New Zealand reported a breakthrough Thursday in tracing the source of a Covid-19 outbreak that plunged the nation into lockdown, with Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern saying it should help "stamp out" the virus.

Health officials have been trying to determine how an Auckland man contracted the coronavirus this week, ending a six-month run of no community cases in New Zealand.

Tests showed the man had a version of the Delta strain found in Australia, and Ardern said investigations narrowed down the origin to a person who arrived from Sydney on August 7.

She said the traveller had been in quarantine and hospital since touching down, indicating the virus had not been in the community as long as initially feared.

"We believe we have uncovered the piece of the puzzle we were looking for," Ardern told reporters.

She said finding the outbreak's source also increased the "ability to circle the virus, lock it down and stamp it out".

Case numbers grew by 11 overnight to a total of 21, she said.

Ardern ordered a three-day national lockdown, New Zealand's first in 15 months, when the first case emerged on Tuesday, with Auckland and nearby Coromandel facing restrictions for a week.

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"We're all prepared for cases to get worse before they get better, that's always the pattern in these outbreaks," she said.

But she said there were grounds for cautious optimism "because we believe it wasn't here for long before it was found".

The infected traveller arrived from Sydney on a so-called "red zone" flight, arranged to bring back New Zealanders stranded when Wellington suspended a trans-Tasman travel bubble due to multiple outbreaks in Australia.

The person tested positive two days later and was hospitalised a week after that.

Officials said it was still unclear how the virus spread into the community and 1,000 close contacts of positive cases were being assessed.

A decision is due Friday on whether the three-day lockdown will be extended or end by Saturday.

'Covid zero' strategy

New Zealand has adopted a policy of eliminating the virus in the community, rather than containing it, which has resulted in only 26 deaths in a population of five million.

Neighbouring Australia has been pursuing a similar "Covid zero" strategy, but is struggling to contain outbreaks of the Delta variant.

Health authorities on Thursday urged mass COVID-19&nbsp;testing for an entire Outback town in far western New South Wales, where an outbreak that began in Sydney two months ago is spreading.

The area is grappling with Australia's first significant outbreak in Aboriginal communities, with specialist military health teams deployed this week to boost sluggish vaccination efforts.

Early in the pandemic, Wilcannia's roughly 750 residents put up signs on the town's limits asking travellers not to stop, fearing the virus could obliterate an already vulnerable community, where more than 60 percent identify as Indigenous.

New Zealand reported a breakthrough Thursday in tracing the source of a Covid-19 outbreak that plunged the nation into lockdown, with Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern saying it should help "stamp out" the virus.

New Zealand reported a breakthrough Thursday in tracing the source of a Covid-19 outbreak that plunged the nation into lockdown, with Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern saying it should help "stamp out" the virus. Health officials have been trying to determine how an Auckland man contracted the coronavirus this week, ending a six-month run of no community cases in New Zealand. Tests showed the man had a version of the Delta strain found in Australia, and Ardern said investigations narrowed down the origin to a person who arrived from Sydney on August 7. She said the traveller had been in quarantine and hospital since touching down, indicating the virus had not been in the community as long as initially feared. "We believe we have uncovered the piece of the puzzle we were looking for," Ardern told reporters. She said finding the outbreak's source also increased the "ability to circle the virus, lock it down and stamp it out". Case numbers grew by 11 overnight to a total of 21, she said. Ardern ordered a three-day national lockdown, New Zealand's first in 15 months, when the first case emerged on Tuesday, with Auckland and nearby Coromandel facing restrictions for a week. Also read | New wildfire explodes near California state capital "We're all prepared for cases to get worse before they get better, that's always the pattern in these outbreaks," she said. But she said there were grounds for cautious optimism "because we believe it wasn't here for long before it was found". The infected traveller arrived from Sydney on a so-called "red zone" flight, arranged to bring back New Zealanders stranded when Wellington suspended a trans-Tasman travel bubble due to multiple outbreaks in Australia. The person tested positive two days later and was hospitalised a week after that. Officials said it was still unclear how the virus spread into the community and 1,000 close contacts of positive cases were being assessed. A decision is due Friday on whether the three-day lockdown will be extended or end by Saturday. 'Covid zero' strategy New Zealand has adopted a policy of eliminating the virus in the community, rather than containing it, which has resulted in only 26 deaths in a population of five million. Neighbouring Australia has been pursuing a similar "Covid zero" strategy, but is struggling to contain outbreaks of the Delta variant. Health authorities on Thursday urged mass COVID-19 testing for an entire Outback town in far western New South Wales, where an outbreak that began in Sydney two months ago is spreading. The area is grappling with Australia's first significant outbreak in Aboriginal communities, with specialist military health teams deployed this week to boost sluggish vaccination efforts. Early in the pandemic, Wilcannia's roughly 750 residents put up signs on the town's limits asking travellers not to stop, fearing the virus could obliterate an already vulnerable community, where more than 60 percent identify as Indigenous.

New Zealand says it has solved COVID-19 outbreak 'puzzle'

Geronimo the alpaca, whose fight for life after testing positive for bovine tuberculosis has dominated British media in recent weeks, will be put down, a judge ruled on Wednesday.

More than 130,000 people signed a petition calling on the government to offer the animal a reprieve, arguing that the two test results were likely false positives.

Owner Helen Macdonald, who imported Geronimo from New Zealand, took the government to court, in a last-ditch effort to save him after losing a final appeal this month.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-you-cant-handle-it-leave-spanish-village-tells-tourists-to-not-visit-if-they-dont-like-roosters-and-cows-406965" hreflang="en">'If you can't handle it, leave': Spanish village tells tourists to not visit if they don't like roosters and cows</a>

But a High Court judge in London refused to grant a temporary injunction that would have halted enforcement of the order to destroy the animal.

Judge Mary Stacey concluded there was "no prospect" of Macdonald succeeding in her bid to reopen the case.

The government said it would give Macdonald time to arrange her pet's destruction.

"There are no plans to execute the warrant today," said a government spokesman.

"We are sympathetic to Ms Macdonald's situation, just as we are with everyone with animals affected by this terrible disease.

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"While nobody wants to cull infected animals, we need to do everything we can to tackle this disease to stop it spreading and to protect the livelihoods of those affected."

Dozens of protesters last week marched to Downing Street from the agriculture ministry, casting doubt on the accuracy of positive tests showing Geronimo has bovine TB.

MacDonald has vowed to stand in the way of government vets ordered to carry out the planned euthanasia, with Geronimo's plight making headlines in UK newspapers for days.

Also read :&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-an-object-south-korea-to-grant-legal-status-to-animals-to-tackle-abuse-abandonment-406760" hreflang="en">'Not an object': South Korea to grant legal status to animals to tackle abuse, abandonment</a>

Prime Minister Boris Johnson's father, Stanley, even weighed in, calling the planned cull "absurd" and a "murderous errand".

Environment Secretary George Eustice, a former farmer, said he sympathises with Macdonald, a vet and alpaca breeder who has a farm in Gloucestershire, western England.

But he maintained the ministry uses a "highly specific and reliable test" and Geronimo must be put down.

Geronimo the alpaca, whose fight for life after testing positive for bovine tuberculosis has dominated British media in recent weeks, will be put down, a judge ruled on Wednesday.

Geronimo the alpaca, whose fight for life after testing positive for bovine tuberculosis has dominated British media in recent weeks, will be put down, a judge ruled on Wednesday. More than 130,000 people signed a petition calling on the government to offer the animal a reprieve, arguing that the two test results were likely false positives. Owner Helen Macdonald, who imported Geronimo from New Zealand, took the government to court, in a last-ditch effort to save him after losing a final appeal this month. Also read: 'If you can't handle it, leave': Spanish village tells tourists to not visit if they don't like roosters and cows But a High Court judge in London refused to grant a temporary injunction that would have halted enforcement of the order to destroy the animal. Judge Mary Stacey concluded there was "no prospect" of Macdonald succeeding in her bid to reopen the case. The government said it would give Macdonald time to arrange her pet's destruction. "There are no plans to execute the warrant today," said a government spokesman. "We are sympathetic to Ms Macdonald's situation, just as we are with everyone with animals affected by this terrible disease. Also read: China villagers learn to live with the elephant in the room "While nobody wants to cull infected animals, we need to do everything we can to tackle this disease to stop it spreading and to protect the livelihoods of those affected." Dozens of protesters last week marched to Downing Street from the agriculture ministry, casting doubt on the accuracy of positive tests showing Geronimo has bovine TB. MacDonald has vowed to stand in the way of government vets ordered to carry out the planned euthanasia, with Geronimo's plight making headlines in UK newspapers for days. Also read : 'Not an object': South Korea to grant legal status to animals to tackle abuse, abandonment Prime Minister Boris Johnson's father, Stanley, even weighed in, calling the planned cull "absurd" and a "murderous errand". Environment Secretary George Eustice, a former farmer, said he sympathises with Macdonald, a vet and alpaca breeder who has a farm in Gloucestershire, western England. But he maintained the ministry uses a "highly specific and reliable test" and Geronimo must be put down.

Owner loses last-ditch UK court bid to save condemned alpaca

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

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

A day after announcing a nationwide lockdown, New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern warned that the coronavirus outbreak may grow in the country.

New Zealand had reported the first case of community transfer of the virus on Tuesday in Auckland as health officials began their investigations.

On Wednesday, ten more coronavirus cases were detected in the country. The New Zealand prime minister had said it was a suspected case of Delta variant as she announced a lockdown.

Ardern asserted that "Level 4 (hard lockdown) is the right place to be" as the number of cases increased in the country. New Zealand health officials predicted there could be 120 community cases as the prime minister said the first case had originated in Australia.

The snap lockdown currently in place is due to last for three days. The New Zealand prime minister informed that there have been three positive coronavirus border cases this month from Sydney.

"Yes, Delta poses a greater threat, but the same tools that have worked before will do so again if we follow the rules," the New Zealand prime minister asserted.

New Zealand has been successful in combating the virus so far with just 26 deaths reported compared to neighbouring Australia which has seen a series of lockdowns amid a surge in cases.

Ardern earlier this week had announced quarantine free travel for travellers who have been vaccinated but informed that the country's borders will remain closed this year.

(With inputs from Agencies)

A day after announcing a nationwide lockdown, New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern warned that the coronavirus outbreak may grow in the country. New Zealand had reported the first case of community transfer of the virus on Tuesday in Auckland as health officials began their investigations.

A day after announcing a nationwide lockdown, New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern warned that the coronavirus outbreak may grow in the country. New Zealand had reported the first case of community transfer of the virus on Tuesday in Auckland as health officials began their investigations. On Wednesday, ten more coronavirus cases were detected in the country. The New Zealand prime minister had said it was a suspected case of Delta variant as she announced a lockdown. Ardern asserted that "Level 4 (hard lockdown) is the right place to be" as the number of cases increased in the country. New Zealand health officials predicted there could be 120 community cases as the prime minister said the first case had originated in Australia. The snap lockdown currently in place is due to last for three days. The New Zealand prime minister informed that there have been three positive coronavirus border cases this month from Sydney. "Yes, Delta poses a greater threat, but the same tools that have worked before will do so again if we follow the rules," the New Zealand prime minister asserted. New Zealand has been successful in combating the virus so far with just 26 deaths reported compared to neighbouring Australia which has seen a series of lockdowns amid a surge in cases. Ardern earlier this week had announced quarantine free travel for travellers who have been vaccinated but informed that the country's borders will remain closed this year. (With inputs from Agencies)

'Delta poses a greater threat': New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern defends lockdown call

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern ordered a snap three-day lockdown in New Zealand after the country recorded&nbsp;the first case of locally transmitted coronavirus case in six months.

PM Ardern said the virus was suspected to be the Delta variant calling it a "game-changer".

"We have seen what can happen elsewhere if we fail to get on top of it. We only get one chance," the New Zealand prime minister said.

New Zealand reported the community case of coronavirus in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/international-travel-update-new-zealand-to-keep-borders-closed-this-year-phased-reopening-in-2022-404776">Auckland</a> on Tuesday as health&nbsp;officials began investigations.

The country's health ministry said people should wear&nbsp;masks in public places, also when they take public transport.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-business-watch-airbnb-warns-of-coronavirus-delta-variant-impact-on-bookings-405079/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-fiji-google-co-founder-larry-page-lands-in-new-zealand-find-out-why-403013">New Zealand</a> had last reported a community COVID-19 case on February 28. Auckland had earlier experienced lockdown amid a surge in cases.

"A hard and early response is the best tool to stamp out any potential spread and everyone in New Zealand is asked to stay calm, be kind and play their part while we gather more information on the potential case," the health department said.

New Zealand authorities have been relatively successful in containing the virus compared to other nations including neighbouring Australia which has witnessed a spate of lockdowns amid a surge in coronavirus cases.

The country has reported just 26 deaths although the vaccination drive has lagged behind with just 20 per cent citizens inoculated so far.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern had recently announced quarantine-free entry for vaccinated travellers from low-risk countries in a bid to reopen the country in the future, however, the prime minister had added the country's borders will remain closed this year.

The health officials are set to roll out a mass vaccination campaign from next month with 2.55 million doses of the vaccine already administered among citizens.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern ordered a snap three-day lockdown in New Zealand after the country recorded the first case of locally transmitted coronavirus case in six months.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern ordered a snap three-day lockdown in New Zealand after the country recorded the first case of locally transmitted coronavirus case in six months. PM Ardern said the virus was suspected to be the Delta variant calling it a "game-changer". "We have seen what can happen elsewhere if we fail to get on top of it. We only get one chance," the New Zealand prime minister said. New Zealand reported the community case of coronavirus in Auckland on Tuesday as health officials began investigations. The country's health ministry said people should wear masks in public places, also when they take public transport. Watch: New Zealand had last reported a community COVID-19 case on February 28. Auckland had earlier experienced lockdown amid a surge in cases. "A hard and early response is the best tool to stamp out any potential spread and everyone in New Zealand is asked to stay calm, be kind and play their part while we gather more information on the potential case," the health department said. New Zealand authorities have been relatively successful in containing the virus compared to other nations including neighbouring Australia which has witnessed a spate of lockdowns amid a surge in coronavirus cases. The country has reported just 26 deaths although the vaccination drive has lagged behind with just 20 per cent citizens inoculated so far. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern had recently announced quarantine-free entry for vaccinated travellers from low-risk countries in a bid to reopen the country in the future, however, the prime minister had added the country's borders will remain closed this year. The health officials are set to roll out a mass vaccination campaign from next month with 2.55 million doses of the vaccine already administered among citizens. (With inputs from Agencies)

New Zealand PM Ardern orders snap three-day national lockdown after virus case

In a recent development, an iconic bird species, which had been threatened, has now returned to patches of forests that had fallen silent. A kiwi call count is an annual event that uses relatively analogue technology to track how kiwi populations are doing across the region.

In a recent development, an iconic bird species, which had been threatened, has now returned to patches of forests that had fallen silent. A kiwi call count is an annual event that uses relatively analogue technology to track how kiwi populations are doing across the region. The data they gather is combined with the “kiwi listening blitz,” which is a higher-tech version, where recording devices are planted and analysed for calls every five years. As per this year's data, 50% of sites that were silent in 2016 had kiwi calling in 2021. Also read | NASA says asteroid Bennu classified as 'potentially hazardous' can hit Earth “It’s amazing,” says Ngaire Sullivan, a coordinator at Kiwi Coast, an umbrella organisation that supports more than 180 iwi (tribal) and community groups in Northland. Ayla Wiles, a biodiversity ranger for the Department of Conservation, was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "To sit out there and hear how many kiwi there are and how close they are – it makes the effort put into trapping worthwhile". She further said that about 150 people crewed listening sites across Northland, and their data goes back 20 years. Also, in some places, kiwi has increased dramatically. At Whangerei Heads, they have gone from just 80 kiwis left to over 1,000. “That’s down to the trapping and animal control,” she says. “It’s a community effort”.

Kiwi comes calling: New Zealand celebrates as an iconic bird returns

New Zealand announced a solid 16-member squad for the impending ICC World Cup in UAE and Oman. Kane Williamson will lead the side. Two experienced players, Ross Taylor and Colin de Grandhomme have been left out of the team.&nbsp;

The 16 players who will take part in the T20 World Cup and Indian visit will miss the series against Pakistan and Bangladesh. The New Zealand Cricket Board announced a different squad for the tours through Pakistan and Bangladesh. Tom Latham will be the captain for the BlackCaps team on those visits.&nbsp;

"Players in the 16-strong squad for the T20 World Cup were not considered for the five T20s against Bangladesh starting September 2, or the three ODIs in Pakistan beginning September 17." New Zealand Cricket media release.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-windies-recall-shamarh-brooks-chemar-holder-for-test-series-against-pakistan-404343" hreflang="en">Cricket: Windies recall Shamarh Brooks, Chemar Holder for Test series against Pakistan</a>

"With player and staff welfare the key priority for the four months of touring which will finish with Tests against India in November and December, a total of 32 players have been selected across the white-ball squads to play in Bangladesh, Pakistan," the statement read&nbsp;

"However, Martin Guptill, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Todd Astle, and Ish Sodhi will join the team in Pakistan for the five T20s starting September 25, while those Black Caps involved in the prematurely-suspended IPL 21 will be allowed to re-join their franchises in the lead up to the World Cup," the statement continued.

"With an eye to the Test matches against India in November and December, Devon Conway and Tim Southee will link up with the squad directly from New Zealand in early October," the statement concluded.

New Zealand have a hectic international schedule in the upcoming months. In September, they will visit Bangladesh to play 5 T20Is and 3 ODIs.&nbsp;

The Black Caps will then, head to Pakistan and play a 5-match T20I series and 3-match ODI series against Babar Azam's side from September 17 to October 3. Tom Latham will lead the youthful Kiwis side on both these visits.&nbsp;

Following the finish of the IPL, the 16-member squad under the administration of Kane Williamson will assemble in the UAE to take part in the ICC T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-shakib-stars-as-bangladesh-skittle-out-australia-for-62-in-t20-series-triumph-404322" hreflang="en">Cricket: Shakib stars as Bangladesh skittle out Australia for 62 in T20 series triumph</a>

New Zeland Squad T20I World Cup and T20I series against India: Kane Williamson (c), Todd Astle, Trent Boult, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Tim Seifert (wk), Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Adam Milne (injury cover)

New Zealand Squad for Bangladesh tour: Tom Latham (c), Finn Allen, Hamish Bennett, Tom Blundell, Doug Bracewell, Colin de Grandhomme, Jacob Duffy, Scott Kuggeleijn, Cole McConchie, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Rachin Ravindra, Blair Tickner, Will Young, Matt Henry (ODI only), Ben Sears (T20 only)

New Zealand Squad for Pakistan tour: Tom Latham (c), Finn Allen, Todd Astle, Hamish Bennett, Tom Blundell, Mark Chapman, de Grandhomme, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Ajaz Patel, Ish Sodhi, Ben Sears, Blair Tickner, Will Young

New Zealand announced a solid 16-member squad for the impending ICC World Cup in UAE and Oman. Kane Williamson will lead the side. Two experienced players, Ross Taylor and Colin de Grandhomme have been left out of the team.

New Zealand announced a solid 16-member squad for the impending ICC World Cup in UAE and Oman. Kane Williamson will lead the side. Two experienced players, Ross Taylor and Colin de Grandhomme have been left out of the team. The 16 players who will take part in the T20 World Cup and Indian visit will miss the series against Pakistan and Bangladesh. The New Zealand Cricket Board announced a different squad for the tours through Pakistan and Bangladesh. Tom Latham will be the captain for the BlackCaps team on those visits. "Players in the 16-strong squad for the T20 World Cup were not considered for the five T20s against Bangladesh starting September 2, or the three ODIs in Pakistan beginning September 17." New Zealand Cricket media release. ALSO READ: Cricket: Windies recall Shamarh Brooks, Chemar Holder for Test series against Pakistan "With player and staff welfare the key priority for the four months of touring which will finish with Tests against India in November and December, a total of 32 players have been selected across the white-ball squads to play in Bangladesh, Pakistan," the statement read "However, Martin Guptill, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Todd Astle, and Ish Sodhi will join the team in Pakistan for the five T20s starting September 25, while those Black Caps involved in the prematurely-suspended IPL 21 will be allowed to re-join their franchises in the lead up to the World Cup," the statement continued. "With an eye to the Test matches against India in November and December, Devon Conway and Tim Southee will link up with the squad directly from New Zealand in early October," the statement concluded. New Zealand have a hectic international schedule in the upcoming months. In September, they will visit Bangladesh to play 5 T20Is and 3 ODIs. The Black Caps will then, head to Pakistan and play a 5-match T20I series and 3-match ODI series against Babar Azam's side from September 17 to October 3. Tom Latham will lead the youthful Kiwis side on both these visits. Following the finish of the IPL, the 16-member squad under the administration of Kane Williamson will assemble in the UAE to take part in the ICC T20 World Cup. ALSO READ: Cricket: Shakib stars as Bangladesh skittle out Australia for 62 in T20 series triumph New Zeland Squad T20I World Cup and T20I series against India: Kane Williamson (c), Todd Astle, Trent Boult, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Tim Seifert (wk), Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Adam Milne (injury cover) New Zealand Squad for Bangladesh tour: Tom Latham (c), Finn Allen, Hamish Bennett, Tom Blundell, Doug Bracewell, Colin de Grandhomme, Jacob Duffy, Scott Kuggeleijn, Cole McConchie, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Rachin Ravindra, Blair Tickner, Will Young, Matt Henry (ODI only), Ben Sears (T20 only) New Zealand Squad for Pakistan tour: Tom Latham (c), Finn Allen, Todd Astle, Hamish Bennett, Tom Blundell, Mark Chapman, de Grandhomme, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Ajaz Patel, Ish Sodhi, Ben Sears, Blair Tickner, Will Young

Cricket: New Zealand announces squad for T20 World Cup and Bangladesh, Pakistan tours

Former New Zealand Olympic cyclist, Olivia Podmore, has died at the age of 24, the New Zealand Olympics Committee (NZOC) confirmed. 
 
Podmore represented her country at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro and the 2018 Commonwealth Games but was not part of the team that participated in the just completed Tokyo Olympics. 
 
A New Zealand police spokesman said police attended a sudden death at a property in Waikato on New Zealand`s upper North Island at about 4 p.m. (0400 GMT) on Monday. 
 
"Police are making enquiries in relation to the death on behalf of the coroner," the spokesman said. 
 
Podmore`s brother Mitchell wrote in a Facebook post: "Rest in peace to my gorgeous sister and loved daughter of Phil Podmore. You will be in our hearts forever." 
 
The NZOC said news of Podmore`s death had reached the New Zealand cycling team in Tokyo, which is preparing to return home. 
 
"We are providing wellbeing support for members of her team and the wider team as we return home from Tokyo," NZOC said in a statement.

Former New Zealand Olympic cyclist, Olivia Podmore, has died at the age of 24, the New Zealand Olympics Committee (NZOC) confirmed. Podmore represented her country at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro and the 2018 Commonwealth Games but was not part of the team that participated in the just completed Tokyo Olympics.

Former New Zealand Olympic cyclist, Olivia Podmore, has died at the age of 24, the New Zealand Olympics Committee (NZOC) confirmed. Podmore represented her country at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro and the 2018 Commonwealth Games but was not part of the team that participated in the just completed Tokyo Olympics. A New Zealand police spokesman said police attended a sudden death at a property in Waikato on New Zealand`s upper North Island at about 4 p.m. (0400 GMT) on Monday. "Police are making enquiries in relation to the death on behalf of the coroner," the spokesman said. Podmore`s brother Mitchell wrote in a Facebook post: "Rest in peace to my gorgeous sister and loved daughter of Phil Podmore. You will be in our hearts forever." The NZOC said news of Podmore`s death had reached the New Zealand cycling team in Tokyo, which is preparing to return home. "We are providing wellbeing support for members of her team and the wider team as we return home from Tokyo," NZOC said in a statement.

Former New Zealand Olympic cyclist Olivia Podmore dies: NZ Olympics Committee

Former New Zealand&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;all-rounder Chris Cairns is on life support at a Canberra hospital after recently collapsing with a heart problem, New Zealand media reported on Tuesday.

Cairns, 51, had undergone several operations after suffering an aortic dissection but had not responded to treatment as hoped, Newshub reported. An aortic dissection is a tear in the body's main artery.

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Newshub said he would be transferred to a specialist hospital in Sydney.

New Zealand's&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;players' union was unable to provide immediate comment.

A New Zealand&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;spokesman said the board was respecting Cairns' right to privacy and declined to comment on the situation.

Regarded as one of the best all-rounders of his era, Cairns played 62 tests, 215 one-day internationals, and two Twenty20 matches for New Zealand between 1989-2006 before becoming a television pundit.

His father Lance also represented New Zealand in&nbsp;cricket.

Cairns has lived in Canberra for several years after his marriage to Australian Melanie Croser in 2010.

After retiring from international&nbsp;cricket, Cairns was the subject of allegations of match-fixing in India as captain of the Chandigarh Lions in the defunct Indian&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;League (ICL) in 2008.

He denied any wrongdoing and fought several legal battles to clear his name, winning a libel case against former Indian Premier League chairman Lalit Modi in 2012.

In 2015, he was cleared of perjury in relation to the libel case after being charged by Britain's Crown Prosecution Service.

Former New Zealand cricket all-rounder Chris Cairns is on life support at a Canberra hospital after recently collapsing with a heart problem, New Zealand media reported on Tuesday.

Former New Zealand cricket all-rounder Chris Cairns is on life support at a Canberra hospital after recently collapsing with a heart problem, New Zealand media reported on Tuesday. Cairns, 51, had undergone several operations after suffering an aortic dissection but had not responded to treatment as hoped, Newshub reported. An aortic dissection is a tear in the body's main artery. ALSO READ: Cricket in Olympics? ICC confirms 'intention' to push game's inclusion in Games Newshub said he would be transferred to a specialist hospital in Sydney. New Zealand's cricket players' union was unable to provide immediate comment. A New Zealand Cricket spokesman said the board was respecting Cairns' right to privacy and declined to comment on the situation. Regarded as one of the best all-rounders of his era, Cairns played 62 tests, 215 one-day internationals, and two Twenty20 matches for New Zealand between 1989-2006 before becoming a television pundit. His father Lance also represented New Zealand in cricket. Cairns has lived in Canberra for several years after his marriage to Australian Melanie Croser in 2010. After retiring from international cricket, Cairns was the subject of allegations of match-fixing in India as captain of the Chandigarh Lions in the defunct Indian Cricket League (ICL) in 2008. He denied any wrongdoing and fought several legal battles to clear his name, winning a libel case against former Indian Premier League chairman Lalit Modi in 2012. In 2015, he was cleared of perjury in relation to the libel case after being charged by Britain's Crown Prosecution Service.

Cricket: Former New Zealand all-rounder Chris Cairns on life support - Reports

New Zealand batsman Colin Munro has communicated his disappointment after missing out on a spot in the Kiwis' 15-member squad for the ICC T20 World Cup, which is to be played in the UAE and Oman in the not-so-distant future.&nbsp;

Colin Munro, who last played for the Black Caps in 2020 against India, as of late turned up in the Pakistan Super League and is right now playing in The Hundred. He posted a story on Instagram, communicating his sentiments alongside a list of the T20 World Cup squad.

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“Extremely gutted to miss out on this, was definitely a goal of mine that I wanted to tick off. Looks like I may have played my last game for Black Caps, not by choice,” he wrote.
<img alt="Colin Munro's Instagram story " data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ced46f9d-dc1a-497c-b1da-f9a3ee81d669" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Capture%20121.PNG" />
In the meantime, New Zealand likewise left out veteran batsman Ross Taylor and all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme from the squad for the marquee tournament that is beginning on October 17.&nbsp;

New Zealand's 15-member squad for World Cup: Kane Williamson (c), Todd Astle, Trent Boult, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Tim Seifert (wk), Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee&nbsp;

Colin Munro has represented New Zealand in 65 T20Is, accumulating 1724 runs at a strike-pace of 156.44, including three centuries.

New Zealand batsman Colin Munro has communicated his disappointment after missing out on a spot in the Kiwis' 15-member squad for the ICC T20 World Cup, which is to be played in the UAE and Oman in the not-so-distant future.

New Zealand batsman Colin Munro has communicated his disappointment after missing out on a spot in the Kiwis' 15-member squad for the ICC T20 World Cup, which is to be played in the UAE and Oman in the not-so-distant future. Colin Munro, who last played for the Black Caps in 2020 against India, as of late turned up in the Pakistan Super League and is right now playing in The Hundred. He posted a story on Instagram, communicating his sentiments alongside a list of the T20 World Cup squad. ALSO READ: Cricket: Shakib stars as Bangladesh skittle out Australia for 62 in T20 series triumph “Extremely gutted to miss out on this, was definitely a goal of mine that I wanted to tick off. Looks like I may have played my last game for Black Caps, not by choice,” he wrote. In the meantime, New Zealand likewise left out veteran batsman Ross Taylor and all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme from the squad for the marquee tournament that is beginning on October 17. New Zealand's 15-member squad for World Cup: Kane Williamson (c), Todd Astle, Trent Boult, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Tim Seifert (wk), Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee Colin Munro has represented New Zealand in 65 T20Is, accumulating 1724 runs at a strike-pace of 156.44, including three centuries.

Cricket: 'Extremely gutted,' says Colin Munro after missing out on New Zealand's T20 World Cup squad

New Zealand has hailed its athletes for an "incredible" Tokyo Games as the country of five million burnished its reputation for punching above its weight with a record medals haul.

New Zealand claimed seven golds, six silvers and seven bronzes to finish 13th on the medal table, edging countries including South Korea (16) and Spain (22).

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/japan-pm-yoshihide-sugas-support-slides-to-record-low-as-olympic-games-close-survey-reveals-404103" hreflang="en">Japan PM Yoshihide Suga's support slides to record low as Olympic Games close, survey reveals</a>

"There were some incredible performances," New Zealand chef de mission Robert Waddell told TVNZ on Monday.

"We have really enjoyed how the team has come together.

"I think partly because of the fact that we haven't had family and friends ... over here with us, it has been a really tight-knit team feeling and we've all drawn a lot of inspiration from each other's success."

New Zealand's tally was boosted by canoe sprint sensation https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/canoe-sprint-hungarys-csizmadia-briton-heath-ease-into-final-2021-08-05 Lisa Carrington, who became the country's most decorated Olympian with a three-gold haul at Tokyo, while claiming her third successive kayak single 200 metres title after Rio and London.

New Zealand's traditional strengths delivered, with rowing producing three golds and two silvers, the women's rugby sevens team dominating to win gold and the men taking silver.

But Waddell was thrilled by unexpected minor medals in boxing and trampoline.

"All those medals were across 11 different sports which is a great thing for New Zealand because it's not just one sport that's delivering," he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-2020-british-team-hail-miracle-of-tokyo-after-big-medals-haul-404031" hreflang="en">Olympics 2020: British team hail 'miracle of Tokyo' after big medals haul</a>

"What Dylan Schmidt did in trampolining, what David Nyika did in boxing, those show a pathway for other young kids in New Zealand who might be able to follow in those footsteps and achieve at the same sort of level."

Following on from victory over cricket powerhouse India in the inaugural World Test Championship final in June, the Olympic haul continues New Zealand's track record of doing more with less.

"We're very collaborative," said Waddell. "We work together well and we're big enough that we can do that but not so big that we're clumsy."

New Zealand has hailed its athletes for an "incredible" Tokyo Games as the country of five million burnished its reputation for punching above its weight with a record medals haul.

New Zealand has hailed its athletes for an "incredible" Tokyo Games as the country of five million burnished its reputation for punching above its weight with a record medals haul. New Zealand claimed seven golds, six silvers and seven bronzes to finish 13th on the medal table, edging countries including South Korea (16) and Spain (22). ALSO READ: Japan PM Yoshihide Suga's support slides to record low as Olympic Games close, survey reveals "There were some incredible performances," New Zealand chef de mission Robert Waddell told TVNZ on Monday. "We have really enjoyed how the team has come together. "I think partly because of the fact that we haven't had family and friends ... over here with us, it has been a really tight-knit team feeling and we've all drawn a lot of inspiration from each other's success." New Zealand's tally was boosted by canoe sprint sensation https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/canoe-sprint-hungarys-csizmadia-briton-heath-ease-into-final-2021-08-05 Lisa Carrington, who became the country's most decorated Olympian with a three-gold haul at Tokyo, while claiming her third successive kayak single 200 metres title after Rio and London. New Zealand's traditional strengths delivered, with rowing producing three golds and two silvers, the women's rugby sevens team dominating to win gold and the men taking silver. But Waddell was thrilled by unexpected minor medals in boxing and trampoline. "All those medals were across 11 different sports which is a great thing for New Zealand because it's not just one sport that's delivering," he said. ALSO READ: Olympics 2020: British team hail 'miracle of Tokyo' after big medals haul "What Dylan Schmidt did in trampolining, what David Nyika did in boxing, those show a pathway for other young kids in New Zealand who might be able to follow in those footsteps and achieve at the same sort of level." Following on from victory over cricket powerhouse India in the inaugural World Test Championship final in June, the Olympic haul continues New Zealand's track record of doing more with less. "We're very collaborative," said Waddell. "We work together well and we're big enough that we can do that but not so big that we're clumsy."

Tokyo Olympics: New Zealand hails 'incredible' Games after record medals haul

The people of New Zealand are mourning as the production of country's cheapest sparkling wines has come to an end.&nbsp;

The death knell has sounded for the $10-a-bottle Bernadino spumante, colloquially known as “Bernadino spewmante”, “Bernie” or “the best party plonk”.

Lion New Zealand, the liquor company that owns and distributes Bernadino, told that it was stopping production due to rising costs.

A spokesperson was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "The sparkling wine category is very competitive and with costs rising, unfortunately, it has become commercially unviable to continue its production at this time".

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Usually priced between $10 and $12, and with a mid-range alcohol content of 9.5 per cent, Bernadino has long been a popular coming of age drink for young Kiwis, and equally enjoyed by older drinkers.

South City Liquorland store took to its official Facebook handle and announced its demise.&nbsp;

Duty manager Conner Bray was quoted by Stuff as saying, "We were sitting in our group chat last night saying ‘this is getting out of hand – it's at 400 comments’ and then someone only an hour later said ‘it’s at 2000 comments".

The people of New Zealand are mourning as the production of country's cheapest sparkling wines has come to an end. The death knell has sounded for the $10-a-bottle Bernadino spumante, colloquially known as “Bernadino spewmante”, “Bernie” or “the best party plonk”.

The people of New Zealand are mourning as the production of country's cheapest sparkling wines has come to an end. The death knell has sounded for the $10-a-bottle Bernadino spumante, colloquially known as “Bernadino spewmante”, “Bernie” or “the best party plonk”. Lion New Zealand, the liquor company that owns and distributes Bernadino, told that it was stopping production due to rising costs. A spokesperson was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "The sparkling wine category is very competitive and with costs rising, unfortunately, it has become commercially unviable to continue its production at this time". Also read | Bill Gates regrets meeting convicted sex offender Epstein Usually priced between $10 and $12, and with a mid-range alcohol content of 9.5 per cent, Bernadino has long been a popular coming of age drink for young Kiwis, and equally enjoyed by older drinkers. South City Liquorland store took to its official Facebook handle and announced its demise. Duty manager Conner Bray was quoted by Stuff as saying, "We were sitting in our group chat last night saying ‘this is getting out of hand – it's at 400 comments’ and then someone only an hour later said ‘it’s at 2000 comments".

End of an era for Bernadino sparkling wine, here is all you need to know

New Zealand`s Human Rights Commission on Monday launched an inquiry into the country`s housing crisis as cooling measures by the government this year have failed to ease a red-hot property market, leaving many people homeless. 
 
Property prices in New Zealand have soared by the most among OECD nations in the past 12 months, rising about 30%, as investors cashed in on historically low interest rates and cheap access to capital under the government`s pandemic-inspired stimulus spending. 
 
Successive governments have failed to solve the housing crisis and for many people, especially young people, the goal of an affordable home has become more remote, New Zealand`s Chief Human Rights Commissioner Paul Hunt said in a statement. 
 
"The housing crisis in Aotearoa is also a human rights crisis encompassing homeownership, market renting, state housing and homelessness," Hunt said, using the country`s indigenous Maori name. 
 
"It is having a punishing impact especially on the most marginalised in our communities," he said. 
 
The United Nations Special Rapporteur on adequate housing, Leilani Farha, said in her report published in June that there is a persistent lack of affordable housing in New Zealand, and consecutive governments have failed to ensure that the housing market meets the needs of the entire population, particularly those who have low incomes. 
 
Soaring prices and rents have forced families into emergency housing, with the government housing many in motels as there are not enough state homes available. 
 
Under pressure Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern launched a raft of measures this year to tax investors and discourage speculators. But these have had only a marginal impact. 
 
The rising inequality inflamed by the housing crisis is arguably the biggest political challenge facing Ardern`s centre-left Labour-led government. The 41-year-old`s popularity soared with her response to the pandemic that kept nationwide cases to barely 2,500 and led to an emphatic election win last year. 
 
But her support has been slipping with the latest Newshub-Reid Research Poll on Sunday showing Labour`s support fell to 43%, down almost 10 points since the last poll in May, while the main opposition National Party`s support inched up to almost 29%. Support for Ardern as the prime minister also declined but she was still well ahead of her rivals. 
 
Ardern defended her government`s record on housing saying it was pulling every lever to ensure everyone gets a warm, dry home. 
 
“When I look at the record of what we’ve done, 8,000 houses to date, 18,000 on the cards. We are scaling up as quickly as we can," Ardern told state broadcaster TVNZ in a interview after the inquiry was announced.

New Zealand`s Human Rights Commission on Monday launched an inquiry into the country`s housing crisis as cooling measures by the government this year have failed to ease a red-hot property market, leaving many people homeless.

New Zealand`s Human Rights Commission on Monday launched an inquiry into the country`s housing crisis as cooling measures by the government this year have failed to ease a red-hot property market, leaving many people homeless. Property prices in New Zealand have soared by the most among OECD nations in the past 12 months, rising about 30%, as investors cashed in on historically low interest rates and cheap access to capital under the government`s pandemic-inspired stimulus spending. Successive governments have failed to solve the housing crisis and for many people, especially young people, the goal of an affordable home has become more remote, New Zealand`s Chief Human Rights Commissioner Paul Hunt said in a statement. "The housing crisis in Aotearoa is also a human rights crisis encompassing homeownership, market renting, state housing and homelessness," Hunt said, using the country`s indigenous Maori name. "It is having a punishing impact especially on the most marginalised in our communities," he said. The United Nations Special Rapporteur on adequate housing, Leilani Farha, said in her report published in June that there is a persistent lack of affordable housing in New Zealand, and consecutive governments have failed to ensure that the housing market meets the needs of the entire population, particularly those who have low incomes. Soaring prices and rents have forced families into emergency housing, with the government housing many in motels as there are not enough state homes available. Under pressure Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern launched a raft of measures this year to tax investors and discourage speculators. But these have had only a marginal impact. The rising inequality inflamed by the housing crisis is arguably the biggest political challenge facing Ardern`s centre-left Labour-led government. The 41-year-old`s popularity soared with her response to the pandemic that kept nationwide cases to barely 2,500 and led to an emphatic election win last year. But her support has been slipping with the latest Newshub-Reid Research Poll on Sunday showing Labour`s support fell to 43%, down almost 10 points since the last poll in May, while the main opposition National Party`s support inched up to almost 29%. Support for Ardern as the prime minister also declined but she was still well ahead of her rivals. Ardern defended her government`s record on housing saying it was pulling every lever to ensure everyone gets a warm, dry home. “When I look at the record of what we’ve done, 8,000 houses to date, 18,000 on the cards. We are scaling up as quickly as we can," Ardern told state broadcaster TVNZ in a interview after the inquiry was announced.

New Zealand human rights commission launches inquiry into housing crisis

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern&nbsp;issued a sombre state apology to the Pacific community for deportations and prosecutions caused by racially targeted raids in the 1970s.

New Zealand saw many raids between 1974 and 1976.&nbsp;These raids were usually conducted first thing in the morning, hence the name "Dawn raids."&nbsp;The raids were a part of a government clampdown on workers, from the Pacific, who overstayed their visas.

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A formal apology was delivered by Ardern, who expressed her regret about the raids in which Pacific communities were racially targeted and&nbsp;suffered.&nbsp;Speaking to the hundreds of people gathered there, Ardern said that to this day Pacific people continue to experience "the scars" of those raids.&nbsp;

"Today, I stand on behalf of the New Zealand government to offer a formal and unreserved apology to Pacific communities for the discriminatory implementation of the immigration laws of the 1970s that led to the events of the Dawn Raids," she said.

In addition to a formal apology, Ardern's government will provide academic and vocational scholarships worth NZ$2.1 million ($1.5 million) to Pacific communities, as well as leadership scholarships worth $1 million to youths from Samoa, Tonga, Fiji and Tuvalu.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-introduces-bill-to-outlaw-lgbt-conversion-therapy-401615">New Zealand introduces bill to outlaw LGBT conversion therapy</a>

Members of parliament and ministers draped a mat over Ardern during the Ifoga ceremony on Sunday, a traditional Samoan ceremony where people ask for forgiveness or receive forgiveness. Members of the Pacific community then removed the mat from Ardern.

Arden stressed that the government expresses its regret, remorse, and sorrow for the Dawn Raids and random police checks that occurred, adding that "there were no reported raids on any homes of people who were not Pacific; no raids or random stops were exacted towards European people."

(With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern issued a sombre state apology to the Pacific community for deportations and prosecutions caused by racially targeted raids in the 1970s.

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern issued a sombre state apology to the Pacific community for deportations and prosecutions caused by racially targeted raids in the 1970s. New Zealand saw many raids between 1974 and 1976. These raids were usually conducted first thing in the morning, hence the name "Dawn raids." The raids were a part of a government clampdown on workers, from the Pacific, who overstayed their visas. Also read | New Zealand will not follow UK's 'live with Covid' policy: Jacinda Ardern A formal apology was delivered by Ardern, who expressed her regret about the raids in which Pacific communities were racially targeted and suffered. Speaking to the hundreds of people gathered there, Ardern said that to this day Pacific people continue to experience "the scars" of those raids. "Today, I stand on behalf of the New Zealand government to offer a formal and unreserved apology to Pacific communities for the discriminatory implementation of the immigration laws of the 1970s that led to the events of the Dawn Raids," she said. In addition to a formal apology, Ardern's government will provide academic and vocational scholarships worth NZ$2.1 million ($1.5 million) to Pacific communities, as well as leadership scholarships worth $1 million to youths from Samoa, Tonga, Fiji and Tuvalu. Also read | New Zealand introduces bill to outlaw LGBT conversion therapy Members of parliament and ministers draped a mat over Ardern during the Ifoga ceremony on Sunday, a traditional Samoan ceremony where people ask for forgiveness or receive forgiveness. Members of the Pacific community then removed the mat from Ardern. Arden stressed that the government expresses its regret, remorse, and sorrow for the Dawn Raids and random police checks that occurred, adding that "there were no reported raids on any homes of people who were not Pacific; no raids or random stops were exacted towards European people." (With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand's Ardern apologises to Pacific community for 1970s 'dawn' immigration raids

New Zealand introduced on Friday legislation that proposes up to five years in prison for practices intended to change a person`s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, known as LGBT conversion therapy. 
 
The proposed measures were aimed at ending such practices, which do not work, are widely discredited, and cause harm, Justice Minister Kris Faafoi said in a statement. 
 
"Conversion practices have no place in modern New Zealand. They are based on the false belief that any person`s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression is broken and in need of fixing," Faafoi said. 
 
"Health professionals, religious leaders and human rights advocates here and overseas have spoken out against these practices as harmful and having the potential to perpetuate prejudice, discrimination and abuse towards members of rainbow communities," he added. 
 
Under the newly proposed bill, anyone performing conversion practices on person younger than 18, or on someone with impaired decision-making capacity, would be subject to up to 3 years imprisonment. 
 
Conversion practices that cause serious harm would carry a sentence of up to 5 years imprisonment. 
 
The government said that the bill does not address general expression of religious beliefs or principles about sexuality and gender. 
 
Laws against conversion therapy have been gaining momentum around the world, including in countries such as Canada, Britain and Australia. 
 
The United States does not have a federal ban on conversion therapy, but several U.S. states, including California, Colorado, New York, Washington and Utah, prohibit the practice to some degree. The American Medical Association has condemned the practice as "harmful and ineffective". 
 
Aimed at changing a person`s sexual orientation or gender identity, conversion therapy can include talk therapy, hypnosis, electric shocks and fasting. In extreme cases, exorcism and "corrective rape" for lesbians, have been documented. 
 
Ending conversion therapy was one New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern`s campaign promises when she was elected for a second term last year.

New Zealand introduced on Friday legislation that proposes up to five years in prison for practices intended to change a person`s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, known as LGBT conversion therapy.

New Zealand introduced on Friday legislation that proposes up to five years in prison for practices intended to change a person`s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, known as LGBT conversion therapy. The proposed measures were aimed at ending such practices, which do not work, are widely discredited, and cause harm, Justice Minister Kris Faafoi said in a statement. "Conversion practices have no place in modern New Zealand. They are based on the false belief that any person`s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression is broken and in need of fixing," Faafoi said. "Health professionals, religious leaders and human rights advocates here and overseas have spoken out against these practices as harmful and having the potential to perpetuate prejudice, discrimination and abuse towards members of rainbow communities," he added. Under the newly proposed bill, anyone performing conversion practices on person younger than 18, or on someone with impaired decision-making capacity, would be subject to up to 3 years imprisonment. Conversion practices that cause serious harm would carry a sentence of up to 5 years imprisonment. The government said that the bill does not address general expression of religious beliefs or principles about sexuality and gender. Laws against conversion therapy have been gaining momentum around the world, including in countries such as Canada, Britain and Australia. The United States does not have a federal ban on conversion therapy, but several U.S. states, including California, Colorado, New York, Washington and Utah, prohibit the practice to some degree. The American Medical Association has condemned the practice as "harmful and ineffective". Aimed at changing a person`s sexual orientation or gender identity, conversion therapy can include talk therapy, hypnosis, electric shocks and fasting. In extreme cases, exorcism and "corrective rape" for lesbians, have been documented. Ending conversion therapy was one New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern`s campaign promises when she was elected for a second term last year.

New Zealand introduces bill to outlaw LGBT conversion therapy

Best places to survive amid global societal collapse

In a recent development, a new study has revealed that New Zealand, Iceland, the UK, Tasmania and Ireland are the places best suited to survive a global collapse of society.

As per the researchers, human civilisation was “in a perilous state” because of the highly interconnected and energy-intensive society and the environmental damage that has been caused.

Published in the journal Sustainability, the study read, “The globe-spanning, energy-intensive industrial civilisation that characterises the modern era represents an anomalous situation when it is considered against the majority of human history.”

In a bid to assess which nations would be most resilient to a collapse, countries were ranked as per their ability to grow food for their population, protect their borders from unwanted mass migration, and maintain an electrical grid and some manufacturing ability.&nbsp;

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When the conclusion was made, it was observed that the islands in temperate regions and mostly with low population densities came out on top.

As per the researchers, the study highlights the factors that nations need to improve so that they are able to increase resilience.&nbsp;

Prof Aled Jones, at the Global Sustainability Institute, at Anglia Ruskin University, was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "We weren’t surprised New Zealand was on our list". He added, "We chose that you had to be able to protect borders and places had to be temperate. So with hindsight it’s quite obvious that large islands with complex societies on them already [make up the list]".

“We were quite surprised the UK came out strongly. It is densely populated, has traditionally outsourced manufacturing, hasn’t been the quickest to develop renewable technology, and only produces 50 per cent of its own food at the moment. But it has the potential to withstand shocks.”

In a recent development, a new study has revealed that New Zealand, Iceland, the UK, Tasmania and Ireland are the places best suited to survive a global collapse of society.

In a recent development, a new study has revealed that New Zealand, Iceland, the UK, Tasmania and Ireland are the places best suited to survive a global collapse of society. As per the researchers, human civilisation was “in a perilous state” because of the highly interconnected and energy-intensive society and the environmental damage that has been caused. Published in the journal Sustainability, the study read, “The globe-spanning, energy-intensive industrial civilisation that characterises the modern era represents an anomalous situation when it is considered against the majority of human history.” In a bid to assess which nations would be most resilient to a collapse, countries were ranked as per their ability to grow food for their population, protect their borders from unwanted mass migration, and maintain an electrical grid and some manufacturing ability. Also read | Samsung reports surge in profit on pandemic-led demand for chips When the conclusion was made, it was observed that the islands in temperate regions and mostly with low population densities came out on top. As per the researchers, the study highlights the factors that nations need to improve so that they are able to increase resilience. Prof Aled Jones, at the Global Sustainability Institute, at Anglia Ruskin University, was quoted by The Guardian as saying, "We weren’t surprised New Zealand was on our list". He added, "We chose that you had to be able to protect borders and places had to be temperate. So with hindsight it’s quite obvious that large islands with complex societies on them already [make up the list]". “We were quite surprised the UK came out strongly. It is densely populated, has traditionally outsourced manufacturing, hasn’t been the quickest to develop renewable technology, and only produces 50 per cent of its own food at the moment. But it has the potential to withstand shocks.”

Here is a list of the best places to survive amid a global societal collapse

Toa, the baby&nbsp;orca&nbsp;who captured hearts after he was found stranded in New Zealand waters, has lost his fight for survival, conservationists confirmed Saturday.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;killer whale, less than 2.5 metres (eight feet) long and believed to be four to six months old, became front-page news when he washed ashore near the capital Wellington after becoming separated from his pod nearly two weeks ago.

He was unweaned, and hundreds of people volunteered to assist with round-the-clock care as he was unable to survive alone in the ocean.&nbsp;

Conservationists, who named the&nbsp;orca&nbsp;Toa -- Maori for "warrior" -- housed him in a makeshift pen at the seaside suburb of Plimmerton, where he was fed via a special teat every four hours while an air and sea search was mounted to find his mother.&nbsp;

Whale Rescue, an organisation that had been helping care for Toa, posted on social media that his condition rapidly deteriorated on Friday night.

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"Vets on site rushed to his aid but were unable to save him," the statement said.&nbsp;

Department of Conservation marine species manager Ian Angus said they were aware that the longer Toa was in captivity and away from his mother, the more likely it was his health would deteriorate.&nbsp;

"Toa passed quickly, surrounded by love with his last days made as comfortable as possible," Angus said.&nbsp;

"Throughout this amazing effort, we've all been united in wanting to do the best for Toa. Finding and reuniting him with his pod was still our goal as we headed into the weekend.&nbsp;

"This calf had captured hearts, and no one wanted to believe that he didn't have a fighting chance."&nbsp;

Despite being known as killer whales, orcas are actually the largest species of dolphin, with males growing up to nine metres.

Recognisable by their distinctive black and white markings, they are listed as critically endangered in New Zealand, where their population is estimated at 150-200.&nbsp;

Pods of orcas are relatively common in Wellington Harbour, where they have been observed hunting stingrays.

Toa, the baby orca who captured hearts after he was found stranded in New Zealand waters, has lost his fight for survival, conservationists confirmed Saturday. The killer whale, less than 2.

Toa, the baby orca who captured hearts after he was found stranded in New Zealand waters, has lost his fight for survival, conservationists confirmed Saturday. The killer whale, less than 2.5 metres (eight feet) long and believed to be four to six months old, became front-page news when he washed ashore near the capital Wellington after becoming separated from his pod nearly two weeks ago. He was unweaned, and hundreds of people volunteered to assist with round-the-clock care as he was unable to survive alone in the ocean. Conservationists, who named the orca Toa -- Maori for "warrior" -- housed him in a makeshift pen at the seaside suburb of Plimmerton, where he was fed via a special teat every four hours while an air and sea search was mounted to find his mother. Whale Rescue, an organisation that had been helping care for Toa, posted on social media that his condition rapidly deteriorated on Friday night. Also read | Stonehenge could lose world heritage status, here is why "Vets on site rushed to his aid but were unable to save him," the statement said. Department of Conservation marine species manager Ian Angus said they were aware that the longer Toa was in captivity and away from his mother, the more likely it was his health would deteriorate. "Toa passed quickly, surrounded by love with his last days made as comfortable as possible," Angus said. "Throughout this amazing effort, we've all been united in wanting to do the best for Toa. Finding and reuniting him with his pod was still our goal as we headed into the weekend. "This calf had captured hearts, and no one wanted to believe that he didn't have a fighting chance." Despite being known as killer whales, orcas are actually the largest species of dolphin, with males growing up to nine metres. Recognisable by their distinctive black and white markings, they are listed as critically endangered in New Zealand, where their population is estimated at 150-200. Pods of orcas are relatively common in Wellington Harbour, where they have been observed hunting stingrays.

Baby orca dies in New Zealand after fruitless search for mother

New Zealand is shutting down the quarantine free travel bubble with Australia for a period of two months as COVID-19 cases surge in Sydney.&nbsp;

The country had already paused travel with the states of New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia.

At a press briefing on Friday, prime minister Jacinda Ardern said because of the Delta variant there was “greater risk now … than when we opened the travel bubble”. She further added, "Covid has changed and so must we".

The government “remains committed” to the travel bubble and hoped it would reopen at some stage.&nbsp;

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Sydney's fast-growing COVID-19 outbreak has become a "national emergency," said state leaders as Australia's largest city reported another record number of new infections.

"We have an obligation on behalf of the nation to contain the virus," said New South Wales premier Gladys Berejiklian. "There is no doubt that the numbers are not going in the right direction."&nbsp;

With the virus "spreading everywhere" and half the country's 25 million people currently in lockdown, Berejiklian said the government must "refocus" its glacial vaccine rollout.&nbsp;

Just 12 per cent of Australians have been fully vaccinated.

New Zealand is shutting down the quarantine free travel bubble with Australia for a period of two months as COVID-19 cases surge in Sydney. The country had already paused travel with the states of New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia.

New Zealand is shutting down the quarantine free travel bubble with Australia for a period of two months as COVID-19 cases surge in Sydney. The country had already paused travel with the states of New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia. At a press briefing on Friday, prime minister Jacinda Ardern said because of the Delta variant there was “greater risk now … than when we opened the travel bubble”. She further added, "Covid has changed and so must we". The government “remains committed” to the travel bubble and hoped it would reopen at some stage. Also read | Sydney outbreak a 'national emergency' as COVID-19 cases surge Sydney's fast-growing COVID-19 outbreak has become a "national emergency," said state leaders as Australia's largest city reported another record number of new infections. "We have an obligation on behalf of the nation to contain the virus," said New South Wales premier Gladys Berejiklian. "There is no doubt that the numbers are not going in the right direction." With the virus "spreading everywhere" and half the country's 25 million people currently in lockdown, Berejiklian said the government must "refocus" its glacial vaccine rollout. Just 12 per cent of Australians have been fully vaccinated.

New Zealand shuts Australia travel bubble as COVID-19 cases surge

Defending champions Australia and New Zealand withdrew from the&nbsp;Rugby&nbsp;League&nbsp;World Cup in England on Thursday, citing player welfare and safety concerns amid the COVID-19 pandemic, in a massive blow for the sport's global showpiece.

The Australian&nbsp;Rugby&nbsp;League&nbsp;Commission (ARLC) and New Zealand&nbsp;Rugby&nbsp;League&nbsp;(NZRL) said they had repeated a request to organisers to postpone the Oct&nbsp;23-Nov&nbsp;27 event until 2022 to "minimise risk of players contracting COVID-19".

"The decision to withdraw from the RLWC2021 comes after considering the risk of COVID-19 infection in the United Kingdom, the worsening environment in Australia and the time a majority of NRL (National&nbsp;Rugby&nbsp;League) players will spend away from home under strict biosecurity conditions prior to the World Cup," they said in a joint statement.

Rugby&nbsp;Football&nbsp;League&nbsp;(RFL) chairman Simon Johnson called the withdrawals "a selfish, parochial and cowardly decision".

"Rugby&nbsp;League&nbsp;World Cup organizers have bent over backward to offer every assurance to the Australians and the Kiwis," Johnson told the BBC. "We are very unhappy with this decision and we are not prepared to take it lying down."

World Cup Organisers said they were informed about the withdrawals at "very short notice" and would continue discussions with stakeholders to agree on the best way forward.

"RLWC2021 note the disappointing statement made by the ARLC and NZRL which may have wide-ranging implications for international&nbsp;Rugby&nbsp;League," organizers said in a statement.

COVID-19 infections are increasing in the UK, with 47,114 new ones reported on average each day. The UK has recorded 5.5 million confirmed cases and 128,896 total deaths, according to a Reuters tally.

Australia is also battling outbreaks of COVID-19 albeit on a much smaller scale. Around 13 million people, or half the country's population, are under strict lockdown.

Australia's "Kangaroos" have dominated the World Cup, winning eight out of the last nine editions dating back to the 1970s.

New Zealand, whose top players also compete in the NRL, won the 2008 World Cup hosted by Australia.

<h2>HOTEL QUARANTINE</h2>

Australian and New Zealand media had reported that both nations had cold feet about sending teams to England.

Most NRL players are already living away from home, with the&nbsp;league&nbsp;moving teams to northern Queensland state to escape COVID-19 outbreaks and lockdowns further south.

"They would then be required to remain under (COVID) protocols and away from home for the duration of the tournament before again quarantining on return to Australia," ARLC chairman Peter V'landys said.

"This is too much to ask our players and officials to do."

NZRL boss Greg Peters said the safety staff and players could not be guaranteed."There are stark differences between how the pandemic is being managed in the UK compared to Australasia and recent developments have highlighted how quickly things can change," he said.

Australia has sent more than 400 athletes to the Tokyo Olympics and a large squad of cricketers to the Caribbean for a tour of the West Indies in recent weeks.

England recently hosted the final of soccer's European Championship at Wembley, as well as hundreds of tennis players at Wimbledon and golfers at the British Open.

With over two-thirds of adults having received two vaccine shots, England ended COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on Monday.

Defending champions Australia and New Zealand withdrew from the Rugby League World Cup in England on Thursday, citing player welfare and safety concerns amid the COVID-19 pandemic, in a massive blow for the sport's global showpiece.

Defending champions Australia and New Zealand withdrew from the Rugby League World Cup in England on Thursday, citing player welfare and safety concerns amid the COVID-19 pandemic, in a massive blow for the sport's global showpiece. The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) and New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) said they had repeated a request to organisers to postpone the Oct 23-Nov 27 event until 2022 to "minimise risk of players contracting COVID-19". "The decision to withdraw from the RLWC2021 comes after considering the risk of COVID-19 infection in the United Kingdom, the worsening environment in Australia and the time a majority of NRL (National Rugby League) players will spend away from home under strict biosecurity conditions prior to the World Cup," they said in a joint statement. Rugby Football League (RFL) chairman Simon Johnson called the withdrawals "a selfish, parochial and cowardly decision". "Rugby League World Cup organizers have bent over backward to offer every assurance to the Australians and the Kiwis," Johnson told the BBC. "We are very unhappy with this decision and we are not prepared to take it lying down." World Cup Organisers said they were informed about the withdrawals at "very short notice" and would continue discussions with stakeholders to agree on the best way forward. "RLWC2021 note the disappointing statement made by the ARLC and NZRL which may have wide-ranging implications for international Rugby League," organizers said in a statement. COVID-19 infections are increasing in the UK, with 47,114 new ones reported on average each day. The UK has recorded 5.5 million confirmed cases and 128,896 total deaths, according to a Reuters tally. Australia is also battling outbreaks of COVID-19 albeit on a much smaller scale. Around 13 million people, or half the country's population, are under strict lockdown. Australia's "Kangaroos" have dominated the World Cup, winning eight out of the last nine editions dating back to the 1970s. New Zealand, whose top players also compete in the NRL, won the 2008 World Cup hosted by Australia. HOTEL QUARANTINE Australian and New Zealand media had reported that both nations had cold feet about sending teams to England. Most NRL players are already living away from home, with the league moving teams to northern Queensland state to escape COVID-19 outbreaks and lockdowns further south. "They would then be required to remain under (COVID) protocols and away from home for the duration of the tournament before again quarantining on return to Australia," ARLC chairman Peter V'landys said. "This is too much to ask our players and officials to do." NZRL boss Greg Peters said the safety staff and players could not be guaranteed."There are stark differences between how the pandemic is being managed in the UK compared to Australasia and recent developments have highlighted how quickly things can change," he said. Australia has sent more than 400 athletes to the Tokyo Olympics and a large squad of cricketers to the Caribbean for a tour of the West Indies in recent weeks. England recently hosted the final of soccer's European Championship at Wembley, as well as hundreds of tennis players at Wimbledon and golfers at the British Open. With over two-thirds of adults having received two vaccine shots, England ended COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on Monday.

Australia, New Zealand withdraw from Rugby League World Cup citing Covid concerns

New Zealand's team said on Saturday they were helping weightlifter Laurel Hubbard cope with the "huge focus" as she prepares to become the first transgender&nbsp;Olympic&nbsp;athlete.

Hubbard, who was born male but transitioned to female in her 30s, has sparked debate with her selection, which came after she met the qualification criteria for transgender competitors.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-weightlifter-selected-as-first-transgender-olympian-393005">New Zealand weightlifter selected as first transgender Olympian</a>

"We are working really closely with Laurel, as we do with any athlete, but particularly because of the huge focus on her," New Zealand&nbsp;Olympic&nbsp;Committee communications director Ashley Abbott said.

"To look at what is going to be best for her in terms of interaction with the media. So, of course, there's limits and things like that."

Hubbard became eligible to lift as a woman after proving her testosterone levels were below the threshold required by the International&nbsp;Olympic&nbsp;Committee. She will contest the women's +87kg category in Tokyo.

IOC rules state a trans woman can compete provided her testosterone levels are below 10 nanomoles per litre.

But critics say Hubbard has numerous physical advantages from growing up male that makes her presence in the competition unfair for female-born athletes.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-zealand-picks-first-transgender-athlete-for-olympics-392958/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Hubbard, an intensely private person who avoids the media, also competed at the 2018 Commonwealth Games on Australia's Gold Coast, where she suffered a career-threatening injury.

"We will continue to work with her and make sure she is supported at all times and has got an understanding about what the environment might be like," Abbott said.

"It's certainly something we have considered."

New Zealand's team said on Saturday they were helping weightlifter Laurel Hubbard cope with the "huge focus" as she prepares to become the first transgender Olympic athlete.

New Zealand's team said on Saturday they were helping weightlifter Laurel Hubbard cope with the "huge focus" as she prepares to become the first transgender Olympic athlete. Hubbard, who was born male but transitioned to female in her 30s, has sparked debate with her selection, which came after she met the qualification criteria for transgender competitors. Also read | New Zealand weightlifter selected as first transgender Olympian "We are working really closely with Laurel, as we do with any athlete, but particularly because of the huge focus on her," New Zealand Olympic Committee communications director Ashley Abbott said. "To look at what is going to be best for her in terms of interaction with the media. So, of course, there's limits and things like that." Hubbard became eligible to lift as a woman after proving her testosterone levels were below the threshold required by the International Olympic Committee. She will contest the women's +87kg category in Tokyo. IOC rules state a trans woman can compete provided her testosterone levels are below 10 nanomoles per litre. But critics say Hubbard has numerous physical advantages from growing up male that makes her presence in the competition unfair for female-born athletes. Hubbard, an intensely private person who avoids the media, also competed at the 2018 Commonwealth Games on Australia's Gold Coast, where she suffered a career-threatening injury. "We will continue to work with her and make sure she is supported at all times and has got an understanding about what the environment might be like," Abbott said. "It's certainly something we have considered."

New Zealand say 'huge focus' on trans trailblazer at Tokyo Olympics

Farmers in New Zealand drove tractors in major cities on Friday (July 16) to demand relaxation&nbsp;of environmental policies and climate changeg regulations they say are hurting their businesses.

Demonstrations that took place nationwide were called "Howl of A Protest". The protests saw farmers on busy motorways with their tractors, pick up trucks and other farm vehicles. This caused traffic jams in major cities including Auckland.

Many residents showed solidarity with the farmers by holding placards as the vehicles drove past on the 
streets.

Protesters have asked the government to relax new regulations on managing waterways and ease some of the Covid-19 border controls to allow more seasonal overseas workers into the country as the industry faces acute labor shortages.

They are also demanding the scrapping of what has been dubbed the "Ute tax" - a new government package subsidizing cleaner electric cars while increasing fees on large petrol and diesel vehicles widely used by farmers and tradespeople.

(With inputs from agencies)

Farmers in New Zealand drove tractors in major cities on Friday (July 16) to demand relaxation of environmental policies and climate changeg regulations they say are hurting their businesses.

Farmers in New Zealand drove tractors in major cities on Friday (July 16) to demand relaxation of environmental policies and climate changeg regulations they say are hurting their businesses. Demonstrations that took place nationwide were called "Howl of A Protest". The protests saw farmers on busy motorways with their tractors, pick up trucks and other farm vehicles. This caused traffic jams in major cities including Auckland. Many residents showed solidarity with the farmers by holding placards as the vehicles drove past on the streets. Protesters have asked the government to relax new regulations on managing waterways and ease some of the Covid-19 border controls to allow more seasonal overseas workers into the country as the industry faces acute labor shortages. They are also demanding the scrapping of what has been dubbed the "Ute tax" - a new government package subsidizing cleaner electric cars while increasing fees on large petrol and diesel vehicles widely used by farmers and tradespeople. (With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand farmers protest in tractors, oppose government regulations

Fiji&nbsp;coach Vern Cotter has said his team did not wear jerseys with a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">COVID-19 vaccination</a> message in Saturday's 57-23 defeat by New Zealand in Dunedin because the idea had been sprung on the players late with little consultation.

News website Stuff reported the team was supposed to wear jerseys with the message "Vaccinate&nbsp;Fiji" in the clash, with the idea coming from one of their main sponsors,&nbsp;Fiji&nbsp;Airways.

"That's a really complex question, and the answer is complex as well," New Zealand's Cotter was quoted as saying by Stuff when asked why the team abandoned the plan.

"We really haven't got the full answer. It was sprung on the players quite late in the piece, and there wasn't a lot of exchange and consultation.

"As you can imagine, it's a delicate subject for some, so it was probably better to just have a clean jersey at this stage, and spend some time on how we best want to communicate on this matter and how comfortable the players are in communicating it."

A spokesman for&nbsp;Fiji&nbsp;Airways said that the decision was disappointing, Stuff reported.

"We had given up our (advertising) space (on the jersey) to push an important, life-saving message to support the efforts of&nbsp;Fijian front-liners battling the current <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID outbreak</a>," the spokesman was quoted as saying.

"We defer to&nbsp;Fiji&nbsp;Rugby to address the issue."

COVID-19 infections in&nbsp;Fiji&nbsp;have risen in recent weeks, with an average of 609 new infections reported each day according to a Reuters tally. The South Pacific island nation of less than 900,000 people has recorded over 9,500 cases and 49 novel coronavirus-related deaths since the pandemic began.

Fiji&nbsp;will take on the All Blacks again in Hamilton next Saturday.

Fiji coach Vern Cotter has said his team did not wear jerseys with a COVID-19 vaccination message in Saturday's 57-23 defeat by New Zealand in Dunedin because the idea had been sprung on the players late with little consultation.

Fiji coach Vern Cotter has said his team did not wear jerseys with a COVID-19 vaccination message in Saturday's 57-23 defeat by New Zealand in Dunedin because the idea had been sprung on the players late with little consultation. News website Stuff reported the team was supposed to wear jerseys with the message "Vaccinate Fiji" in the clash, with the idea coming from one of their main sponsors, Fiji Airways. "That's a really complex question, and the answer is complex as well," New Zealand's Cotter was quoted as saying by Stuff when asked why the team abandoned the plan. "We really haven't got the full answer. It was sprung on the players quite late in the piece, and there wasn't a lot of exchange and consultation. "As you can imagine, it's a delicate subject for some, so it was probably better to just have a clean jersey at this stage, and spend some time on how we best want to communicate on this matter and how comfortable the players are in communicating it." A spokesman for Fiji Airways said that the decision was disappointing, Stuff reported. "We had given up our (advertising) space (on the jersey) to push an important, life-saving message to support the efforts of Fijian front-liners battling the current COVID outbreak," the spokesman was quoted as saying. "We defer to Fiji Rugby to address the issue." COVID-19 infections in Fiji have risen in recent weeks, with an average of 609 new infections reported each day according to a Reuters tally. The South Pacific island nation of less than 900,000 people has recorded over 9,500 cases and 49 novel coronavirus-related deaths since the pandemic began. Fiji will take on the All Blacks again in Hamilton next Saturday.

Rugby: Fiji dropped 'vaccinate' jerseys over lack of consultation, says coach

India restricted the entry of New Zealand YouTuber Karl Edward Rice, also known as Karl Rock after he was found indulging in several visa violations, which includes participating in the anti-CAA protests in the country and also hurting religious sentiments through his YouTube video.

India restricted the entry of New Zealand YouTuber Karl Edward Rice, also known as Karl Rock after he was found indulging in several visa violations, which includes participating in the anti-CAA protests in the country and also hurting religious sentiments through his YouTube video. He was blacklisted. Ministry of home affairs officials stated that he was a "habitual offender" and in the past, he has been to various restricted areas in India, including Nagaland and Jammu and Kashmir without taking permission. He made several videos. Earlier, he had a tourist visa, but it got converted to an X2 visa after his marriage to an Indian national. Under an X2 visa, foreign nationals are not supposed to indulge in business activity. However, Karl violated this as he created content on YouTube to get monetary benefits. From 2016 to 2018, he had a tourist visa. Another tourist visa was issued from 2018 to 2023. In the year 2019, he was given an X2. Also read | India hands holy relic of St. Queen Ketevan to Georgia He published the book "Indian Survival Guided", which again, is not allowed on Tourist Visa. He also visited restricted areas and covered CAA protests on Youtube which is barred on an X2 visa. One of his videos, "Do Indians eat beef? guide to eating beef in India", was seen as a major concern. MHA officials say, "Karl Edward Rice, has been restricted from entering India till next year, due to violating the terms and conditions of his visa. He was found doing business activities, on a tourist visa and also violating certain other visa conditions". On Friday, July 9, he uploaded a video in which he said "Govt of India has stopped me from returning to India" and "separating me from my wife and family". Karl is a popular YouTuber who makes videos about travel, especially in India, and speaks Hindi. Last year, he donated plasma amid the COVID-19 pandemic drawing praise from Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. He is married to Manisha Malik since April 2019.

New Zealand YouTuber Karl Rock restricted from entering India over visa violations

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