New Zealanders pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II by performing the Haka. The Haka was laid by the members of the Limited Service Volunteer Program of the New Zealand defence force.

New Zealand: Defence force pays tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, performs Haka

The remains of two children discovered in suitcases bought from an Auckland storage facility have been identified, the police has said. In a statement released on Friday, New Zealand police confirmed the development, adding that their names haven't been released on the coroner’s order since the family requested the same.&nbsp;

A homicide inquiry was initiated into the matter on August 11 after the remains of the children were found by the family that had bought the suitcases at an online auction, unaware of its contents.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-family-finds-human-remains-in-suitcases-they-bought-at-an-auction-507404">New Zealand: Family finds human remains in suitcases they bought at an auction</a>

The police is “continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of the children", DI Tofilau Faamanuia Vaaelua said. Vaaelua had informed last week that the postmortem indicated that the children were between five and 10 years old.&nbsp;

The police believes that the bodies had been in the suitcases for around three to four years. It has also maintained the family that discovered the remains is in no way connected to the murders. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The remains of two children discovered in suitcases bought from an Auckland storage facility have been identified, the police has said. In a statement released on Friday, New Zealand police confirmed the development, adding that their names haven't been released on the coroner’s order since the family requested the same.

The remains of two children discovered in suitcases bought from an Auckland storage facility have been identified, the police has said. In a statement released on Friday, New Zealand police confirmed the development, adding that their names haven't been released on the coroner’s order since the family requested the same. A homicide inquiry was initiated into the matter on August 11 after the remains of the children were found by the family that had bought the suitcases at an online auction, unaware of its contents. Also Read | New Zealand: Family finds human remains in suitcases they bought at an auction The police is “continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of the children", DI Tofilau Faamanuia Vaaelua said. Vaaelua had informed last week that the postmortem indicated that the children were between five and 10 years old. The police believes that the bodies had been in the suitcases for around three to four years. It has also maintained the family that discovered the remains is in no way connected to the murders. (With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand: Police identifies remains of two children found in suitcases

Heavy rains in New Zealand's northern and central regions eased after four days. The near-constant downpour has already forced hundreds of people from their homes. There were 100 new evacuations overnight.

Nelson, the city in the South Island of the country is the worst affected due to the rain. Hundreds of homes have been evacuated over the week. The lashing from rain has rendered some of the homes uninhabitable. In the North Island, towns have been cut off due to roads and homes being submerged under water.

"Things going forward look quite different from this past week," the Metservice weather forecaster said in a Twitter post. "Most of the rainfall activity is still mainly in the west, but with much lower accumulations."

Earlier, it had said warnings and watch alerts were lifted after rain eased in northern and central areas.

On Saturday, more evacuations took place in Nelson. Kieran McAnulty, the emergency minister thanked those who assisted in the rescue effort. However, McAnulty added that area's recovery would be &nbsp;a "long and difficult" process. 
"States of emergency remain ... in Nelson-Tasman, Marlborough and West Coast," he said on Twitter.

There were about 100 new evacuations overnight, the New Zealand Herald said.

In the Tasman district neighbouring Nelson, a total of 508 homes had been evacuated, emergency authorities said, and the figure could grow.

"That looks set to increase even more," Nelson Tasman civil defence officials said on Facebook.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Heavy rains in New Zealand's northern and central regions eased after four days. The near-constant downpour has already forced hundreds of people from their homes.

Heavy rains in New Zealand's northern and central regions eased after four days. The near-constant downpour has already forced hundreds of people from their homes. There were 100 new evacuations overnight. Nelson, the city in the South Island of the country is the worst affected due to the rain. Hundreds of homes have been evacuated over the week. The lashing from rain has rendered some of the homes uninhabitable. In the North Island, towns have been cut off due to roads and homes being submerged under water. "Things going forward look quite different from this past week," the Metservice weather forecaster said in a Twitter post. "Most of the rainfall activity is still mainly in the west, but with much lower accumulations." Earlier, it had said warnings and watch alerts were lifted after rain eased in northern and central areas. On Saturday, more evacuations took place in Nelson. Kieran McAnulty, the emergency minister thanked those who assisted in the rescue effort. However, McAnulty added that area's recovery would be a "long and difficult" process. "States of emergency remain ... in Nelson-Tasman, Marlborough and West Coast," he said on Twitter. There were about 100 new evacuations overnight, the New Zealand Herald said. In the Tasman district neighbouring Nelson, a total of 508 homes had been evacuated, emergency authorities said, and the figure could grow. "That looks set to increase even more," Nelson Tasman civil defence officials said on Facebook. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

New Zealand: Downpour eases after forcing hundreds from homes

Torrential rain hit parts of New Zealand for a fourth day on Friday, causing further disruptions and road closures. Floods have already forced hundreds of people to evacuate their homes.

WION Climate Tracker: Torrential rains hit New Zealand again; mudslide, floods force evacuation

A New Zealand city devastated by flooding will take years to recover, the mayor said on Friday, as hundreds more homes were evacuated.

The Pacific nation has been lashed by wild weather with the Nelson-Tasman district on the South Island bearing the brunt after 75 centimetres (29 inches) of rain reportedly fell over three days.

Several streets in the city of Nelson were flooded after the local river, the Maitai, burst its banks. &nbsp;

Nelson Mayor Rachel Reese said the damage to roads and the city's infrastructure will "take years, not months" to repair.

WION Climate Tracker: Torrential rains hit New Zealand again; mudslide, floods force evacuation

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She added that it was "critical" Nelson's residents conserve water as the city's supply was disrupted by a landslide that damaged the main line from the local reservoir.

On a visit to witness the damage, New Zealand's Minister for Emergency Management Kieran McAnulty pledged $200,000 ($125,000) of aid and confirmed more than 400 homes have now been evacuated in Nelson, where a state of emergency remains in place.

He added that flooding and landslides have made 60 homes potentially uninhabitable.

McAnulty told reporters one of the most striking things he saw was a street on a housing development "where the road had just been washed out, (leaving) a crater deeper than I am tall".

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-families-evacuated-after-floods-hit-new-zealands-south-island-507935">Hundreds of families evacuated after floods hit New Zealand's South Island</a>

Nelson resident Paul Maskell said a neighbour alerted him to the rising water on his street.

"By the time I got back, it was a foot deep in water with boulders running down the road. It was surreal," he told the New Zealand Herald.

An elderly resident recovering after an operation had to be winched to safety by firefighters late Thursday night, after his home was threatened by flooding.

New Zealand's South Island was bracing for another lashing of heavy rain, but other regions did not escape the extreme weather.

The nearby city of New Plymouth endured it's wettest August day since records began with 10 centimetres falling in 12 hours.

"More than a metre of rain has fallen causing significant flows down all rivers," said Taranaki Civil Defence controller Todd Velvin with flooding, road closures and fallen trees creating problems.

Kaitaia, a town near the top of North Island, was cut off by flooding and landslides, and around 400 homes were left without power in the far north.

Experts say climate change driven by human activity is boosting the intensity and frequency of extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, droughts and flooding.

Daniel Kingston, senior geography lecturer at the University of Otago, attributed the heavy rain to an "atmospheric river" -- a narrow band of water vapour high in the atmosphere over New Zealand.

"It's safe to say that with respect to the influence of climate change, it is more than likely playing a role," Kingston told AFP.

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A New Zealand city devastated by flooding will take years to recover, the mayor said on Friday, as hundreds more homes were evacuated. The Pacific nation has been lashed by wild weather with the Nelson-Tasman district on the South Island bearing the brunt after 75 centimetres (29 inches) of rain reportedly fell over three days.

A New Zealand city devastated by flooding will take years to recover, the mayor said on Friday, as hundreds more homes were evacuated. The Pacific nation has been lashed by wild weather with the Nelson-Tasman district on the South Island bearing the brunt after 75 centimetres (29 inches) of rain reportedly fell over three days. Several streets in the city of Nelson were flooded after the local river, the Maitai, burst its banks. Nelson Mayor Rachel Reese said the damage to roads and the city's infrastructure will "take years, not months" to repair. WION Climate Tracker: Torrential rains hit New Zealand again; mudslide, floods force evacuation × She added that it was "critical" Nelson's residents conserve water as the city's supply was disrupted by a landslide that damaged the main line from the local reservoir. On a visit to witness the damage, New Zealand's Minister for Emergency Management Kieran McAnulty pledged $200,000 ($125,000) of aid and confirmed more than 400 homes have now been evacuated in Nelson, where a state of emergency remains in place. He added that flooding and landslides have made 60 homes potentially uninhabitable. McAnulty told reporters one of the most striking things he saw was a street on a housing development "where the road had just been washed out, (leaving) a crater deeper than I am tall". Also Read | Hundreds of families evacuated after floods hit New Zealand's South Island Nelson resident Paul Maskell said a neighbour alerted him to the rising water on his street. "By the time I got back, it was a foot deep in water with boulders running down the road. It was surreal," he told the New Zealand Herald. An elderly resident recovering after an operation had to be winched to safety by firefighters late Thursday night, after his home was threatened by flooding. New Zealand's South Island was bracing for another lashing of heavy rain, but other regions did not escape the extreme weather. The nearby city of New Plymouth endured it's wettest August day since records began with 10 centimetres falling in 12 hours. "More than a metre of rain has fallen causing significant flows down all rivers," said Taranaki Civil Defence controller Todd Velvin with flooding, road closures and fallen trees creating problems. Kaitaia, a town near the top of North Island, was cut off by flooding and landslides, and around 400 homes were left without power in the far north. Experts say climate change driven by human activity is boosting the intensity and frequency of extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, droughts and flooding. Daniel Kingston, senior geography lecturer at the University of Otago, attributed the heavy rain to an "atmospheric river" -- a narrow band of water vapour high in the atmosphere over New Zealand. "It's safe to say that with respect to the influence of climate change, it is more than likely playing a role," Kingston told AFP. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

New Zealand flood recovery estimated to take 'years'

Human remains were reportedly found in suitcases bought at an auction at a storage facility in Auckland, New Zealand. The&nbsp;police have begun a homicide investigation into the matter. An undisclosed number of remains are believed to have been stored in the suitcases that an unsuspecting family brought home after winning the bid, Media outlet Newshub reported.

Police official Tofilau Faamanuia Vaaelua confirmed that the family called them last Thursday after making the discovery. The police also said that the family aren't suspects in the homicide.

A post-mortem examination was underway and forensic investigators were trying to determine the number of victims, police said.

"We appreciate there is significant public interest in what has occurred. The priority for police is to confirm the identification of the deceased so that we can establish the full circumstances behind the discovery," Vaaelua added.

The auctioning of abandoned contents is a common practice for storage units with unpaid bills.

Vaaelua added that police believe "there is no immediate risk to the public in regards to this incident".

(With inputs from agencies)

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Human remains were reportedly found in suitcases bought at an auction at a storage facility in Auckland, New Zealand. The police have begun a homicide investigation into the matter.

Human remains were reportedly found in suitcases bought at an auction at a storage facility in Auckland, New Zealand. The police have begun a homicide investigation into the matter. An undisclosed number of remains are believed to have been stored in the suitcases that an unsuspecting family brought home after winning the bid, Media outlet Newshub reported. Police official Tofilau Faamanuia Vaaelua confirmed that the family called them last Thursday after making the discovery. The police also said that the family aren't suspects in the homicide. A post-mortem examination was underway and forensic investigators were trying to determine the number of victims, police said. "We appreciate there is significant public interest in what has occurred. The priority for police is to confirm the identification of the deceased so that we can establish the full circumstances behind the discovery," Vaaelua added. The auctioning of abandoned contents is a common practice for storage units with unpaid bills. Vaaelua added that police believe "there is no immediate risk to the public in regards to this incident". (With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand: Family finds human remains in suitcases they bought at an auction

Seven of nine dolphins stranded on a remote New Zealand beach were rescued and refloated on Friday. Volunteers carried buckets of water and wrapped them in towels to keep them hydrated until the tide&nbsp;rose sufficiently to float them back to sea. The Department of Conservation also informed that two of the animals, an adult dolphin and a calf, died following the mass stranding at Whakanewha Bay on Waiheke Island, off the city of Auckland.

Authorities also said that the rescue efforts continued till after 4 pm (New Zealand time) and by 4:40 pm all the remaining dolphins had been successfully refloated.

"This was a huge combined effort from our medics, Department of Conservation staff, Iwi and members of the public,"&nbsp;Project Jonah, a group that specialises in the rescue of stranded whales and dolphins,&nbsp;said in a Facebook post.

New Zealand has the world's highest stranding rate of dolphins and whales, with hundreds of the mammals beached on its shores each year. But the reason behind this phenomenon is still unknown.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Seven of nine dolphins stranded on a remote New Zealand beach were rescued and refloated on Friday. Volunteers carried buckets of water and wrapped them in towels to keep them hydrated until the tide rose sufficiently to float them back to sea.

Seven of nine dolphins stranded on a remote New Zealand beach were rescued and refloated on Friday. Volunteers carried buckets of water and wrapped them in towels to keep them hydrated until the tide rose sufficiently to float them back to sea. The Department of Conservation also informed that two of the animals, an adult dolphin and a calf, died following the mass stranding at Whakanewha Bay on Waiheke Island, off the city of Auckland. Authorities also said that the rescue efforts continued till after 4 pm (New Zealand time) and by 4:40 pm all the remaining dolphins had been successfully refloated. "This was a huge combined effort from our medics, Department of Conservation staff, Iwi and members of the public," Project Jonah, a group that specialises in the rescue of stranded whales and dolphins, said in a Facebook post. New Zealand has the world's highest stranding rate of dolphins and whales, with hundreds of the mammals beached on its shores each year. But the reason behind this phenomenon is still unknown. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

New Zealand rescuers save stranded dolphins using buckets and towels

A recent data analysis by New Zealand Herald shows that coronavirus (COVID-19) has become the equal leading cause of death in the country for the first time in July.

A recent data analysis by New Zealand Herald shows that coronavirus (COVID-19) has become the equal leading cause of death in the country for the first time in July. The report stated that Covid has been directly responsible for one in seven recent deaths. The data show that Covid is even with ischaemic heart disease as the No 1 killer in the country as the deadly virus has overtaken stroke. Citing one cause of death, the report mentioned that Covid claimed five times as lives as those lost in car accidents last year. As per the analysis, 836 people died across New Zealand in the week ending July 17. At that particular time, the second Omicron wave was peaking. The analysis noted that of those 836 deaths, 120 were directly attributed to Covid. ALSO READ | France braves fourth heatwave this summer, drought leaves scores of villages parched Otago University epidemiologist Professor Michael Baker said as quoted by NZ Herald, "For the first time, Covid-19 has probably become the leading cause of death in New Zealand." "Fifteen per cent of people dying from Covid-19 is about the same proportion of people who die from ischaemic heart disease, which is currently our single biggest killer," he added. New Zealand fully opens borders Recently, New Zealand fully opened its borders to visitors from around the world on August 1. The relaxation was for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic closed the borders in March 2020. Some of the restrictions started to ease in February this year when New Zealand's borders began reopening. Notably, most visitors arriving in New Zealand still need to be vaccinated against COVID-19 and must take two COVID tests after arriving. Some relief as there are no quarantine requirements. ALSO READ | What are signature elements in Biden's big climate and health bill? WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

New Zealand: Coronavirus is now equal leading cause of death for the first time

In Pics | Anti-vax protesters in New Zealand clash with police outside the parliament

New Zealand has released its first ever climate adaptation plan which takes into account the harsh realities of climate change. The ambitious plan includes a possibility of moving some communities to higher ground.

WION Climate Tracker | New Zealand Climate Minister announces six-year climate adaptation plan

A day after New Zealand House speaker warned the lawmakers to not use the Chinese app TikTok, the speakers of the House of Commons and House of Lords in the UK have also shut down the UK parliament's&nbsp;TikTok account.

Reportedly,&nbsp;Sir Lindsay Hoyle and Lord McFall, the respective speakers of the Commons and Lords were not consulted when the accounts was set up on the short-video sharing platform.&nbsp;

The two speakers released a joint statement and informed that the account had been closed with immediate effect.

“The account was an attempt to engage with younger audiences, who are not always active on our existing social media platforms, regarding the work of parliament. However, in light of your feedback and concerns expressed to us, we have decided that the account should be closed with immediate effect.”

Tory leaders Tom Tugendhat and Iain Duncan Smith were the ones who first raised the issue by writing a letter demanding the account be taken down. Soon, other Tory leaders became signatories to the letter. It is pertinent to note that both the conservative leaders have been banned from entering China for their vehement criticism of China's treatment of Uyghur Muslims.&nbsp;

After the UK parliament closed its account, TikTok expressed disappointment at the decision. A company spokesperson remarked:&nbsp;

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<h5>“While it is disappointing that Parliament will no longer be able to connect with the millions of people who use TikTok in the UK, we reiterate the offer to reassure those Members of Parliament who raised concerns and clarify any inaccuracies about our platform”.</h5>
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What happened in New Zealand?

As reported by WION, on Tuesday, Kiwi House Speaker Trevor Mallard warned his MPs to not use the TikTok app on their parliamentary phones and devices as it poses a security risk.

Lately,&nbsp;ByteDance-owned TikTok has&nbsp;come under excess scrutiny from all quarters for its shoddy data policies. Several reports and exposes have revealed that TikTok shares its users' data with the Chinese government.

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-mps-warned-against-using-tiktok-citing-security-risks-502823">New Zealand MPs warned against using TikTok, citing security risks</a>

A 2017 Chinese intelligence law compels a company based in China to give any information to the government as it requires. TikTok is based in China and thus the aspersions around its data practices.&nbsp;

When Donald Trump was in power, he banned TikTok in the USA before President Biden reversed his policy. Currently, the app is completely banned in India, one of the biggest internet markets in the world.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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A day after New Zealand House speaker warned the lawmakers to not use the Chinese app TikTok, the speakers of the House of Commons and House of Lords in the UK have also shut down the UK parliament's TikTok account.

A day after New Zealand House speaker warned the lawmakers to not use the Chinese app TikTok, the speakers of the House of Commons and House of Lords in the UK have also shut down the UK parliament's TikTok account. Reportedly, Sir Lindsay Hoyle and Lord McFall, the respective speakers of the Commons and Lords were not consulted when the accounts was set up on the short-video sharing platform. The two speakers released a joint statement and informed that the account had been closed with immediate effect. “The account was an attempt to engage with younger audiences, who are not always active on our existing social media platforms, regarding the work of parliament. However, in light of your feedback and concerns expressed to us, we have decided that the account should be closed with immediate effect.” Tory leaders Tom Tugendhat and Iain Duncan Smith were the ones who first raised the issue by writing a letter demanding the account be taken down. Soon, other Tory leaders became signatories to the letter. It is pertinent to note that both the conservative leaders have been banned from entering China for their vehement criticism of China's treatment of Uyghur Muslims. After the UK parliament closed its account, TikTok expressed disappointment at the decision. A company spokesperson remarked: “While it is disappointing that Parliament will no longer be able to connect with the millions of people who use TikTok in the UK, we reiterate the offer to reassure those Members of Parliament who raised concerns and clarify any inaccuracies about our platform”. × What happened in New Zealand? As reported by WION, on Tuesday, Kiwi House Speaker Trevor Mallard warned his MPs to not use the TikTok app on their parliamentary phones and devices as it poses a security risk. Lately, ByteDance-owned TikTok has come under excess scrutiny from all quarters for its shoddy data policies. Several reports and exposes have revealed that TikTok shares its users' data with the Chinese government. Read More: New Zealand MPs warned against using TikTok, citing security risks A 2017 Chinese intelligence law compels a company based in China to give any information to the government as it requires. TikTok is based in China and thus the aspersions around its data practices. When Donald Trump was in power, he banned TikTok in the USA before President Biden reversed his policy. Currently, the app is completely banned in India, one of the biggest internet markets in the world. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Speakers close UK parliament's TikTok account after Tory leaders protested app's Chinese links

ByteDance-owned TikTok is now facing a backlash in New Zealand. Reportedly, the Kiwi lawmakers have been warned by House speaker Trevor Mallard to not use the TikTok app on their parliamentary phones and devices as it poses a security risk.

Reportedly, the directive was issued last week via the Parliamentary Service where the MPs were told that TikTok "could pose a security risk where data on your devices could be accessed by ByteDance (the owner of TikTok) and the Chinese Government."

While the Parliamentary Service strongly recommended that lawmakers delete the app, it also issued cautionary advice to those looking to keep it on their phones.&nbsp;

"Make sure you are comfortable with the permissions you have granted and remove its [TikTok] ability to access your location." read the cautionary advice.&nbsp;

Only a tiny percentage of Kiwi lawmakers have an official presence on the app but given its popularity, many will be tempted to use the short-video platform for their political campaigns in the future.

Over one million Kiwis use the app and thus, if not issued a directive early on, the app and its data harvesting policies could have serious ramifications.&nbsp;

It is pertinent to note that a&nbsp;2017 Chinese intelligence law compels a company based in China to give any information to the government as it requires. TikTok is based in China and thus the aspersions around its data practices.&nbsp;

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tiktok-and-other-chinese-apps-compile-data-497313">TikTok and other Chinese apps compile data</a>

TikTok and its wild popularity amongst the masses quickly brought it under the public microscope. Soon, several studies revealed that TikTok often compromised the user's data by harvesting it and also sharing it with the Communist Party of China (CCP) - a claim denied vehemently by ByteDance.&nbsp;

However, in 2020, Donald Trump, the then US President banned the app citing security concerns and its closeness with the Politburo officials.

Moreover, Trump had attempted to tie down TikTok to US tech major Oracle so that the users data could stay in the country. However, before Trump could enact his policies, he lost the election to Democrat Joe Biden who reversed his decision.&nbsp;

Read more:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tiktok-us-user-data-leaked-to-china-leaked-tiktok-employee-audio-causes-a-row-501999">&nbsp;Tiktok U.S. user data leaked to China? Leaked TikTok employee audio causes a row</a>

Similarly, India brought down the sledgehammer and booted the company out of the country. While TikTok made a comeback in the US, it is still banned in India, one of the most lucrative internet markets across the planet.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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ByteDance-owned TikTok is now facing a backlash in New Zealand. Reportedly, the Kiwi lawmakers have been warned by House speaker Trevor Mallard to not use the TikTok app on their parliamentary phones and devices as it poses a security risk.

ByteDance-owned TikTok is now facing a backlash in New Zealand. Reportedly, the Kiwi lawmakers have been warned by House speaker Trevor Mallard to not use the TikTok app on their parliamentary phones and devices as it poses a security risk. Reportedly, the directive was issued last week via the Parliamentary Service where the MPs were told that TikTok "could pose a security risk where data on your devices could be accessed by ByteDance (the owner of TikTok) and the Chinese Government." While the Parliamentary Service strongly recommended that lawmakers delete the app, it also issued cautionary advice to those looking to keep it on their phones. "Make sure you are comfortable with the permissions you have granted and remove its [TikTok] ability to access your location." read the cautionary advice. Only a tiny percentage of Kiwi lawmakers have an official presence on the app but given its popularity, many will be tempted to use the short-video platform for their political campaigns in the future. Over one million Kiwis use the app and thus, if not issued a directive early on, the app and its data harvesting policies could have serious ramifications. It is pertinent to note that a 2017 Chinese intelligence law compels a company based in China to give any information to the government as it requires. TikTok is based in China and thus the aspersions around its data practices. Read More: TikTok and other Chinese apps compile data TikTok and its wild popularity amongst the masses quickly brought it under the public microscope. Soon, several studies revealed that TikTok often compromised the user's data by harvesting it and also sharing it with the Communist Party of China (CCP) - a claim denied vehemently by ByteDance. However, in 2020, Donald Trump, the then US President banned the app citing security concerns and its closeness with the Politburo officials. Moreover, Trump had attempted to tie down TikTok to US tech major Oracle so that the users data could stay in the country. However, before Trump could enact his policies, he lost the election to Democrat Joe Biden who reversed his decision. Read more: Tiktok U.S. user data leaked to China? Leaked TikTok employee audio causes a row Similarly, India brought down the sledgehammer and booted the company out of the country. While TikTok made a comeback in the US, it is still banned in India, one of the most lucrative internet markets across the planet. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

New Zealand MPs warned against using TikTok, citing security risks

New Zealand's borders will fully reopen to visitors from around the world, this for the first time since covid-19 pandemic closed borders in March of 2020.

New Zealand's borders fully open after long Covid-induced closure

For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, New Zealand have decided to re-open its borders to visitors as the country tries to live with the virus.

New Zealand has been gradually easing its borders since February for its citizens, with Monday being the first full day of opening borders to all since Covid closed them in March 2020.

The country ended the process of reopening the borders last night with international visitors, students&nbsp;and non-visa waiver countries, such as China and India, now allowed to visit New Zealand.&nbsp;

Notably, it has also let cruise ships and foreign recreational yachts dock at its ports.

The decision to relax its border rules comes as a major relief to the international students who are a significant contributor to New Zealand's economy. Educational experts are hoping that the reopening of the borders will again provide a boost to schools and universities around the country.

During a speech at the China Business Summit in Auckland on Monday, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the nation was “open for business” after the final stage of the phased reopening, which began in April, was completed on July 31.

"It's been a staged and cautious process on our part since February as we, alongside the rest of the world continue to manage a very live global pandemic, while keeping our people safe," she was quoted as saying by Reuters.

Meanwhile, New Zealand continues to report Covid cases, with 5,312 new community cases of Covid-19 being reported on Monday alone, according to the Ministry of Health. Whereas 28 Covid-related deaths have been recorded.

There are now 1,502 deaths that have been confirmed as either directly attributed to Covid, or with Covid as a contributing factor, reports NZ Herald.

(With inputs from agencies)

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For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, New Zealand have decided to re-open its borders to visitors as the country tries to live with the virus. New Zealand has been gradually easing its borders since February for its citizens, with Monday being the first full day of opening borders to all since Covid closed them in March 2020.

For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, New Zealand have decided to re-open its borders to visitors as the country tries to live with the virus. New Zealand has been gradually easing its borders since February for its citizens, with Monday being the first full day of opening borders to all since Covid closed them in March 2020. The country ended the process of reopening the borders last night with international visitors, students and non-visa waiver countries, such as China and India, now allowed to visit New Zealand. Notably, it has also let cruise ships and foreign recreational yachts dock at its ports. The decision to relax its border rules comes as a major relief to the international students who are a significant contributor to New Zealand's economy. Educational experts are hoping that the reopening of the borders will again provide a boost to schools and universities around the country. During a speech at the China Business Summit in Auckland on Monday, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the nation was “open for business” after the final stage of the phased reopening, which began in April, was completed on July 31. "It's been a staged and cautious process on our part since February as we, alongside the rest of the world continue to manage a very live global pandemic, while keeping our people safe," she was quoted as saying by Reuters. Meanwhile, New Zealand continues to report Covid cases, with 5,312 new community cases of Covid-19 being reported on Monday alone, according to the Ministry of Health. Whereas 28 Covid-related deaths have been recorded. There are now 1,502 deaths that have been confirmed as either directly attributed to Covid, or with Covid as a contributing factor, reports NZ Herald. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

New Zealand reopens border to all visitors for first time since Covid pandemic  

With reports of a potential hack from abroad, at least a dozen schools throughout New Zealand have received bomb threats that have caused significant inconvenience. As a result, several of the impacted schools&nbsp;spread across Ashburton, Dunstan, Geraldine, Greymouth, Kaikoura, Levin, Masterton, Queenstown, Rolleston, Takaka, Palmerston Northwere, and Whanganui, were either evacuated or locked down.

The disruption on Thursday came 24 hours after four New Zealand schools in the North Island cities of Gisborne, Thames, and Waikato received threats via threat calls that later proved to be fake.

Cherie Taylor-Patel, president of the Principals' Federation of New Zealand, told public radio station Radio New Zealand (RNZ) that she had discussed the incidents with the Ministry of Education.

"The ministry has said that their understanding is that this was actually a cyberbot coming in from overseas," Taylor-Patel said.

"Today’s incidents were really unexpected, unprovoked and really distressing for those communities involved," she added. "It’s not something that anyone is prepared for and it’s something that no one wants to&nbsp;happen."

Although the calls "do not appear to be a safety concern," the New Zealand Police stated in a statement that it was still taking the threats "very seriously." According to the force, officers "were making inquiries to discover the source of the fake calls."

According to reports up to this point, no explosives have been discovered at any of the institutions the calls were directed towards. Police in New Zealand are looking into the potential that the threats are originating from outside, according to Assistant Commissioner Bruce O'Brien.

(With inputs from agencies)

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With reports of a potential hack from abroad, at least a dozen schools throughout New Zealand have received bomb threats that have caused significant inconvenience.

With reports of a potential hack from abroad, at least a dozen schools throughout New Zealand have received bomb threats that have caused significant inconvenience. As a result, several of the impacted schools spread across Ashburton, Dunstan, Geraldine, Greymouth, Kaikoura, Levin, Masterton, Queenstown, Rolleston, Takaka, Palmerston Northwere, and Whanganui, were either evacuated or locked down. The disruption on Thursday came 24 hours after four New Zealand schools in the North Island cities of Gisborne, Thames, and Waikato received threats via threat calls that later proved to be fake. Cherie Taylor-Patel, president of the Principals' Federation of New Zealand, told public radio station Radio New Zealand (RNZ) that she had discussed the incidents with the Ministry of Education. "The ministry has said that their understanding is that this was actually a cyberbot coming in from overseas," Taylor-Patel said. "Today’s incidents were really unexpected, unprovoked and really distressing for those communities involved," she added. "It’s not something that anyone is prepared for and it’s something that no one wants to happen." Although the calls "do not appear to be a safety concern," the New Zealand Police stated in a statement that it was still taking the threats "very seriously." According to the force, officers "were making inquiries to discover the source of the fake calls." According to reports up to this point, no explosives have been discovered at any of the institutions the calls were directed towards. Police in New Zealand are looking into the potential that the threats are originating from outside, according to Assistant Commissioner Bruce O'Brien. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bomb threats cause disruption in schools across New Zealand

Buying cigarettes will become illegal for the next generation in New Zealand. The island nation becomes the first country to pass legislation on it.

New Zealand introduces world-first 'tobacco laws' to create a smoke-free generation

In pics | History of parliament attacks

New Zealand becomes the first country in the world to introduce legislation that will prevent the next generation from being able to legally purchase cigarettes, as the MPs have vowed to end the ‘disgusting and bizarre’ control of cigarette firms. The government unveiled new regulations in an effort to foster a generation free of tobacco use on Tuesday. The regulations include changing the smoking age to prevent teenagers from buying cigarettes. These new laws, discussed in the parliament are thought to be the first in the world, and have elicited a mix of praise for creativity and reservations over their lack of testing, The Guardian reported. <o:p></o:p>

These laws would significantly lower the amount of nicotine in cigarettes, limiting their availability to special tobacco shops and raising the age. <o:p></o:p>

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-proposed-to-ban-the-use-of-flavoured-heated-tobacco-products-492990">European Union proposed to ban use of flavoured heated tobacco products</a>

<o:p></o:p>

Ayesha Verrall, an associate minister of health introduced the law for the first time reading. She said, “For decades we have permitted tobacco companies to maintain their market share by making their deadly product more and more addictive. It is disgusting and it is bizarre. We have more regulations in this country on the safety of the sale of a sandwich than on a cigarette.” She continued, “Our priority in bringing this bill is protecting what is precious: our people, our whānau [families], our communities,” the Guardian reported.<o:p></o:p>

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-no-tobacco-day-2022-a-threat-to-environment-483731">World No Tobacco Day 2022: 'A threat to environment'</a>

<o:p></o:p>

The bill is currently in the first reading and has almost unanimous support from all the political parties. In 2023, the law is anticipated to take effect and the rules only apply to tobacco products; vaping is still permitted. <o:p></o:p>

The majority of the parties are in support. Matt Doocey, an MP for the opposition National party, stated that although the party support the bill at this time, they had reservations about its experimental nature. The Green party agreed that the bill should be sent to a select committee but expressed his worry that criminal prohibition would drive the sector underground. The only party that opposed it during the reading was the Libertarian Act party. <o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from agencies)<o:p></o:p>

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New Zealand becomes the first country in the world to introduce legislation that will prevent the next generation from being able to legally purchase cigarettes, as the MPs have vowed to end the ‘disgusting and bizarre’ control of cigarette firms.

New Zealand becomes the first country in the world to introduce legislation that will prevent the next generation from being able to legally purchase cigarettes, as the MPs have vowed to end the ‘disgusting and bizarre’ control of cigarette firms. The government unveiled new regulations in an effort to foster a generation free of tobacco use on Tuesday. The regulations include changing the smoking age to prevent teenagers from buying cigarettes. These new laws, discussed in the parliament are thought to be the first in the world, and have elicited a mix of praise for creativity and reservations over their lack of testing, The Guardian reported. These laws would significantly lower the amount of nicotine in cigarettes, limiting their availability to special tobacco shops and raising the age. Also read | European Union proposed to ban use of flavoured heated tobacco products Ayesha Verrall, an associate minister of health introduced the law for the first time reading. She said, “For decades we have permitted tobacco companies to maintain their market share by making their deadly product more and more addictive. It is disgusting and it is bizarre. We have more regulations in this country on the safety of the sale of a sandwich than on a cigarette.” She continued, “Our priority in bringing this bill is protecting what is precious: our people, our whānau [families], our communities,” the Guardian reported. Also read | World No Tobacco Day 2022: 'A threat to environment' The bill is currently in the first reading and has almost unanimous support from all the political parties. In 2023, the law is anticipated to take effect and the rules only apply to tobacco products; vaping is still permitted. The majority of the parties are in support. Matt Doocey, an MP for the opposition National party, stated that although the party support the bill at this time, they had reservations about its experimental nature. The Green party agreed that the bill should be sent to a select committee but expressed his worry that criminal prohibition would drive the sector underground. The only party that opposed it during the reading was the Libertarian Act party. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

New Zealand to introduce tobacco laws in an effort to prevent next generation from buying cigarettes

As Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern warned, an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Indonesia could cost thousands of New Zealand jobs, as her nation and neighbouring Australia stepped up border biosecurity restrictions.

"While not a threat to humans, it would devastate our national herd. Essentially, all animals that are of cloven hoof are at risk," Ardern told reporters in Wellington.

Ardern warned that the disease, first detected in Indonesia in April, has the potential to threaten up to 100,000 jobs in New Zealand's agriculture sector.

Foot and mouth disease is a severe, highly contagious viral disease of livestock.

It can have a significant economic impact, especially on a country like New Zealand, which exported around 17 million sheep and two million cattle in the eight months up until May 2022.

A foot-and-mouth outbreak has ripped through two Indonesian provinces, killing thousands of cows and infecting hundreds of thousands more.

Ardern said New Zealand has never had an outbreak and wants to keep it that way by tightening border restrictions.

"We want to make sure that we've got all our settings in place to protect ourselves from this emerging threat," she added.

Ardern stated that it is critical to prevent it from entering the country, possibly through Australian tourists who have visited Southeast Asia.

Travellers from Indonesia will not be allowed to bring meat products into New Zealand. Baggage will be screened, and there will be disinfectant mats at airports to clean footwear.

In Australia, parcels and baggage from China and Indonesia are now being checked, and there are also foot mats at airports in response to the disease.

Canberra has so far rejected opposition calls to close the border to Indonesia completely, but further measures have not been ruled out.

Ardern said her government is working with Australian authorities to try to further reduce the risk.

New Zealand is set to fully open its borders at midnight on Sunday to all visitors.

New Zealand's Biosecurity Minister Damien O'Connor said "vigilance is absolutely crucial" as the disease could also affect up to 77 percent of the country's wildlife population, including wild deer, pigs and sheep.

He referred to how foot and mouth devastated British farming in 2001 when millions of cattle and sheep had to be slaughtered. 
&nbsp;

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As Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern warned, an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Indonesia could cost thousands of New Zealand jobs, as her nation and neighbouring Australia stepped up border biosecurity restrictions.

As Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern warned, an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Indonesia could cost thousands of New Zealand jobs, as her nation and neighbouring Australia stepped up border biosecurity restrictions. "While not a threat to humans, it would devastate our national herd. Essentially, all animals that are of cloven hoof are at risk," Ardern told reporters in Wellington. Ardern warned that the disease, first detected in Indonesia in April, has the potential to threaten up to 100,000 jobs in New Zealand's agriculture sector. Foot and mouth disease is a severe, highly contagious viral disease of livestock. It can have a significant economic impact, especially on a country like New Zealand, which exported around 17 million sheep and two million cattle in the eight months up until May 2022. A foot-and-mouth outbreak has ripped through two Indonesian provinces, killing thousands of cows and infecting hundreds of thousands more. Ardern said New Zealand has never had an outbreak and wants to keep it that way by tightening border restrictions. "We want to make sure that we've got all our settings in place to protect ourselves from this emerging threat," she added. Ardern stated that it is critical to prevent it from entering the country, possibly through Australian tourists who have visited Southeast Asia. Travellers from Indonesia will not be allowed to bring meat products into New Zealand. Baggage will be screened, and there will be disinfectant mats at airports to clean footwear. In Australia, parcels and baggage from China and Indonesia are now being checked, and there are also foot mats at airports in response to the disease. Canberra has so far rejected opposition calls to close the border to Indonesia completely, but further measures have not been ruled out. Ardern said her government is working with Australian authorities to try to further reduce the risk. New Zealand is set to fully open its borders at midnight on Sunday to all visitors. New Zealand's Biosecurity Minister Damien O'Connor said "vigilance is absolutely crucial" as the disease could also affect up to 77 percent of the country's wildlife population, including wild deer, pigs and sheep. He referred to how foot and mouth devastated British farming in 2001 when millions of cattle and sheep had to be slaughtered. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indonesia foot and mouth outbreak prompts New Zealand, Australia restrictions

In a move that experts have labelled as evasive, on Monday big-tech companies in New Zealand agreed to forego government regulation in favour of themselves reducing dangerous online content. According to Netsafe, a government-funded internet safety organisation, Twitter, Amazon.com Inc., TikTok, Meta Platforms Inc., and Alphabet-owned Google have all signed a code of conduct called Aotearoa New Zealand Code of Practice for Online Safety and Harms. The organisation's chief Brent Carey said that the signatory companies will follow the code as self-regulation. However, industry lobby group NZTech will be overseeing the compliance.&nbsp;"There are too many Kiwis being bullied, harassed, and abused online, which is why the industry has rallied together to protect users," said Carey.

Watch |&nbsp;Have a phobia? A new app can help fight it

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As per a Reuters report, the big-tech companies' adherence to obligations, such as decreasing harmful information online, disclosing how they do so, and allowing independent evaluation of results, would be under the supervision of industry lobbying group NZTech.

NZTech CEO Graeme Muller has expressed hope that "the governance framework will enable it to evolve alongside local conditions, while at the same time respecting the fundamental rights of freedom of expression."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-cracks-down-on-cyberbullying-the-crime-can-now-get-you-a-year-in-jail-496033">Japan cracks down on cyberbullying, makes it a punishable offence, but experts aren't too happy. Here's why</a>

However, interest groups demand more information, such as a system for public complaints and punishment for any noncompliance by the corporations.

They further emphasise that an industry organisation, not the government, is in charge of managing the accord.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/roe-v-wade-google-location-history-of-women-remains-vulnerable-youtube-to-censor-false-videos-on-abortion-499712">Roe v. Wade: Google location history of women remains vulnerable; YouTube to censor false videos on abortion</a>

Mandy Henk, CEO of Tohatoha NZ, a non-profit organisation that advocates the social impact of technology, called the move "a weak attempt to preempt regulation – in New Zealand and overseas – by promoting an industry-led model."

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a move that experts have labelled as evasive, on Monday big-tech companies in New Zealand agreed to forego government regulation in favour of themselves reducing dangerous online content.

In a move that experts have labelled as evasive, on Monday big-tech companies in New Zealand agreed to forego government regulation in favour of themselves reducing dangerous online content. According to Netsafe, a government-funded internet safety organisation, Twitter, Amazon.com Inc., TikTok, Meta Platforms Inc., and Alphabet-owned Google have all signed a code of conduct called Aotearoa New Zealand Code of Practice for Online Safety and Harms. The organisation's chief Brent Carey said that the signatory companies will follow the code as self-regulation. However, industry lobby group NZTech will be overseeing the compliance. "There are too many Kiwis being bullied, harassed, and abused online, which is why the industry has rallied together to protect users," said Carey. Watch | Have a phobia? A new app can help fight it As per a Reuters report, the big-tech companies' adherence to obligations, such as decreasing harmful information online, disclosing how they do so, and allowing independent evaluation of results, would be under the supervision of industry lobbying group NZTech. NZTech CEO Graeme Muller has expressed hope that "the governance framework will enable it to evolve alongside local conditions, while at the same time respecting the fundamental rights of freedom of expression." Also read | Japan cracks down on cyberbullying, makes it a punishable offence, but experts aren't too happy. Here's why However, interest groups demand more information, such as a system for public complaints and punishment for any noncompliance by the corporations. They further emphasise that an industry organisation, not the government, is in charge of managing the accord. Also read | Roe v. Wade: Google location history of women remains vulnerable; YouTube to censor false videos on abortion Mandy Henk, CEO of Tohatoha NZ, a non-profit organisation that advocates the social impact of technology, called the move "a weak attempt to preempt regulation – in New Zealand and overseas – by promoting an industry-led model." (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Big-tech companies agree to self-regulate harmful content in New Zealand, experts call it a 'weak attempt'

New Zealand is facing a fresh wave of COVID-19 infections. Now, the death rates are at a record level, with 186,246 active COVID cases being recorded in 24 hours.

New Zealand COVID death rates at record level with 186,246 active COVID cases recorded in 24 hours

As the nation fights a new wave of the Omicron strain that is disproportionately hurting the senior population, New Zealanders are dying from COVID-19 at historic rates. According to Health Ministry data, the virus claimed 151 lives in the seven days leading up to July 16 compared to 115 during the worst week of the last wave in March. According to a statement released by the government on Friday, 26 persons with Covid died in the past 24 hours, all of whom were above 60.

The Omicron BA.5 sub-variant, which contains 5.1 million inhabitants, is what's causing the present wave in New Zealand. In the last seven days, there have been 64,780 active cases, while authorities claim that many illnesses go undetected. New Zealand's quick response to the pandemic and its geographic isolation kept it mostly free of the virus until the end of last year, and it was once seen as a model for preventing Covid infection. When the population was largely immunised this year, the government abandoned its zero-Covid strategy. The virus has been permitted to spread since that time.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sri-lankan-crisis-economy-lessons-india-can-learn-498205">Sri Lankan crisis: Economy lessons India can learn</a>

Medical facilities, including emergency rooms, general practises, and clinics, are under stress. Hospitalization rates, according to data from the Health Ministry, are still below their peak in March. Some doctors are pressuring the government to reimpose restrictions on public meetings or to make masks mandatory in schools, but the administration is defying their demands. Iona Holsted, the director of the Education Ministry, stated on Thursday that when students returned from their holidays the following week, the ministry had instructed schools to enforce the use of masks as much as possible.

(with inputs from agencies)

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As the nation fights a new wave of the Omicron strain that is disproportionately hurting the senior population, New Zealanders are dying from COVID-19 at historic rates.

As the nation fights a new wave of the Omicron strain that is disproportionately hurting the senior population, New Zealanders are dying from COVID-19 at historic rates. According to Health Ministry data, the virus claimed 151 lives in the seven days leading up to July 16 compared to 115 during the worst week of the last wave in March. According to a statement released by the government on Friday, 26 persons with Covid died in the past 24 hours, all of whom were above 60. The Omicron BA.5 sub-variant, which contains 5.1 million inhabitants, is what's causing the present wave in New Zealand. In the last seven days, there have been 64,780 active cases, while authorities claim that many illnesses go undetected. New Zealand's quick response to the pandemic and its geographic isolation kept it mostly free of the virus until the end of last year, and it was once seen as a model for preventing Covid infection. When the population was largely immunised this year, the government abandoned its zero-Covid strategy. The virus has been permitted to spread since that time. Also Read: Sri Lankan crisis: Economy lessons India can learn Medical facilities, including emergency rooms, general practises, and clinics, are under stress. Hospitalization rates, according to data from the Health Ministry, are still below their peak in March. Some doctors are pressuring the government to reimpose restrictions on public meetings or to make masks mandatory in schools, but the administration is defying their demands. Iona Holsted, the director of the Education Ministry, stated on Thursday that when students returned from their holidays the following week, the ministry had instructed schools to enforce the use of masks as much as possible. (with inputs from agencies)

New Zealand: 26 people die of Covid in 24 hours, all above 60

Inflation around the world is not cooling down, the latest data is from New Zealand where the inflation has touched three decade high beating forecasts.

New Zealand's inflation hits 3-decade high

New Zealand is currently going through a major dearth of bourbon, craft beer and chicken nuggets due to the ongoing food shortages. Due to the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, the supply chain has been disrupted all around the world and the situation is not much different in New Zealand. &nbsp;“It’s a pain all right,” said Neil, a worker at the Bottle-O store in Mt Eden told The Guardian. “There’s a shortage of bourbon at the moment. We can’t get anything from out of America, apparently.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-hindu-memes-hate-speech-and-hinduphobia-us-report-finds-rise-in-anti-hindu-disinformation-497090">Anti-Hindu memes, speech: US study finds rise in anti-Hindu disinformation</a>

Brendon Lawry, the chief executive of Liquorland NZ chain, also confirmed the current shortage as suppliers around New Zealand “have been experiencing shortages of bourbon for production of RTDs for the last four to six months”. RTD stands for Ready to Drink items – which are quite popular around the country. “We are hopeful that it is a short-term issue,” he said to The Guardian.

The COVID-19 pandemic was detrimental to the liquor trade and with the brewing process taking a hit in 2021, the supply chain has not recovered from it. According to media reports, almost all major companies faced acute shortages since the pandemic and production has not increased till now.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudanese-court-sentences-woman-to-death-by-stoning-in-first-case-for-a-decade-496992" hreflang="en">Sudanese court sentences woman to death by stoning in first case for a decade</a>

“It’s like an unfortunate perfect storm,” said Robert Brewer, the chief executive of industry organisation Spirits New Zealand. He added that global shipping delays, mostly due to the ongoing crisis, has also blocked the supply from bourbon from the two major hubs - Kentucky and Tennessee.

Dylan Firth, the executive director of the Brewers Association of New Zealand, also elaborated on the problem and said that the smaller brewers were also not spared from the problem.

“This is more of an issue for the smaller guys who don’t have a [CO2] capture process. Because CO2 is produced in the fermentation process, some larger breweries will have the ability to capture that.”

New Zealand is currently going through a major dearth of bourbon, craft beer and chicken nuggets due to the ongoing food shortages. Due to the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, the supply chain has been disrupted all around the world and the situation is not much different in New Zealand.

New Zealand is currently going through a major dearth of bourbon, craft beer and chicken nuggets due to the ongoing food shortages. Due to the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, the supply chain has been disrupted all around the world and the situation is not much different in New Zealand. “It’s a pain all right,” said Neil, a worker at the Bottle-O store in Mt Eden told The Guardian. “There’s a shortage of bourbon at the moment. We can’t get anything from out of America, apparently.” Also read | Anti-Hindu memes, speech: US study finds rise in anti-Hindu disinformation Brendon Lawry, the chief executive of Liquorland NZ chain, also confirmed the current shortage as suppliers around New Zealand “have been experiencing shortages of bourbon for production of RTDs for the last four to six months”. RTD stands for Ready to Drink items – which are quite popular around the country. “We are hopeful that it is a short-term issue,” he said to The Guardian. The COVID-19 pandemic was detrimental to the liquor trade and with the brewing process taking a hit in 2021, the supply chain has not recovered from it. According to media reports, almost all major companies faced acute shortages since the pandemic and production has not increased till now. Also read | Sudanese court sentences woman to death by stoning in first case for a decade “It’s like an unfortunate perfect storm,” said Robert Brewer, the chief executive of industry organisation Spirits New Zealand. He added that global shipping delays, mostly due to the ongoing crisis, has also blocked the supply from bourbon from the two major hubs - Kentucky and Tennessee. Dylan Firth, the executive director of the Brewers Association of New Zealand, also elaborated on the problem and said that the smaller brewers were also not spared from the problem. “This is more of an issue for the smaller guys who don’t have a [CO2] capture process. Because CO2 is produced in the fermentation process, some larger breweries will have the ability to capture that.”

New Zealand hit by liquor and chicken nugget shortages in aftermath of pandemic

New Zealand has been ranked second-worst place in the world to move by immigrants, according to a survey. The expatriate networking organisation InterNations surveyed nearly 12,000 respondents of 177 different nationalities living in 181 countries and found that New Zealand has a very low rate of welcoming migrants with an overall score of zero per cent.&nbsp;

The survey showed that most respondents felt very positive about their new homes. The majority felt they were of good quality overall, with low maintenance compared to their old home. They felt they had a higher quality of life than in their previous house, and also expressed concerns about the cost of living, safety and bureaucracy.

New Zealand ranked 51 in an international ranking of 52 countries for which there was a large enough sample size. It was beaten to the bottom by Kuwait. A combination of factors contributed to the high rating for Australia's working conditions, which was ranked at number nine overall – people arriving were far more likely to feel that their jobs are well-designed and pay fairly for work done.

New Zealand was the worst-performing country in the survey’s personal finance measure: 49% of respondents said their disposable household income was not enough to lead a comfortable life, compared with 28% globally as they faced high costs of living and low wages.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-cost-of-living-skyrockets-italys-government-faces-implosion-497278">As cost-of-living skyrockets, Italy's government faces implosion</a>

As reported by The Guardian, " New Zealand also ranked below global averages for respondents feeling fairly paid for their work, seeing a purpose in their work or liking their working hours. “The cost of living is too high here in comparison to the salaries,” one survey respondent from Botswana said. An expat from India was concerned about the “growing divide between the rich and poor”."

New Zealand was the worst-performing country in the survey’s health &amp; wellbeing measure, too. &nbsp;The country is rated negatively by 75% of respondents, compared with 35% globally.

&nbsp;Mexico was ranked first in the survey, with particularly high scores for personal finance and the ease of settling in. Indonesia, Taiwan, Portugal, and Spain rounded out the top five. Each country was evaluated on 30 different factors which are linked to economic growth, stability, culture and experience of living.

(with inputs from agencies)

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New Zealand has been ranked second-worst place in the world to move by immigrants, according to a survey. The expatriate networking organisation InterNations surveyed nearly 12,000 respondents of 177 different nationalities living in 181 countries and found that New Zealand has a very low rate of welcoming migrants with an overall score of zero per cent.

New Zealand has been ranked second-worst place in the world to move by immigrants, according to a survey. The expatriate networking organisation InterNations surveyed nearly 12,000 respondents of 177 different nationalities living in 181 countries and found that New Zealand has a very low rate of welcoming migrants with an overall score of zero per cent. The survey showed that most respondents felt very positive about their new homes. The majority felt they were of good quality overall, with low maintenance compared to their old home. They felt they had a higher quality of life than in their previous house, and also expressed concerns about the cost of living, safety and bureaucracy. New Zealand ranked 51 in an international ranking of 52 countries for which there was a large enough sample size. It was beaten to the bottom by Kuwait. A combination of factors contributed to the high rating for Australia's working conditions, which was ranked at number nine overall – people arriving were far more likely to feel that their jobs are well-designed and pay fairly for work done. New Zealand was the worst-performing country in the survey’s personal finance measure: 49% of respondents said their disposable household income was not enough to lead a comfortable life, compared with 28% globally as they faced high costs of living and low wages. Also Read: As cost-of-living skyrockets, Italy's government faces implosion As reported by The Guardian, " New Zealand also ranked below global averages for respondents feeling fairly paid for their work, seeing a purpose in their work or liking their working hours. “The cost of living is too high here in comparison to the salaries,” one survey respondent from Botswana said. An expat from India was concerned about the “growing divide between the rich and poor”." New Zealand was the worst-performing country in the survey’s health & wellbeing measure, too. The country is rated negatively by 75% of respondents, compared with 35% globally. Mexico was ranked first in the survey, with particularly high scores for personal finance and the ease of settling in. Indonesia, Taiwan, Portugal, and Spain rounded out the top five. Each country was evaluated on 30 different factors which are linked to economic growth, stability, culture and experience of living. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

New Zealand ranked second-worst place in world to move by immigrants: Survey

In what scientists believe was likely a meteor drop, New Zealanders across the North Island have reported rumbling, crackling sounds, a fireball and a huge flash of light streaking across the sky on Thursday afternoon. Local media outlets and social media were flooded with reports and queries about the sight, with some witnesses describing rumbles, bangs, a crackling sound in their ears, hair standing on end, rattling windows or a streak or explosion of light, followed by a smoke trail, as reported by The Guardian.

Plumber Curtis Powell captured the phenomenon on his dashcam while driving north of Shannon at 1:39 pm on Thursday. “We were just driving to a job in Shannon when I saw a blue line falling in the sky, then a massive bright light,” he said. “Realised my dashcam was recording and downloaded the video – once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.”

Also Read:&nbsp;Timeline: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/timeline-three-years-of-boris-johnson-as-british-pm-from-brexit-hero-to-sex-scandals-495347">Three years of Boris Johnson as British PM - from Brexit hero to sex scandals</a>

On social media, people shared photos and swapped stories of their sightings. “I’m so glad someone caught it … I thought I was hallucinating,” said one commenter. A number of people mistook the rumbling sound for an earthquake. “We thought it was an earthquake, but it didn’t sound right, more like a large heavy truck, with a beat, but there were no trucks near our house at the time. The house vibrated slightly too,” one Twitter user said.

As reported by The Guardian, some eyewitnesses described hearing crackling as the object moved through the sky, in what Steel said was likely “electrophonic sound”. Allan Gilmore of Canterbury University’s Mt John Observatory said in a radio interview that meteors, and their accompanying electrical charge, could cause some people’s hair to stand on end. “People with frizzy hair often hear it, while the people who don’t have frizzy hair don’t hear it,” Gilmore said.

(with inputs from agencies)

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In what scientists believe was likely a meteor drop, New Zealanders across the North Island have reported rumbling, crackling sounds, a fireball and a huge flash of light streaking across the sky on Thursday afternoon.

In what scientists believe was likely a meteor drop, New Zealanders across the North Island have reported rumbling, crackling sounds, a fireball and a huge flash of light streaking across the sky on Thursday afternoon. Local media outlets and social media were flooded with reports and queries about the sight, with some witnesses describing rumbles, bangs, a crackling sound in their ears, hair standing on end, rattling windows or a streak or explosion of light, followed by a smoke trail, as reported by The Guardian. Plumber Curtis Powell captured the phenomenon on his dashcam while driving north of Shannon at 1:39 pm on Thursday. “We were just driving to a job in Shannon when I saw a blue line falling in the sky, then a massive bright light,” he said. “Realised my dashcam was recording and downloaded the video – once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.” Also Read: Timeline: Three years of Boris Johnson as British PM - from Brexit hero to sex scandals On social media, people shared photos and swapped stories of their sightings. “I’m so glad someone caught it … I thought I was hallucinating,” said one commenter. A number of people mistook the rumbling sound for an earthquake. “We thought it was an earthquake, but it didn’t sound right, more like a large heavy truck, with a beat, but there were no trucks near our house at the time. The house vibrated slightly too,” one Twitter user said. As reported by The Guardian, some eyewitnesses described hearing crackling as the object moved through the sky, in what Steel said was likely “electrophonic sound”. Allan Gilmore of Canterbury University’s Mt John Observatory said in a radio interview that meteors, and their accompanying electrical charge, could cause some people’s hair to stand on end. “People with frizzy hair often hear it, while the people who don’t have frizzy hair don’t hear it,” Gilmore said. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Rumbling, crackling sounds, a fireball and a huge flash of light': mysterious object strikes New Zealand

A camping association in New Zealand has called on the government to amend the laws that allow people to poop in public if they don't think they are being watched. They want the law to be tightened amid long-running accusations that the campers are responsible for increase in excrement and toilet paper littering in popular tourist destinations.

Under the law, defecating or urinating in a public place (other than in a public lavatory) is an offence, but, if the person can show they had reasonable grounds for believing they were not being observed, they may be able to escape a $200 fine.

"There is no law in New Zealand that forces one to poop their pants if caught short, and RCAi believes minimising the more undesirable aftermath would be the most appropriate way of addressing the problem in the short term," the Responsible Campers Association Inc (RCAi) told local news channel, Newshub.

The RCAi argues that the law should also require people to show they conducted their business at least 50 metres from a waterway and the waste is buried to at least 15cm.

It has also called for more toilet facilities to be made available to travellers as the ideal long-term solution, calling for the Waka Kotahi, the NZ Transport Agency, to fund these alongside state highways.

The freedom camping group has been in the news over the years over concerns about its impact on the environment, especially when it comes to campers’ personal waste.

The freedom campers are often accused of pooing in public and littering with toilet papers in tourist destinations. Some local councils have opted to ban the campers&nbsp;from hotspots altogether.

Frictions between campers, locals and the government peaked in late 2020, when tourism minister Stuart Nash told the national broadcaster, RNZ, that freedom campers in non self-contained vehicles “pull over to the side of the road and … shit in our waterways”.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A camping association in New Zealand has called on the government to amend the laws that allow people to poop in public if they don't think they are being watched.

A camping association in New Zealand has called on the government to amend the laws that allow people to poop in public if they don't think they are being watched. They want the law to be tightened amid long-running accusations that the campers are responsible for increase in excrement and toilet paper littering in popular tourist destinations. Under the law, defecating or urinating in a public place (other than in a public lavatory) is an offence, but, if the person can show they had reasonable grounds for believing they were not being observed, they may be able to escape a $200 fine. "There is no law in New Zealand that forces one to poop their pants if caught short, and RCAi believes minimising the more undesirable aftermath would be the most appropriate way of addressing the problem in the short term," the Responsible Campers Association Inc (RCAi) told local news channel, Newshub. The RCAi argues that the law should also require people to show they conducted their business at least 50 metres from a waterway and the waste is buried to at least 15cm. It has also called for more toilet facilities to be made available to travellers as the ideal long-term solution, calling for the Waka Kotahi, the NZ Transport Agency, to fund these alongside state highways. The freedom camping group has been in the news over the years over concerns about its impact on the environment, especially when it comes to campers’ personal waste. The freedom campers are often accused of pooing in public and littering with toilet papers in tourist destinations. Some local councils have opted to ban the campers from hotspots altogether. Frictions between campers, locals and the government peaked in late 2020, when tourism minister Stuart Nash told the national broadcaster, RNZ, that freedom campers in non self-contained vehicles “pull over to the side of the road and … shit in our waterways”. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Call grows to tighten New Zealand law that allows public pooping if no one watching

The New Zealand government has designated two far-right organizations from the United States as terrorist groups- the Base and the Proud Boys have been legally designated as terrorist organizations.

New Zealand | Proud Boys and The Base- Two US organizations designated as terror groups

The Proud Boys and The Base, two US organisations, have received a terrorist designation from New Zealand.Last Monday, June 20, it was entered in the gazette, the government's official journal of record. A week later, it was made public, but with no broader distribution.Everyone who has property or financial ties to The Base and the Proud Boys as a result of the action approved by Police Commissioner Andrew Coster is subject to prosecution and a maximum sentence of seven years in jail under the Terrorism Suppression Act.

A US neo-fascist organisation called the American Proud Boys has leadership and members who have been federally indicted in connection with the disturbances at the US Capitol on January 6. A paramilitary white nationalist hate group known as The Base is active in the US and Canada, and there have been rumours of training cells in South Africa, Australia, and Europe.

The police website has not yet made the justification for the designation public, despite the gazette's claim that it would be there. Unless extended or cancelled, the designation automatically expires on June 20, 2025. 
 
Watch | A look at role of far-right extremists Oath Keepers and Proud Boys in January 6 riot

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Who are the Proud Boys?

The Proud Boys are a far-right extremist group that was formed in the lead-up to the 2016 US presidential elections, according to the FBI. Gavin McInnes, a co-founder of Vice Media and former commentator, founded the organisation. McInnes contended that the society's incapacity to permit men to be proud of Western culture made the group's existence vital. The "brotherhood," an exclusively male organisation, would eventually have chapters in 46 US states. Yet despite this, women continue to embrace the group, which its founder previously referred to as a "gang."

The national Proud Boys organisation recognises 119 active Proud Boys chapters spread throughout 46 American states, according to the Anti-Defamation League, a Jewish civil rights organisation with headquarters in the US.

Who are The Base?

In 2018, Rinaldo Nazzaro founded the white nationalist organisation and training network known as The Base. It operates in Europe, South Africa, Australia, Australia, and the United States.By using the aliases Norman Spear and Roman Wolf, Rinaldo Nazzaro created the group in June 2018. In order to use the area as a survivalist training camp, Nazzaro reportedly purchased multiple blocks of off-the-grid acreage in Washington state, United States, in 2018.

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The Proud Boys and The Base, two US organisations, have received a terrorist designation from New Zealand.Last Monday, June 20, it was entered in the gazette, the government's official journal of record.

The Proud Boys and The Base, two US organisations, have received a terrorist designation from New Zealand.Last Monday, June 20, it was entered in the gazette, the government's official journal of record. A week later, it was made public, but with no broader distribution.Everyone who has property or financial ties to The Base and the Proud Boys as a result of the action approved by Police Commissioner Andrew Coster is subject to prosecution and a maximum sentence of seven years in jail under the Terrorism Suppression Act. A US neo-fascist organisation called the American Proud Boys has leadership and members who have been federally indicted in connection with the disturbances at the US Capitol on January 6. A paramilitary white nationalist hate group known as The Base is active in the US and Canada, and there have been rumours of training cells in South Africa, Australia, and Europe. The police website has not yet made the justification for the designation public, despite the gazette's claim that it would be there. Unless extended or cancelled, the designation automatically expires on June 20, 2025. Watch | A look at role of far-right extremists Oath Keepers and Proud Boys in January 6 riot Who are the Proud Boys? The Proud Boys are a far-right extremist group that was formed in the lead-up to the 2016 US presidential elections, according to the FBI. Gavin McInnes, a co-founder of Vice Media and former commentator, founded the organisation. McInnes contended that the society's incapacity to permit men to be proud of Western culture made the group's existence vital. The "brotherhood," an exclusively male organisation, would eventually have chapters in 46 US states. Yet despite this, women continue to embrace the group, which its founder previously referred to as a "gang." The national Proud Boys organisation recognises 119 active Proud Boys chapters spread throughout 46 American states, according to the Anti-Defamation League, a Jewish civil rights organisation with headquarters in the US. Who are The Base? In 2018, Rinaldo Nazzaro founded the white nationalist organisation and training network known as The Base. It operates in Europe, South Africa, Australia, Australia, and the United States.By using the aliases Norman Spear and Roman Wolf, Rinaldo Nazzaro created the group in June 2018. In order to use the area as a survivalist training camp, Nazzaro reportedly purchased multiple blocks of off-the-grid acreage in Washington state, United States, in 2018. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US groups 'Proud Boys', 'The Base' labelled as terrorist organisations by New Zealand

The United States, Australia,&nbsp;Japan,&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;and&nbsp;the United Kingdom launched an informal&nbsp;group&nbsp;aimed at boosting economic&nbsp;and&nbsp;diplomatic ties with&nbsp;Pacific&nbsp;island&nbsp;nations, the White House said on Friday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-military-plane-endangered-peace-and-stability-after-flying-through-taiwan-strait-says-china-491610">US military plane ‘endangered peace and stability’ after flying through Taiwan Strait, says China</a>

The Biden administration has vowed to commit more resources to the Indo-Pacific&nbsp;as China seeks to boost economic, military&nbsp;and&nbsp;police links with&nbsp;Pacific&nbsp;island&nbsp;nations hungry for foreign investment.

The&nbsp;group, dubbed Partners in the Blue&nbsp;Pacific&nbsp;(PBP), will seek to support&nbsp;Pacific&nbsp;regionalism&nbsp;and&nbsp;strengthen economic ties between the&nbsp;Pacific&nbsp;islands&nbsp;and&nbsp;the rest of the world.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: The turf war in South Pacific

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"We are united in our shared determination to support a region that benefits the peoples of the&nbsp;Pacific. We are also united in how we realize this vision according to principles of&nbsp;Pacific&nbsp;regionalism, sovereignty, transparency, accountability,&nbsp;and&nbsp;most of all, led&nbsp;and&nbsp;guided by the&nbsp;Pacific&nbsp;Islands," the White House said.

White House Indo-Pacific&nbsp;coordinator Kurt Campbell said on Thursday he expects more high-level U.S. officials to visit&nbsp;Pacific&nbsp;island&nbsp;countries as Washington steps up its engagement to counter China in the strategically important region.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-strategy-for-indo-pacific-region-fueling-future-conflict-china-487354">US strategy for Indo-Pacific region fueling future conflict: China​</a>​​​​​​

Campbell said the United States needed more diplomatic facilities across the region,&nbsp;and&nbsp;more contact with&nbsp;Pacific&nbsp;island&nbsp;countries that at times "receive lesser attention."

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The United States, Australia, Japan, New Zealand and the United Kingdom launched an informal group aimed at boosting economic and diplomatic ties with Pacific island nations, the White House said on Friday.

The United States, Australia, Japan, New Zealand and the United Kingdom launched an informal group aimed at boosting economic and diplomatic ties with Pacific island nations, the White House said on Friday. Also read | US military plane ‘endangered peace and stability’ after flying through Taiwan Strait, says China The Biden administration has vowed to commit more resources to the Indo-Pacific as China seeks to boost economic, military and police links with Pacific island nations hungry for foreign investment. The group, dubbed Partners in the Blue Pacific (PBP), will seek to support Pacific regionalism and strengthen economic ties between the Pacific islands and the rest of the world. Watch | Gravitas Plus: The turf war in South Pacific "We are united in our shared determination to support a region that benefits the peoples of the Pacific. We are also united in how we realize this vision according to principles of Pacific regionalism, sovereignty, transparency, accountability, and most of all, led and guided by the Pacific Islands," the White House said. White House Indo-Pacific coordinator Kurt Campbell said on Thursday he expects more high-level U.S. officials to visit Pacific island countries as Washington steps up its engagement to counter China in the strategically important region. Also read | US strategy for Indo-Pacific region fueling future conflict: China Campbell said the United States needed more diplomatic facilities across the region, and more contact with Pacific island countries that at times "receive lesser attention." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and United Kingdom form Pacific group

Extreme ocean temperatures have caused the largest bleaching of sea sponges in New Zealand, scientists have said following recent marine heatwaves.

Last month, researchers found sea sponges bleached for the first time ever off the country’s southern coastline. They warned that the issue could rapidly become widespread, reports The Guardian.

Scientists have dubbed it an “alarming” development, saying that it highlights the&nbsp;climate crisis&nbsp;the world is facing.

Sea sponges are marine animals that have been around for about 600 million years. Their skeletons are dense and porous, and they adapt well to their particular habitat, attaching themselves to different types of surfaces, from rocks and corals&nbsp;to soft sediments, like mud and sand. They have even been known to fasten themselves to&nbsp;floating debris, according to the National Ocean Service.

Sponge gardens play a key role in marine ecosystems by creating habitats for fish and releasing carbon that other species feed on.

“As far as we’re aware, it’s the largest scale and largest number of sponges bleached in one event that’s been reported anywhere in the world… certainly in cold waters,” said James Bell, marine ecologist and professor at Victoria University of Wellington, as reported by The Guardian.

Bleaching does not necessarily mean the death of sponges per say, rather it evicts those organisms that dwell within them after they struggle to get food through photosynthesis, denying nutrients and reducing their defences. As a result, the sponges turn completely white.

Bell said that while some species can recover from severe bleaching, others do not.

She said that at least millions of sponges have been bleached in those environments, “maybe even tens of millions - this is one of the most abundant sponges in Fiordland and so it’s a really wide-scale event.”

Till last month, such bleaching had never been seen before in New Zealand, and there were few reports of it happening in cold waters internationally.

Bell said initial experiments confirmed warmer water was the likely cause of the bleaching.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Extreme ocean temperatures have caused the largest bleaching of sea sponges in New Zealand, scientists have said following recent marine heatwaves. Last month, researchers found sea sponges bleached for the first time ever off the country’s southern coastline.

Extreme ocean temperatures have caused the largest bleaching of sea sponges in New Zealand, scientists have said following recent marine heatwaves. Last month, researchers found sea sponges bleached for the first time ever off the country’s southern coastline. They warned that the issue could rapidly become widespread, reports The Guardian. Scientists have dubbed it an “alarming” development, saying that it highlights the climate crisis the world is facing. Sea sponges are marine animals that have been around for about 600 million years. Their skeletons are dense and porous, and they adapt well to their particular habitat, attaching themselves to different types of surfaces, from rocks and corals to soft sediments, like mud and sand. They have even been known to fasten themselves to floating debris, according to the National Ocean Service. Sponge gardens play a key role in marine ecosystems by creating habitats for fish and releasing carbon that other species feed on. “As far as we’re aware, it’s the largest scale and largest number of sponges bleached in one event that’s been reported anywhere in the world… certainly in cold waters,” said James Bell, marine ecologist and professor at Victoria University of Wellington, as reported by The Guardian. Bleaching does not necessarily mean the death of sponges per say, rather it evicts those organisms that dwell within them after they struggle to get food through photosynthesis, denying nutrients and reducing their defences. As a result, the sponges turn completely white. Bell said that while some species can recover from severe bleaching, others do not. She said that at least millions of sponges have been bleached in those environments, “maybe even tens of millions - this is one of the most abundant sponges in Fiordland and so it’s a really wide-scale event.” Till last month, such bleaching had never been seen before in New Zealand, and there were few reports of it happening in cold waters internationally. Bell said initial experiments confirmed warmer water was the likely cause of the bleaching. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

New Zealand sees record sea sponge bleaching, scientists 'alarmed'

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New Zealand: 26 people die of Covid in 24 hours, all above 60

New Zealand's inflation hits 3-decade high