New Zealand police on Thursday arrested more than 50 people and removed hundreds of protestors forcefully, camped outside the parliament. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the protests do not reflect the country's majority.

NZ police arrest protestors outside parliament as protests enter Day 3

South Africa captain Dean Elgar says friendships will be put aside when they come up against in-form New Zealand batsman Devan Conway in the first of two tests at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Feb. 17.

Johannesburg-born Conway made his test bow against England at Lords last year and has been in sensational form since, with three hundreds and two fifties in his nine innings to date. That includes a double ton on debut.

Many of the touring South Africans have played with and against Conway in the country’s domestic cricket, so are well aware of his qualities.

"He is playing with a different badge on his chest now and has had a great start to test cricket. His numbers speak volumes and he is in a massive purple-patch," Elgar told reporters on Thursday.

ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-skipper-kane-williamson-ruled-out-of-south-africa-series-due-to-long-standing-elbow-injury-451331">New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson ruled out of South Africa series due to long-standing elbow injury</a>

"But we don’t see him as a South African guy anymore, he is living here and playing for another country."

"I am sure there will be some friendly chats off the field because a lot of guys know him and played with him and against him. But once match-day comes and you walk over that white line, it is all business, irrespective if he is your friend or not."

The South African side have begun to practice for a few hours each day having all returned negative COVID-19 results in the first three rounds of testing since their arrival in the country.

Elgar says they are thankful for the discussions between the respective cricket boards and New Zealand government to ease restrictions and "make life bearable".

"It is impossible to get guys to come and tour here if you are doing a straight 10 days where you can’t leave your room, basically living in jail without the opportunity to go outside and get some fresh air, practice or gym," Elgar says.

&nbsp;ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/english-born-wicketkeeper-batsman-josh-inglis-set-for-australia-debut-against-sri-lanka-451966">English-born wicketkeeper-batsman Josh Inglis set for Australia debut against Sri Lanka</a>

"They have tried their utmost to make life bearable for us knowing that doing 10 days straight is absolutely not human for cricketers, let alone citizens.

"We do want to be here and play against New Zealand, no doubt, but you also have to meet the touring team halfway."

South Africa captain Dean Elgar says friendships will be put aside when they come up against in-form New Zealand batsman Devan Conway in the first of two tests at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Feb.

South Africa captain Dean Elgar says friendships will be put aside when they come up against in-form New Zealand batsman Devan Conway in the first of two tests at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch on Feb. 17. Johannesburg-born Conway made his test bow against England at Lords last year and has been in sensational form since, with three hundreds and two fifties in his nine innings to date. That includes a double ton on debut. Many of the touring South Africans have played with and against Conway in the country’s domestic cricket, so are well aware of his qualities. "He is playing with a different badge on his chest now and has had a great start to test cricket. His numbers speak volumes and he is in a massive purple-patch," Elgar told reporters on Thursday. ALSO READ: New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson ruled out of South Africa series due to long-standing elbow injury "But we don’t see him as a South African guy anymore, he is living here and playing for another country." "I am sure there will be some friendly chats off the field because a lot of guys know him and played with him and against him. But once match-day comes and you walk over that white line, it is all business, irrespective if he is your friend or not." The South African side have begun to practice for a few hours each day having all returned negative COVID-19 results in the first three rounds of testing since their arrival in the country. Elgar says they are thankful for the discussions between the respective cricket boards and New Zealand government to ease restrictions and "make life bearable". "It is impossible to get guys to come and tour here if you are doing a straight 10 days where you can’t leave your room, basically living in jail without the opportunity to go outside and get some fresh air, practice or gym," Elgar says. ALSO READ: English-born wicketkeeper-batsman Josh Inglis set for Australia debut against Sri Lanka "They have tried their utmost to make life bearable for us knowing that doing 10 days straight is absolutely not human for cricketers, let alone citizens. "We do want to be here and play against New Zealand, no doubt, but you also have to meet the touring team halfway."

'We don’t see him as a South African guy anymore': South Africa captain Dean Elgar on Devon Conway

Inspired by Canada protests, hundreds of people on Tuesday blocked roads outside New Zealand's parliament against vaccine mandates and restrictions applied in the country. Most protestors were unmasked and held placards calling for freedom.

Protestors block streets against vaccine mandates in New Zealand

Taking a cue from the Canadian protesters, a convoy of trucks blocked streets near New Zealand's parliament in Wellington on Tuesday to protest against Covid restrictions and vaccinations.

Raising banners with messages such as “give us back our freedom” and “coercion is not consent”, hundreds of vehicles were parked in the streets surrounding the parliament building.

According to reports, there were no arrests or major incidents as the demonstration remained peaceful.&nbsp;

However, it is unclear as to how long the protesters intend to remain parked in the city.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who was delivering a speech to lawmakers outlining her priorities for the year, chose not to meet with the protesters saying that the majority of the New Zealanders support the Covid regulations.

"Ninety-six per cent of New Zealanders have gone out and got a vaccination, which has enabled us to live now with fewer restrictions because of the extra protection that has provided," she told Radio New Zealand.

The government has made Covid vaccinations mandatory for people working in the health sector, law enforcement, education and defence.

As around 77 per cent of New Zealanders were fully vaccinated, Ardern promised that she won’t impose more lockdowns.

For more than a week, a “Freedom Convoy” of truckers has chocked the Canadian capital Ottawa, prompting the city authorities to declare a state of emergency.

After attacking the demonstrators last week, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has been silent and remains at an undisclosed location in the National Capital Region, for reasons of security. Trudeau is also in self-isolation as he tested positive for Covid-19 on January 30.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taking a cue from the Canadian protesters, a convoy of trucks blocked streets near New Zealand's parliament in Wellington on Tuesday to protest against Covid restrictions and vaccinations.

Taking a cue from the Canadian protesters, a convoy of trucks blocked streets near New Zealand's parliament in Wellington on Tuesday to protest against Covid restrictions and vaccinations. Raising banners with messages such as “give us back our freedom” and “coercion is not consent”, hundreds of vehicles were parked in the streets surrounding the parliament building. According to reports, there were no arrests or major incidents as the demonstration remained peaceful. However, it is unclear as to how long the protesters intend to remain parked in the city. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who was delivering a speech to lawmakers outlining her priorities for the year, chose not to meet with the protesters saying that the majority of the New Zealanders support the Covid regulations. "Ninety-six per cent of New Zealanders have gone out and got a vaccination, which has enabled us to live now with fewer restrictions because of the extra protection that has provided," she told Radio New Zealand. The government has made Covid vaccinations mandatory for people working in the health sector, law enforcement, education and defence. As around 77 per cent of New Zealanders were fully vaccinated, Ardern promised that she won’t impose more lockdowns. For more than a week, a “Freedom Convoy” of truckers has chocked the Canadian capital Ottawa, prompting the city authorities to declare a state of emergency. After attacking the demonstrators last week, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has been silent and remains at an undisclosed location in the National Capital Region, for reasons of security. Trudeau is also in self-isolation as he tested positive for Covid-19 on January 30. (With inputs from agencies)

After Canada, New Zealand truckers protest against Covid vaccine mandates, block parliament

New Zealand's Maori Party has said that the country should stop considering British monarch as head of the state. Maori, the indigenous people of New Zealand faced oppression during colonial times.

The call for 'divorce' from the British monarchy came on 182nd anniversary of signing of the Treaty of Waitangi.

Te Tiriti o Waitangi, as it is called in the Maori language is the foundational legal document.&nbsp;

“If you look at our founding covenant as a marriage between tangata whenua [indigenous people] and the crown, then Te Tiriti is the child of that marriage. It’s time [for] tangata whenua to take full custody,” Maori Party co-leader Rawiri Waititi said as quoted by The Guardian.

“This won’t mean the crown is off the hook. If a couple gets divorced, you don’t lose responsibility for your child. This will be an opportunity to reimagine a more meaningful and fulfilling partnership,”

The Treaty of Waitangi recognised Maori rights on their lands and provided guarantee against their possession by the crown. However, in 100 years after sigining of the treaty about 90 per cent of Maori lands were confiscated by colonial interests.

Among New Zealanders opinion to stop considering British Queen as head of state finds backers. As per 1News Colmar Brunton Poll, 30 per cent of the respondents preferred severing ties with the queen while 47 per cent were against such a move. 20 per cent of the respondents were undecided.

New Zealand's Maori Party has said that the country should stop considering British monarch as head of the state. Maori, the indigenous people of New Zealand faced oppression during colonial times.

New Zealand's Maori Party has said that the country should stop considering British monarch as head of the state. Maori, the indigenous people of New Zealand faced oppression during colonial times. The call for 'divorce' from the British monarchy came on 182nd anniversary of signing of the Treaty of Waitangi. Te Tiriti o Waitangi, as it is called in the Maori language is the foundational legal document. “If you look at our founding covenant as a marriage between tangata whenua [indigenous people] and the crown, then Te Tiriti is the child of that marriage. It’s time [for] tangata whenua to take full custody,” Maori Party co-leader Rawiri Waititi said as quoted by The Guardian. “This won’t mean the crown is off the hook. If a couple gets divorced, you don’t lose responsibility for your child. This will be an opportunity to reimagine a more meaningful and fulfilling partnership,” The Treaty of Waitangi recognised Maori rights on their lands and provided guarantee against their possession by the crown. However, in 100 years after sigining of the treaty about 90 per cent of Maori lands were confiscated by colonial interests. Among New Zealanders opinion to stop considering British Queen as head of state finds backers. As per 1News Colmar Brunton Poll, 30 per cent of the respondents preferred severing ties with the queen while 47 per cent were against such a move. 20 per cent of the respondents were undecided.

New Zealand's Maori Party demands severance of ties with British monarchy 

In the first three months after it became legal, at least 28 New Zealanders have been assisted in dying.

After two-thirds of Kiwis (65.1%) voted it through in the 2020 referendum, the End of Life Choice Act went into effect on November 7, allowing qualified terminally ill New Zealanders to choose to end their lives.

In the three months since assisted dying became legal, there have been more than two dozen assisted deaths, according to Ministry of Health data as of January 31.

Because the data is updated every week, it's possible that more people have been helped to die since that figure was released.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/assisted-dying-comes-into-force-in-new-zealand-427509">Also read | 'Assisted dying' comes into force in New Zealand</a>

A person (over the age of 18) must have a terminal illness that will end their life within six months to be eligible for assisted dying under the Act.

They must be experiencing significant and ongoing physical decline, as well as unbearable suffering that cannot be alleviated in a way that they find acceptable.&nbsp;

So far, the registrar has not received any objections from the End of Life Review Committee, which investigates every death. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-euthanasia-and-marijuana-new-zealand-targets-smoking-378060">Also Read:&nbsp;After euthanasia and marijuana, New Zealand targets smoking</a>

The public had lodged "a very limited number of complaints," according to the Registrar, but the ministry stated it couldn't disclose any additional information at this time.

It may also be unable to provide information on the fatalities, such as age, medical problems, or ethnicity.

Patients must be evaluated by two doctors, with a third opinion from a psychiatrist required if the doctors have any reservations about the patient's competency. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/portuguese-parliament-approves-euthanasia-law-360223">Also Read:&nbsp;Portuguese parliament approves euthanasia law</a>

According to the Ministry, none of the 56 people who had two assessments needed a third.

In New Zealand, 130 medical practitioners have signed up to participate in assisted dying.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In the first three months after it became legal, at least 28 New Zealanders have been assisted in dying. After two-thirds of Kiwis (65.1%) voted it through in the 2020 referendum, the End of Life Choice Act went into effect on November 7, allowing qualified terminally ill New Zealanders to choose to end their lives.

In the first three months after it became legal, at least 28 New Zealanders have been assisted in dying. After two-thirds of Kiwis (65.1%) voted it through in the 2020 referendum, the End of Life Choice Act went into effect on November 7, allowing qualified terminally ill New Zealanders to choose to end their lives. In the three months since assisted dying became legal, there have been more than two dozen assisted deaths, according to Ministry of Health data as of January 31. Because the data is updated every week, it's possible that more people have been helped to die since that figure was released. Also read | 'Assisted dying' comes into force in New Zealand A person (over the age of 18) must have a terminal illness that will end their life within six months to be eligible for assisted dying under the Act. They must be experiencing significant and ongoing physical decline, as well as unbearable suffering that cannot be alleviated in a way that they find acceptable. So far, the registrar has not received any objections from the End of Life Review Committee, which investigates every death. Also Read: After euthanasia and marijuana, New Zealand targets smoking The public had lodged "a very limited number of complaints," according to the Registrar, but the ministry stated it couldn't disclose any additional information at this time. It may also be unable to provide information on the fatalities, such as age, medical problems, or ethnicity. Patients must be evaluated by two doctors, with a third opinion from a psychiatrist required if the doctors have any reservations about the patient's competency. Also Read: Portuguese parliament approves euthanasia law According to the Ministry, none of the 56 people who had two assessments needed a third. In New Zealand, 130 medical practitioners have signed up to participate in assisted dying. (With inputs from agencies)

'End of life choice act': 28 assisted deaths in first three months of new law

A family in New Zealand was in for a surprise recently when a mischievous parrot stole their GoPro and flew with it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This led the Verheul family get an unexpected bird's eye view of Kepler Track trail that they had just hiked at Fiordland National Park, South Island. &nbsp;

The family is from Dunedin, which is in the southeast of the country.&nbsp;The GoPro, which was stolen by New Zealand’s native parrot species ‘kea’, survived the ordeal.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/metas-personal-boundary-feature-to-make-vr-world-sexual-harassment-free-450647" hreflang="en">Meta's 'Personal Boundary' feature to make VR world sexual harassment-free</a>

In an interview with broadcaster Seven Sharp on Thursday, Alex Verheul said that they had turned on the device to film a group of curious birds, who joined them outside the hut they were staying in. &nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
📹| In New Zealand, a kleptomaniac parrot captured the natural beauty of the country's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Fiordland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Fiordland</a> region on video with a stolen <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoPro?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoPro</a> camera. <a href="https://twitter.com/docgovtnz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@docgovtnz</a> <a href="https://t.co/5rXCMqpIEd">pic.twitter.com/5rXCMqpIEd</a>
— ‏ًً (@politicalplayer) <a href="https://twitter.com/politicalplayer/status/1489771926503714817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

As the bird had flown in a straight line, they were able to track it, Verheul added.

Finally, the bird settled on some ground and tapped at the gadget repeatedly with its beak. It also seems to have been able to rip off a chunk of plastic from the camera casing. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/where-can-we-expect-the-existence-of-alien-life-study-makes-the-revelation-450620" hreflang="en">Where can we expect the existence of alien life? Study makes the revelation</a>

"We just followed the sound, went down there, could see them hanging out in the tree. They'd obviously heard us coming and abandoned the GoPro -- and my son, he decided to go check the rocks... and there it was, just sitting there, still filming," said Verheul. &nbsp;

"I downloaded (the footage) onto my phone... It was amazing. It was totally unexpected," added Verheul. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A family in New Zealand was in for a surprise recently when a mischievous parrot stole their GoPro and flew with it. This led the Verheul family get an unexpected bird's eye view of Kepler Track trail that they had just hiked at Fiordland National Park, South Island.

A family in New Zealand was in for a surprise recently when a mischievous parrot stole their GoPro and flew with it. This led the Verheul family get an unexpected bird's eye view of Kepler Track trail that they had just hiked at Fiordland National Park, South Island. The family is from Dunedin, which is in the southeast of the country. The GoPro, which was stolen by New Zealand’s native parrot species ‘kea’, survived the ordeal. Also Read: Meta's 'Personal Boundary' feature to make VR world sexual harassment-free In an interview with broadcaster Seven Sharp on Thursday, Alex Verheul said that they had turned on the device to film a group of curious birds, who joined them outside the hut they were staying in. 📹| In New Zealand, a kleptomaniac parrot captured the natural beauty of the country's #Fiordland region on video with a stolen #GoPro camera. @docgovtnz pic.twitter.com/5rXCMqpIEd — ‏ًً (@politicalplayer) February 5, 2022 × As the bird had flown in a straight line, they were able to track it, Verheul added. Finally, the bird settled on some ground and tapped at the gadget repeatedly with its beak. It also seems to have been able to rip off a chunk of plastic from the camera casing. Also Read: Where can we expect the existence of alien life? Study makes the revelation "We just followed the sound, went down there, could see them hanging out in the tree. They'd obviously heard us coming and abandoned the GoPro -- and my son, he decided to go check the rocks... and there it was, just sitting there, still filming," said Verheul. "I downloaded (the footage) onto my phone... It was amazing. It was totally unexpected," added Verheul. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Parrot steals GoPro, films unexpected bird's eye view of trail in New Zealand

New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;will start easing some of the world's toughest pandemic border restrictions this month but will not fully reopen until October, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said Thursday.

Ardern announced a five-step plan to reconnect&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;to the rest of the world, beginning with waiving hotel quarantine requirements for its nationals stranded overseas by the pandemic.

"It's time to move again," said Ardern, who has been under pressure recently to relax border policies that have been largely unchanged since the beginning of the Covid-19 crisis almost two years ago.

"Families and friends need to reunite, our businesses need skills to grow, exporters need to travel to make&nbsp;new&nbsp;connections."

Ardern said&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealanders in Australia could return home and self-isolate, rather than going into quarantine, from February 27, followed two weeks later by Kiwis elsewhere in the world.

The option will then be progressively made available to other groups such as skilled migrants, international students, Australians, and eventually all vaccinated foreign nationals.

It will involve international arrivals self-isolating for 10 days instead of undergoing a 10-day hotel quarantine monitored by&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;military personnel.

Only 800 rooms per month are available under the current system, with demand regularly exceeding supply tenfold.

Many&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealanders have criticised it as too harsh on international arrivals,&nbsp;with business groups saying it was contributing to a labour shortage and crippling the tourism industry.

There have been numerous stories of fully vaccinated overseas-based&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealanders unable to get home to see dying loved ones or give birth, such as pregnant journalist Charlotte Bellis.

Bellis prompted a rare about-face from officials this week when she said her initial failure to secure a quarantine spot left her no choice but to deliver her baby in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-more-than-20000-daily-covid-19-cases-reported-in-tokyo-449996/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

'Anguish and heartbreak'

Ardern said the quarantine system -- known locally as MIQ -- had been a key part of&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand's success containing the coronavirus, with only 53 deaths recorded in a population of five million.

"The anguish of MIQ has been real and heartbreaking but the choice to use it undeniably saved lives," she said.

New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;initially planned to start easing border controls last month and fully reopen in April&nbsp;but delayed the move as the Omicron variant emerged.

Ardern said&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand's high vaccination rate - almost 95 per cent of the population is double-jabbed, with a third also receiving a booster - meant change was now possible.

The prime minister said 92 per cent of adult Kiwis were expected to have a booster when the changes begin at the end of February.

The quarantine system will not be completely dismantled as it will still be needed to cater for unvaccinated international arrivals.

Air&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;said it was "thrilled" at the changes and was geared up to operate more than 300 flights between&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand&nbsp;and Australia in March.

"(It's) incredibly exciting news for&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealanders overseas," spokeswoman Leanne Geraghty said.

New Zealand will start easing some of the world's toughest pandemic border restrictions this month but will not fully reopen until October, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said Thursday.

New Zealand will start easing some of the world's toughest pandemic border restrictions this month but will not fully reopen until October, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said Thursday. Ardern announced a five-step plan to reconnect New Zealand to the rest of the world, beginning with waiving hotel quarantine requirements for its nationals stranded overseas by the pandemic. "It's time to move again," said Ardern, who has been under pressure recently to relax border policies that have been largely unchanged since the beginning of the Covid-19 crisis almost two years ago. "Families and friends need to reunite, our businesses need skills to grow, exporters need to travel to make new connections." Ardern said New Zealanders in Australia could return home and self-isolate, rather than going into quarantine, from February 27, followed two weeks later by Kiwis elsewhere in the world. The option will then be progressively made available to other groups such as skilled migrants, international students, Australians, and eventually all vaccinated foreign nationals. It will involve international arrivals self-isolating for 10 days instead of undergoing a 10-day hotel quarantine monitored by New Zealand military personnel. Only 800 rooms per month are available under the current system, with demand regularly exceeding supply tenfold. Many New Zealanders have criticised it as too harsh on international arrivals, with business groups saying it was contributing to a labour shortage and crippling the tourism industry. There have been numerous stories of fully vaccinated overseas-based New Zealanders unable to get home to see dying loved ones or give birth, such as pregnant journalist Charlotte Bellis. Bellis prompted a rare about-face from officials this week when she said her initial failure to secure a quarantine spot left her no choice but to deliver her baby in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime. × 'Anguish and heartbreak' Ardern said the quarantine system -- known locally as MIQ -- had been a key part of New Zealand's success containing the coronavirus, with only 53 deaths recorded in a population of five million. "The anguish of MIQ has been real and heartbreaking but the choice to use it undeniably saved lives," she said. New Zealand initially planned to start easing border controls last month and fully reopen in April but delayed the move as the Omicron variant emerged. Ardern said New Zealand's high vaccination rate - almost 95 per cent of the population is double-jabbed, with a third also receiving a booster - meant change was now possible. The prime minister said 92 per cent of adult Kiwis were expected to have a booster when the changes begin at the end of February. The quarantine system will not be completely dismantled as it will still be needed to cater for unvaccinated international arrivals. Air New Zealand said it was "thrilled" at the changes and was geared up to operate more than 300 flights between New Zealand and Australia in March. "(It's) incredibly exciting news for New Zealanders overseas," spokeswoman Leanne Geraghty said.

New Zealand to start easing tough Covid border controls

New Zealand would gradually reopen its borders to citizens and international travellers after being closed for two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

New Zealand to reopen borders that has been closed for almost two years

The catholic church in New Zealand has admitted allegations of sexual abuse against the clergy.

A scathing report by a group formed on the request of Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, found 14 per cent of diocesan clergy has been accused of abusing children and adults since 1950.

The research was undertaken by Te Rōpū Tautoko, the group that coordinates Church engagement with the Royal Commission. It includes records of 428 Catholic parishes, 370 Catholic schools and 67 other care institutions.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-report-216000-minors-abused-by-french-catholic-clergy-418486/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

''Church leaders are committed to ensuring transparency. Consistent with this principle, we have published this information now, as soon as the work on it has been completed,'' said Catherine Fyfe, Chair of Te Rōpū Tautoko.

''It is important to note that the extent of reports of abuse in the Catholic Church in Aotearoa New Zealand has not been collated before now. The Information Gathering Project was a major exercise involving dozens of people over two years, including searching paper files dating back 70 years in hundreds of places.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-after-facing-intense-pressure-catholic-church-raises-over-22-million-for-sex-abuse-victims-447866">Also read |&nbsp;France: After facing intense pressure, Catholic Church raises over $22 million for sex abuse victims</a>

The publication of the research comes shortly before the Royal Commission is scheduled to start hearings that will investigate events at Marylands School in Christchurch.&nbsp;

Earlier, a major investigation had revealed that French clergy sexually abused more than 200,000 children over the past 70 years.

“These statistics on abuse in the Catholic Church going back to 1950 are horrifying and something we are deeply ashamed of. I am grateful that so much work has been done in researching the details and making them public,'' said Cardinal John Dew, President of the New Zealand Catholic Bishops Conference.

''As we continue to respond to the Royal Commission into Abuse and we build a safer Church for everyone, I firmly hope that facts like these will help us to face the sad reality. The Church will learn from this and affirm its commitment to the work of safeguarding.''

The commission is also looking into any abuse by the brothers at Hebron Trust, a Christchurch facility for at-risk youth operated by one of the brothers, and abuse by the brothers at Marylands against residents of the neighbouring St Joseph’s orphanage run by the Sisters of Nazareth.

(With inputs from agencies)

The catholic church in New Zealand has admitted allegations of sexual abuse against the clergy. A scathing report by a group formed on the request of Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, found 14 per cent of diocesan clergy has been accused of abusing children and adults since 1950.

The catholic church in New Zealand has admitted allegations of sexual abuse against the clergy. A scathing report by a group formed on the request of Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, found 14 per cent of diocesan clergy has been accused of abusing children and adults since 1950. The research was undertaken by Te Rōpū Tautoko, the group that coordinates Church engagement with the Royal Commission. It includes records of 428 Catholic parishes, 370 Catholic schools and 67 other care institutions. ''Church leaders are committed to ensuring transparency. Consistent with this principle, we have published this information now, as soon as the work on it has been completed,'' said Catherine Fyfe, Chair of Te Rōpū Tautoko. ''It is important to note that the extent of reports of abuse in the Catholic Church in Aotearoa New Zealand has not been collated before now. The Information Gathering Project was a major exercise involving dozens of people over two years, including searching paper files dating back 70 years in hundreds of places.” Also read | France: After facing intense pressure, Catholic Church raises over $22 million for sex abuse victims The publication of the research comes shortly before the Royal Commission is scheduled to start hearings that will investigate events at Marylands School in Christchurch. Earlier, a major investigation had revealed that French clergy sexually abused more than 200,000 children over the past 70 years. “These statistics on abuse in the Catholic Church going back to 1950 are horrifying and something we are deeply ashamed of. I am grateful that so much work has been done in researching the details and making them public,'' said Cardinal John Dew, President of the New Zealand Catholic Bishops Conference. ''As we continue to respond to the Royal Commission into Abuse and we build a safer Church for everyone, I firmly hope that facts like these will help us to face the sad reality. The Church will learn from this and affirm its commitment to the work of safeguarding.'' The commission is also looking into any abuse by the brothers at Hebron Trust, a Christchurch facility for at-risk youth operated by one of the brothers, and abuse by the brothers at Marylands against residents of the neighbouring St Joseph’s orphanage run by the Sisters of Nazareth. (With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand: Catholic church admits allegations of sexual abuse

A pregnant journalist from New Zealand has got stranded in Afghanistan. The scribe had asked Taliban for help after her home country prevented her from returning. &nbsp;

New Zealand government seems to have not helped her due to a bottleneck of people in its Covid quarantine system. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/prolonged-humanitarian-crisis-forces-starving-afghans-to-sell-kidneys-says-report-448781" hreflang="en">Humanitarian crisis forces starving Afghans to sell kidneys, says report</a>

In a column, which was published in The New Zealand Herald on Saturday, Charlotte Bellis said it was 'brutally ironic' that she'd once questioned the Taliban about their treatment of women and she was now asking the same questions about her own government. &nbsp;

In her column, Bellis, who is due to give birth to a girl in May, wrote, "When the Taliban offers you - a pregnant, unmarried woman - safe haven, you know your situation is messed up." &nbsp;

New Zealand's COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins told the Herald that his office had asked the officials to check whether the proper procedures were followed in Bellis's case, "which appeared at first sight to warrant further explanation."&nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-hanging-by-a-thread-un-chief-antonio-guterres-tells-security-council-447971" hreflang="en">Afghanistan 'hanging by a thread', UN chief Antonio Guterres tells UNSC</a>

New Zealand has established a lottery-style system for returning citizens.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Chris Bunny, joint head, New Zealand's Managed Isolation and Quarantine system, told the Herald that Bellis's emergency application didn't fit a requirement that she travel within 14 days.&nbsp; &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A pregnant journalist from New Zealand has got stranded in Afghanistan. The scribe had asked Taliban for help after her home country prevented her from returning.

A pregnant journalist from New Zealand has got stranded in Afghanistan. The scribe had asked Taliban for help after her home country prevented her from returning. New Zealand government seems to have not helped her due to a bottleneck of people in its Covid quarantine system. Also Read: Humanitarian crisis forces starving Afghans to sell kidneys, says report In a column, which was published in The New Zealand Herald on Saturday, Charlotte Bellis said it was 'brutally ironic' that she'd once questioned the Taliban about their treatment of women and she was now asking the same questions about her own government. In her column, Bellis, who is due to give birth to a girl in May, wrote, "When the Taliban offers you - a pregnant, unmarried woman - safe haven, you know your situation is messed up." New Zealand's COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins told the Herald that his office had asked the officials to check whether the proper procedures were followed in Bellis's case, "which appeared at first sight to warrant further explanation." Also Read: Afghanistan 'hanging by a thread', UN chief Antonio Guterres tells UNSC New Zealand has established a lottery-style system for returning citizens. Chris Bunny, joint head, New Zealand's Managed Isolation and Quarantine system, told the Herald that Bellis's emergency application didn't fit a requirement that she travel within 14 days. (With inputs from agencies)

After rejection from New Zealand, pregnant reporter takes help from Taliban

As New Zealand continues to battle with the ongoing pandemic, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s popularity has dropped to its lowest level since 2017. Her support has now dropped by four points to 35 per cent. However, she remains the country's preferred Prime Minister by a significant margin.

Also, National leader Christopher Luxon has made substantial gains by 13 points to 17 per cent.&nbsp;

While speaking to 1 News, Ardern said, "the latest results were “still a really strong showing for us as government despite some really hard calls having been made, but calls that have put us in the best possible position to continue to take on this pandemic."

She further added, "When I reflect on the last six months, it has been a really hard period for New Zealand and we have had to make some really hard decisions, but those are still decisions I absolutely stand by.”

Earlier, in November, Ardern's popularity dipped in two polls. Although the poll represented Labour’s worst polling result in over a year, it still placed the party firmly ahead of the opposition National party. &nbsp;

The new poll further highlighted how many citizens are feeling negative about the economic outlook as 49 per cent thought that the economy would get worse.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

As New Zealand continues to battle with the ongoing pandemic, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s popularity has dropped to its lowest level since 2017. Her support has now dropped by four points to 35 per cent.

As New Zealand continues to battle with the ongoing pandemic, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s popularity has dropped to its lowest level since 2017. Her support has now dropped by four points to 35 per cent. However, she remains the country's preferred Prime Minister by a significant margin. Also, National leader Christopher Luxon has made substantial gains by 13 points to 17 per cent. While speaking to 1 News, Ardern said, "the latest results were “still a really strong showing for us as government despite some really hard calls having been made, but calls that have put us in the best possible position to continue to take on this pandemic." She further added, "When I reflect on the last six months, it has been a really hard period for New Zealand and we have had to make some really hard decisions, but those are still decisions I absolutely stand by.” Earlier, in November, Ardern's popularity dipped in two polls. Although the poll represented Labour’s worst polling result in over a year, it still placed the party firmly ahead of the opposition National party. The new poll further highlighted how many citizens are feeling negative about the economic outlook as 49 per cent thought that the economy would get worse. (With inputs from agencies)

Jacinda Ardern’s popularity hits the lowest level as country struggles with Covid

New Zealand announced Sunday that it would impose its highest level of COVID restrictions across the country at midnight, after at least nine cases of the highly transmissible omicron variant were reported.

The cases, in the South Island town of Nelson, are the first omicron infections detected outside of workers connected to the international airport or the country’s hotel quarantine facilities. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said some of the infected people had attended a large wedding in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city.

“That means omicron is now circulating in Auckland and possibly the Nelson-Marlborough region, if not elsewhere,” Ardern said at a news conference announcing the restrictions.

New Zealand was pursuing a zero-COVID strategy until last year, when a major outbreak of the delta variant forced it to give up those aspirations. But its numbers have remained low. Over the past two months, New Zealand has reported just a few dozen new cases per day.

It was unclear how the people in Nelson — members of a single, multigenerational family — had contracted the virus, though Ardern said they had recently flown on the same Air New Zealand flight as an air steward who later tested positive with omicron.

Ardern said the new measures, classified as “Red” under the country’s traffic-light-based system, were “not lockdown.”

“At Red, businesses stay open and you can do most of things that you normally do, including visiting family and friends and traveling around the country,” she said.

But people who are not vaccinated will face significant restrictions, including being barred from worship services and from businesses that serve food or drinks. Schools will stay open, but all pupils from third grade up must wear masks. Events like weddings and funerals will be limited to 100 people, all of whom must be vaccinated. (If unvaccinated people attend, the limit is reduced to 25.)

More than 93% of New Zealand’s population ages 12 and older are considered fully vaccinated against the coronavirus, but only 23% have received a booster shot. The new restrictions are expected to be kept in place for a number of weeks as more booster shots are distributed.

On Friday, New Zealand announced that people who test positive for the virus would need to isolate for 14 days, up from 10. Their close contacts must now isolate for 10 days, instead of a week.

The omicron variant has brought the pandemic to some of the most remote regions of the world this past week. Some island nations in the Pacific recorded their first cases, prompting the first lockdowns of the pandemic in Kiribati and Samoa.

At the news conference, Ardern said that her wedding to her partner, television host Clarke Gayford, would not be held in the coming weeks as planned.

“I am no different to, dare I say it, thousands of other New Zealanders who have had much more devastating impacts from the pandemic,” she said of the postponement. “The most gutting of which is the inability to be with a loved one when they are gravely ill — that will far, far outstrip any sadness I experience.”

New Zealand announced Sunday that it would impose its highest level of COVID restrictions across the country at midnight, after at least nine cases of the highly transmissible omicron variant were reported.

New Zealand announced Sunday that it would impose its highest level of COVID restrictions across the country at midnight, after at least nine cases of the highly transmissible omicron variant were reported. The cases, in the South Island town of Nelson, are the first omicron infections detected outside of workers connected to the international airport or the country’s hotel quarantine facilities. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said some of the infected people had attended a large wedding in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city. “That means omicron is now circulating in Auckland and possibly the Nelson-Marlborough region, if not elsewhere,” Ardern said at a news conference announcing the restrictions. New Zealand was pursuing a zero-COVID strategy until last year, when a major outbreak of the delta variant forced it to give up those aspirations. But its numbers have remained low. Over the past two months, New Zealand has reported just a few dozen new cases per day. It was unclear how the people in Nelson — members of a single, multigenerational family — had contracted the virus, though Ardern said they had recently flown on the same Air New Zealand flight as an air steward who later tested positive with omicron. Ardern said the new measures, classified as “Red” under the country’s traffic-light-based system, were “not lockdown.” “At Red, businesses stay open and you can do most of things that you normally do, including visiting family and friends and traveling around the country,” she said. But people who are not vaccinated will face significant restrictions, including being barred from worship services and from businesses that serve food or drinks. Schools will stay open, but all pupils from third grade up must wear masks. Events like weddings and funerals will be limited to 100 people, all of whom must be vaccinated. (If unvaccinated people attend, the limit is reduced to 25.) More than 93% of New Zealand’s population ages 12 and older are considered fully vaccinated against the coronavirus, but only 23% have received a booster shot. The new restrictions are expected to be kept in place for a number of weeks as more booster shots are distributed. On Friday, New Zealand announced that people who test positive for the virus would need to isolate for 14 days, up from 10. Their close contacts must now isolate for 10 days, instead of a week. The omicron variant has brought the pandemic to some of the most remote regions of the world this past week. Some island nations in the Pacific recorded their first cases, prompting the first lockdowns of the pandemic in Kiribati and Samoa. At the news conference, Ardern said that her wedding to her partner, television host Clarke Gayford, would not be held in the coming weeks as planned. “I am no different to, dare I say it, thousands of other New Zealanders who have had much more devastating impacts from the pandemic,” she said of the postponement. “The most gutting of which is the inability to be with a loved one when they are gravely ill — that will far, far outstrip any sadness I experience.”

With Omicron circulating, New Zealand imposes its toughest restrictions

Life-saving water supplies from a New Zealand navy ship were distributed across Tonga's main island on Friday, as other countries battled the logistics of delivering aid to one of the world's remotest communities.

New Zealand distributes life-saving supplies to disaster-hit Tonga

After the emergence of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases caused by the Omicron variant, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has called off her own wedding, she informed on Sunday.&nbsp;

Ardern has tightened Covid restrictions in the country after an outbreak of virus cases caused by the Omicron variant. She also announced mask rules and&nbsp;limited gathering from midnight on Sunday.&nbsp;

As reported, a cluster of nine Omicron cases showed community spread. The cases were found&nbsp;in a family that travelled between cities to attend a wedding from the North to South islands.&nbsp;

While detailing the new restrictions, Ardern said, "My wedding will not be going ahead." The new measures include a limit of 100 fully vaccinated people at events.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-covid-19-start-diminishing-in-2022-or-the-world-will-see-new-variants-446723">Will COVID-19 start diminishing in 2022 or the world will see new variants?</a>

"I just joined many other New Zealanders who have had an experience like that as a result of the pandemic and to anyone who is caught up in that scenario I am so sorry," she added.&nbsp;

Ardern's wedding with his long-time partner Clarke Gayford was speculated to be scheduled for some time in the next few weeks as they had never mentioned the date.&nbsp;

On being asked about how she felt while setting up the measures that ended her planned nuptials, she said, "Such is life."

"I'm no different to thousands of other New Zealanders who have had much more devastating impacts felt by the pandemic, the most gutting of which is the inability to be with a loved one sometimes when they are gravely ill. That will far outstrip any sadness I experience," she added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rio-de-janeiro-postpones-carnival-parades-as-omicron-cases-spike-446716">Rio de Janeiro postpones Carnival parades as Omicron cases spike</a>

The new restrictions are set to remain in place until at least the end of next month. New Zealand has detected 15,104 Covid-19 cases and recorded 52 deaths since the pandemic began.

The country has also maintained tough border restrictions for much of the last two years to curb the spread of deadly coronavirus.&nbsp;

After the emergence of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases caused by the Omicron variant, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has called off her own wedding, she informed on Sunday.

After the emergence of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases caused by the Omicron variant, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has called off her own wedding, she informed on Sunday. Ardern has tightened Covid restrictions in the country after an outbreak of virus cases caused by the Omicron variant. She also announced mask rules and limited gathering from midnight on Sunday. As reported, a cluster of nine Omicron cases showed community spread. The cases were found in a family that travelled between cities to attend a wedding from the North to South islands. While detailing the new restrictions, Ardern said, "My wedding will not be going ahead." The new measures include a limit of 100 fully vaccinated people at events. ALSO READ | Will COVID-19 start diminishing in 2022 or the world will see new variants? "I just joined many other New Zealanders who have had an experience like that as a result of the pandemic and to anyone who is caught up in that scenario I am so sorry," she added. Ardern's wedding with his long-time partner Clarke Gayford was speculated to be scheduled for some time in the next few weeks as they had never mentioned the date. On being asked about how she felt while setting up the measures that ended her planned nuptials, she said, "Such is life." "I'm no different to thousands of other New Zealanders who have had much more devastating impacts felt by the pandemic, the most gutting of which is the inability to be with a loved one sometimes when they are gravely ill. That will far outstrip any sadness I experience," she added. ALSO READ | Rio de Janeiro postpones Carnival parades as Omicron cases spike The new restrictions are set to remain in place until at least the end of next month. New Zealand has detected 15,104 Covid-19 cases and recorded 52 deaths since the pandemic began. The country has also maintained tough border restrictions for much of the last two years to curb the spread of deadly coronavirus.

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern cancels her wedding after emergence of Omicron cases, announces restrictions

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has cancelled her wedding as the country imposed new restrictions to slow the spread of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus.

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern cancels her wedding as COVID cases rise due to Omicron

'Water is an immediate need': Tonga assesses damage after volcanic eruption, COVID-19 threat looms

Tsunami warnings were issued after a dramatic underwater volcano erupted off Tonga on Saturday (January 15). Advisories and evacuation orders were also issued on the shores of Tonga as well as several South Pacific islands. As circulated on social media forums, footage from such areas showed waves crashing into coastal homes.

In the latest update, the tsunami threat from a powerful Tonga volcano eruption has passed, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said on Sunday, after powerful waves flooded coastlines from Japan to the United States.

"Based on all available data, the tsunami threat from this volcanic eruption has now passed," the PTWC said at 0300 GMT, adding authorities at "impacted coastal areas should monitor... to determine when it is safe to resume normal activities"

The massive explosion of the Hunga Tonga Hunga Ha'apai volcano was the latest in a series of eruptions. The satellite images showed the undersea volcanic eruption sending smoke and ash into the air.&nbsp;&nbsp;

So far, there is no report of injuries or damage but in the aftermath, the phone lines and internet services have been impacted as&nbsp;many parts of Tonga are reportedly covered in ash and facing&nbsp;a near-total blackout. Tonga's capital is just 65km south of where the eruption took place. &nbsp;

Tsunami advisories

According to Australia's Bureau of Meteorology, a tsunami wave measuring 1.2 metres was observed in Tonga's capital Nuku'alofa and tsunami advisories were issued for other South Pacific islands.&nbsp;

Tsunami advisories&nbsp;were issued for Hawaii, Alaska and the Pacific coast of the United States and Chile. Later, in some parts, the advisories were subsequently lifted.&nbsp;

A tsunami advisory was also in effect for the US&nbsp;and Canadian Pacific coast, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Honolulu said. The National Weather Service said tsunami waves along the Oregon and southern Washington coast were expected imminently.

As reported by Reuters, high waves were reported in Alaska and Hawaii earlier. In the San Francisco Bay Area of northern California, small parts of the cities of Berkeley and Albany near the bay were ordered to evacuate.

Also, warnings of dangerous ocean waves were issued as far away as the US West Coast, parts of New Zealand and Japan, with authorities issuing advisories for people on their Pacific coastlines to get away from the shore as a precaution. &nbsp;

The Japan Meteorological Agency said the tsunami reached the country's Pacific coast with waves as high as three meters possible. The agency said that a 1.2-metre wave reached the remote southern island of Amami Oshima and other areas.&nbsp;

Chile's National Emergency Office ordered the evacuation of several coastal regions Saturday due to a minor Tsunami warning reported by the Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service of the Navy (SHOA).

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
1.14.2021: Large volcanic eruption near Tonga (Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano) today as seen from outer space. Shown on visible imagery using the Himawari satellite. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/hiwx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#hiwx</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tsunami?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tsunami</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> <a href="https://t.co/zOTj6Qu1Wv">pic.twitter.com/zOTj6Qu1Wv</a>
— NWSHonolulu (@NWSHonolulu) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSHonolulu/status/1482255559072096256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://t.co/55catl3wex">pic.twitter.com/55catl3wex</a>
— NWSHonolulu (@NWSHonolulu) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSHonolulu/status/1482415641491656708?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

New Zealand PM reacts

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in a statement on Instagram: "The images of the volcanic eruption in close proximity to Tonga are hugely concerning." New Zealand is located about 1,481 miles from Tonga.&nbsp;

"Communication as a result of the eruption has been difficult, but our defence force team and Ministry of Foreign Affairs are working as we speak to establish what's needed and how we can help," she said.

The New Zealand foreign ministry said there were no reports of injuries or deaths as yet but communications were limited.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Pacific Office in Suva, Fiji said it was monitoring the situation and had no updates on damages or casualties.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Island nation of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tonga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tonga</a> is completely offline following a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tsunami?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tsunami</a> triggered by a massive volcanic eruption in the Pacific Ocean. 
 
According to <a href="https://twitter.com/kentikinc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kentikinc</a> data, traffic volumes began to drop around 4:30 UTC (5:30pm local) before finally going to zero at 5:40 UTC (6:40pm local). <a href="https://t.co/g4QZilBrd5">pic.twitter.com/g4QZilBrd5</a>
— Doug Madory (@DougMadory) <a href="https://twitter.com/DougMadory/status/1482377945318625294?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I can't fathom seeing the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tonga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tonga</a> Volcanic eruption in real-time from boat. This is insane.<a href="https://t.co/1dXRa0lX25">pic.twitter.com/1dXRa0lX25</a>
— Doc V (@MJVentrice) <a href="https://twitter.com/MJVentrice/status/1482437044785889286?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
GOES satellite imagery captured the eruption of an underwater volcano near Tonga in the Pacific Ocean early this morning. This eruption has caused a tsunami across portions coastal Alaska and California. <a href="https://t.co/C4Os9U6UIa">pic.twitter.com/C4Os9U6UIa</a>
— NWS Gray (@NWSGray) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSGray/status/1482387642092187649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Mannnn my heart hurts for my people rn 😭🇹🇴🙏🏽 <a href="https://t.co/QjzW5f1uAy">pic.twitter.com/QjzW5f1uAy</a>
— Aki🌴🇹🇴 (@ahkee_fifita) <a href="https://twitter.com/ahkee_fifita/status/1482231327982186496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Tsunami warnings were issued after a dramatic underwater volcano erupted off Tonga on Saturday (January 15). Advisories and evacuation orders were also issued on the shores of Tonga as well as several South Pacific islands.

Tsunami warnings were issued after a dramatic underwater volcano erupted off Tonga on Saturday (January 15). Advisories and evacuation orders were also issued on the shores of Tonga as well as several South Pacific islands. As circulated on social media forums, footage from such areas showed waves crashing into coastal homes. In the latest update, the tsunami threat from a powerful Tonga volcano eruption has passed, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said on Sunday, after powerful waves flooded coastlines from Japan to the United States. "Based on all available data, the tsunami threat from this volcanic eruption has now passed," the PTWC said at 0300 GMT, adding authorities at "impacted coastal areas should monitor... to determine when it is safe to resume normal activities" The massive explosion of the Hunga Tonga Hunga Ha'apai volcano was the latest in a series of eruptions. The satellite images showed the undersea volcanic eruption sending smoke and ash into the air. So far, there is no report of injuries or damage but in the aftermath, the phone lines and internet services have been impacted as many parts of Tonga are reportedly covered in ash and facing a near-total blackout. Tonga's capital is just 65km south of where the eruption took place. Tsunami advisories According to Australia's Bureau of Meteorology, a tsunami wave measuring 1.2 metres was observed in Tonga's capital Nuku'alofa and tsunami advisories were issued for other South Pacific islands. Tsunami advisories were issued for Hawaii, Alaska and the Pacific coast of the United States and Chile. Later, in some parts, the advisories were subsequently lifted. A tsunami advisory was also in effect for the US and Canadian Pacific coast, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Honolulu said. The National Weather Service said tsunami waves along the Oregon and southern Washington coast were expected imminently. As reported by Reuters, high waves were reported in Alaska and Hawaii earlier. In the San Francisco Bay Area of northern California, small parts of the cities of Berkeley and Albany near the bay were ordered to evacuate. Also, warnings of dangerous ocean waves were issued as far away as the US West Coast, parts of New Zealand and Japan, with authorities issuing advisories for people on their Pacific coastlines to get away from the shore as a precaution. The Japan Meteorological Agency said the tsunami reached the country's Pacific coast with waves as high as three meters possible. The agency said that a 1.2-metre wave reached the remote southern island of Amami Oshima and other areas. Chile's National Emergency Office ordered the evacuation of several coastal regions Saturday due to a minor Tsunami warning reported by the Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service of the Navy (SHOA). 1.14.2021: Large volcanic eruption near Tonga (Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano) today as seen from outer space. Shown on visible imagery using the Himawari satellite. #hiwx #tsunami #earthquake pic.twitter.com/zOTj6Qu1Wv — NWSHonolulu (@NWSHonolulu) January 15, 2022 × pic.twitter.com/55catl3wex — NWSHonolulu (@NWSHonolulu) January 15, 2022 × New Zealand PM reacts New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in a statement on Instagram: "The images of the volcanic eruption in close proximity to Tonga are hugely concerning." New Zealand is located about 1,481 miles from Tonga. "Communication as a result of the eruption has been difficult, but our defence force team and Ministry of Foreign Affairs are working as we speak to establish what's needed and how we can help," she said. The New Zealand foreign ministry said there were no reports of injuries or deaths as yet but communications were limited. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Pacific Office in Suva, Fiji said it was monitoring the situation and had no updates on damages or casualties. Island nation of #Tonga is completely offline following a #tsunami triggered by a massive volcanic eruption in the Pacific Ocean. According to @kentikinc data, traffic volumes began to drop around 4:30 UTC (5:30pm local) before finally going to zero at 5:40 UTC (6:40pm local). pic.twitter.com/g4QZilBrd5 — Doug Madory (@DougMadory) January 15, 2022 × I can't fathom seeing the #tonga Volcanic eruption in real-time from boat. This is insane.pic.twitter.com/1dXRa0lX25 — Doc V (@MJVentrice) January 15, 2022 × GOES satellite imagery captured the eruption of an underwater volcano near Tonga in the Pacific Ocean early this morning. This eruption has caused a tsunami across portions coastal Alaska and California. pic.twitter.com/C4Os9U6UIa — NWS Gray (@NWSGray) January 15, 2022 × Mannnn my heart hurts for my people rn 😭🇹🇴🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/QjzW5f1uAy — Aki🌴🇹🇴 (@ahkee_fifita) January 15, 2022 ×

Tsunami threat from undersea volcano eruption in Tonga has now 'passed'

In a strange incident, a cockroach was found inside a man's ear three days after he experienced a squirming sensation. Zane Wedding from New Zealand initially thought that the sensation was due to the water clogging in his ear.&nbsp;

It started when Zane had gone out for a swim at a local pool in the morning. After the swimming session, he fell asleep on his couch that evening. He woke up with a blocked ear and a weird sensation.&nbsp;

As the sensation continued, he consulted a doctor and had his ear syringed. He was given antibiotics and also instructed to blow-dry the side of his head. The doctor asked him to return if he still felt any kind of movement.

Zane said that he became deaf in one ear and could not sleep. In a report by The Guardian, he said, "Immediately after, it felt way worse."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/french-man-sues-employer-for-boring-job-gets-45000-severance-package-444376">Also read |&nbsp;French man sues employer for 'boring' job, gets $45,000 severance package</a>

The hairdryer did not help him. He joked, “I’ve been cooking it since Saturday.”

After consulting an ear specialist, it was concluded that there is an insect in his ear. A suction device and tweezers were used to pull the cockroach from Zane's ear.

Recalling the incident, Zane said, "Not to mention I could feel every time the doctor touched it and I just kept imagining a cockroach being squashed up against my ear drum."&nbsp;

After the entire incident, The Insider spoke to Zane.&nbsp;

"The day after the roach was extracted, the doctor and I were worried I may get an infection, but it's improved to the point it feels normal again," Zane told The Insider.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a strange incident, a cockroach was found inside a man's ear three days after he experienced a squirming sensation. Zane Wedding from New Zealand initially thought that the sensation was due to the water clogging in his ear.

In a strange incident, a cockroach was found inside a man's ear three days after he experienced a squirming sensation. Zane Wedding from New Zealand initially thought that the sensation was due to the water clogging in his ear. It started when Zane had gone out for a swim at a local pool in the morning. After the swimming session, he fell asleep on his couch that evening. He woke up with a blocked ear and a weird sensation. As the sensation continued, he consulted a doctor and had his ear syringed. He was given antibiotics and also instructed to blow-dry the side of his head. The doctor asked him to return if he still felt any kind of movement. Zane said that he became deaf in one ear and could not sleep. In a report by The Guardian, he said, "Immediately after, it felt way worse." Also read | French man sues employer for 'boring' job, gets $45,000 severance package The hairdryer did not help him. He joked, “I’ve been cooking it since Saturday.” After consulting an ear specialist, it was concluded that there is an insect in his ear. A suction device and tweezers were used to pull the cockroach from Zane's ear. Recalling the incident, Zane said, "Not to mention I could feel every time the doctor touched it and I just kept imagining a cockroach being squashed up against my ear drum." After the entire incident, The Insider spoke to Zane. "The day after the roach was extracted, the doctor and I were worried I may get an infection, but it's improved to the point it feels normal again," Zane told The Insider. (With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand man finds cockroach inside his ear; extracts it after 3 days

New Zealand host Bangladesh in the first Test match of 2022 at Mount Maunganui from Saturday. This will be New Zealand's first Test at home since being crowned World Champions in June. All-Rounder Mitchell Santner looks back on that triumph and a memorable year for the New Zealand team in this conversation with WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo.

WION EXCLUSIVE: A memorable 2021 for New Zealand Cricket

The world will usher in the New Year in the midst of another wave of the coronavirus pandemic. New Zealand has ushered in the year 2022, here are some visuals.

New Zealand welcomes New Year 2022 amid Covid-19 pandemic

Bowler Ajaz Patel's record performance of taking ten wickets in a Test innings did not guarantee him a spot in New Zealand's squad for a home series against Bangladesh.

Off-spinner Patel became only the third player in Test history&nbsp;to take a ten-fer when he returned with 10-119 in the Mumbai Test against India early&nbsp;this month. England's Jim Laker and India's Anil Kumble are the other two bowlers to take all ten wickets in an innings. However, he was left out of New Zealand's 13-man team for a two-Test series against Bangladesh, which begins on January 1.

"You do feel for Ajaz after his record-breaking display in India," coach Gary&nbsp;Stead stated in a statement. "However, we've always applied a horses-for-courses selection policy and believe the players selected best fit the way we want to take on Bangladesh here at home," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/with-no-rohit-sharma-there-will-be-pressure-on-virat-kohli-reckons-former-sa-spinner-ahead-of-centurion-test-439062">With no Rohit Sharma, there will be pressure on Virat Kohli, reckons former SA spinner ahead of Centurion Test</a>

For the first time, Tom Latham will lead the squad for a complete series in lieu of Kane Williamson, who experienced a recurrence of an elbow injury in India and will miss both tests.

"It's obviously disappointing not to have Kane available for this series but, as we noted in India, he is undergoing a sustained period of rest followed by rehabilitation, strengthening and gradual batting loading," Stead said.

"We have every confidence in Tom leading the side. He's done an excellent job in the past when called upon," he further added.

Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Kyle Jamieson, Neil Wagner, and Matt Henry are among the fast bowlers in the team, along with medium pace all-rounder Daryl Mitchell and only one spin option, all-rounder Rachin Ravindra.

"We feel having both Rachin and Daryl in the squad gives us a nice balance and the ability to pick a side best suited to the conditions we expect," New Zealand coach Gary&nbsp;Stead said.

The Tests will be played at Mount Maunganui's Bay Oval and Christchurch's Hagley Oval, both of which are likely to suit faster bowlers.

Devon Conway returns to the side after missing the 1-0 series loss in India due to a broken hand caused after he slammed his bat in anger during the 2021 T20 World Cup semi-final clash versus England.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-rankings-labuschagne-dethrones-root-to-become-no-1-test-batter-babar-reclaims-top-spot-in-t20is-439022">ICC Rankings: Labuschagne dethrones Root to become No. 1 Test batter, Babar reclaims top spot in T20Is</a>

The series begins on New Year's Day at Bay Oval and will be New Zealand's first home Test since winning the World Test Championship, defeating India in England in mid-June 2021.

Since their previous defeat, a 1-0 setback to South Africa in March 2017, the Black Caps have gone undefeated in eight home Test series.

Squad: Tom Latham (captain), Devon Conway, Will Young, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell, Rachin Ravindra, Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Trent Boult.

Bowler Ajaz Patel's record performance of taking ten wickets in a Test innings did not guarantee him a spot in New Zealand's squad for a home series against Bangladesh.

Bowler Ajaz Patel's record performance of taking ten wickets in a Test innings did not guarantee him a spot in New Zealand's squad for a home series against Bangladesh. Off-spinner Patel became only the third player in Test history to take a ten-fer when he returned with 10-119 in the Mumbai Test against India early this month. England's Jim Laker and India's Anil Kumble are the other two bowlers to take all ten wickets in an innings. However, he was left out of New Zealand's 13-man team for a two-Test series against Bangladesh, which begins on January 1. "You do feel for Ajaz after his record-breaking display in India," coach Gary Stead stated in a statement. "However, we've always applied a horses-for-courses selection policy and believe the players selected best fit the way we want to take on Bangladesh here at home," he added. ALSO READ: With no Rohit Sharma, there will be pressure on Virat Kohli, reckons former SA spinner ahead of Centurion Test For the first time, Tom Latham will lead the squad for a complete series in lieu of Kane Williamson, who experienced a recurrence of an elbow injury in India and will miss both tests. "It's obviously disappointing not to have Kane available for this series but, as we noted in India, he is undergoing a sustained period of rest followed by rehabilitation, strengthening and gradual batting loading," Stead said. "We have every confidence in Tom leading the side. He's done an excellent job in the past when called upon," he further added. Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Kyle Jamieson, Neil Wagner, and Matt Henry are among the fast bowlers in the team, along with medium pace all-rounder Daryl Mitchell and only one spin option, all-rounder Rachin Ravindra. "We feel having both Rachin and Daryl in the squad gives us a nice balance and the ability to pick a side best suited to the conditions we expect," New Zealand coach Gary Stead said. The Tests will be played at Mount Maunganui's Bay Oval and Christchurch's Hagley Oval, both of which are likely to suit faster bowlers. Devon Conway returns to the side after missing the 1-0 series loss in India due to a broken hand caused after he slammed his bat in anger during the 2021 T20 World Cup semi-final clash versus England. ALSO READ | ICC Rankings: Labuschagne dethrones Root to become No. 1 Test batter, Babar reclaims top spot in T20Is The series begins on New Year's Day at Bay Oval and will be New Zealand's first home Test since winning the World Test Championship, defeating India in England in mid-June 2021. Since their previous defeat, a 1-0 setback to South Africa in March 2017, the Black Caps have gone undefeated in eight home Test series. Squad: Tom Latham (captain), Devon Conway, Will Young, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell, Rachin Ravindra, Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Trent Boult.

NZ drop Ajaz Patel for Bangladesh home Tests after historic 10-fer vs India, Tom Latham to lead

A 26-year-old man's death in New Zealand has been linked to a side effect from Pfizer's Covid vaccine after he died within two weeks of receiving it. After taking his first dose, the person suffered from myocarditis, which is a rare inflammation of the heart muscle.

The man had not taken any medical advice or treatment for his symptoms.&nbsp;

New Zealand’s Covid vaccine independent safety monitoring board in a statement said, "With the current available information, the board has considered that the myocarditis was probably due to vaccination in this individual."

In response, a Pfizer spokesperson said that the company was aware of the incident in New Zealand, and it had monitored all reports of possible adverse events. He further mentioned that it will continue to believe the benefit-risk profile for its vaccine was positive.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/christmas-travel-can-lead-to-doubling-of-omicron-cases-fauci-438291">Also read |&nbsp;Christmas travel can lead to doubling of Omicron cases: Fauci</a>

Earlier, in August, a woman in New Zealand died after she was administered the Pfizer Covid vaccine.&nbsp;

The health ministry said, "This is the first case in New Zealand where a death in the days following vaccination has been linked to the Pfizer Covid vaccine."

The health ministry further added that the cause of death has not yet been determined while asserting that, "the benefits of vaccination with the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine continue to greatly outweigh the risk of both Covid infection and vaccine side effects, including myocarditis."

Earlier, the World Health Organization had acknowledged that "a very rare signal of myocarditis" has been reported from some Covid vaccines. The organization further added that most myocarditis cases occur in young men aged between 16 to 24.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 26-year-old man's death in New Zealand has been linked to a side effect from Pfizer's Covid vaccine after he died within two weeks of receiving it. After taking his first dose, the person suffered from myocarditis, which is a rare inflammation of the heart muscle.

A 26-year-old man's death in New Zealand has been linked to a side effect from Pfizer's Covid vaccine after he died within two weeks of receiving it. After taking his first dose, the person suffered from myocarditis, which is a rare inflammation of the heart muscle. The man had not taken any medical advice or treatment for his symptoms. New Zealand’s Covid vaccine independent safety monitoring board in a statement said, "With the current available information, the board has considered that the myocarditis was probably due to vaccination in this individual." In response, a Pfizer spokesperson said that the company was aware of the incident in New Zealand, and it had monitored all reports of possible adverse events. He further mentioned that it will continue to believe the benefit-risk profile for its vaccine was positive. Also read | Christmas travel can lead to doubling of Omicron cases: Fauci Earlier, in August, a woman in New Zealand died after she was administered the Pfizer Covid vaccine. The health ministry said, "This is the first case in New Zealand where a death in the days following vaccination has been linked to the Pfizer Covid vaccine." The health ministry further added that the cause of death has not yet been determined while asserting that, "the benefits of vaccination with the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine continue to greatly outweigh the risk of both Covid infection and vaccine side effects, including myocarditis." Earlier, the World Health Organization had acknowledged that "a very rare signal of myocarditis" has been reported from some Covid vaccines. The organization further added that most myocarditis cases occur in young men aged between 16 to 24. (With inputs from agencies)

Young man's death in New Zealand linked to Pfizer Covid vaccine after he suffered from myocarditis

New Zealand has reported the first case of the Omicron variant of coronavirus (COVID-19) as the authorities informed on Thursday (December 16).&nbsp;

The case has been detected at a state-run isolation facility in Christchurch in a person, who came to New Zealand from Germany via Dubai.&nbsp;

New Zealand's Director-General of Health Ashley Bloomfield said that the infected person arrived in Auckland before travelling to Christchurch on a charter flight.&nbsp;

The travel took place after following the usual health protocols and measures as the person was tested for COVID-19 positive, the test result was confirmed on December 12, as mentioned by&nbsp;newshub.co.nz.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-reports-more-than-78000-covid-cases-highest-daily-since-pandemic-began-437395">UK reports more than 78,000 Covid cases, highest daily since pandemic began</a>

During a press conference on Thursday, Bloomfield indicated that there's a possibility of lockdowns or strict measures if Omicron is found in the community.&nbsp;

During the press conference, he said, "Even under the current framework, there is a provision for local restrictions or lockdowns. And so whether it's Omicron or Delta, that's available there as a response if there is an outbreak where we think that might be necessary to help get control and reduce the impact, particularly on health services."

He added, "Again, it probably doesn't matter if it's Delta or Omicron, but at this point in time we're intent on keeping Omicron out of the community."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-records-highest-ever-daily-numbers-of-covid-19-cases-amid-omicron-scare-437397/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

New Zealand approves vaccines for kids

Meanwhile, New Zealand has given provisional approval for the Pfizer Inc COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 5 to 11 years old.&nbsp;

New Zealand's health ministry said in a statement that the approval is for two doses of the paediatric Pfizer vaccine against the deadly virus, given at least 21 days apart.&nbsp;

If approved by the cabinet, the introduction of the paediatric Pfizer vaccine is expected to start in New Zealand no later than the end of January 2022, the ministry said.&nbsp;

New Zealand has reported the first case of the Omicron variant of coronavirus (COVID-19) as the authorities informed on Thursday (December 16). The case has been detected at a state-run isolation facility in Christchurch in a person, who came to New Zealand from Germany via Dubai.

New Zealand has reported the first case of the Omicron variant of coronavirus (COVID-19) as the authorities informed on Thursday (December 16). The case has been detected at a state-run isolation facility in Christchurch in a person, who came to New Zealand from Germany via Dubai. New Zealand's Director-General of Health Ashley Bloomfield said that the infected person arrived in Auckland before travelling to Christchurch on a charter flight. The travel took place after following the usual health protocols and measures as the person was tested for COVID-19 positive, the test result was confirmed on December 12, as mentioned by newshub.co.nz. ALSO READ | UK reports more than 78,000 Covid cases, highest daily since pandemic began During a press conference on Thursday, Bloomfield indicated that there's a possibility of lockdowns or strict measures if Omicron is found in the community. During the press conference, he said, "Even under the current framework, there is a provision for local restrictions or lockdowns. And so whether it's Omicron or Delta, that's available there as a response if there is an outbreak where we think that might be necessary to help get control and reduce the impact, particularly on health services." He added, "Again, it probably doesn't matter if it's Delta or Omicron, but at this point in time we're intent on keeping Omicron out of the community." × New Zealand approves vaccines for kids Meanwhile, New Zealand has given provisional approval for the Pfizer Inc COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 5 to 11 years old. New Zealand's health ministry said in a statement that the approval is for two doses of the paediatric Pfizer vaccine against the deadly virus, given at least 21 days apart. If approved by the cabinet, the introduction of the paediatric Pfizer vaccine is expected to start in New Zealand no later than the end of January 2022, the ministry said.

COVID-19: First Omicron case detected in New Zealand; infected person arrived in country from Germany

Middle-earth came to life again this week as New Zealand celebrated 20 years since the premiere of the Lord of the Rings trilogy with special screenings, costume exhibitions, and art displays.

Lord of the Rings: Hobbit, Sauron and Gollum makeovers in New Zealand's Hobbiton

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Lord of the Rings films, a special film screening of Fellowship of the Ring was organized in New Zealand.

Special premier of Fellowship of the Ring organized to mark 20 years of the Lord of the Rings films

New Zealand is all set to ban smoking for people born after 2008. Will it be enough to end New Zealand's tobacco troubles? Does a smoking ban violate your right to choose? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: New Zealand bans smoking for next generation

It's the holiday season! And everyone wishes to be with their loved ones and enjoy the merriment from Christmas celebrations to the New Year. The same goes with an Australian couple, who is ready to spend tens of thousands of dollars on a private jet costing approximately US$32,000 to fly their pet dog home from New Zealand.

It's the holiday season! And everyone wishes to be with their loved ones and enjoy the merriment from Christmas celebrations to the New Year. The same goes with an Australian couple, who is ready to spend tens of thousands of dollars on a private jet costing approximately US$32,000 to fly their pet dog home from New Zealand. The story of Munchkin, a former Bali street dog is nothing short of a Hollywood movie. The journey started over five years ago when Sunshine Coast-based woman Natasha Corbin laid her eyes on the pooch when she was living in Bali with her fiancé David Daynes, as reported by ABC. ALSO READ | World's 'wealthiest' dog is selling a luxurious Miami mansion, which was once owned by Madonna - see pictures "When we decided to move to Bali, my partner had one rule for me because I'm such a dog lover and that was that I wasn't allowed to interact with any dog," Corbin said as quoted by ABC News. "I just ignored all of the dogs as best as I could and this dog, Munchkin, she was just a little tiny puppy, would follow us around because she had just somehow ended up near our villa," she added. Corbin further mentioned that the canine spent three years in Singapore with various foster families after failing medical tests to enter Australia, which has strict rules around importing pets. She explained that the reason why the couple was in New Zealand in 2019, as she said that they wanted to get the pet dog cleared to come to Australia. But Corbin eventually returned home alone for medical reasons. Meanwhile, Daynes waited for the green light from Australia. ALSO READ | Now, dogs can call their owners for a chat anytime After a five-month separation, Corbin is all set to take a drastic step as she is planning to hire a private jet to bring her fiancé and Munchkin home before Christmas as some flights operating between New Zealand's South Island and airports near the Sunshine Coast have been disrupted due to travel restriction due to COVID-19. "The money part is not the number one driver, it's about who can most certainly get them home before Christmas. Christmas is a really big deal for us... I just want us all to be together," she told AFP. "We stopped counting about three years ago when it got to Aus$40,000. We didn't ever at the start of this process expect that it would cost this much or take this long. We expected it to be Aus$10,000 and six weeks," she said. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tash Corbin (@tashcorbin) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Munchkin Corbin-Daynes (@milliondollarmunchkin) × "She's our family now and so I wouldn't change it for the world. I love her so much and she's such an amazing little creature," the owner added. The couple is also hoping to split the costs by recruiting passengers, offering to foot half of the jet bill while selling four remaining seats to other travellers, or perhaps hitching a ride on another private charter. The entire process has cost so much money that Corbin has christened the dog "Million Dollar Munchkin" on social media. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Munchkin Corbin-Daynes (@milliondollarmunchkin) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Munchkin Corbin-Daynes (@milliondollarmunchkin) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tash Corbin (@tashcorbin) × (With inputs from agencies)

'Million Dollar Munchkin': Australian couple plans to charter private jet for dog stranded by Covid rules

New Zealand government has launched a smoke-free action plan that aims to reduce daily smoking prevalence to less than five per cent for all population groups by 2025.

New Zealand government announces bold new smokefree 2025 action plan to curb smoking

Smoking is usually known as one of the hardest habits to quit and the New Zealand government has decided to help its citizens get rid of it.<o:p></o:p>

New Zealand has announced that the country will ban smoking for the future generation, meaning that everyone of the age 14 and below will not be allowed to buy and consume tobacco.<o:p></o:p>

Under the new legislation, the authorities will keep increasing the legal age of smoking every year. This, the government hopes, will help create a smoke-free generation and help citizens live a longer and healthier life.

<o:p>Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/obesity-killed-more-than-smoking-did-study-363567">&nbsp;Obesity killed more than smoking did: Study</a></o:p>

"We want to make sure young people never start smoking so we will make it an offence to sell or supply smoked tobacco products to new cohorts of youth. People aged 14 when the law comes into effect will never be able to legally purchase tobacco,"&nbsp;associate health minister Dr Ayesha Verrall said.<o:p></o:p>

This law comes at a time when the country has already been observing a drop in the daily smoking rates. Over time, the rate has dropped from 18 per cent a decade earlier to nearly 11.6 per cent in 2018. However, the daily smoking rates for Māori and Pacifika stayed high at 29 and 18 per cent respectively. Authorities hope that if the smoking rate drops in general, the same will follow for Māori and Pacifika and soon it will be below five per cent.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quitting-smoking-might-reduce-severe-coronavirus-infection-risk-says-study-299646">Quitting smoking might reduce severe coronavirus infection risk, says study</a></o:p>

Authorities are aiming to completely eradicate smoking in the country within the next four years. "In fact, we’re on track to for the New Zealand European population. The issue is, though, if we don’t change what we’re doing, we won’t make it for Maori – and that’s [what] the plan is really focused on," Verrall said.<o:p></o:p>

This decision was taken after experts observed that nearly 4,500 locals lose their life to tobacco consumption every year.&nbsp;"About 4,500 New Zealanders die every year from tobacco, and we need to make accelerated progress to be able to reach that goal [of Smokefree 2025]. Business-as-usual without a tobacco control program won't get us there," Verrall had said earlier.<o:p></o:p>

Smoking is usually known as one of the hardest habits to quit and the New Zealand government has decided to help its citizens get rid of it. New Zealand has announced that the country will ban smoking for the future generation, meaning that everyone of the age 14 and below will not be allowed to buy and consume tobacco.

Smoking is usually known as one of the hardest habits to quit and the New Zealand government has decided to help its citizens get rid of it. New Zealand has announced that the country will ban smoking for the future generation, meaning that everyone of the age 14 and below will not be allowed to buy and consume tobacco. Under the new legislation, the authorities will keep increasing the legal age of smoking every year. This, the government hopes, will help create a smoke-free generation and help citizens live a longer and healthier life. Also read | Obesity killed more than smoking did: Study "We want to make sure young people never start smoking so we will make it an offence to sell or supply smoked tobacco products to new cohorts of youth. People aged 14 when the law comes into effect will never be able to legally purchase tobacco," associate health minister Dr Ayesha Verrall said. This law comes at a time when the country has already been observing a drop in the daily smoking rates. Over time, the rate has dropped from 18 per cent a decade earlier to nearly 11.6 per cent in 2018. However, the daily smoking rates for Māori and Pacifika stayed high at 29 and 18 per cent respectively. Authorities hope that if the smoking rate drops in general, the same will follow for Māori and Pacifika and soon it will be below five per cent. Also read | Quitting smoking might reduce severe coronavirus infection risk, says study Authorities are aiming to completely eradicate smoking in the country within the next four years. "In fact, we’re on track to for the New Zealand European population. The issue is, though, if we don’t change what we’re doing, we won’t make it for Maori – and that’s [what] the plan is really focused on," Verrall said. This decision was taken after experts observed that nearly 4,500 locals lose their life to tobacco consumption every year. "About 4,500 New Zealanders die every year from tobacco, and we need to make accelerated progress to be able to reach that goal [of Smokefree 2025]. Business-as-usual without a tobacco control program won't get us there," Verrall had said earlier.

To healthier life: New Zealand lays out plan to ban smoking

Former New Zealand cricketer Chris Cairns is going through a difficult phase ever since the stroke left him paralysed from the waist down as in a recent media interview he said that he doesn't know if he will ever walk again.

In August, the 51-year-old underwent an aortic dissection which is a serious condition in which a tear occurs in the inner layer of the body's main artery (aorta).&nbsp;

In such conditions, the blood rushes through the tear, causing the inner and middle layers of the aorta to split (dissect) and in case the blood goes through the outside aortic wall, aortic dissection is often deadly.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fairly-obvious-there-was-an-edge-former-nz-captain-on-virat-kohlis-controversial-dismissal-in-mumbai-test-433927">'Fairly obvious there was an edge' - Former NZ captain on Virat Kohli's controversial dismissal in Mumbai Test</a>

He had an emergency operation in Sydney but suffered a stroke during the procedure that left leaving him unable to use his legs. However, he had thanked the doctors and surgeons for saving his life.&nbsp;

Now, in a recent interview with the Daily Telegraph, Cairns said, "I don't know if I'll ever walk again and I have made my peace with that. It's now about understanding I can lead a full and enjoyable life in a wheelchair but at the same time knowing it will be different."

"There have been relationships which ... have fractured that have been reignited on the back of a new perspective on life. It is almost like everybody has moved on which has been heart-warming," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-achieves-two-unwanted-records-after-failing-to-open-his-account-on-day-1-of-mumbai-test-433879">Virat Kohli achieves two unwanted records after failing to open his account on Day 1 of Mumbai Test</a>

&nbsp;

"It was good of Brendon to wish me well ... There is no direct contact between us but the fact he did that was very decent of him," he further said.&nbsp;

In his career, Cairns played 62 Tests between 1989 and 2004, averaging 29.4 with the ball and 33.53 with the bat, including 87 sixes - a world record at the time.

However, his on-field achievements were overshadowed by match-fixing allegations, strongly denied by Cairns, that resulted in two court cases. He was cleared on both occasions but complained his reputation had been impacted.&nbsp;

Former New Zealand cricketer Chris Cairns is going through a difficult phase ever since the stroke left him paralysed from the waist down as in a recent media interview he said that he doesn't know if he will ever walk again.

Former New Zealand cricketer Chris Cairns is going through a difficult phase ever since the stroke left him paralysed from the waist down as in a recent media interview he said that he doesn't know if he will ever walk again. In August, the 51-year-old underwent an aortic dissection which is a serious condition in which a tear occurs in the inner layer of the body's main artery (aorta). In such conditions, the blood rushes through the tear, causing the inner and middle layers of the aorta to split (dissect) and in case the blood goes through the outside aortic wall, aortic dissection is often deadly. ALSO READ | 'Fairly obvious there was an edge' - Former NZ captain on Virat Kohli's controversial dismissal in Mumbai Test He had an emergency operation in Sydney but suffered a stroke during the procedure that left leaving him unable to use his legs. However, he had thanked the doctors and surgeons for saving his life. Now, in a recent interview with the Daily Telegraph, Cairns said, "I don't know if I'll ever walk again and I have made my peace with that. It's now about understanding I can lead a full and enjoyable life in a wheelchair but at the same time knowing it will be different." "There have been relationships which ... have fractured that have been reignited on the back of a new perspective on life. It is almost like everybody has moved on which has been heart-warming," he added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli achieves two unwanted records after failing to open his account on Day 1 of Mumbai Test "It was good of Brendon to wish me well ... There is no direct contact between us but the fact he did that was very decent of him," he further said. In his career, Cairns played 62 Tests between 1989 and 2004, averaging 29.4 with the ball and 33.53 with the bat, including 87 sixes - a world record at the time. However, his on-field achievements were overshadowed by match-fixing allegations, strongly denied by Cairns, that resulted in two court cases. He was cleared on both occasions but complained his reputation had been impacted.

'Made my peace with that': Ex-New Zealand cricketer Chris Cairns doesn't know if he will 'ever walk again'

new-zealand

New Zealand, News on New Zealand, stories on New Zealand, articles on New Zealand, New Zealand stories at Wion, New Zealand news, New Zealand latest news

new zealand

NZ police arrest protestors outside parliament as protests enter Day 3

'We don’t see him as a South African guy anymore': South Africa captain Dean Elgar on Devon Conway

Protestors block streets against vaccine mandates in New Zealand

After Canada, New Zealand truckers protest against Covid vaccine mandates, block parliament

New Zealand's Maori Party demands severance of ties with British monarchy

'End of life choice act': 28 assisted deaths in first three months of new law

Watch: Parrot steals GoPro, films unexpected bird's eye view of trail in New Zealand

New Zealand to start easing tough Covid border controls

New Zealand to reopen borders that has been closed for almost two years

New Zealand: Catholic church admits allegations of sexual abuse

After rejection from New Zealand, pregnant reporter takes help from Taliban

Jacinda Ardern’s popularity hits the lowest level as country struggles with Covid

With Omicron circulating, New Zealand imposes its toughest restrictions

With Omicron circulating, New Zealand imposes its toughest restrictions

New Zealand distributes life-saving supplies to disaster-hit Tonga

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern cancels her wedding after emergence of Omicron cases, announces restrictions

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern cancels her wedding as COVID cases rise due to Omicron

'Water is an immediate need': Tonga assesses damage after volcanic eruption, COVID-19 threat looms

Tsunami threat from undersea volcano eruption in Tonga has now 'passed'

New Zealand man finds cockroach inside his ear; extracts it after 3 days

WION EXCLUSIVE: A memorable 2021 for New Zealand Cricket

New Zealand welcomes New Year 2022 amid Covid-19 pandemic

NZ drop Ajaz Patel for Bangladesh home Tests after historic 10-fer vs India, Tom Latham to lead

Young man's death in New Zealand linked to Pfizer Covid vaccine after he suffered from myocarditis