The Islamic State-inspired radical who was shot dead by police after he attacked people with a knife in an Auckland supermarket has been identified as 32-year-old Ahamed Aathil Mohamed Samsudeen.

Seven people were stabbed and wounded at the supermarket in New Zealand on Saturday. Three of the victims remained hospitalized in critical condition and three more were in stable or moderate conditions. The seventh person was recovering at home.

The youngest victim was a 29-year-old woman, the oldest a 77-year-old man.

According to local media reports, the 32-year-old attacker was a Sri Lankan national who had been convicted and imprisoned for about three years before being released in July.

The attacker’s identity was revealed a day after the court gave permission to the New Zealand government to disclose the man’s name—which was otherwise prohibited under the suppression order.

Samsudeen was granted name suppression by a high court in July 2018.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jacinda-ardern-calls-new-zealand-stabbing-terrorist-attack-suspect-shot-dead-410375">Jacinda Ardern calls New Zealand stabbing 'terrorist attack'; suspect shot dead</a>

At that stage, his refugee status was uncertain and the suppression order was to remain in place until that was determined

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern had earlier said the attacker surveillance since 2016 because of his support to the Islamic State ideology.

She said the man by law could not be kept in prison, so he was being constantly monitored instead.

The attacker&nbsp;spent three years in prison after being charged multiple times for possessing hunting knives and objectionable publications, Ardern said.

According to reports, Samsudeen, a Tamil Muslim, came to New Zealand on a student visa. He first came to the attention of police in 2016, after posting comments advocating violent extremism on social media.

He was initially arrested at Auckland airport in 2017, believed to be on his way to Syria. Police also found "restricted publications" and a hunting knife in his apartment. He was charged with possessing the items, pleaded guilty and was released on bail.

Ardern said she had received briefings about the threat the man posed in July and&nbsp;in August.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Islamic State-inspired radical who was shot dead by police after he attacked people with a knife in an Auckland supermarket has been identified as 32-year-old Ahamed Aathil Mohamed Samsudeen.

The Islamic State-inspired radical who was shot dead by police after he attacked people with a knife in an Auckland supermarket has been identified as 32-year-old Ahamed Aathil Mohamed Samsudeen. Seven people were stabbed and wounded at the supermarket in New Zealand on Saturday. Three of the victims remained hospitalized in critical condition and three more were in stable or moderate conditions. The seventh person was recovering at home. The youngest victim was a 29-year-old woman, the oldest a 77-year-old man. According to local media reports, the 32-year-old attacker was a Sri Lankan national who had been convicted and imprisoned for about three years before being released in July. The attacker’s identity was revealed a day after the court gave permission to the New Zealand government to disclose the man’s name—which was otherwise prohibited under the suppression order. Samsudeen was granted name suppression by a high court in July 2018. Also read | Jacinda Ardern calls New Zealand stabbing 'terrorist attack'; suspect shot dead At that stage, his refugee status was uncertain and the suppression order was to remain in place until that was determined New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern had earlier said the attacker surveillance since 2016 because of his support to the Islamic State ideology. She said the man by law could not be kept in prison, so he was being constantly monitored instead. The attacker spent three years in prison after being charged multiple times for possessing hunting knives and objectionable publications, Ardern said. According to reports, Samsudeen, a Tamil Muslim, came to New Zealand on a student visa. He first came to the attention of police in 2016, after posting comments advocating violent extremism on social media. He was initially arrested at Auckland airport in 2017, believed to be on his way to Syria. Police also found "restricted publications" and a hunting knife in his apartment. He was charged with possessing the items, pleaded guilty and was released on bail. Ardern said she had received briefings about the threat the man posed in July and in August. (With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand officials reveal radical’s name responsible for Auckland knife attack

New Zealand police shot and killed a man after he stabbed and wounded at least six people in a supermarket in the city of Auckland. According to Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, he had been inspired by the ISIS group.

Man shot dead after stabbing incident at New Zealand supermarket

News Zealanders are out on beaches and are queuing up for takeaway food and stuff as lockdown measures have been enforced to break an outbreak of the Delta variant of the Coronavirus. However, the country's largest city, Auckland still remains under lockdown.

New Zealand eases COVID-19 curbs in most parts, Auckland remains under a lockdown

New Zealand has announced a snap lockdown after a man tested positive for Coronavirus, the first case in six months. The case was detected in Auckland, which will be in lockdown for a week, while the rest of the country will be in lockdown for three days.

New Zealand announces nationwide lockdown after first COVID case in 6 months

Auckland, New Zealand’s biggest city, emerged on Sunday from a strict weeklong lockdown imposed after a community cluster of the more contagious UK <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> variant.

There were no new local COVID-19 cases recorded on Sunday, health officials said, allowing for the restrictions to ease. If no community cases are confirmed during the rest of Sunday, it would make a full seven days since the last community case.

There are still limits on public gathering in the city of nearly two million, however, and masks are obligatory on public transport.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-cancels-tsunami-warning-after-three-strong-offshore-earthquakes-368085">New Zealand cancels tsunami warning after three strong offshore earthquakes</a>

Footage on TVNZ, New Zealand’s state-owned television network, showed people lining up at coffee shops on Sunday morning with many saying they were feeling relieved.

The government said it might ease restrictions in Auckland further on Friday, to bring them to the same level as in the rest of New Zealand.

In neighbouring Australia, the state of Victoria, which was under a five-day lockdown in mid-February after a small COVID-19 outbreak, recorded nine straight days of no local transmissions on Sunday.

Swift public health measures combined with aggressive contact tracing, border closures and compulsory quarantine for travellers have been credited with making both New Zealand and Australia highly successful in keeping the pandemic from spreading.

Both countries saw their economies recovering speedily in the second part of 2020. Australia’s economy expanded at a much faster-than-expected pace in the final quarter of last year and all signs were that 2021 has started on a firm footing too, helped by massive monetary and fiscal stimulus.

Both countries have begun coronavirus inoculation programmes, with the vaccination rollout in Australia becoming complicated after Italy blocked a shipment of AstraZeneca’s coronavirus vaccine to the country.

Auckland, New Zealand’s biggest city, emerged on Sunday from a strict weeklong lockdown imposed after a community cluster of the more contagious UK coronavirus variant.

Auckland, New Zealand’s biggest city, emerged on Sunday from a strict weeklong lockdown imposed after a community cluster of the more contagious UK coronavirus variant. There were no new local COVID-19 cases recorded on Sunday, health officials said, allowing for the restrictions to ease. If no community cases are confirmed during the rest of Sunday, it would make a full seven days since the last community case. There are still limits on public gathering in the city of nearly two million, however, and masks are obligatory on public transport. Also read | New Zealand cancels tsunami warning after three strong offshore earthquakes Footage on TVNZ, New Zealand’s state-owned television network, showed people lining up at coffee shops on Sunday morning with many saying they were feeling relieved. The government said it might ease restrictions in Auckland further on Friday, to bring them to the same level as in the rest of New Zealand. In neighbouring Australia, the state of Victoria, which was under a five-day lockdown in mid-February after a small COVID-19 outbreak, recorded nine straight days of no local transmissions on Sunday. Swift public health measures combined with aggressive contact tracing, border closures and compulsory quarantine for travellers have been credited with making both New Zealand and Australia highly successful in keeping the pandemic from spreading. Both countries saw their economies recovering speedily in the second part of 2020. Australia’s economy expanded at a much faster-than-expected pace in the final quarter of last year and all signs were that 2021 has started on a firm footing too, helped by massive monetary and fiscal stimulus. Both countries have begun coronavirus inoculation programmes, with the vaccination rollout in Australia becoming complicated after Italy blocked a shipment of AstraZeneca’s coronavirus vaccine to the country.

New Zealand's Auckland emerges from weeklong coronavirus lockdown

A 7-day lockdown has been imposed in New Zealand's biggest city Auckland after a fresh COVID-19 infection was reported in the region on Saturday.

New Zealand: Auckland goes under a 7-day COVID-19 lockdown

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Saturday that the country's biggest city, Auckland, will go into a seven-day lockdown from early morning on Sunday after a new local case of the coronavirus of unknown origin emerged.

New Zealand's largest city Auckland back to lockdown after COVID-19 case

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Saturday that Auckland will be put into a seven-day lockdown from Sunday. Auckland is the biggest city in New Zealand. This decision has been taken after a COVID community case of unknown origin was recorded.

Rest of New Zealand will be put into Level 2 restrictions. These restrictions will limit public gatherings, said Arden at a news conference.

New Zealand, and particularly Jacinda Ardern has been praised for effective handling of coronavirus pandemic in the country. However, cases have been found in recent months prompting lockdowns and other restrictions.

In mid-February, Auckland's nearly 2 million residents were plunged into a snap three-day lockdown after a family of three were diagnosed with the more transmissible UK variant of COVID-19.

(With Reuters inputs)

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Saturday that Auckland will be put into a seven-day lockdown from Sunday. Auckland is the biggest city in New Zealand.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Saturday that Auckland will be put into a seven-day lockdown from Sunday. Auckland is the biggest city in New Zealand. This decision has been taken after a COVID community case of unknown origin was recorded. Rest of New Zealand will be put into Level 2 restrictions. These restrictions will limit public gatherings, said Arden at a news conference. New Zealand, and particularly Jacinda Ardern has been praised for effective handling of coronavirus pandemic in the country. However, cases have been found in recent months prompting lockdowns and other restrictions. In mid-February, Auckland's nearly 2 million residents were plunged into a snap three-day lockdown after a family of three were diagnosed with the more transmissible UK variant of COVID-19. (With Reuters inputs)

New Zealand: Auckland to be put into seven day COVID lockdown

New Zealand has not had any local virus cases for months until the recent infections and was ranked the best performing in an index of almost 100 countries based on containment of the coronavirus

New Zealand city enters 3-day lockdown after virus found

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern ordered the country's biggest city Auckland into a snap lockdown for the first time in nearly six months on Sunday after three coronavirus cases emerged in the community.

New Zealand: COVID lockdown in Auckland for three days

After not reporting a single case of community transmission for 102 days, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern ordered Auckland to be lockdown after four cases of community transmission was reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-surpasses-20-million-coronavirus-cases-who-warns-against-despair-319610">Also Read:&nbsp;World surpasses 20 million coronavirus cases, WHO warns against despair</a>

The New Zealand government has put Auckland on level 3 alert for the next 3 days along with the rest of the country which has been put on alert level 2.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/recent-study-97000-children-in-us-tested-coronavirus-positive-319623/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The country hadn't recorded any case of community transmission since May 1.

According to reports, the four cases belonged to one family but there was no overseas link.

"After 102 days, we have our first cases of COVID-19 outside of managed isolation or quarantine facilities... while we have all worked incredibly hard to prevent this scenario, we have also planned and prepared for it," Ardern said.

The residents in Auckland have been put on work from home except for essential workers. Schools, bars and restaurants have also been ordered to be closed.

"We're asking people in Auckland to stay home to stop the spread," the New Zealand prime minister said, adding,"act as if you have COVID-19, and as though people around you have COVID-19."

Ardern added that people should not rush to supermarkets. Amid the lockdown announcement, Auckland mayor Phil Goff called for calm as authorities called for more testing especially in Wiri, Henderson including Auckland. 
&nbsp;

After not reporting a single case of community transmission for 102 days, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern ordered Auckland to be lockdown after four cases of community transmission was reported.

After not reporting a single case of community transmission for 102 days, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern ordered Auckland to be lockdown after four cases of community transmission was reported. Also Read: World surpasses 20 million coronavirus cases, WHO warns against despair The New Zealand government has put Auckland on level 3 alert for the next 3 days along with the rest of the country which has been put on alert level 2. Watch: The country hadn't recorded any case of community transmission since May 1. According to reports, the four cases belonged to one family but there was no overseas link. "After 102 days, we have our first cases of COVID-19 outside of managed isolation or quarantine facilities... while we have all worked incredibly hard to prevent this scenario, we have also planned and prepared for it," Ardern said. The residents in Auckland have been put on work from home except for essential workers. Schools, bars and restaurants have also been ordered to be closed. "We're asking people in Auckland to stay home to stop the spread," the New Zealand prime minister said, adding,"act as if you have COVID-19, and as though people around you have COVID-19." Ardern added that people should not rush to supermarkets. Amid the lockdown announcement, Auckland mayor Phil Goff called for calm as authorities called for more testing especially in Wiri, Henderson including Auckland.

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern puts Auckland on lockdown after four coronavirus cases detected

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern visited a Radha Krishna Temple in Auckland ahead of the national election scheduled in September. She also relished an Indian vegetarian meal, which included Puri, Chhole and Daal.

Ardern visited the temple on Thursday last week. She was also captured removing her boots outside the temple.

Several pictures and videos of the politician’s visit to the temple have been shared online by the Indian diaspora, including Muktesh Pardeshi, the Indian envoy to New Zealand.

“Some precious moments with Hon. PM of New Zealand @jacindaardern at @indiannewslink event on Aug 6, 2020. She paid a short visit to Radha Krishna Mandir and enjoyed a simple Indian vegetarian meal- Puri, Chhole and Daal,” Indian High Commissioner to New Zealand Muktesh Pardeshi tweeted on Saturday.&nbsp;

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Some precious moments with Hon. PM of New Zealand ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/jacindaardern?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jacindaardern</a>⁩ at ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/indiannewslink?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@indiannewslink</a>⁩ event on 6 Aug 2020. She paid a short visit to Radha Krishna Mandir and enjoyed a simple Indian vegetarian meal- Puri, Chhole and Daal. 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/Adn25UE1cO">pic.twitter.com/Adn25UE1cO</a>
— Muktesh Pardeshi (@MukteshPardeshi) <a href="https://twitter.com/MukteshPardeshi/status/1291991068905369600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Prime Minister of New Zealand <a href="https://twitter.com/jacindaardern?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jacindaardern</a> visited Radha Krishna Hindu Temple on Aug 6. Indian envoy <a href="https://twitter.com/MukteshPardeshi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MukteshPardeshi</a> was also present on the occasion. She had an Indian vegetarian meal of Puri, Chhole &amp; Dal. 5% Indians in NZ presently and Hindi is 4th largest spoken language. <a href="https://t.co/WTccz4LlLd">pic.twitter.com/WTccz4LlLd</a>
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She also participated in the prayers.

A video of the politician taking part in the rituals and having prasad was shared by the official Facebook page of the temple.

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New Zealand will hold elections on September 19, in which Ardern looks set to win in view of the global praise for her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern visited a Radha Krishna Temple in Auckland ahead of the national election scheduled in September. She also relished an Indian vegetarian meal, which included Puri, Chhole and Daal.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern visited a Radha Krishna Temple in Auckland ahead of the national election scheduled in September. She also relished an Indian vegetarian meal, which included Puri, Chhole and Daal. Ardern visited the temple on Thursday last week. She was also captured removing her boots outside the temple. Several pictures and videos of the politician’s visit to the temple have been shared online by the Indian diaspora, including Muktesh Pardeshi, the Indian envoy to New Zealand. “Some precious moments with Hon. PM of New Zealand @jacindaardern at @indiannewslink event on Aug 6, 2020. She paid a short visit to Radha Krishna Mandir and enjoyed a simple Indian vegetarian meal- Puri, Chhole and Daal,” Indian High Commissioner to New Zealand Muktesh Pardeshi tweeted on Saturday. Some precious moments with Hon. PM of New Zealand ⁦@jacindaardern⁩ at ⁦@indiannewslink⁩ event on 6 Aug 2020. She paid a short visit to Radha Krishna Mandir and enjoyed a simple Indian vegetarian meal- Puri, Chhole and Daal. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/Adn25UE1cO — Muktesh Pardeshi (@MukteshPardeshi) August 8, 2020 × Prime Minister of New Zealand @jacindaardern visited Radha Krishna Hindu Temple on Aug 6. Indian envoy @MukteshPardeshi was also present on the occasion. She had an Indian vegetarian meal of Puri, Chhole & Dal. 5% Indians in NZ presently and Hindi is 4th largest spoken language. pic.twitter.com/WTccz4LlLd — Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) August 8, 2020 × She also participated in the prayers. A video of the politician taking part in the rituals and having prasad was shared by the official Facebook page of the temple. × New Zealand will hold elections on September 19, in which Ardern looks set to win in view of the global praise for her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern visits Hindu temple in Auckland ahead of national elections

A 32-year-old man, who recently returned from India and tested positive for the deadly coronavirus, will be charged with missing from a managed isolation facility in Auckland to go to a supermarket, according to media reports.

The man, New Zealand's latest new case of COVID-19, escaped through a fenced area from an isolation facility at about 6:50 pm local time on Tuesday, the New Zealand Herald reported.

He has been sent to a quarantine facility after he was confirmed to have the coronavirus. However, the man was asymptomatic and did not appear to have come into close or casual contact with anyone, the report said.

The man, whose identity was not immediately known, came from Delhi on July 3, it added.

Health Minister Chris Hipkins has slammed the man's actions as "selfish" and says he will face charges, the report said.

But he wouldn't describe the episode as a failure of the government's processes, and even though those processes will now be reviewed, he said if anyone should apologise, it was the man who broke the law.

Mr Hipkins said the man appeared to have made a spur of the moment decision and dashed through a gap where fencing was being replaced.

A security guard was observing the area but confused the man with contractors working on the fencing. The alarm was raised within minutes but security were unable to find the man.

Mr Hipkins said the man may have spent 20 minutes in the supermarket on Victoria St West, and he returned of his own volition 70 minutes after leaving, the report added.

He will be charged and now face up to a six-month jail sentence or a $4000 fine, the report added.

After the man's positive test result came today, the supermarket staff are now self-isolating and will also be tested for the virus, the Stuff reported.

"CCTV footage from within the supermarket has confirmed there was no close contact between the man and any staff or customers during his time there," head of managed isolation and quarantine Air Commodore Darryn Webb said.

There are now 23 active COVID-19 cases in New Zealand, all in managed isolation or quarantine, and 1187 confirmed cases.

A 32-year-old man, who recently returned from India and tested positive for the deadly coronavirus, will be charged with missing from a managed isolation facility in Auckland to go to a supermarket, according to media reports.

A 32-year-old man, who recently returned from India and tested positive for the deadly coronavirus, will be charged with missing from a managed isolation facility in Auckland to go to a supermarket, according to media reports. The man, New Zealand's latest new case of COVID-19, escaped through a fenced area from an isolation facility at about 6:50 pm local time on Tuesday, the New Zealand Herald reported. He has been sent to a quarantine facility after he was confirmed to have the coronavirus. However, the man was asymptomatic and did not appear to have come into close or casual contact with anyone, the report said. The man, whose identity was not immediately known, came from Delhi on July 3, it added. Health Minister Chris Hipkins has slammed the man's actions as "selfish" and says he will face charges, the report said. But he wouldn't describe the episode as a failure of the government's processes, and even though those processes will now be reviewed, he said if anyone should apologise, it was the man who broke the law. Mr Hipkins said the man appeared to have made a spur of the moment decision and dashed through a gap where fencing was being replaced. A security guard was observing the area but confused the man with contractors working on the fencing. The alarm was raised within minutes but security were unable to find the man. Mr Hipkins said the man may have spent 20 minutes in the supermarket on Victoria St West, and he returned of his own volition 70 minutes after leaving, the report added. He will be charged and now face up to a six-month jail sentence or a $4000 fine, the report added. After the man's positive test result came today, the supermarket staff are now self-isolating and will also be tested for the virus, the Stuff reported. "CCTV footage from within the supermarket has confirmed there was no close contact between the man and any staff or customers during his time there," head of managed isolation and quarantine Air Commodore Darryn Webb said. There are now 23 active COVID-19 cases in New Zealand, all in managed isolation or quarantine, and 1187 confirmed cases.

Indian man in Covid-19 isolation runs away in Auckland, visits mall; faces $4,000 penalty, jail

February 7 in history: Great Siege of Gibraltar, sinking of Auckland's coast and lots more!

An Auckland woman and her two daughters faced embarrassment when they were about to board their Thai Airways flight from Bangkok to Auckland.&nbsp;

Paid for a business class service, they were left humiliated by the services of the Thai Airways staff.&nbsp;

In an interview with WION, Huhana Iripa, 59, narrated how the whole incident happened on May 12, 2019.

"My daughters (Tere, 37, and Renell, 28) and I approached a business class counter. A gentleman asked us&nbsp;how can he help? My youngest daughter Renell replied; 'we are checking in'. Before handing our passports over, he abruptly informed us that we were not eligible to board the plane subject to our size. We reacted immediately. By this time two other Thai staff asked us what was going on? Again Renell repeated herself. The gentleman bluntly told us we were too big to board their plane".

"When we asked for the manager, there were about five members surrounding us. Feeling frustrated and angry, the three of us&nbsp;demanded some service. The manager explained that the aircraft had two safety belts. The staff's opinion was that we will be unable to fit", said Iripa.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-auckland-women-denied-entry-on-plane-by-thai-airlines-owing-to-their-weight-277419">Three Auckland women denied entry on plane by Thai Airlines owing to their weight</a>

As the onlookers looked at them, the trio felt more humiliated as the manager pulled out a measuring tape and wrapped it around Renell.

"At this moment, I felt discriminated and disgusted with the Thai staff as they gathered around us talking in their native language, staring, pointing and shaking their heads. The measuring tape came my way. I told her to go away. We were sternly advised we needed to fit within a certain reading of the measuring tape for us to board the aircraft in the business class,"&nbsp;said Iripa.

Renell retrieved the measuring tape as measured from shoulder to shoulder and hip to hip. It was very clear that Renell measurements were indeed within the specifications required. (around 56 inches).

"We found out that the Thai Airways had downsized the aircraft. When we boarded the aircraft in the economy class we noticed the business class was full. Three people were of large size and they sat comfortably in their seats", she added.

After such affliction, the family asked for full compensation from the airlines but only received the difference between the economy and the business class.

"After months of correspondence, we requested for a refund. Thai Airlines offered the difference between the economy and business class. My daughters and I called for a meeting with the airlines. We met with two representatives. The same offer was on the table. I recommended they should pay $2,650.00 in full. We also asked for a written apology - which we received - but it honestly had no meaning", Iripa told WION.

Iripa added that it was the first time that as adults they had experienced anything like this. She said that no compensation or apology had any effect on them given the kind of humiliation they were subjected to. 
&nbsp;

An Auckland woman and her two daughters faced embarrassment when they were about to board their Thai Airways flight from Bangkok to Auckland. Paid for a business class service, they were left humiliated by the services of the Thai Airways staff.

An Auckland woman and her two daughters faced embarrassment when they were about to board their Thai Airways flight from Bangkok to Auckland. Paid for a business class service, they were left humiliated by the services of the Thai Airways staff. In an interview with WION, Huhana Iripa, 59, narrated how the whole incident happened on May 12, 2019. "My daughters (Tere, 37, and Renell, 28) and I approached a business class counter. A gentleman asked us how can he help? My youngest daughter Renell replied; 'we are checking in'. Before handing our passports over, he abruptly informed us that we were not eligible to board the plane subject to our size. We reacted immediately. By this time two other Thai staff asked us what was going on? Again Renell repeated herself. The gentleman bluntly told us we were too big to board their plane". "When we asked for the manager, there were about five members surrounding us. Feeling frustrated and angry, the three of us demanded some service. The manager explained that the aircraft had two safety belts. The staff's opinion was that we will be unable to fit", said Iripa. Also read: Three Auckland women denied entry on plane by Thai Airlines owing to their weight As the onlookers looked at them, the trio felt more humiliated as the manager pulled out a measuring tape and wrapped it around Renell. "At this moment, I felt discriminated and disgusted with the Thai staff as they gathered around us talking in their native language, staring, pointing and shaking their heads. The measuring tape came my way. I told her to go away. We were sternly advised we needed to fit within a certain reading of the measuring tape for us to board the aircraft in the business class," said Iripa. Renell retrieved the measuring tape as measured from shoulder to shoulder and hip to hip. It was very clear that Renell measurements were indeed within the specifications required. (around 56 inches). "We found out that the Thai Airways had downsized the aircraft. When we boarded the aircraft in the economy class we noticed the business class was full. Three people were of large size and they sat comfortably in their seats", she added. After such affliction, the family asked for full compensation from the airlines but only received the difference between the economy and the business class. "After months of correspondence, we requested for a refund. Thai Airlines offered the difference between the economy and business class. My daughters and I called for a meeting with the airlines. We met with two representatives. The same offer was on the table. I recommended they should pay $2,650.00 in full. We also asked for a written apology - which we received - but it honestly had no meaning", Iripa told WION. Iripa added that it was the first time that as adults they had experienced anything like this. She said that no compensation or apology had any effect on them given the kind of humiliation they were subjected to.

No compensation, apology can undo that humiliation: Auckland woman tells WION after denied entry on plane owing to her weight

Thai Airways has been at the receiving end of a lot of criticism for denying a woman and her two daughters entry into business class owing to their weight.&nbsp;

According to reports, a 59-year-old woman from Auckland, New Zealand, and her two daughters were not let onto the business class flight from Bangkok to Auckland owing to their size&nbsp;

Thai Airways made headlines over a similar issue last year.&nbsp;

Thai Airways International (THAI) had said that it had put a limit on the waist sizes for its passengers and had also put a ban on carrying infants on laps in business class on two of its Boeing 787-9 aircraft.

As per reports, the airlines had said that the limit and the ban on carrying kids in the lap was a consequence of the installation of safety seat belt airbags.

It was reported that passengers with a waistline over 56 inches (142.24 centimetres) could not fasten these new seatbelt airbags which meet US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) safety standards.&nbsp;

Thai Airways has been at the receiving end of a lot of criticism for denying a woman and her two daughters entry into business class owing to their weight. According to reports, a 59-year-old woman from Auckland, New Zealand, and her two daughters were not let onto the business class flight from Bangkok to Auckland owing to their size Thai Airways made headlines over a similar issue last year.

Thai Airways has been at the receiving end of a lot of criticism for denying a woman and her two daughters entry into business class owing to their weight. According to reports, a 59-year-old woman from Auckland, New Zealand, and her two daughters were not let onto the business class flight from Bangkok to Auckland owing to their size Thai Airways made headlines over a similar issue last year. Thai Airways International (THAI) had said that it had put a limit on the waist sizes for its passengers and had also put a ban on carrying infants on laps in business class on two of its Boeing 787-9 aircraft. As per reports, the airlines had said that the limit and the ban on carrying kids in the lap was a consequence of the installation of safety seat belt airbags. It was reported that passengers with a waistline over 56 inches (142.24 centimetres) could not fasten these new seatbelt airbags which meet US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) safety standards.

Three Auckland women denied entry on plane by Thai Airlines owing to their weight

Top seed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-retires-from-3rd-round-match-at-indian-wells-202434">Serena&nbsp;Williams</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/caroline-wozniacki-upbeat-ahead-of-australian-open-defence-189965">Caroline Wozniacki</a> ensured the Auckland Classic retained their two main drawcards as they battled to second round victories on Thursday, although promising teenager Coco Gauff was knocked out.

Williams needed two hours to outlast fellow American Christina McHale with a 3-6 6-2 6-3 victory, while Wozniacki, who is playing her penultimate tournament, fought back to overcome a tenacious Lauren Davis 6-1 4-6 6-4.

Gauff, however, was upset by Germany's Laura Siegemund 5-7 6-2 6-3 in a two-hour, 14-minute match that opened Thursday's action on the main court at the Auckland Tennis Centre.

Siegemund will now meet Williams, who struggled against the 86th-ranked McHale, who had not beaten the 23-times Grand Slam champion in their three previous matches.

McHale kept the 38-year-old off-balance with clever use of angled returns and chased down everything hammered back at her.

Williams only seized control of the match in the fifth game of the decider when she broke serve and told reporters that she had been angry with her play and was determined not to repeat her early Auckland exit in 2017.

"I think today I just got mad," Williams said of what had sparked her turnaround on Thursday. "Honestly, I said I wanted to win more than one match here in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hockey-world-cup-2018-new-zealand-hold-spain-to-2-2-draw-qualify-for-cross-overs-182006">New Zealand</a>.

"I literally thought about that (2017 tournament) and sometimes it's the craziest things that get you motivated."

Williams crashed out in the second round in Auckland in 2017 with an erratic performance she put down to the swirling winds and she left New Zealand in a hurry stating she was looking forward to better weather in Australia.

She said last week, however, that the early stages of her pregnancy in 2017 had badly affected her and she had no idea at the time why she was angry at everything.

Wozniacki, who is retiring after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sharapova-to-return-next-month-as-brisbane-wildcard-271149">Australian Open</a>, had romped to an early advantage but when Davis saved serve early in the second set she changed the momentum of the match.

The Dane, however, seized her chances on the crucial points in the decider and broke Davis in the ninth game then served out for the match.

"I thought that we both played really well," Wozniacki said. "I just kept digging in and I got lucky in the end."

Wozniacki will now meet Julia Goerges, who has won the Auckland title the last two years, in the quarter-finals after the German produced a clinical 6-3 6-2 victory over Switzerland's Jil Teichmann.

Top seed Serena Williams and Caroline Wozniacki ensured the Auckland Classic retained their two main drawcards as they battled to second round victories on Thursday, although promising teenager Coco Gauff was knocked out.

Top seed Serena Williams and Caroline Wozniacki ensured the Auckland Classic retained their two main drawcards as they battled to second round victories on Thursday, although promising teenager Coco Gauff was knocked out. Williams needed two hours to outlast fellow American Christina McHale with a 3-6 6-2 6-3 victory, while Wozniacki, who is playing her penultimate tournament, fought back to overcome a tenacious Lauren Davis 6-1 4-6 6-4. Gauff, however, was upset by Germany's Laura Siegemund 5-7 6-2 6-3 in a two-hour, 14-minute match that opened Thursday's action on the main court at the Auckland Tennis Centre. Siegemund will now meet Williams, who struggled against the 86th-ranked McHale, who had not beaten the 23-times Grand Slam champion in their three previous matches. McHale kept the 38-year-old off-balance with clever use of angled returns and chased down everything hammered back at her. Williams only seized control of the match in the fifth game of the decider when she broke serve and told reporters that she had been angry with her play and was determined not to repeat her early Auckland exit in 2017. "I think today I just got mad," Williams said of what had sparked her turnaround on Thursday. "Honestly, I said I wanted to win more than one match here in New Zealand. "I literally thought about that (2017 tournament) and sometimes it's the craziest things that get you motivated." Williams crashed out in the second round in Auckland in 2017 with an erratic performance she put down to the swirling winds and she left New Zealand in a hurry stating she was looking forward to better weather in Australia. She said last week, however, that the early stages of her pregnancy in 2017 had badly affected her and she had no idea at the time why she was angry at everything. Wozniacki, who is retiring after the Australian Open, had romped to an early advantage but when Davis saved serve early in the second set she changed the momentum of the match. The Dane, however, seized her chances on the crucial points in the decider and broke Davis in the ninth game then served out for the match. "I thought that we both played really well," Wozniacki said. "I just kept digging in and I got lucky in the end." Wozniacki will now meet Julia Goerges, who has won the Auckland title the last two years, in the quarter-finals after the German produced a clinical 6-3 6-2 victory over Switzerland's Jil Teichmann.

Tennis: Serena Williams, Caroline Wozniacki struggle but advance to Auckland quarters

Massive bushfires in Australia caused new concerns when the smoke reached neighbouring country New Zealand, forcing people to dial emergency numbers when they spotted orange skies.&nbsp;

The smokes have now moved North, which includes Auckland after covering much of the South Island.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-firefighters-get-brief-reprieve-as-death-toll-rises-272175">Australian firefighters get brief reprieve as death toll rises</a>

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Took these in Auckland city, New Zealand at 3pm today. The smoke from the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AustralianBushfire?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AustralianBushfire</a> shrouding everything in orange. <a href="https://t.co/tgoRx4I11v">pic.twitter.com/tgoRx4I11v</a>
— Gala Georgette (@GalaGeorgette) <a href="https://twitter.com/GalaGeorgette/status/1213657941850513408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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After the skies turned "scary", people in Auckland were urged by police not to dial the 111 emergency number to report the orange haze in the sky coming from Australia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-firefighters-get-brief-reprieve-as-death-toll-rises-272175">ATP: Novak Djokovic concerned about smoke at Australian Open as bushfires continue to blaze</a>

"We are currently receiving high numbers of calls related to this," police said.

People in New Zealand shared images of orange skies seen across Auckland.

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Just took a couple of shots of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Auckland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Auckland</a> smoke from the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AustralianBushfire?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AustralianBushfire</a>. Looks absolutely insane. <a href="https://t.co/zCK8DFzxlM">pic.twitter.com/zCK8DFzxlM</a>
— Cinematic Captures (@CineCaptures) <a href="https://twitter.com/CineCaptures/status/1213641554738348033?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Zimena Dormer-Didovich, a local, said that her 14-year-old asthmatic son was feeling the effects of the haze.

"It's very unsettling to see this. I can't imagine what the Australians just be experiencing." said Dormer-Didovich.&nbsp;

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Auckland skies in 4 unfiltered shots<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AustralianBushfire?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AustralianBushfire</a> <a href="https://t.co/nTPW38Nkzf">pic.twitter.com/nTPW38Nkzf</a>
— Keith Miller (@keith_miller_nz) <a href="https://twitter.com/keith_miller_nz/status/1213634729112522752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Experts say that the change in colour is caused by the smoke which reduces the visibility of blue light.&nbsp;

Forecaster Weatherwatch.co.nz said the appearance of the sky changed dramatically in the early afternoon.

"The gloomy weather is likely to continue for the rest of Sunday with this next main plume moving through and thickening over Sunday afternoon," WeatherWatch said.&nbsp;

At least 24 people have been killed in this season's bushfires in Australia. More than 5.25 million hectares (13 million acres) of land has been burnt in the fires.&nbsp;

(with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

 
&nbsp;

Massive bushfires in Australia caused new concerns when the smoke reached neighbouring country New Zealand, forcing people to dial emergency numbers when they spotted orange skies.

Massive bushfires in Australia caused new concerns when the smoke reached neighbouring country New Zealand, forcing people to dial emergency numbers when they spotted orange skies. The smokes have now moved North, which includes Auckland after covering much of the South Island. Also read: Australian firefighters get brief reprieve as death toll rises Took these in Auckland city, New Zealand at 3pm today. The smoke from the #AustralianBushfire shrouding everything in orange. pic.twitter.com/tgoRx4I11v — Gala Georgette (@GalaGeorgette) January 5, 2020 × After the skies turned "scary", people in Auckland were urged by police not to dial the 111 emergency number to report the orange haze in the sky coming from Australia. Also read: ATP: Novak Djokovic concerned about smoke at Australian Open as bushfires continue to blaze "We are currently receiving high numbers of calls related to this," police said. People in New Zealand shared images of orange skies seen across Auckland. Just took a couple of shots of the #Auckland smoke from the #AustralianBushfire. Looks absolutely insane. pic.twitter.com/zCK8DFzxlM — Cinematic Captures (@CineCaptures) January 5, 2020 × Zimena Dormer-Didovich, a local, said that her 14-year-old asthmatic son was feeling the effects of the haze. "It's very unsettling to see this. I can't imagine what the Australians just be experiencing." said Dormer-Didovich. Auckland skies in 4 unfiltered shots#AustralianBushfire pic.twitter.com/nTPW38Nkzf — Keith Miller (@keith_miller_nz) January 5, 2020 × Experts say that the change in colour is caused by the smoke which reduces the visibility of blue light. Forecaster Weatherwatch.co.nz said the appearance of the sky changed dramatically in the early afternoon. "The gloomy weather is likely to continue for the rest of Sunday with this next main plume moving through and thickening over Sunday afternoon," WeatherWatch said. At least 24 people have been killed in this season's bushfires in Australia. More than 5.25 million hectares (13 million acres) of land has been burnt in the fires. (with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

New Zealand: People call emergency services after skies turn orange due to bushfires

New Zealand has entered 2020 and a new decade with fireworks and huge celebrations in Auckland and Wellington. #WION #Auckland #Wellington

New Zealand celebrates New Years Eve

Auckland&nbsp;Classic organisers suffered a major setback to their tournament lineup on Tuesday with US&nbsp;Open <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/forgot-how-it-feels-to-lose-says-bianca-andreescu-after-14th-win-on-spin-252858">champion</a> Bianca&nbsp;Andreescu&nbsp;withdrawing due to "knee issues".

The Canadian teenager had been the top seed for the January&nbsp;6-12 tournament, which is a traditional warmup event for players fine-tuning their game ahead of the Australian Open.

"Organisers have been advised that Bianca&nbsp;Andreescu&nbsp;has had to withdraw from the upcoming event due to her ongoing knee issues," the tournament said in a statement on Tuesday.

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NEWS | Bianca Andreescu has had to withdraw from the 2020 ASB Classic due to her ongoing knee issues. We are disappointed not to welcome Bianca back and wish her all the best for a speedy recovery. <a href="https://t.co/7HVefuGLBe">pic.twitter.com/7HVefuGLBe</a>
— ASB Classic (@ASB_Classic) <a href="https://twitter.com/ASB_Classic/status/1209307474345549829?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"We are disappointed not to welcome Bianca back and wish her all the best for a speedy recovery."

Andreescu&nbsp;came through qualifying in&nbsp;Auckland&nbsp;earlier this year only to lose to Germany's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kontaveit-downs-defending-champion-julia-goerges-in-zhuhai-174649">Julia Goerges</a> in the final, which she used as a springboard for a sensational 2019.

She won her first WTA Tour title at Indian Wells, then beat Serena Williams in the finals in Toronto and again at Flushing Meadows to clinch her first Grand Slam title.

The&nbsp;Auckland&nbsp;tournament had assembled arguably its strongest ever field with&nbsp;Andreescu, Williams, former Australian Open champion Caroline Wozniacki and 2017 French Open winner Jelena Ostapenko all confirmed.

Two-times Grand Slam winner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fight-for-your-dreams-bianca-andreescu-embraces-path-to-us-open-joy-248384">Svetlana Kuznetsova</a> and American teenagers Amanda Anisimova and Coco Gauff have also entered the tournament before they head to Melbourne Park for the&nbsp;season-opening <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tsitsipas-sets-grand-slam-target-for-2020-269103">Grand Slam</a> that runs from January&nbsp;20 - February&nbsp;2.

Auckland Classic organisers suffered a major setback to their tournament lineup on Tuesday with US Open champion Bianca Andreescu withdrawing due to "knee issues".

Auckland Classic organisers suffered a major setback to their tournament lineup on Tuesday with US Open champion Bianca Andreescu withdrawing due to "knee issues". The Canadian teenager had been the top seed for the January 6-12 tournament, which is a traditional warmup event for players fine-tuning their game ahead of the Australian Open. "Organisers have been advised that Bianca Andreescu has had to withdraw from the upcoming event due to her ongoing knee issues," the tournament said in a statement on Tuesday. NEWS | Bianca Andreescu has had to withdraw from the 2020 ASB Classic due to her ongoing knee issues. We are disappointed not to welcome Bianca back and wish her all the best for a speedy recovery. pic.twitter.com/7HVefuGLBe — ASB Classic (@ASB_Classic) December 24, 2019 × "We are disappointed not to welcome Bianca back and wish her all the best for a speedy recovery." Andreescu came through qualifying in Auckland earlier this year only to lose to Germany's Julia Goerges in the final, which she used as a springboard for a sensational 2019. She won her first WTA Tour title at Indian Wells, then beat Serena Williams in the finals in Toronto and again at Flushing Meadows to clinch her first Grand Slam title. The Auckland tournament had assembled arguably its strongest ever field with Andreescu, Williams, former Australian Open champion Caroline Wozniacki and 2017 French Open winner Jelena Ostapenko all confirmed. Two-times Grand Slam winner Svetlana Kuznetsova and American teenagers Amanda Anisimova and Coco Gauff have also entered the tournament before they head to Melbourne Park for the season-opening Grand Slam that runs from January 20 - February 2.

Tennis: Bianca Andreescu out of season opener in Auckland over 'knee issues'

Vienna waltzes to quality of living win for 10th year

India defeated New Zealand by seven wickets in the second Twenty20 international at Auckland's Eden Park on Friday to level the series at 1-1.

New Zealand set India a modest total of 159 and the tourists overhauled it in 18.5 overs, finishing at 162 for three as captain Rohit Sharma top-scored on 50.&nbsp;

Indian paceman Krunal Pandya was the man of the match, taking three for 28, while New Zealand's best performer Colin de Grandhomme scored his first T20 half-century.

Sharma has become the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-rohit-sharma-becomes-highest-run-scorer-in-t20-cricket-196045">highest run scorer in the T20I history</a> and&nbsp;also became first India and the third overall player to smash 100 sixes in T20 cricket.

Windies' Chris Gayle and New Zealand Guptill have slammed 103 sixes each.&nbsp;

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India win by seven wickets with seven balls to spare!<a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabPant777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RishabPant777</a> get them over the line!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvIND</a> FOLLOW LIVE ⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/yUSxLXx85m">https://t.co/yUSxLXx85m</a> <a href="https://t.co/BVZJKHoW40">pic.twitter.com/BVZJKHoW40</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1093802988739719171?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, Krunal Pandya struck thrice that helped India to restrict the hosts at a competitive total.&nbsp;

Krunal's 3/28 in 4 overs earned him player of the match award. He dismissed Colin Munro (12) and skipper Kane Williamson (20) to peg the Black Caps back.&nbsp;

In between, Krunal also got the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/daryl-mitchell-out-or-not-out-controversial-lbw-raises-new-debate-on-drs-196035">controversial wicket of Daryl Mitchell</a> (1), who fell prey to an umpiring howler, when 'Hotspot' showed a clear inside edge onto the pads.&nbsp;

However, Colin de Grandhomme then counter-attacked, scoring a blistering 50 off 28 balls, adding 77 runs with Ross Taylor (42 off 36 balls) for the fifth wicket.&nbsp;

Once De Grandhomme was sent back to the dug-out by Hardik Pandya (1/36 in 4 overs) and Taylor was run-out, New Zealand's chances of a big total went up in smoke.&nbsp;

It was a much-improved performance by the Indian bowlers with Bhuvneshwar Kumar (1/29 in 4 overs) removing Tim Seifert (12) in the very third over with a fuller delivery, inducing an inside edge to Mahendra Singh Dhoni behind the stumps.&nbsp;

At 50 for 4, it was De Grandhomme, who took charge as he attacked Yuzvendra Chahal (0/37 in 4 overs), hitting him for a couple of sixes.&nbsp;

When he was just about threatening to take the game away, De Grandhomme smacked one straight to covers in skipper Rohit's hands.&nbsp;

India bowled 35 dot balls, which could well be decisive in the final context of the match.&nbsp;

India defeated New Zealand by seven wickets in the second Twenty20 international at Auckland's Eden Park on Friday to level the series at 1-1. New Zealand set India a modest total of 159 and the tourists overhauled it in 18.

India defeated New Zealand by seven wickets in the second Twenty20 international at Auckland's Eden Park on Friday to level the series at 1-1. New Zealand set India a modest total of 159 and the tourists overhauled it in 18.5 overs, finishing at 162 for three as captain Rohit Sharma top-scored on 50. Indian paceman Krunal Pandya was the man of the match, taking three for 28, while New Zealand's best performer Colin de Grandhomme scored his first T20 half-century. Sharma has become the highest run scorer in the T20I history and also became first India and the third overall player to smash 100 sixes in T20 cricket. Windies' Chris Gayle and New Zealand Guptill have slammed 103 sixes each. India win by seven wickets with seven balls to spare!@msdhoni and @RishabPant777 get them over the line!#NZvIND FOLLOW LIVE ⬇️ https://t.co/yUSxLXx85m pic.twitter.com/BVZJKHoW40 — ICC (@ICC) February 8, 2019 × Earlier, Krunal Pandya struck thrice that helped India to restrict the hosts at a competitive total. Krunal's 3/28 in 4 overs earned him player of the match award. He dismissed Colin Munro (12) and skipper Kane Williamson (20) to peg the Black Caps back. In between, Krunal also got the controversial wicket of Daryl Mitchell (1), who fell prey to an umpiring howler, when 'Hotspot' showed a clear inside edge onto the pads. However, Colin de Grandhomme then counter-attacked, scoring a blistering 50 off 28 balls, adding 77 runs with Ross Taylor (42 off 36 balls) for the fifth wicket. Once De Grandhomme was sent back to the dug-out by Hardik Pandya (1/36 in 4 overs) and Taylor was run-out, New Zealand's chances of a big total went up in smoke. It was a much-improved performance by the Indian bowlers with Bhuvneshwar Kumar (1/29 in 4 overs) removing Tim Seifert (12) in the very third over with a fuller delivery, inducing an inside edge to Mahendra Singh Dhoni behind the stumps. At 50 for 4, it was De Grandhomme, who took charge as he attacked Yuzvendra Chahal (0/37 in 4 overs), hitting him for a couple of sixes. When he was just about threatening to take the game away, De Grandhomme smacked one straight to covers in skipper Rohit's hands. India bowled 35 dot balls, which could well be decisive in the final context of the match.

Rohit Sharma, Krunal Pandya help India beat New Zealand to level series

Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle recently had an emotional reunion with a fan in a rather unusual turn of events. 
 
While leaving the Viaduct Harbour in Auckland, with husband Prince Harry by her side, Meghan spotted a familiar face in the crowd, who was her former Instagram friend Hannah Sergel, reported E! Online.

Prior to Meghan quitting Instagram, the two used to talk on the social media platform. When Meghan spotted the 20-year-old fan, her jaw dropped and she immediately went over to meet the Duchess."Oh my gosh! How are you?" Meghan said as she met Hannah. 
 
The two then shared an emotional hug and a quick exchange before the Duchess of Sussex left. 
 
"It was so amazing! She was so lovely and kind about it all despite being rushed. I'm just so grateful I got the opportunity to meet her face to face and never expected a hug. I'm still on cloud nine, to be honest!" Hannah told the website after meeting Meghan. 
 
During the royal couple's impromptu stroll on the streets, Meghan was given a 'Suits'&nbsp;welcome by a marching band and choir, who performed the show's theme song titled 'Greenback Boobie'. 
 
The two arrived in New Zealand just a few days ago to continue their royal tour, which ends this week. The couple began their tour from Australia two weeks ago, shortly before it was announced that they`re expecting their first child together in 2019.

Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle recently had an emotional reunion with a fan in a rather unusual turn of events. While leaving the Viaduct Harbour in Auckland, with husband Prince Harry by her side, Meghan spotted a familiar face in the crowd, who was her former Instagram friend Hannah Sergel, reported E!

Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle recently had an emotional reunion with a fan in a rather unusual turn of events. While leaving the Viaduct Harbour in Auckland, with husband Prince Harry by her side, Meghan spotted a familiar face in the crowd, who was her former Instagram friend Hannah Sergel, reported E! Online. Prior to Meghan quitting Instagram, the two used to talk on the social media platform. When Meghan spotted the 20-year-old fan, her jaw dropped and she immediately went over to meet the Duchess."Oh my gosh! How are you?" Meghan said as she met Hannah. The two then shared an emotional hug and a quick exchange before the Duchess of Sussex left. "It was so amazing! She was so lovely and kind about it all despite being rushed. I'm just so grateful I got the opportunity to meet her face to face and never expected a hug. I'm still on cloud nine, to be honest!" Hannah told the website after meeting Meghan. During the royal couple's impromptu stroll on the streets, Meghan was given a 'Suits' welcome by a marching band and choir, who performed the show's theme song titled 'Greenback Boobie'. The two arrived in New Zealand just a few days ago to continue their royal tour, which ends this week. The couple began their tour from Australia two weeks ago, shortly before it was announced that they`re expecting their first child together in 2019.

Meghan Markle greets a fan in Auckland, meeting turns emotional

Britain's Prince Harry and his wife Meghan threw rubber gumboots on Tuesday as children cheered in a competition in New Zealand's largest city of Auckland, though Harry`s team ended up losing to his wife's side. 
&nbsp; 
A 6.1 magnitude earthquake felt by thousands of people in New Zealand did not disrupt the schedule of the couple, who are on the final leg of a Pacific tour that has included Australia, Fiji and Tonga.&nbsp; 
 
"There wasn't too much of a rivalry," Isabella Iti, 10, said after the gumboot toss. "I think she was thinking that there was no chance that she would win. But she did." 
 
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were visiting a conservation area north of Auckland that had been set aside as part of a Commonwealth initiative to honour Queen Elizabeth's 66 years on the British throne.&nbsp; 
 
There, the couple split off and each led a team of cheering children in a competition to see who could throw a rubber rainboot - known locally as a 'gumboot'&nbsp;- the farthest. 
 
Meghan, wearing black J Crew jeans and a Karen Walker blazer, led her team to victory after tossing a blue boot about a metre (3.2 feet) further than Harry`s red one. 
 
 
Gumboot throwing is famously associated with the rural town of Taihape, around 420 km (260 miles) south of Auckland, which hosts an annual gumboot festival.&nbsp; 
 
Mike Jebsen, chief executive of the QEII National Trust, said the mayor of Taihape gave his blessing to hold the gumboot competition.&nbsp; 
 
"We wanted to give the royal couple a taste of rural New Zealand, and there`s nothing more quintessentially Kiwi than a gumboot throw!" he said. 
 
In the afternoon, Meghan and Harry travelled to South Auckland to visit the head office of Pillars, a charity that mentors the children of prisoners.&nbsp; 
 
For their wedding in May, Meghan and Harry had asked for charitable donations in lieu of gifts. The New Zealand government gave NZ$5,000 ($3,271) to Pillars in recognition of couple`s interest in programmes that support vulnerable children.&nbsp;

Britain's Prince Harry and his wife Meghan threw rubber gumboots on Tuesday as children cheered in a competition in New Zealand's largest city of Auckland, though Harry`s team ended up losing to his wife's side.

Britain's Prince Harry and his wife Meghan threw rubber gumboots on Tuesday as children cheered in a competition in New Zealand's largest city of Auckland, though Harry`s team ended up losing to his wife's side. A 6.1 magnitude earthquake felt by thousands of people in New Zealand did not disrupt the schedule of the couple, who are on the final leg of a Pacific tour that has included Australia, Fiji and Tonga. "There wasn't too much of a rivalry," Isabella Iti, 10, said after the gumboot toss. "I think she was thinking that there was no chance that she would win. But she did." The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were visiting a conservation area north of Auckland that had been set aside as part of a Commonwealth initiative to honour Queen Elizabeth's 66 years on the British throne. There, the couple split off and each led a team of cheering children in a competition to see who could throw a rubber rainboot - known locally as a 'gumboot' - the farthest. Meghan, wearing black J Crew jeans and a Karen Walker blazer, led her team to victory after tossing a blue boot about a metre (3.2 feet) further than Harry`s red one. Gumboot throwing is famously associated with the rural town of Taihape, around 420 km (260 miles) south of Auckland, which hosts an annual gumboot festival. Mike Jebsen, chief executive of the QEII National Trust, said the mayor of Taihape gave his blessing to hold the gumboot competition. "We wanted to give the royal couple a taste of rural New Zealand, and there`s nothing more quintessentially Kiwi than a gumboot throw!" he said. In the afternoon, Meghan and Harry travelled to South Auckland to visit the head office of Pillars, a charity that mentors the children of prisoners. For their wedding in May, Meghan and Harry had asked for charitable donations in lieu of gifts. The New Zealand government gave NZ$5,000 ($3,271) to Pillars in recognition of couple`s interest in programmes that support vulnerable children.

Prince Harry loses to Meghan Markle in a gumboot toss in New Zealand

Auckland's Eden Park may not host another test match with New Zealand Cricket (NZC) pondering the use of a redeveloped Western Springs Stadium as an alternative venue in the country's most populous city.

Hiring the multi-purpose Eden Park posed a serious financial challenge to NZC, which is not considering the stadium for any home test matches next year, according to a New Zealand news website.

"Auckland is currently missing out significantly on international cricket exposure due, primarily, to the lack of a cost-effective, financially-viable venue," NZC chief executive David White wrote in a submission to the Auckland Council.

"Eden Park, the only ICC-sanctioned arena in New Zealand's most populous city, is unaffordable for all but the biggest and, by definition, the rarest of international cricket fixtures.

"For this reason, Auckland has hosted just three test matches since 2006, and the number of one-day internationals and T20 internationals played in the city has been a mere fraction of what it would be, were it to offer a fit-for-purpose, international-standard cricket ground."

Eden Park hosted its first test match when New Zealand played England in 1930 and its most recent and 50th one was between the same opponents in March this year.

The NZC finds the 41,000 capacity stadium relatively "small" and is also not happy with its rectangular, football-shaped playing area.

Consequentially, action may shift to the Western Springs Stadium, which currently hosts speedway and rugby.

"As proposed, a newly-developed cricket amenity, with a full-sized, oval-shaped playing arena able to cater for both small and large crowds in a relaxed, grass-banked, more cricket-centric surrounding, would guarantee Auckland significantly more men's and women's international cricket," the NZC added.

Eden Park hosted its first test match when New Zealand played England in 1930 and its most recent and 50th one was between the same opponents in March this year

Auckland's Eden Park may not host another test match with New Zealand Cricket (NZC) pondering the use of a redeveloped Western Springs Stadium as an alternative venue in the country's most populous city. Hiring the multi-purpose Eden Park posed a serious financial challenge to NZC, which is not considering the stadium for any home test matches next year, according to a New Zealand news website. "Auckland is currently missing out significantly on international cricket exposure due, primarily, to the lack of a cost-effective, financially-viable venue," NZC chief executive David White wrote in a submission to the Auckland Council. "Eden Park, the only ICC-sanctioned arena in New Zealand's most populous city, is unaffordable for all but the biggest and, by definition, the rarest of international cricket fixtures. "For this reason, Auckland has hosted just three test matches since 2006, and the number of one-day internationals and T20 internationals played in the city has been a mere fraction of what it would be, were it to offer a fit-for-purpose, international-standard cricket ground." Eden Park hosted its first test match when New Zealand played England in 1930 and its most recent and 50th one was between the same opponents in March this year. The NZC finds the 41,000 capacity stadium relatively "small" and is also not happy with its rectangular, football-shaped playing area. Consequentially, action may shift to the Western Springs Stadium, which currently hosts speedway and rugby. "As proposed, a newly-developed cricket amenity, with a full-sized, oval-shaped playing arena able to cater for both small and large crowds in a relaxed, grass-banked, more cricket-centric surrounding, would guarantee Auckland significantly more men's and women's international cricket," the NZC added.

New Zealand set to dump Eden Park for new Auckland venue

New Zealand boxer David Nyika appealed on Monday for the return of the heavyweight gold medal he won at last month's Commonwealth Games after it was stolen from his car in Auckland.

Nyika said he was taking the medal to show a young fan at a school in the city when he realised thieves had snatched it from his vehicle.

"At first I was quite embarrassed about it, but now I'm just angry," the 22-year-old told TVNZ.

"I just want the medal back. It's almost worthless to anyone but me, you know, so I really hope I can get it back."&nbsp

Detective Sergeant Paul Slater said police were reviewing CCTV footage from locations around Auckland to catch the culprits.

"Obviously a Commonwealth Games medal is very distinctive and of high sentimental value to the victim and his family," he said.

"Our priority is to return this medal to its rightful owner."&nbsp

Nyika won light-heavyweight gold at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games in 2014, then followed up with gold in the heavyweight division this year on Australia's Gold Coast.

The 22-year-old was bitten by Antigua's Yakita Aska in his opening bout but went on to defeat Australia's Jason Whateley in the final.

After the win he spoke about joining fellow Kiwi heavyweight Joseph Parker in the professional ranks.

The medal was stolen from his car in Auckland

New Zealand boxer David Nyika appealed on Monday for the return of the heavyweight gold medal he won at last month's Commonwealth Games after it was stolen from his car in Auckland. Nyika said he was taking the medal to show a young fan at a school in the city when he realised thieves had snatched it from his vehicle. "At first I was quite embarrassed about it, but now I'm just angry," the 22-year-old told TVNZ. "I just want the medal back. It's almost worthless to anyone but me, you know, so I really hope I can get it back." Detective Sergeant Paul Slater said police were reviewing CCTV footage from locations around Auckland to catch the culprits. "Obviously a Commonwealth Games medal is very distinctive and of high sentimental value to the victim and his family," he said. "Our priority is to return this medal to its rightful owner." Nyika won light-heavyweight gold at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games in 2014, then followed up with gold in the heavyweight division this year on Australia's Gold Coast. The 22-year-old was bitten by Antigua's Yakita Aska in his opening bout but went on to defeat Australia's Jason Whateley in the final. After the win he spoke about joining fellow Kiwi heavyweight Joseph Parker in the professional ranks.

New Zealand boxer Nyika's Commonwealth gold medal stolen

The first Test match of a two-match series between England and New Zealand will start from March 22 at Eden Park, Auckland.

Ross Taylor, who had been battling a groin injury and a stomach bug is back in the playing squad as New Zealand received a boost on the eve of the first Test with confirmation that Taylor is fit to play.

Recently, Kane Williamson has confirmed that Todd Astle will come into the playing XI for Thursday.

New Zealand&nbsp;playing XI:

Tom Latham, Jeet Raval, Kane Williamson, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, BJ Watling, Colin de Grandhomme, Todd Astle, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Trent Boult.

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Kane Williamson has confirmed Todd Astle will come into the playing XI for Thursday. Our XI - Latham, Raval, Williamson, Taylor, Nicholls, Watling, de Grandhomme, Astle, Southee, Wagner, Boult. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/N95xkXrai6">pic.twitter.com/N95xkXrai6</a>
&mdash; BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) <a href="https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS/status/976271712995098624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Taylor, who has a Test average of 48.04, was also there in the squad of the second practice match.

Skipper Williamson reportedly said Taylor had completed a full training session without a problem.

He stated, &quot;He&#39;s good to go so that&#39;s great news for us.&quot;

&quot;Roscoe has played beautifully every time he&#39;s walked out to the crease, the calmness at the crease, the confidence.

&quot;It&#39;s reflected in how much success he&#39;s had this year. It&#39;s important for us as a team that he&#39;s there.&quot;

He mentioned about the new changes in the squad as Todd Astle would replace Mitchell Santner as the spinner in the side and BJ Watling would return as wicketkeeper.

The return of Ross Taylor in the playing XI means that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-put-martin-guptill-on-standby-for-england-test-36453">Martin Guptill</a>, who was included in&nbsp;the absence of Taylor will be snubbed.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Things looking a little different at <a href="https://twitter.com/edenparknz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@edenparknz</a> for today&rsquo;s training. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvENG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FindYourNight?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FindYourNight</a> <a href="https://t.co/6bAM8K1YWE">pic.twitter.com/6bAM8K1YWE</a>
&mdash; BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) <a href="https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS/status/975987234150100992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Kane Williamson said Ross Taylor had completed a full training session without a problem

The first Test match of a two-match series between England and New Zealand will start from March 22 at Eden Park, Auckland. Ross Taylor, who had been battling a groin injury and a stomach bug is back in the playing squad as New Zealand received a boost on the eve of the first Test with confirmation that Taylor is fit to play. Recently, Kane Williamson has confirmed that Todd Astle will come into the playing XI for Thursday. New Zealand playing XI: Tom Latham, Jeet Raval, Kane Williamson, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, BJ Watling, Colin de Grandhomme, Todd Astle, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Trent Boult. Kane Williamson has confirmed Todd Astle will come into the playing XI for Thursday. Our XI - Latham, Raval, Williamson, Taylor, Nicholls, Watling, de Grandhomme, Astle, Southee, Wagner, Boult. #NZvENG pic.twitter.com/N95xkXrai6 — BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) March 21, 2018 × Taylor, who has a Test average of 48.04, was also there in the squad of the second practice match. Skipper Williamson reportedly said Taylor had completed a full training session without a problem. He stated, "He's good to go so that's great news for us." "Roscoe has played beautifully every time he's walked out to the crease, the calmness at the crease, the confidence. "It's reflected in how much success he's had this year. It's important for us as a team that he's there." He mentioned about the new changes in the squad as Todd Astle would replace Mitchell Santner as the spinner in the side and BJ Watling would return as wicketkeeper. The return of Ross Taylor in the playing XI means that Martin Guptill, who was included in the absence of Taylor will be snubbed. Things looking a little different at @edenparknz for today’s training. #NZvENG #FindYourNight pic.twitter.com/6bAM8K1YWE — BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) March 20, 2018 ×

Ross Taylor fit to play in first Test against England: Kane Williamson

Roberto Bautista Agut his second Auckland title and&nbsp;received a big confidence boost going into the Australian Open when he beat Juan Martin del Potro in three sets in the ATP Auckland Classic final on Saturday.

The Spanish fifth seed added to his 2016 crown with a 6-1 4-6 7-5 success over Del Potro in two hours, seven minutes.

Del Potro, who had not dropped a set all week, was unable to hold serve once in the first set as the Spaniard fought his way to a 6-1, 4-6, 7-5 win.

Both players are seeded in the Australian Open with del Potro 12th and Bautista Agut 20th but it was the Spaniard who was in command in Auckland.

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Make that two-time ASB Classic ????! Roberto Bautista Agut wins his third consecutive <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATP</a> final, d. Del Potro in Auckland. 
 
Read More: <a href="https://t.co/hVdIe5nvUg">https://t.co/hVdIe5nvUg</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATP</a> <a href="https://t.co/RjWaKkT9bb">pic.twitter.com/RjWaKkT9bb</a>
&mdash; ATP World Tour (@ATPWorldTour) <a href="https://twitter.com/ATPWorldTour/status/952040826653245440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He targeted the Argentinian&#39;s backhand with confidence and when he switched to the forehand court del Potro&#39;s return placement was off in the first set.

But in the second set, Del Potro regained his touch and broke Bautista Agut for the first time at 5-4 to take the set.

The final set remained with serve until Bautista Agut broke at 5-5 and then served for the match.

Del Potro ready for Melbourne despite Auckland loss he said after the match, &quot;I played well and I&#39;m looking forward to doing well in Melbourne. It&#39;s a big event for me, another Grand Slam which is amazing after all my wrist problems,&quot; he said.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Spanish fifth seed Roberto Bautista Agut claimed his second Auckland Open title with a win over Juan Martin del Potro in the finals

Roberto Bautista Agut his second Auckland title and received a big confidence boost going into the Australian Open when he beat Juan Martin del Potro in three sets in the ATP Auckland Classic final on Saturday. The Spanish fifth seed added to his 2016 crown with a 6-1 4-6 7-5 success over Del Potro in two hours, seven minutes. Del Potro, who had not dropped a set all week, was unable to hold serve once in the first set as the Spaniard fought his way to a 6-1, 4-6, 7-5 win. Both players are seeded in the Australian Open with del Potro 12th and Bautista Agut 20th but it was the Spaniard who was in command in Auckland. Make that two-time ASB Classic ????! Roberto Bautista Agut wins his third consecutive #ATP final, d. Del Potro in Auckland. Read More: https://t.co/hVdIe5nvUg #ATP pic.twitter.com/RjWaKkT9bb — ATP World Tour (@ATPWorldTour) January 13, 2018 × He targeted the Argentinian's backhand with confidence and when he switched to the forehand court del Potro's return placement was off in the first set. But in the second set, Del Potro regained his touch and broke Bautista Agut for the first time at 5-4 to take the set. The final set remained with serve until Bautista Agut broke at 5-5 and then served for the match. Del Potro ready for Melbourne despite Auckland loss he said after the match, "I played well and I'm looking forward to doing well in Melbourne. It's a big event for me, another Grand Slam which is amazing after all my wrist problems," he said.

Tennis player Roberto Bautista claims Auckland title after defeating Juan del Porto

A 25-year-old man, reported to be of Indian-origin, was beaten up by a person with a baseball bat in Auckland, New Zealand.

The man is in a critical condition, media reports said.

The incident took place&nbsp;at 10.20 pm on Wednesday.

The man was reportedly left on the footpath.

The identity of the victim is not known and the police have sought public help to identify him.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&quot;He is in a critical condition in Auckland Hospital and Police are requesting the public&#39;s help to identify this man so we (can) contact his family,&quot; detective senior sergeant Karen Bright, Counties Manukau Police, said, PTI reported.&nbsp;

&quot;He was wearing a grey collared shirt, blue jeans and black sneakers with white soles. He is believed to be of Indian descent,&quot; he said.

 
&nbsp;

The identity of the victim is not known and the police have sought public help to identify him

A 25-year-old man, reported to be of Indian-origin, was beaten up by a person with a baseball bat in Auckland, New Zealand. The man is in a critical condition, media reports said. The incident took place at 10.20 pm on Wednesday. The man was reportedly left on the footpath. The identity of the victim is not known and the police have sought public help to identify him. "He is in a critical condition in Auckland Hospital and Police are requesting the public's help to identify this man so we (can) contact his family," detective senior sergeant Karen Bright, Counties Manukau Police, said, PTI reported. "He was wearing a grey collared shirt, blue jeans and black sneakers with white soles. He is believed to be of Indian descent," he said.

'Indian-origin' man beaten up with baseball bat in New Zealand, critical

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