China: New Zealand and Cook Islands fall out over Beijing deal

New Zealand has accused the Cook Islands government of a lack of transparency over its plans to strike a partnership deal with China. The tiny Pacific Island nation’s leader, Mark…

New Zealand: Mountain gets same legal rights as a person

A settlement under which a New Zealand mountain has been granted the same legal right as a person has become law after years of negotiations. It means Taranaki Maunga [Mt…

Cook Islands: New Zealand rejects proposal for the island’s own passport

New Zealand has rejected a proposal by the Cook Islands to introduce a separate passport for its citizens while allowing them to retain New Zealand citizenship. Cook Islands, a self-governing…

New Zealand: Authorities to ban greyhound racing

New Zealand has announced plans to ban greyhound racing, citing an “unacceptably high” rate of injuries. The sport has long faced criticism in the country, with some breeders accused of…

New Zealand: Painting of Māori elder fetches record price in NZ auction

An oil painting of a Māori elder has fetched a record price at an auction on Tuesday, making it the most valuable artwork of its kind in New Zealand history.…