. They are also part of the Kiwi Bottle Drive campaign calling for a deposit scheme for plastic bottles.
The World’s first digital interactive sign language game in Te Reo is nearing completion and the developers will be translating the tool into several other sign languages. The “Sign Me a Genie” game aims to improve literacy, educational and employment outcomes for the deaf community. Mānia Clarke reports: Adele Hauwai, Kaiwhakatū, SeeCom.
A Te Arawa artist has launched a comic book which depicts kapa haka performers as super heroes. The artist hopes that this will provide positive female role models for youth that come from Māori culture. Future plans include a series on male ancestors and also the villians of Te Arawa. Mere McLean reports: Chaz Mikaere, Te Arawa.
The Pulse have defeated the Steel 62 – 51 in the ANZ Premiership with their younger players having a positive impact on the match. Ruth Smith reports: Yvette McCauseland-Durie, Kaiako Pulse, Mai i Papaioea.
The Warriors will be wearing a specially designed Toa jersey when they play against the Roosters during the NRL’s Indigenous Round. AJ Moriarty, Canterbury of New Zealand.
The former Rabbitohs coach Michael McGuire may be the new head coach of the Kiwis rugby league team. New Zealand Rugby League are expected to make an announcement later this week.
After defeating Andres Rodriguez, Bowyn Morgan is the new Pro-Box Pacific Super Welterweight Champion. However, Morgan is now focused on a bout against Tommy Browne which could earn him a world title. Bowyn Morgan, Kaimekemeke, Ōtautahi.
TJ Perenara is hoping to return to the field with the Hurricanes after a 6 week absence. Jason Holland, Kaiako Tuarua, Hurricanes.
The Māori lunar calendar – The moon will move into the phase of Tangaroa Whakapau.