A 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of New Zealand's North Island Friday, the US Geological Survey said, triggering a tsunami warning from authorities.

The USGS said the quake hit 180 kilometres (111 miles) northeast of the city of Gisborne at 2:27 am (1327 Thursday GMT), at a relatively shallow depth of 10 kilometres.

"Based on the preliminary earthquake parameters, hazardous tsunami waves are possible for coasts located within 300 kilometres of the earthquake epicentre," the Hawaii-based Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre said.

New Zealand authorities warn those who felt earthquake near coast to "move immediately to the nearest high ground, or as far inland as you can."

New Zealand’s seismological agency GeoNet described the quake as “severe”, saying it had received 60,463 reports of shaking.

The National Emergency Management Agency tweeted: “Anyone near the coast who felt a LONG or STRONG quake should MOVE IMMEDIATELY to the nearest high ground, or as far inland as you can #EQNZ”.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Anyone near the coast who felt a LONG or STRONG quake should MOVE IMMEDIATELY to the nearest high ground, or as far inland as you can <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EQNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EQNZ</a>
— National Emergency Management Agency (@NZcivildefence) <a href="https://twitter.com/NZcivildefence/status/1367480499766104069?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2021</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>

(With inputs from agencies)

A 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of New Zealand's North Island Friday, the US Geological Survey said, triggering a tsunami warning from authorities.

A 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of New Zealand's North Island Friday, the US Geological Survey said, triggering a tsunami warning from authorities. The USGS said the quake hit 180 kilometres (111 miles) northeast of the city of Gisborne at 2:27 am (1327 Thursday GMT), at a relatively shallow depth of 10 kilometres. "Based on the preliminary earthquake parameters, hazardous tsunami waves are possible for coasts located within 300 kilometres of the earthquake epicentre," the Hawaii-based Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre said. New Zealand authorities warn those who felt earthquake near coast to "move immediately to the nearest high ground, or as far inland as you can." New Zealand’s seismological agency GeoNet described the quake as “severe”, saying it had received 60,463 reports of shaking. The National Emergency Management Agency tweeted: “Anyone near the coast who felt a LONG or STRONG quake should MOVE IMMEDIATELY to the nearest high ground, or as far inland as you can #EQNZ”. Anyone near the coast who felt a LONG or STRONG quake should MOVE IMMEDIATELY to the nearest high ground, or as far inland as you can #EQNZ — National Emergency Management Agency (@NZcivildefence) March 4, 2021 × (With inputs from agencies)

Tsunami warning after 7.3-magnitude earthquake recorded off the northeast coast of New Zealand

After Australia, New Zealand is now eyeing a similar deal with tech giants Facebook and Google. The new law will require Google, Facebook to pay for news publishers.

New Zealand mulls introducing media law similar to Australia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New Zealand's government said on Friday that it was backing a new project that uses drone technology to understand and protect the endangered Maui dolphins in the country.&nbsp;

Maui dolphins live in a small stretch of ocean off the west coast of New Zealand's North Island and current estimates suggest that only 63 dolphins older than one year remain, raising concerns that they may soon become extinct.&nbsp;

The new Maui Drone Project is a one-year collaboration between the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), non-profit wildlife technology organisation MAUI63 and WWF-New Zealand.&nbsp;

The unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is capable of finding and tracking Maui dolphins using artificial intelligence.&nbsp;

The technology has the potential to compile detailed data on the habitats, population size and distribution and behaviour of the dolphins, along with many other types of marine species, such as other dolphins, seabirds, and whales, officials said.&nbsp;

"There has been unfortunately for many years disputes over how to best protect Maui dolphins," Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said after announcing the initiative, adding that the government has stepped in to fund the project and help protect the dolphins. "But we need everyone to come together."&nbsp;

Fishing companies Moana New Zealand and Sanford Limited are also supporting the project. The government has already moved to restrict fishing around the areas Maui dolphins frequent.&nbsp;

“By advancing our understanding of how Maui dolphins behave during the day and throughout the year this project will help us ensure the measures our Government has already put in place to protect our Maui dolphins are robust and appropriate,” said Oceans and Fisheries Minister David Parker.&nbsp;

The drone ensures dolphins remain undisturbed as they fly at an altitude of over 120 metres (394 feet).&nbsp;

(With agency inputs)&nbsp;

New Zealand's government said on Friday that it was backing a new project that uses drone technology to understand and protect the endangered Maui dolphins in the country.

New Zealand's government said on Friday that it was backing a new project that uses drone technology to understand and protect the endangered Maui dolphins in the country. Maui dolphins live in a small stretch of ocean off the west coast of New Zealand's North Island and current estimates suggest that only 63 dolphins older than one year remain, raising concerns that they may soon become extinct. The new Maui Drone Project is a one-year collaboration between the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), non-profit wildlife technology organisation MAUI63 and WWF-New Zealand. The unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is capable of finding and tracking Maui dolphins using artificial intelligence. The technology has the potential to compile detailed data on the habitats, population size and distribution and behaviour of the dolphins, along with many other types of marine species, such as other dolphins, seabirds, and whales, officials said. "There has been unfortunately for many years disputes over how to best protect Maui dolphins," Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said after announcing the initiative, adding that the government has stepped in to fund the project and help protect the dolphins. "But we need everyone to come together." Fishing companies Moana New Zealand and Sanford Limited are also supporting the project. The government has already moved to restrict fishing around the areas Maui dolphins frequent. “By advancing our understanding of how Maui dolphins behave during the day and throughout the year this project will help us ensure the measures our Government has already put in place to protect our Maui dolphins are robust and appropriate,” said Oceans and Fisheries Minister David Parker. The drone ensures dolphins remain undisturbed as they fly at an altitude of over 120 metres (394 feet). (With agency inputs)

New Zealand backs drone project to protect endangered dolphins 

More than a dozen pilot whales have died and many others remain stranded near a narrow sand spit at the northern tip of New Zealand's South Island despite efforts to move them out to sea, authorities said on Tuesday (February 23).

Volunteers try to help stranded whales off New Zealand's South Island

Rescuers in New Zealand had to race against time to save dozens of pilot whales that were stranded on the beachside in New Zealand on Monday.

The Department of Conservation (DOC) reported that a pod of 49 long-finned pilot whales was discovered at Farewell Spit, which is nearly 90 kilometres (55 metres) north of Nelson.

Also read|&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-do-whales-commit-suicide-answer-may-be-sonar-193807" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/why-do-whales-commit-suicide-answer-may-be-sonar-193807&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiMhNHO8fzuAhUZxzgGHeq7ArEQFjABegQICRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0f06izBhCiXiaIjSu65uPK" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-do-whales-commit-suicide-answer-may-be-sonar-193807" target="_blank">Why do&nbsp;whales&nbsp;commit suicide? Answer may be sonar</a>

As soon as the pod was discovered, more than 60 people set to work to rescue the whales and bring them back to a healthy life. However, by mid-afternoon nine of the whales from the pod were declared dead.

"Marine mammal medics will assist with refloating the whales and caring for them on the beach, keeping them cool and wet until they can be refloated," a spokeswoman for DOC reported.

Also read|&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/only-3-of-45-pilot-whales-survive-mass-stranding-in-indonesia-364867" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/only-3-of-45-pilot-whales-survive-mass-stranding-in-indonesia-364867&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiMhNHO8fzuAhUZxzgGHeq7ArEQFjADegQIBxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3Fr745ysFK1jBdU5YMRNke" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/only-3-of-45-pilot-whales-survive-mass-stranding-in-indonesia-364867" target="_blank">Only 3 of 45 pilot&nbsp;whales&nbsp;survive mass stranding in Indonesia</a>

Farewell Spit is a stretch of 26-kilometre of sand that protrudes into the sea at Golden Bay. It has, in the recent past, too, seen similar whale stranding, the recent one being in February 2017, when almost 700 of the marine mammals beached, resulting in 250 deaths.

The reason behind these whale strandings is not yet clear as even the scientists are puzzled as to why is this specific beach so deadly. One given theory, till now is that the spit might be creating a shallow seabed in the bay that may interfere with the whales' sonar navigation systems.

Rescuers in New Zealand had to race against time to save dozens of pilot whales that were stranded on the beachside in New Zealand on Monday. The Department of Conservation (DOC) reported that a pod of 49 long-finned pilot whales was discovered at Farewell Spit, which is nearly 90 kilometres (55 metres) north of Nelson.

Rescuers in New Zealand had to race against time to save dozens of pilot whales that were stranded on the beachside in New Zealand on Monday. The Department of Conservation (DOC) reported that a pod of 49 long-finned pilot whales was discovered at Farewell Spit, which is nearly 90 kilometres (55 metres) north of Nelson. Also read| Why do whales commit suicide? Answer may be sonar As soon as the pod was discovered, more than 60 people set to work to rescue the whales and bring them back to a healthy life. However, by mid-afternoon nine of the whales from the pod were declared dead. "Marine mammal medics will assist with refloating the whales and caring for them on the beach, keeping them cool and wet until they can be refloated," a spokeswoman for DOC reported. Also read| Only 3 of 45 pilot whales survive mass stranding in Indonesia Farewell Spit is a stretch of 26-kilometre of sand that protrudes into the sea at Golden Bay. It has, in the recent past, too, seen similar whale stranding, the recent one being in February 2017, when almost 700 of the marine mammals beached, resulting in 250 deaths. The reason behind these whale strandings is not yet clear as even the scientists are puzzled as to why is this specific beach so deadly. One given theory, till now is that the spit might be creating a shallow seabed in the bay that may interfere with the whales' sonar navigation systems.

Dozens of pilot whales stranded in new Zealand; 9 dead

Air New Zealand will trial a digital travel pass to give airlines and border authorities access to passenger health information, including their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">Covid-19 vaccination</a> status, the carrier said Monday.

The scheme, dubbed a "vaccination passport" by industry observers, is intended to streamline travel once borders reopen by allowing passengers to store their health credentials in one place.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/10-years-after-christchurch-quake-a-hush-where-8000-homes-once-stood-365374" hreflang="en">10 years after Christchurch quake, a hush where 8,000 homes once stood</a>

"It's essentially like having a digital health certificate that can be easily and securely shared with airlines," said Air New Zealand chief digital officer Jennifer Sepull.

It relies on an app developed by the International Air Transport Association (AITA) and other airlines including Etihad and Emirates have already signed up for their own trials.

Also read|&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-snap-lockdown-new-zealand-begins-vaccine-programme-364999" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/after-snap-lockdown-new-zealand-begins-vaccine-programme-364999&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwixmr3jrfruAhWO7XMBHaqCAWc4HhAWMAV6BAgEEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw3rQD6TR16UvV-Q00dzGBIM" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-snap-lockdown-new-zealand-begins-vaccine-programme-364999" target="_blank">After snap lockdown,&nbsp;New Zealand&nbsp;begins vaccine programme</a>

The industry body's senior vice-president Nick Careen said it was an important milestone in restarting international travel as global vaccine rollouts get underway.

"Governments can be confident that passengers who are 'OK to travel' are in full compliance of Covid-19 travel requirements," he said.

Careen said the app ensured privacy by giving users control of the health data they provided.

The Air New Zealand trial begins in April.

Air New Zealand will trial a digital travel pass to give airlines and border authorities access to passenger health information, including their Covid-19 vaccination status, the carrier said Monday.

Air New Zealand will trial a digital travel pass to give airlines and border authorities access to passenger health information, including their Covid-19 vaccination status, the carrier said Monday. The scheme, dubbed a "vaccination passport" by industry observers, is intended to streamline travel once borders reopen by allowing passengers to store their health credentials in one place. Also read| 10 years after Christchurch quake, a hush where 8,000 homes once stood "It's essentially like having a digital health certificate that can be easily and securely shared with airlines," said Air New Zealand chief digital officer Jennifer Sepull. It relies on an app developed by the International Air Transport Association (AITA) and other airlines including Etihad and Emirates have already signed up for their own trials. Also read| After snap lockdown, New Zealand begins vaccine programme The industry body's senior vice-president Nick Careen said it was an important milestone in restarting international travel as global vaccine rollouts get underway. "Governments can be confident that passengers who are 'OK to travel' are in full compliance of Covid-19 travel requirements," he said. Careen said the app ensured privacy by giving users control of the health data they provided. The Air New Zealand trial begins in April.

Air New Zealand to trial digital Covid 'vaccination passport'

First the houses and cars vanished. Fences, driveways and the other remaining markers of suburban life followed. Now, only stretches of green remain — an eerie memorial to two earthquakes that leveled Christchurch, New Zealand’s second-largest city, 10 years ago.

The undulating expanse, which begins 2 miles from downtown Christchurch, was deemed uninhabitable after the quakes, the second of which killed 185 people on Feb. 22, 2011. The 8,000 properties it encompassed were bought by the government and razed, the remnants swept away.

The land now sits in limbo, a reflection of the difficult decisions Christchurch has faced about how, what and where to rebuild on disaster-prone terrain. In the central business district, cranes, diggers and drills are still a feature of nearly every street. But in the eastern suburbs, a swath nearly twice the size of Central Park in New York is steadily being reclaimed by nature.

Cul-de-sacs taper into swamp and sludge, evidence of why residents left, not all of them by choice. Lawns have the look of scruffy golf courses; grass is mowed and sprayed for weeds, but nothing is newly planted. Beyond slouching lamp posts and faded road stenciling, there is little sign of a human past.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ardern-leads-tributes-on-new-zealand-quake-anniversary-365369" hreflang="en">Ardern leads tributes on New Zealand quake anniversary</a>

Gone wild, parts of the area, which the government named the red zone, now attract foragers. On a recent late-summer Sunday afternoon, a group of families straggled across a field of wildflowers that was once a backyard, stopping to pick yarrow and camomile for tea.

A carpet of fruit on the ground below a towering pear tree was far more than they could carry off in their bags and baskets. Children crammed pears into their mouths, the next one already in hand.

“They’re sweet but they’re quite crunchy,” Baxter MacArthur, 10, called from his perch halfway up the tree.

The red zone is a sobering reminder that New Zealanders live in one of the most geologically active places on earth. The capital, Wellington, stands atop seismic fault lines, and the largest city, Auckland, is built on a ring of about 50 dormant volcanoes.

The first of the two earthquakes a decade ago, a magnitude 7.1 convulsion on Sept. 4, 2010, caused severe structural damage in Christchurch, a city of 380,000 that is the largest on New Zealand’s South Island. No one died as a direct result, though one person had a fatal heart attack.

That was followed five months later by a magnitude 6.2 quake that killed 173 people in the central city and 12 elsewhere, as facades and high-rise buildings crumbled. The city’s infrastructure — roads, bridges, water systems — was ravaged, and the central business district would remain closed for two years.

The mammoth task of reinventing itself has been fraught for Christchurch, which before the quakes was a fairly conservative city featuring traditional English architecture. The efforts have proceeded slowly, but a remade downtown, greener and more compact, is emerging.
<img alt="The Christchurch Cathedral, still undergoing repair work ten years on from a pair of devastating earthquakes, in the New Zealand city’s center, Feb. 14, 2021. A destroyed area of 8,000 properties — twice the size of New York’s Central Park — that was deemed uninhabitable and razed by the government is slowly being reclaimed by nature. (Cornell Tukiri" data-caption="The Christchurch Cathedral, still undergoing repair work ten years on from a pair of devastating earthquakes, in the New Zealand city’s center, Feb. 14, 2021. A destroyed area of 8,000 properties — twice the size of New York’s Central Park — that was deemed uninhabitable and razed by the government is slowly being reclaimed by nature. (Cornell Tukiri&amp;nbsp;2021 The New York Times)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b969f206-198c-4a8f-9907-682f327648d4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20Zealand%20earthquake%20%282%29.jpg" />
Deciding what to do with the red zone has been no less vexing. The open space, though born of tragedy, is a treasure rare among major cities. And if the outdoors is vital to mental health, Christchurch may need it more than most places. The city’s treatment services are still strained a decade after the quakes, the pressure having been compounded by the terrorist attack on two mosques in 2019 that killed 51 people.

But planning for the zone has taken years and remains unsettled. The Christchurch City Council and the central government have focused on the central city at the expense of the abandoned suburbs, said Yani Johanson, a city councilor for an area straddling part of the red zone.

Advocates for conservation projects on the land have urged the council to commit to ecological restoration.

“It should be somewhere people can come and be where their property was, but not have it ruined through large buildings,” said Celia Hogan, co-chair of the community group Greening the Red Zone, as her children ate freshly picked apples and tried to climb into a left-behind treehouse.

Years of local consultation has been necessary to determine what should happen to the land, but native tree planting should begin soon, she said. A native forest would be “a respectful way to acknowledge people who have given up sometimes their lifelong home,” she added.

A blueprint for the zone created by a central government agency in 2019 tried to balance what everyone wanted — ecology and the environment, recreation, memorial space and commercial endeavor.

There is another consideration, too. New Zealand is in the grip of a housing crisis. Johanson said pressure would most likely grow on the council to consider whether parts of the zone were truly uninhabitable, as they were deemed a decade ago.

For now, anyone who wants to walk in the red zone can park at the end of blocked-off roads and, as the sounds of the city fall away, feel like the only person on Earth.

Other sections are livelier. A patch along the Avon River on the recent Sunday felt like a bustling, untidy park — noisy with cyclists, joggers, dogs and children. On another empty street, custom-built drones buzzed around a track; nearby, parents were using a street dotted with miniature traffic signs to give their children lessons on road safety.

“The idea that it was homes once is getting less and less,” said Joanna Payne, a founding member of the group Otautahi Urban Foraging, which uses the Maori name for Christchurch. She and her friends said that when they pick fruit, they always wonder who planted the tree.

When the government sought to buy out thousands of homeowners after the 2011 quake, it intended to give them certainty about their futures. Many were angered by the offer, which was based on 4-year-old property valuations.

Some were compelled to accept in order to pay their mortgages, others when officials warned that red-zoned areas would no longer be served by utilities, infrastructure or insurance.

A handful of residents called the government’s bluff and stayed.

Brooklands, a semirural area, is home to the most united display of red-zone defiance. When the land there was judged unlivable, most residents sold up and left, but a little over a dozen homes remain.

“It’s beautiful,” said one of the homeowners, Stephen Bourke. “There’s no one here. It’s paradise.”

A project manager in the civil construction industry, Bourke repaired his 80-year-old wooden villa himself. “It doesn’t leak,” he said. “It’s all on an angle, but we’ve water-sealed it.”

Ramshackle bus shelters remain on Brooklands’ single-house streets, although no buses arrive. Surviving homes are flanked by overgrown lots.

The local authorities still collect trash and mow the verges, contrary to warnings in 2011 that they would stop, but the roads are potholed and uneven.

Bourke said he saw little point in moving elsewhere, given that much of New Zealand is prone to earthquakes and floods.

“It’s all very well having these politicians turn up and tell people where they can go,” he said. “But where are you going to tell me to go in New Zealand that’s safe to live?

First the houses and cars vanished. Fences, driveways and the other remaining markers of suburban life followed. Now, only stretches of green remain — an eerie memorial to two earthquakes that leveled Christchurch, New Zealand’s second-largest city, 10 years ago.

First the houses and cars vanished. Fences, driveways and the other remaining markers of suburban life followed. Now, only stretches of green remain — an eerie memorial to two earthquakes that leveled Christchurch, New Zealand’s second-largest city, 10 years ago. The undulating expanse, which begins 2 miles from downtown Christchurch, was deemed uninhabitable after the quakes, the second of which killed 185 people on Feb. 22, 2011. The 8,000 properties it encompassed were bought by the government and razed, the remnants swept away. The land now sits in limbo, a reflection of the difficult decisions Christchurch has faced about how, what and where to rebuild on disaster-prone terrain. In the central business district, cranes, diggers and drills are still a feature of nearly every street. But in the eastern suburbs, a swath nearly twice the size of Central Park in New York is steadily being reclaimed by nature. Cul-de-sacs taper into swamp and sludge, evidence of why residents left, not all of them by choice. Lawns have the look of scruffy golf courses; grass is mowed and sprayed for weeds, but nothing is newly planted. Beyond slouching lamp posts and faded road stenciling, there is little sign of a human past. Also read| Ardern leads tributes on New Zealand quake anniversary Gone wild, parts of the area, which the government named the red zone, now attract foragers. On a recent late-summer Sunday afternoon, a group of families straggled across a field of wildflowers that was once a backyard, stopping to pick yarrow and camomile for tea. A carpet of fruit on the ground below a towering pear tree was far more than they could carry off in their bags and baskets. Children crammed pears into their mouths, the next one already in hand. “They’re sweet but they’re quite crunchy,” Baxter MacArthur, 10, called from his perch halfway up the tree. The red zone is a sobering reminder that New Zealanders live in one of the most geologically active places on earth. The capital, Wellington, stands atop seismic fault lines, and the largest city, Auckland, is built on a ring of about 50 dormant volcanoes. The first of the two earthquakes a decade ago, a magnitude 7.1 convulsion on Sept. 4, 2010, caused severe structural damage in Christchurch, a city of 380,000 that is the largest on New Zealand’s South Island. No one died as a direct result, though one person had a fatal heart attack. That was followed five months later by a magnitude 6.2 quake that killed 173 people in the central city and 12 elsewhere, as facades and high-rise buildings crumbled. The city’s infrastructure — roads, bridges, water systems — was ravaged, and the central business district would remain closed for two years. The mammoth task of reinventing itself has been fraught for Christchurch, which before the quakes was a fairly conservative city featuring traditional English architecture. The efforts have proceeded slowly, but a remade downtown, greener and more compact, is emerging. Deciding what to do with the red zone has been no less vexing. The open space, though born of tragedy, is a treasure rare among major cities. And if the outdoors is vital to mental health, Christchurch may need it more than most places. The city’s treatment services are still strained a decade after the quakes, the pressure having been compounded by the terrorist attack on two mosques in 2019 that killed 51 people. But planning for the zone has taken years and remains unsettled. The Christchurch City Council and the central government have focused on the central city at the expense of the abandoned suburbs, said Yani Johanson, a city councilor for an area straddling part of the red zone. Advocates for conservation projects on the land have urged the council to commit to ecological restoration. “It should be somewhere people can come and be where their property was, but not have it ruined through large buildings,” said Celia Hogan, co-chair of the community group Greening the Red Zone, as her children ate freshly picked apples and tried to climb into a left-behind treehouse. Years of local consultation has been necessary to determine what should happen to the land, but native tree planting should begin soon, she said. A native forest would be “a respectful way to acknowledge people who have given up sometimes their lifelong home,” she added. A blueprint for the zone created by a central government agency in 2019 tried to balance what everyone wanted — ecology and the environment, recreation, memorial space and commercial endeavor. There is another consideration, too. New Zealand is in the grip of a housing crisis. Johanson said pressure would most likely grow on the council to consider whether parts of the zone were truly uninhabitable, as they were deemed a decade ago. For now, anyone who wants to walk in the red zone can park at the end of blocked-off roads and, as the sounds of the city fall away, feel like the only person on Earth. Other sections are livelier. A patch along the Avon River on the recent Sunday felt like a bustling, untidy park — noisy with cyclists, joggers, dogs and children. On another empty street, custom-built drones buzzed around a track; nearby, parents were using a street dotted with miniature traffic signs to give their children lessons on road safety. “The idea that it was homes once is getting less and less,” said Joanna Payne, a founding member of the group Otautahi Urban Foraging, which uses the Maori name for Christchurch. She and her friends said that when they pick fruit, they always wonder who planted the tree. When the government sought to buy out thousands of homeowners after the 2011 quake, it intended to give them certainty about their futures. Many were angered by the offer, which was based on 4-year-old property valuations. Some were compelled to accept in order to pay their mortgages, others when officials warned that red-zoned areas would no longer be served by utilities, infrastructure or insurance. A handful of residents called the government’s bluff and stayed. Brooklands, a semirural area, is home to the most united display of red-zone defiance. When the land there was judged unlivable, most residents sold up and left, but a little over a dozen homes remain. “It’s beautiful,” said one of the homeowners, Stephen Bourke. “There’s no one here. It’s paradise.” A project manager in the civil construction industry, Bourke repaired his 80-year-old wooden villa himself. “It doesn’t leak,” he said. “It’s all on an angle, but we’ve water-sealed it.” Ramshackle bus shelters remain on Brooklands’ single-house streets, although no buses arrive. Surviving homes are flanked by overgrown lots. The local authorities still collect trash and mow the verges, contrary to warnings in 2011 that they would stop, but the roads are potholed and uneven. Bourke said he saw little point in moving elsewhere, given that much of New Zealand is prone to earthquakes and floods. “It’s all very well having these politicians turn up and tell people where they can go,” he said. “But where are you going to tell me to go in New Zealand that’s safe to live?

10 years after Christchurch quake, a hush where 8,000 homes once stood

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern paid tribute to victims of the Christchurch earthquake Monday as New Zealand paused to mark the 10th anniversary of the disaster that claimed 185 lives.

Thousands gathered at a memorial service in the South Island city and marked a minute's silence at 12:51 pm (2351 Sunday GMT), the precise time the shallow 6.3-magnitude quake hit.

Ardern said it was a moment that changed everything in the city of 400,000.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dozens-of-pilot-whales-stranded-in-new-zealand-9-dead-365339" hreflang="en">Dozens of pilot whales stranded in new Zealand; 9 dead</a>

"The toll could not have been more significant, and daily reminders made it harder -– a fractured landscape, aftershocks, struggling friends and neighbours, and children with deep and unseen scars," she said.

"Ten years on there will be people still living their daily lives with the long shadow of that day."

The seismic jolt crumpled office buildings, crushing dozens of people, and sent shop awnings tumbling down into pedestrians who moments before had been enjoying a lunchtime stroll.

The tragedy's aftermath was followed by a drawn-out rebuild that is only now starting to gain momentum and Ardern acknowledged many residents had found it hard to move on.

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-is-wrong-new-zealand-australia-clash-over-responsibility-of-terrorist-with-dual-nationality-363934">&nbsp;'It is wrong': New Zealand-Australia clash over responsibility of terrorist with dual nationality</a>

"It's been a hugely difficult decade for this city -- at times I'm sure it's felt impossible," she said.

"But as we look ahead to the coming decade, I see hope and energy and optimism, and I see Christchurch taking its rightful place amongst New Zealand's best and brightest cities."

Governor-General Patsy Reddy read the crowd a message from Britain's Queen Elizabeth II.

"While there are many sad memories of that terrible time, there is also solace in remembering how your community rose to the challenge of rebuilding your lives and supporting each other," it said.

"You displayed great fortitude in the face of sudden, overwhelming loss."

At the end of the service, wreaths were laid at a memorial wall and many in the crowd threw flowers into the city's Avon River.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern paid tribute to victims of the Christchurch earthquake Monday as New Zealand paused to mark the 10th anniversary of the disaster that claimed 185 lives.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern paid tribute to victims of the Christchurch earthquake Monday as New Zealand paused to mark the 10th anniversary of the disaster that claimed 185 lives. Thousands gathered at a memorial service in the South Island city and marked a minute's silence at 12:51 pm (2351 Sunday GMT), the precise time the shallow 6.3-magnitude quake hit. Ardern said it was a moment that changed everything in the city of 400,000. Also read| Dozens of pilot whales stranded in new Zealand; 9 dead "The toll could not have been more significant, and daily reminders made it harder -– a fractured landscape, aftershocks, struggling friends and neighbours, and children with deep and unseen scars," she said. "Ten years on there will be people still living their daily lives with the long shadow of that day." The seismic jolt crumpled office buildings, crushing dozens of people, and sent shop awnings tumbling down into pedestrians who moments before had been enjoying a lunchtime stroll. The tragedy's aftermath was followed by a drawn-out rebuild that is only now starting to gain momentum and Ardern acknowledged many residents had found it hard to move on. Also read| 'It is wrong': New Zealand-Australia clash over responsibility of terrorist with dual nationality "It's been a hugely difficult decade for this city -- at times I'm sure it's felt impossible," she said. "But as we look ahead to the coming decade, I see hope and energy and optimism, and I see Christchurch taking its rightful place amongst New Zealand's best and brightest cities." Governor-General Patsy Reddy read the crowd a message from Britain's Queen Elizabeth II. "While there are many sad memories of that terrible time, there is also solace in remembering how your community rose to the challenge of rebuilding your lives and supporting each other," it said. "You displayed great fortitude in the face of sudden, overwhelming loss." At the end of the service, wreaths were laid at a memorial wall and many in the crowd threw flowers into the city's Avon River.

Ardern leads tributes on New Zealand quake anniversary

A few days after Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern ended the snap lockdown in Auckland, New Zealand has launched its first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">COVID-19 vaccination</a> programme.

The country is using Pfizer-BioNtech's vaccine against the deadly coronavirus.

On Saturday, a small group of medical professionals were injected with the approved vaccine in Auckland.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-jacinda-ardern-ends-snap-lockdown-in-auckland-364194">New Zealand: Jacinda Ardern ends snap lockdown in Auckland</a>

Following this, border staff and so-called Managed Isolation and Quarantine (MIQ) workers will initiate a bigger and wider rollout of the vaccine.

"Today, we kick off the largest immunisation programme in our history, by vaccinating the first of our border workforce, a critical step in protecting everyone in Aotearoa," said New Zealand health minister Ashley Bloomfield.&nbsp;

"We will be moving through these first few days and weeks in a measured way to make sure our systems and processes are solid."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-confirms-first-case-of-uk-variant-amid-auckland-lockdown-363640" hreflang="en">New Zealand confirms first case of UK variant amid Auckland lockdown</a>

While the cases and deaths due to coronavirus have been less in New Zealand, as compared to the rest of the world, the authorities are still urging people to exercise caution and make sure they self-isolate themselves in cases of possible infection.

"It's the start of what we might call a new chapter but we still have a long way to go," Bloomfield said.

The vaccination programme will first concentrate on medical professionals, aged and vulnerable individuals.

A few days after Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern ended the snap lockdown in Auckland, New Zealand has launched its first COVID-19 vaccination programme. The country is using Pfizer-BioNtech's vaccine against the deadly coronavirus.

A few days after Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern ended the snap lockdown in Auckland, New Zealand has launched its first COVID-19 vaccination programme. The country is using Pfizer-BioNtech's vaccine against the deadly coronavirus. On Saturday, a small group of medical professionals were injected with the approved vaccine in Auckland. Also read| New Zealand: Jacinda Ardern ends snap lockdown in Auckland Following this, border staff and so-called Managed Isolation and Quarantine (MIQ) workers will initiate a bigger and wider rollout of the vaccine. "Today, we kick off the largest immunisation programme in our history, by vaccinating the first of our border workforce, a critical step in protecting everyone in Aotearoa," said New Zealand health minister Ashley Bloomfield. "We will be moving through these first few days and weeks in a measured way to make sure our systems and processes are solid." Also read| New Zealand confirms first case of UK variant amid Auckland lockdown While the cases and deaths due to coronavirus have been less in New Zealand, as compared to the rest of the world, the authorities are still urging people to exercise caution and make sure they self-isolate themselves in cases of possible infection. "It's the start of what we might call a new chapter but we still have a long way to go," Bloomfield said. The vaccination programme will first concentrate on medical professionals, aged and vulnerable individuals.

After snap lockdown, New Zealand begins vaccine programme

New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern accused Australia of abdicating its responsibilities by cancelling the citizenship of a woman detained in Turkey and accused of having links to the Islamic State.

Jacinda Ardern lashes at Australia in citizenship row over terror suspect

A few days after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/australia-and-new-zealand">New Zealand</a> Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, imposed a snap lockdown in Auckland, she has decided to lift the 'stay-at-home' order.

Ardern, on Wednesday, announced that she is confident the deadly coronavirus has ended and has therefore decided to lift the lockdown from its largest city, Auckland.

"(It appears) that we don't have a widespread outbreak, but rather a small chain of transmission which is manageable via our normal contact tracing and testing procedures," she said.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-confirms-first-case-of-uk-variant-amid-auckland-lockdown-363640" hreflang="en">New Zealand confirms first case of UK variant amid Auckland lockdown</a>

The lockdown will end late Wednesday. However, the city will still remain at alert level two, under which all public gatherings have been limited to a maximum headcount of 100 and face masks have been made compulsory on all forms of public transport.

While the whole city is now allowed to step out of their homes with necessary precautions, students and staff of a specific suburban school have been asked to stay at home as the school had reported three positive cases.

Ardern, who has been widely praised for handling the pandemic nicely in her country said the snap lockdown was to make sure the country does not get infected with the new variation of the deadly virus.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/melbourne-to-end-coronavirus-lockdown-after-short-sharp-circuit-breaker-364151">Melbourne to end coronavirus lockdown after 'short, sharp circuit-breaker'</a>

"We wanted to make sure we took a cautious approach because that's much, much better than getting it wrong and having a large scale outbreak and a long lockdown," she said.

Meanwhile, health experts and scientists of New Zealand are still working to detect the source of the infection detected recently — which is a strain of the new UK variant.

"There is an indescribable anxiety that comes with the daily grind of managing a pandemic and I think we all feel it," Ardern said.

A few days after the New Zealand Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, imposed a snap lockdown in Auckland, she has decided to lift the 'stay-at-home' order. Ardern, on Wednesday, announced that she is confident the deadly coronavirus has ended and has therefore decided to lift the lockdown from its largest city, Auckland.

A few days after the New Zealand Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, imposed a snap lockdown in Auckland, she has decided to lift the 'stay-at-home' order. Ardern, on Wednesday, announced that she is confident the deadly coronavirus has ended and has therefore decided to lift the lockdown from its largest city, Auckland. "(It appears) that we don't have a widespread outbreak, but rather a small chain of transmission which is manageable via our normal contact tracing and testing procedures," she said. Also read| New Zealand confirms first case of UK variant amid Auckland lockdown The lockdown will end late Wednesday. However, the city will still remain at alert level two, under which all public gatherings have been limited to a maximum headcount of 100 and face masks have been made compulsory on all forms of public transport. While the whole city is now allowed to step out of their homes with necessary precautions, students and staff of a specific suburban school have been asked to stay at home as the school had reported three positive cases. Ardern, who has been widely praised for handling the pandemic nicely in her country said the snap lockdown was to make sure the country does not get infected with the new variation of the deadly virus. Also read| Melbourne to end coronavirus lockdown after 'short, sharp circuit-breaker' "We wanted to make sure we took a cautious approach because that's much, much better than getting it wrong and having a large scale outbreak and a long lockdown," she said. Meanwhile, health experts and scientists of New Zealand are still working to detect the source of the infection detected recently — which is a strain of the new UK variant. "There is an indescribable anxiety that comes with the daily grind of managing a pandemic and I think we all feel it," Ardern said.

New Zealand: Jacinda Ardern ends snap lockdown in Auckland

The two neighbouring countries, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/australia-and-new-zealand">Australia and New Zealand</a> seem to be in a bad position with each other over the nationality of the terrorist arrested in Turkey.

A 26-year-old woman was reportedly arrested this week in Turkey with her two children. The woman was arrested by the Turkish authorities near the Syrian border and is believed to be a member of the Islamic State extremist group.

This woman is believed to hold dual citizenship of Australia and New Zealand. However, Australia seems to be backing away from taking her responsibility.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-and-facebook-close-to-deals-with-australian-media-363691" hreflang="en">Google and Facebook 'close' to deals with Australian media</a>

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, this time, has not shied away from telling her Australian counterpart that his country is at "wrong" this time.

"Any fair minded person would consider this person an Australian and that is my view too," Ardern said in a statement. "We believe Australia has abdicated its responsibilities."

It is believed the accused had spent the majority of her childhood and adult life in Australia and also has her family members settled there. However, the Australian government has shrieked from taking her responsibility, which has now angered Ardern.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-confirms-first-case-of-uk-variant-amid-auckland-lockdown-363640" hreflang="en">New Zealand confirms first case of UK variant amid Auckland lockdown</a>

"It is wrong that New Zealand should shoulder the responsibility for a situation involving a woman who has not lived in New Zealand since she was six," Ardern said. "(The woman) has resided in Australia since that time, has her family in Australia and left for Syria from Australia on her Australian passport."

Ardern has accused Australia of cancelling her citizenship after her arrest, leaving New Zealand solely responsible for her terrorism-related activities and involvements.

Australia PM Scott Morrison, meanwhile, has defended this action as the best possible way to ensure the nation's security interests.&nbsp;

"We do not want to see terrorists who fought with terrorism organisations enjoying privileges of citizenship, which I think they forfeit the second they engage as an enemy of our country," Morrison said in a press conference.&nbsp;

However, he has also ensured that he will have a dialogue with Ardern. "There is still a lot more unknown about this case and where it sits and where it may go to next," he said.

Ardern has also requested Morrison to consider the future of the two children too, who have been caught in the crossfire through no fault of their own.

"Coming to New Zealand, where they have no immediate family, would not be in their best interests. We know that young children thrive best when surrounded by people who love them," she said.

The two neighbouring countries, Australia and New Zealand seem to be in a bad position with each other over the nationality of the terrorist arrested in Turkey. A 26-year-old woman was reportedly arrested this week in Turkey with her two children.

The two neighbouring countries, Australia and New Zealand seem to be in a bad position with each other over the nationality of the terrorist arrested in Turkey. A 26-year-old woman was reportedly arrested this week in Turkey with her two children. The woman was arrested by the Turkish authorities near the Syrian border and is believed to be a member of the Islamic State extremist group. This woman is believed to hold dual citizenship of Australia and New Zealand. However, Australia seems to be backing away from taking her responsibility. Also read| Google and Facebook 'close' to deals with Australian media New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, this time, has not shied away from telling her Australian counterpart that his country is at "wrong" this time. "Any fair minded person would consider this person an Australian and that is my view too," Ardern said in a statement. "We believe Australia has abdicated its responsibilities." It is believed the accused had spent the majority of her childhood and adult life in Australia and also has her family members settled there. However, the Australian government has shrieked from taking her responsibility, which has now angered Ardern. Also read| New Zealand confirms first case of UK variant amid Auckland lockdown "It is wrong that New Zealand should shoulder the responsibility for a situation involving a woman who has not lived in New Zealand since she was six," Ardern said. "(The woman) has resided in Australia since that time, has her family in Australia and left for Syria from Australia on her Australian passport." Ardern has accused Australia of cancelling her citizenship after her arrest, leaving New Zealand solely responsible for her terrorism-related activities and involvements. Australia PM Scott Morrison, meanwhile, has defended this action as the best possible way to ensure the nation's security interests. "We do not want to see terrorists who fought with terrorism organisations enjoying privileges of citizenship, which I think they forfeit the second they engage as an enemy of our country," Morrison said in a press conference. However, he has also ensured that he will have a dialogue with Ardern. "There is still a lot more unknown about this case and where it sits and where it may go to next," he said. Ardern has also requested Morrison to consider the future of the two children too, who have been caught in the crossfire through no fault of their own. "Coming to New Zealand, where they have no immediate family, would not be in their best interests. We know that young children thrive best when surrounded by people who love them," she said.

'It is wrong': New Zealand-Australia clash over responsibility of terrorist with dual nationality

WION Fineprint: New Zealand PM slams Australia over dual citizen detained in Turkey

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

New Zealand city enters 3-day lockdown after virus found

The first batch of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine has arrived in New Zealand as the country looks forward to inoculate its population.

COVID-19: First batch of Pfizer Coronavirus vaccine arrives in New Zealand

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern confirmed the highly-contagious strain first found in the UK was detected in Auckland which was put under a lockdown on Sunday.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-zealand-covid-lockdown-in-auckland-for-three-days-363617/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The country's health ministry said, "the result reinforces the decision to take swift and robust action around the latest cases to detect and stamp out the possibility of any further transmission."

Three members of a family in Auckland had tested positive for the UK variant, health experts confirmed.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern ordered a three-day lockdown in Auckland after two new coronavirus infections were detected. New Zealand was free of the virus for several months but has recently witnessed COVID-19 cases from abroad.

"I know we all feel the same way when this happens -- not again," &nbsp;Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said, adding, "But remember, we have been here before, that means we know how to get out of this -- together."&nbsp;

Authorities ordered Auckland residents to stay home and shut schools and non-essential businesses while imposing the level 3 lockdown. The rest of the country has been placed under level two lockdown.&nbsp;

Auckland which is the country's second-biggest city with a population of nearly two million had experienced more than two weeks in lockdown last August.

The authorities have made wearing masks mandatory with gatherings limited to a maximum of hundred people. New Zealand has recorded less than 2,000 infections and just 25 deaths in a population of five million.

New Zealand had taken strict measures as the virus was detected last March closing borders and imposing a five-week lockdown in March and April keeping the virus at bay.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern confirmed the highly-contagious strain first found in the UK was detected in Auckland which was put under a lockdown on Sunday.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern confirmed the highly-contagious strain first found in the UK was detected in Auckland which was put under a lockdown on Sunday. Watch: The country's health ministry said, "the result reinforces the decision to take swift and robust action around the latest cases to detect and stamp out the possibility of any further transmission." Three members of a family in Auckland had tested positive for the UK variant, health experts confirmed. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern ordered a three-day lockdown in Auckland after two new coronavirus infections were detected. New Zealand was free of the virus for several months but has recently witnessed COVID-19 cases from abroad. "I know we all feel the same way when this happens -- not again," Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said, adding, "But remember, we have been here before, that means we know how to get out of this -- together." Authorities ordered Auckland residents to stay home and shut schools and non-essential businesses while imposing the level 3 lockdown. The rest of the country has been placed under level two lockdown. Auckland which is the country's second-biggest city with a population of nearly two million had experienced more than two weeks in lockdown last August. The authorities have made wearing masks mandatory with gatherings limited to a maximum of hundred people. New Zealand has recorded less than 2,000 infections and just 25 deaths in a population of five million. New Zealand had taken strict measures as the virus was detected last March closing borders and imposing a five-week lockdown in March and April keeping the virus at bay.

New Zealand confirms first case of UK variant amid Auckland lockdown

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

New Zealand: COVID lockdown in Auckland for three days

After almost a month, New Zealand has reported three new local coronavirus cases, making them the first since January.

New Zealand has been subjecting all incoming travellers to hotel quarantine, which has helped the government decrease the cases. However, a traveller tested positive for the deadly coronavirus after leaving the quarantine.

The three new cases are a couple and their daughter from Auckland. This has made the New Zealand government sound alarm bells. As of now, the government has started genomic testing to make sure the new-found cases are not linked to any of the highly infectious variants found around the globe.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-virus-undergoes-further-mutation-363441">WATCH|</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-virus-undergoes-further-mutation-363441/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

New Zealand had a handful of cases before this on January 24, which were first after almost two months of zero coronavirus cases.

The new cases also led to the Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern cancelling her appearance at a gay pride event, scheduled to happen in Auckland on Sunday afternoon.

"Our system has swung into action," said New Zealand's minister for COVID-19 response, Chris Hipkins. "We are gathering all of the facts as quickly as we can. And the system that`s served us so well in the past is really gearing up to do so again."

As of now, the government has not implemented any restrictions. "No further consideration of change to alert levels has been taken at this point. We will collect more information before we would make any such decision," Hipkins said. "whether COVID-19 could be out there in the community ... or whether this is the start of what could be a chain of transmission."

These three new cases have come a few days before the country is set to vaccinate people with coronavirus vaccine to masses with the Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccine against COVID-19.

After almost a month, New Zealand has reported three new local coronavirus cases, making them the first since January. New Zealand has been subjecting all incoming travellers to hotel quarantine, which has helped the government decrease the cases.

After almost a month, New Zealand has reported three new local coronavirus cases, making them the first since January. New Zealand has been subjecting all incoming travellers to hotel quarantine, which has helped the government decrease the cases. However, a traveller tested positive for the deadly coronavirus after leaving the quarantine. The three new cases are a couple and their daughter from Auckland. This has made the New Zealand government sound alarm bells. As of now, the government has started genomic testing to make sure the new-found cases are not linked to any of the highly infectious variants found around the globe. WATCH| New Zealand had a handful of cases before this on January 24, which were first after almost two months of zero coronavirus cases. The new cases also led to the Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern cancelling her appearance at a gay pride event, scheduled to happen in Auckland on Sunday afternoon. "Our system has swung into action," said New Zealand's minister for COVID-19 response, Chris Hipkins. "We are gathering all of the facts as quickly as we can. And the system that`s served us so well in the past is really gearing up to do so again." As of now, the government has not implemented any restrictions. "No further consideration of change to alert levels has been taken at this point. We will collect more information before we would make any such decision," Hipkins said. "whether COVID-19 could be out there in the community ... or whether this is the start of what could be a chain of transmission." These three new cases have come a few days before the country is set to vaccinate people with coronavirus vaccine to masses with the Pfizer-BioNTech's vaccine against COVID-19.

Three new coronavirus cases reported in New Zealand, first since January

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern ordered the country's biggest city Auckland into a snap lockdown for the first time in nearly six months on Sunday after three coronavirus cases emerged in the community.

The Pacific island nation has been widely praised for its handling of the pandemic, with just 25 deaths in a population of five million.

But almost two million residents were told on Sunday to stay at home from midnight, when the level-three lockdown begins, with schools and businesses to close except for essential services.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-new-coronavirus-cases-reported-in-new-zealand-first-since-january-363491" hreflang="en">Three new coronavirus cases reported in New Zealand, first since January</a>

"The main thing we are asking people in Auckland to do is stay at home to avoid any risk of spread," Ardern said.

She added that the restrictions were "just in case it could be one of the more transmissible strains of Covid that we need to act with a high degree of caution around".

It came after three members of an Auckland family tested positive, with authorities concerned about the "new and active" infections as there was no obvious source of transmission.

The city will also be ring-fenced from the rest of New Zealand, with travel in and out of the metropolis highly restricted for the next three days.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-virus-undergoes-further-mutation-363441">WATCH|</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-virus-undergoes-further-mutation-363441/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The remainder of the country will move to alert level two, Ardern said, with people required to wear masks on public transport and gatherings limited to a maximum of 100 people.

"I know we all feel the same way when this happens — not again," she said.

"But remember, we have been here before, that means we know how to get out of this — together."

Too soon to judge

Health officials said a mother — who works for a company providing laundry and catering services to international flights — and her daughter tested positive Saturday, before the father returned a positive sample Sunday.

A fourth member of the household is also showing symptoms of Covid-19 but returned a negative test.

New Zealand director-general of health Ashley Bloomfield said the initial focus was on the mother's workplace "because of its obvious connections to the border".

But he added it was "too soon to rule in or out" any source of transmission and the woman had not been at work for eight days before testing positive.

Auckland spent more than two weeks in lockdown last August after a virus outbreak was linked to a worker at a coolstore handling imported frozen freight, but New Zealand has largely been enjoying relaxed restrictions for months.

Several cases of Covid-19 were also detected in the city three weeks ago, before being traced back to a hotel where the people had completed quarantine after arriving from overseas.&nbsp;

Ardern has been widely praised for her management of the pandemic, with New Zealand recording fewer than 2,000 infections.

The country closed its borders and implemented a strict five-week lockdown in March and April last year, with occasional virus outbreaks since then being quickly contained.&nbsp;

Ardern has said New Zealand's borders were likely to remain closed for the rest of this year while the pandemic continued to rage worldwide.&nbsp;

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern ordered the country's biggest city Auckland into a snap lockdown for the first time in nearly six months on Sunday after three coronavirus cases emerged in the community. The Pacific island nation has been widely praised for its handling of the pandemic, with just 25 deaths in a population of five million. But almost two million residents were told on Sunday to stay at home from midnight, when the level-three lockdown begins, with schools and businesses to close except for essential services. Also read| Three new coronavirus cases reported in New Zealand, first since January "The main thing we are asking people in Auckland to do is stay at home to avoid any risk of spread," Ardern said. She added that the restrictions were "just in case it could be one of the more transmissible strains of Covid that we need to act with a high degree of caution around". It came after three members of an Auckland family tested positive, with authorities concerned about the "new and active" infections as there was no obvious source of transmission. The city will also be ring-fenced from the rest of New Zealand, with travel in and out of the metropolis highly restricted for the next three days. WATCH| The remainder of the country will move to alert level two, Ardern said, with people required to wear masks on public transport and gatherings limited to a maximum of 100 people. "I know we all feel the same way when this happens — not again," she said. "But remember, we have been here before, that means we know how to get out of this — together." Too soon to judge Health officials said a mother — who works for a company providing laundry and catering services to international flights — and her daughter tested positive Saturday, before the father returned a positive sample Sunday. A fourth member of the household is also showing symptoms of Covid-19 but returned a negative test. New Zealand director-general of health Ashley Bloomfield said the initial focus was on the mother's workplace "because of its obvious connections to the border". But he added it was "too soon to rule in or out" any source of transmission and the woman had not been at work for eight days before testing positive. Auckland spent more than two weeks in lockdown last August after a virus outbreak was linked to a worker at a coolstore handling imported frozen freight, but New Zealand has largely been enjoying relaxed restrictions for months. Several cases of Covid-19 were also detected in the city three weeks ago, before being traced back to a hotel where the people had completed quarantine after arriving from overseas. Ardern has been widely praised for her management of the pandemic, with New Zealand recording fewer than 2,000 infections. The country closed its borders and implemented a strict five-week lockdown in March and April last year, with occasional virus outbreaks since then being quickly contained. Ardern has said New Zealand's borders were likely to remain closed for the rest of this year while the pandemic continued to rage worldwide.

New Zealand orders largest city Auckland into snap Covid lockdown

A lawmaker in New Zealand defied an order to wear a tie in Parliament - calling it a 'colonial noose'. Rawiri Waititi has won the debate he started. But most of the world still remains a slave to the tie

Gravitas: Lawmaker in New Zealand wages a war against the tie

After ejecting a Maori lawmaker because he refused to wear a tie, New Zealand's parliament backed down on Wednesday, allowing him to speak without an accessory he labelled a 'colonial noose'.&nbsp;

The issue flared on Tuesday when Maori Party co-leader Rawiri Waititi was ejected from the parliamentary debating chamber for not wearing the required attire during question time.&nbsp;

Waititi, who has a full-face 'te moko' tattoo and dons a black cowboy hat, argued that he was wearing legitimate Maori business attire -- a traditional pendant.&nbsp;

"This is not about ties, it's about cultural identity," he said as he left.&nbsp;

Indigenous Maori make up about 15 per cent of New Zealand's five million population but are over-represented in statistics, such as poverty and imprisonment, with many blaming injustices dating back to the days of British colonial rule.&nbsp;

Waititi said the tie row showed race relations still needed to improve in the South Pacific nation.&nbsp;

"This is a breach of the rights of indigenous peoples, we (must) have the freedom to express our cultural identity in a space like this," he said.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said she had no objection to lawmakers not wearing ties but added, "there are much more important issues for all of us".&nbsp;

After strictly enforcing the dress code on Tuesday, parliamentary speaker Trevor Mallard took a more relaxed approach when a tie-less Waititi spoke on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Rather than have the Maori leader ejected, Mallard simply let him ask a question unhindered, later saying a permanent rule change was being considered.&nbsp;

Waititi was elected to parliament for the first-time last year and in his maiden speech recounted the tale of an ancestor, who was wrongly hanged by the British for murder.&nbsp;

"I will adorn myself with the treasures of my ancestors and remove the colonial noose around my neck so that I may sing my song," he said as he removed his tie.

After ejecting a Maori lawmaker because he refused to wear a tie, New Zealand's parliament backed down on Wednesday, allowing him to speak without an accessory he labelled a 'colonial noose'.

After ejecting a Maori lawmaker because he refused to wear a tie, New Zealand's parliament backed down on Wednesday, allowing him to speak without an accessory he labelled a 'colonial noose'. The issue flared on Tuesday when Maori Party co-leader Rawiri Waititi was ejected from the parliamentary debating chamber for not wearing the required attire during question time. Waititi, who has a full-face 'te moko' tattoo and dons a black cowboy hat, argued that he was wearing legitimate Maori business attire -- a traditional pendant. "This is not about ties, it's about cultural identity," he said as he left. Indigenous Maori make up about 15 per cent of New Zealand's five million population but are over-represented in statistics, such as poverty and imprisonment, with many blaming injustices dating back to the days of British colonial rule. Waititi said the tie row showed race relations still needed to improve in the South Pacific nation. "This is a breach of the rights of indigenous peoples, we (must) have the freedom to express our cultural identity in a space like this," he said. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said she had no objection to lawmakers not wearing ties but added, "there are much more important issues for all of us". After strictly enforcing the dress code on Tuesday, parliamentary speaker Trevor Mallard took a more relaxed approach when a tie-less Waititi spoke on Wednesday. Rather than have the Maori leader ejected, Mallard simply let him ask a question unhindered, later saying a permanent rule change was being considered. Waititi was elected to parliament for the first-time last year and in his maiden speech recounted the tale of an ancestor, who was wrongly hanged by the British for murder. "I will adorn myself with the treasures of my ancestors and remove the colonial noose around my neck so that I may sing my song," he said as he removed his tie.

New Zealand's parliament backs down as Maori lawmaker rejects 'colonial noose'

The Maori Party MP leader was asked to leave the Parliament for not adhering to the dress code by not wearing a tie. MP Rawiri Waititi Waititi has previously described ties as a “colonial noose” and last year he was ejected on the same grounds.

New Zealand: Maori Party MP asked to leave Parliament over tie

New Zealand's Māori party co-leader was ejected by the Speaker in the parliament over a dispute about the dress code, or more precisely, a necktie.

Rawiri Waititi, the leader in news, decided to wear a different necktie than the one allowed and was thus ejected from the parliament's debating chamber.&nbsp;

The Speaker had said that since Waititi was not wearing a proper dress code — considering his tie was missing — he would not be allowed to speak. However, as the leader went ahead delivering his speech, the Speaker had to eject Waititi.

In the debating chambers of the parliament, every member is bound to dress as per the dressing code which is business/formal attire, with a tie for men. However, Waititi chose to wear "Māori business attire" which he said was cultural dress.

In this, he chose to wear a pounamu (greenstone) necklace instead of a necktie. This action was not appreciated by the Speaker, who then ejected the leader from the parliament on an immediate basis.
<img alt="Rawiri Waititi" data-caption="Rawiri Waititi. Picture credits: Twitter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="04bc0c1f-3e3d-4c40-8d67-4906dfb02171" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Rawiri%20Waititi%20%281%29.jpg" />
"It's not about ties it's about cultural identity mate," Waititi told the Speaker before leading the chamber, as per the local media reports.

He further took to Twitter to talk about the issue. "Dissapointing the Speaker has set one precedent for some members of but not for everyone. Being told to leave the house because of my choice to wear hei-tiki as cultural business attire is absurd," he tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Dissapointing the Speaker has set one precedent for some members of but not for everyone. Being told to leave the house because of my choice to wear hei-tiki as cultural business attire is absurd.
— Rawiri Waititi MP (@Rawiri_Waititi) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rawiri_Waititi/status/1358968911551557633?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2021</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>

"My hei-tiki is my tie of choice. It ties me to my tīpuna, whenua, and people. We have made it known that this party will not be subjugated nor assimilated to dated colonial rules."

New Zealand's Māori party co-leader was ejected by the Speaker in the parliament over a dispute about the dress code, or more precisely, a necktie. Rawiri Waititi, the leader in news, decided to wear a different necktie than the one allowed and was thus ejected from the parliament's debating chamber.

New Zealand's Māori party co-leader was ejected by the Speaker in the parliament over a dispute about the dress code, or more precisely, a necktie. Rawiri Waititi, the leader in news, decided to wear a different necktie than the one allowed and was thus ejected from the parliament's debating chamber. The Speaker had said that since Waititi was not wearing a proper dress code — considering his tie was missing — he would not be allowed to speak. However, as the leader went ahead delivering his speech, the Speaker had to eject Waititi. In the debating chambers of the parliament, every member is bound to dress as per the dressing code which is business/formal attire, with a tie for men. However, Waititi chose to wear "Māori business attire" which he said was cultural dress. In this, he chose to wear a pounamu (greenstone) necklace instead of a necktie. This action was not appreciated by the Speaker, who then ejected the leader from the parliament on an immediate basis. "It's not about ties it's about cultural identity mate," Waititi told the Speaker before leading the chamber, as per the local media reports. He further took to Twitter to talk about the issue. "Dissapointing the Speaker has set one precedent for some members of but not for everyone. Being told to leave the house because of my choice to wear hei-tiki as cultural business attire is absurd," he tweeted. Dissapointing the Speaker has set one precedent for some members of but not for everyone. Being told to leave the house because of my choice to wear hei-tiki as cultural business attire is absurd. — Rawiri Waititi MP (@Rawiri_Waititi) February 9, 2021 × "My hei-tiki is my tie of choice. It ties me to my tīpuna, whenua, and people. We have made it known that this party will not be subjugated nor assimilated to dated colonial rules."

It's about culture, mate: Māori MP ejected from New Zealand parliament over necktie

After halting the refugee intake for nearly a year, New Zealand said it will start receiving refugees again from this month.

The island-country had shut the refugee intake for nearly a year to stop the possible spread of the deadly coronavirus.

On Friday, the Jacinda Ardern-led government announced they will be resuming the refugee intake now, with the first group arriving soon.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/here-are-top-10-countries-that-battled-covid-pandemic-the-best-359883">Here are top 10 countries that battled COVID pandemic the best</a>

The first group will be of 35 refugees, who will be arriving in February itself and nearly 210 refugees coming to the country by the end of June, Immigration New Zealand officials reported.

"With health protocols in place and safe travel routes, we are ready to welcome small groups of refugee families as New Zealand residents to this country, to begin their new lives," Fiona Whiteridge, general manager for refugee and migrant services at Immigration New Zealand, said in a statement.

All arriving refugees, however, will still have to complete a compulsory 14-day quarantine stay in isolation facilities which will be managed by the New Zealand government.

This decision has been appreciated by the experts who had expected an increased intake of refugees (from 1,000 per year to 1,500) from last year itself, which was not carried out due to coronavirus.

Now, the intake has resumed as New Zealand was one of the first countries to completely eliminate coronavirus from within their borders and continues to be a country with zero domestically-bred cases and deaths.

Till now, New Zealand has had 62 current coronavirus cases, taking the tally to 1,959, with the latest one being reported on Friday at a coronavirus quarantine facility.&nbsp;

After halting the refugee intake for nearly a year, New Zealand said it will start receiving refugees again from this month. The island-country had shut the refugee intake for nearly a year to stop the possible spread of the deadly coronavirus.

After halting the refugee intake for nearly a year, New Zealand said it will start receiving refugees again from this month. The island-country had shut the refugee intake for nearly a year to stop the possible spread of the deadly coronavirus. On Friday, the Jacinda Ardern-led government announced they will be resuming the refugee intake now, with the first group arriving soon. Also read| Here are top 10 countries that battled COVID pandemic the best The first group will be of 35 refugees, who will be arriving in February itself and nearly 210 refugees coming to the country by the end of June, Immigration New Zealand officials reported. "With health protocols in place and safe travel routes, we are ready to welcome small groups of refugee families as New Zealand residents to this country, to begin their new lives," Fiona Whiteridge, general manager for refugee and migrant services at Immigration New Zealand, said in a statement. All arriving refugees, however, will still have to complete a compulsory 14-day quarantine stay in isolation facilities which will be managed by the New Zealand government. This decision has been appreciated by the experts who had expected an increased intake of refugees (from 1,000 per year to 1,500) from last year itself, which was not carried out due to coronavirus. Now, the intake has resumed as New Zealand was one of the first countries to completely eliminate coronavirus from within their borders and continues to be a country with zero domestically-bred cases and deaths. Till now, New Zealand has had 62 current coronavirus cases, taking the tally to 1,959, with the latest one being reported on Friday at a coronavirus quarantine facility.

New Zealand to resume refugee intake with 35 arriving in February

China and New Zealand signed a deal on Tuesday upgrading a free trade pact to give exports from the Pacific nation greater access to the world’s second-largest economy.

The pact comes as Beijing seeks to establish itself as a strong advocate of multilateralism after a bruising trade war with the United States, at a time when the coronavirus has forced the closure of many international borders.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern confirmed the signing of the expanded deal.

“China remains one of our most important trade partners...For this to take place during the global economic crisis bought about by COVID-19 makes it particularly important,” she told a news conference.

The pact widens an existing trade deal with China to ensure it remains fit for purpose for another decade, Trade Minister Damien O’Connor said in a statement.

It provides for tariffs to be either removed or cut on many of New Zealand’s mostly commodities-based exports, ranging from dairy to timber and seafood, while compliance costs will also be reduced.

China's multilateral push

“The upgrade shows the two sides’ firm determination to support multilateralism and free trade,” Zhao Lijian, a spokesman of China’s foreign ministry, told a news briefing in Beijing on Tuesday.

The previous day, speaking at a virtual meeting of the World Economic Forum, President Xi Jinping had criticised isolationism and “Cold War” thinking and called for barriers to trade, investment and technological exchange to be removed.

In recent months, Beijing has signed an investment pact with the European Union and joined the world’s largest free trade bloc in the 15-country Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which includes New Zealand.

China has also expressed interest in joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) Agreement, the successor to a pact from which Washington withdrew.

China’s new deal with Wellington also opens up sectors such as aviation, education and finance. In exchange, New Zealand will increase visa quotas for Chinese language teachers and tour guides, the official Xinhua news agency said.

New Zealand was the first developed nation to sign a free trade pact with China in 2008, and has long been touted by Beijing as an exemplar of Western engagement.

China is now New Zealand’s largest trading partner, with annual two-way trade of more than NZ$32 billion ($21.58 billion).

But ties have been tested under Ardern’s government as New Zealand criticised China’s influence on small Pacific islands and raised human rights concerns about Muslim Uighurs.

Ardern also backed Taiwan’s participation at the World Health Organization (WHO) despite a warning from Beijing.

The wider trade pact also comes as Beijing’s ties with neighbouring Australia worsened after Canberra called for an independent investigation into the origins of the coronavirus pandemic, which was first reported in central China.

Australia has appealed to the World Trade Organization to review China’s decision to impose hefty tariffs on imports of its barley.

New Zealand, which will host the regional Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit this year, has said it would be willing to help negotiate a truce between China and Australia.

China and New Zealand signed a deal on Tuesday upgrading a free trade pact to give exports from the Pacific nation greater access to the world’s second-largest economy.

China and New Zealand signed a deal on Tuesday upgrading a free trade pact to give exports from the Pacific nation greater access to the world’s second-largest economy. The pact comes as Beijing seeks to establish itself as a strong advocate of multilateralism after a bruising trade war with the United States, at a time when the coronavirus has forced the closure of many international borders. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern confirmed the signing of the expanded deal. “China remains one of our most important trade partners...For this to take place during the global economic crisis bought about by COVID-19 makes it particularly important,” she told a news conference. The pact widens an existing trade deal with China to ensure it remains fit for purpose for another decade, Trade Minister Damien O’Connor said in a statement. It provides for tariffs to be either removed or cut on many of New Zealand’s mostly commodities-based exports, ranging from dairy to timber and seafood, while compliance costs will also be reduced. China's multilateral push “The upgrade shows the two sides’ firm determination to support multilateralism and free trade,” Zhao Lijian, a spokesman of China’s foreign ministry, told a news briefing in Beijing on Tuesday. The previous day, speaking at a virtual meeting of the World Economic Forum, President Xi Jinping had criticised isolationism and “Cold War” thinking and called for barriers to trade, investment and technological exchange to be removed. In recent months, Beijing has signed an investment pact with the European Union and joined the world’s largest free trade bloc in the 15-country Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which includes New Zealand. China has also expressed interest in joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) Agreement, the successor to a pact from which Washington withdrew. China’s new deal with Wellington also opens up sectors such as aviation, education and finance. In exchange, New Zealand will increase visa quotas for Chinese language teachers and tour guides, the official Xinhua news agency said. New Zealand was the first developed nation to sign a free trade pact with China in 2008, and has long been touted by Beijing as an exemplar of Western engagement. China is now New Zealand’s largest trading partner, with annual two-way trade of more than NZ$32 billion ($21.58 billion). But ties have been tested under Ardern’s government as New Zealand criticised China’s influence on small Pacific islands and raised human rights concerns about Muslim Uighurs. Ardern also backed Taiwan’s participation at the World Health Organization (WHO) despite a warning from Beijing. The wider trade pact also comes as Beijing’s ties with neighbouring Australia worsened after Canberra called for an independent investigation into the origins of the coronavirus pandemic, which was first reported in central China. Australia has appealed to the World Trade Organization to review China’s decision to impose hefty tariffs on imports of its barley. New Zealand, which will host the regional Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit this year, has said it would be willing to help negotiate a truce between China and Australia.

China, New Zealand ink trade deal as Beijing calls for reduced global barriers

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern said today that the county may close its border for most part of the year amid the global vaccine rollout.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-govt-accused-of-mishandling-pandemic-death-toll-nears-100000-359467/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Given the risks in the world around us and the uncertainty of the global rollout of a vaccine, we can expect our borders to be impacted for much of this year," &nbsp;Ardern said.

New Zealand will, however, continue its travel arrangements with Australia and other Pacific nations.&nbsp;

"We will continue to pursue travel bubbles with Australia and the Pacific, but the rest of the world simply poses too great a risk to our health and our economy to take the risk at this stage," Ardern asserted.

Ardern, however, criticised Australia for re-imposing quarantine for New Zealanders and she communicated her views to &nbsp;Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

"If we're to enter a trans-Tasman travel bubble, we need to give people confidence they won't see border closures at very short notice over incidents that we believe can be well managed domestically," the New Zealand prime minister asserted.

New Zealand recently confirmed its first case of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-curfew-demonstrations-erupt-in-netherlands-as-europe-battles-virus-359222">COVID-19 </a>in several months after a woman who returned to New Zealand tested positive for the South African strain.

The country's health authorities may approve a COVID-19 vaccine Pfizer-BioNTech next week amid pressure to begin the vaccination drive. The Ardern government had earlier eliminated the virus from the country, however, two new cases COVID-19 were detected at an isolation facility on Tuesday.

New Zealand currently has 1,934 confirmed coronavirus cases including 25 deaths with &nbsp;65 active cases.&nbsp;

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern said today that the county may close its border for most part of the year amid the global vaccine rollout. Watch: "Given the risks in the world around us and the uncertainty of the global rollout of a vaccine, we can expect our borders to be impacted for much of this year," Ardern said.

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern said today that the county may close its border for most part of the year amid the global vaccine rollout. Watch: "Given the risks in the world around us and the uncertainty of the global rollout of a vaccine, we can expect our borders to be impacted for much of this year," Ardern said. New Zealand will, however, continue its travel arrangements with Australia and other Pacific nations. "We will continue to pursue travel bubbles with Australia and the Pacific, but the rest of the world simply poses too great a risk to our health and our economy to take the risk at this stage," Ardern asserted. Ardern, however, criticised Australia for re-imposing quarantine for New Zealanders and she communicated her views to Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison. "If we're to enter a trans-Tasman travel bubble, we need to give people confidence they won't see border closures at very short notice over incidents that we believe can be well managed domestically," the New Zealand prime minister asserted. New Zealand recently confirmed its first case of COVID-19 in several months after a woman who returned to New Zealand tested positive for the South African strain. The country's health authorities may approve a COVID-19 vaccine Pfizer-BioNTech next week amid pressure to begin the vaccination drive. The Ardern government had earlier eliminated the virus from the country, however, two new cases COVID-19 were detected at an isolation facility on Tuesday. New Zealand currently has 1,934 confirmed coronavirus cases including 25 deaths with 65 active cases.

New Zealand may keep its borders closed for much of 2021 amid pandemic

New Zealand on Sunday reported its first case of coronavirus in the community after over two months. In view of the transmission, the country has stepped up contact-tracing efforts.

A 56-year-old woman from Europe tested positive for COVID-19 after spending 10 days in state-sanctioned quarantine. She had noticed symptoms a few days before she was tested for the virus. 
 
Authorities in the country are rushing to trace all those who may have come in contact with her. It was found that the woman, along with her husband, spent a few days travelling across the Northland region. It is suspected that she was infectious during this time when she visited 30 different locations. 
 
In view of the situation, Health Minister Chris Hipkins claimed that the country has so far not decided whether a full or partial lockdown would be introduced in the country. 
 
"We don't know the origin or the strain of the infection," Hipkins told a press conference.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-from-germany-made-paralysed-mice-walk-again-how-did-they-do-it-358925" hreflang="en">Scientists from Germany made paralysed mice walk again. How did they do it?</a>

The woman had come back to New Zealand on December 30 after spending four months in Europe, most of which she spent in Spain and the Netherlands. On January 13, she was released from quarantine. 
 
The country's director-general - Ashley Bloomfield said she had tested negative twice while she was kept isolation, and that her husband had not displayed any symptoms. This marks the first case of coronavirus community transmission since November 18.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-can-cause-neurological-damage-stuttering-study-358362" hreflang="en">COVID-19 &nbsp;can cause neurological damage, stuttering: Study</a> 
 
600 people who were in the hotel have been urged to self-isolate and to get tested for COVID-19 again.

New Zealand has received praise for how it tackled the pandemic, with 25 deaths recorded throughout the pandemic. 1,927 confirmed cases of the virus have been reported among its five million citizens.

New Zealand on Sunday reported its first case of coronavirus in the community after over two months. In view of the transmission, the country has stepped up contact-tracing efforts.

New Zealand on Sunday reported its first case of coronavirus in the community after over two months. In view of the transmission, the country has stepped up contact-tracing efforts. A 56-year-old woman from Europe tested positive for COVID-19 after spending 10 days in state-sanctioned quarantine. She had noticed symptoms a few days before she was tested for the virus. Authorities in the country are rushing to trace all those who may have come in contact with her. It was found that the woman, along with her husband, spent a few days travelling across the Northland region. It is suspected that she was infectious during this time when she visited 30 different locations. In view of the situation, Health Minister Chris Hipkins claimed that the country has so far not decided whether a full or partial lockdown would be introduced in the country. "We don't know the origin or the strain of the infection," Hipkins told a press conference. Also read: Scientists from Germany made paralysed mice walk again. How did they do it? The woman had come back to New Zealand on December 30 after spending four months in Europe, most of which she spent in Spain and the Netherlands. On January 13, she was released from quarantine. The country's director-general - Ashley Bloomfield said she had tested negative twice while she was kept isolation, and that her husband had not displayed any symptoms. This marks the first case of coronavirus community transmission since November 18. Also read: COVID-19 can cause neurological damage, stuttering: Study 600 people who were in the hotel have been urged to self-isolate and to get tested for COVID-19 again. New Zealand has received praise for how it tackled the pandemic, with 25 deaths recorded throughout the pandemic. 1,927 confirmed cases of the virus have been reported among its five million citizens.

New Zealand reports first community case of COVID-19 in two months

Nature is full of wonders and though we have studied it closely across millennia, it will be plain stupid for humans to claim the title of 'know-it-all' species. New discoveries amaze us each day. And this exactly what has happened yet again. Two female ray fish have given birth to pups without a male ray fish being present in their ranks. The news has created quite a stir in scientific community and beyond.&nbsp;

The female fish, named Nibble and Spot are at display at SEA Life Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium in Auckland, New Zealand. They of the Eagle Ray type.

Both of them delivered pups on New Year's Eve. Both Eagle rays had not been with a male for two years. And this is what is causing the amazement.

At present, theories are being raised but there appears to be no confirmation in this specific case. However, this may change later.

The curator of the museum thinks that the rays gave birth without a male as they had stored the sperms from their last encounter.

But there is another argument.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/mars-glaciers-give-insights-on-the-planets-many-ice-ages-358330">Mars' glaciers give insights on the planet's many ice ages</a>

Adele Dutilloy, a fisheries modeller at the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) was mentioned by the Guardian as saying that this was the case of Parthinongenesis.

A Parthinogenesis (virgin birth) is a natural process in which an egg develops into an embryo without being fertilised. Dutilloy said sperm storage was uncommon in rays.

This suggests that the case may be first instance of such a birth in Eagle rays being documented.

Nature is full of wonders and though we have studied it closely across millennia, it will be plain stupid for humans to claim the title of 'know-it-all' species.

Nature is full of wonders and though we have studied it closely across millennia, it will be plain stupid for humans to claim the title of 'know-it-all' species. New discoveries amaze us each day. And this exactly what has happened yet again. Two female ray fish have given birth to pups without a male ray fish being present in their ranks. The news has created quite a stir in scientific community and beyond. The female fish, named Nibble and Spot are at display at SEA Life Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium in Auckland, New Zealand. They of the Eagle Ray type. Both of them delivered pups on New Year's Eve. Both Eagle rays had not been with a male for two years. And this is what is causing the amazement. At present, theories are being raised but there appears to be no confirmation in this specific case. However, this may change later. The curator of the museum thinks that the rays gave birth without a male as they had stored the sperms from their last encounter. But there is another argument. Also Read | Mars' glaciers give insights on the planet's many ice ages Adele Dutilloy, a fisheries modeller at the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) was mentioned by the Guardian as saying that this was the case of Parthinongenesis. A Parthinogenesis (virgin birth) is a natural process in which an egg develops into an embryo without being fertilised. Dutilloy said sperm storage was uncommon in rays. This suggests that the case may be first instance of such a birth in Eagle rays being documented.

Two female ray fish give birth without males, baffle scientists

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

Tsunami warning after 7.3-magnitude earthquake recorded off the northeast coast of New Zealand

New Zealand mulls introducing media law similar to Australia

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

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

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

New Zealand backs drone project to protect endangered dolphins

Volunteers try to help stranded whales off New Zealand's South Island

Dozens of pilot whales stranded in new Zealand; 9 dead

Air New Zealand to trial digital Covid 'vaccination passport'

10 years after Christchurch quake, a hush where 8,000 homes once stood

Ardern leads tributes on New Zealand quake anniversary

After snap lockdown, New Zealand begins vaccine programme

Jacinda Ardern lashes at Australia in citizenship row over terror suspect

Jacinda Ardern lashes at Australia in citizenship row over terror suspect

New Zealand: Jacinda Ardern ends snap lockdown in Auckland

'It is wrong': New Zealand-Australia clash over responsibility of terrorist with dual nationality

WION Fineprint: New Zealand PM slams Australia over dual citizen detained in Turkey

New Zealand city enters 3-day lockdown after virus found

COVID-19: First batch of Pfizer Coronavirus vaccine arrives in New Zealand

New Zealand confirms first case of UK variant amid Auckland lockdown

New Zealand: COVID lockdown in Auckland for three days

Three new coronavirus cases reported in New Zealand, first since January

New Zealand orders largest city Auckland into snap Covid lockdown

Gravitas: Lawmaker in New Zealand wages a war against the tie