Polling booths opened in New Zealand as the voters came out to choose the next Prime Minister. Incumbent Jacinda Ardern is looking to consolidate her hold on the government by winning another term while Conservatives led by Judith Collins is seeking to unseat her. The polling booths opened at 2000 GMT on Friday (1:30 am, Saturday by IST).&nbsp;

Jacinda Ardern is hoping to steer her left-of-center government to victory riding on her handling of the coronavirus pandemic in New Zealand. The elections were due to be held on September 19 but were delayed by coronavirus outbreak in Auckland that has now been contained.

New Zealand is one of the few countries in the world where wearing mask is not mandatory as the pandemic has been contained. Jacinda Ardern has won global praise for her handling of the outbreak. Her challenger Judith Collins has positioned herself as a candidate better suited to handle the financial difficulties New Zealand is likely to encounter.

Restrictions are in place on what news media can report about the race until polls close at 7 p.m. (0600 GMT), after which the Electoral Commission is expected to begin releasing preliminary results.

The Electoral Commission said on Saturday that almost 2 million ballots had already been cast as of Friday, accounting for more than half of the roughly 3.5 million New Zealanders on the electoral rolls.

Special votes, including ballots from New Zealanders overseas and those who vote outside their home constituencies, will only be released on Nov. 6.

This means that result of the election may be declared as early as Saturday night.

Voters will also cast ballots in two referendums, one on legalising recreational cannabis and the other on legalising euthanasia, although the results of those votes will not be known until October 30.

New Zealand switched to a mixed member proportional system in 1996 in which a party or coalition needs 61 of Parliament's 120 seats - usually about 48% of the vote - to form a government.

This means minor parties often play an influential role in determining which major party governs.

(With agency inputs)

Polling booths opened in New Zealand as the voters came out to choose the next Prime Minister. Incumbent Jacinda Ardern is looking to consolidate her hold on the government by winning another term while Conservatives led by Judith Collins is seeking to unseat her.

Polling booths opened in New Zealand as the voters came out to choose the next Prime Minister. Incumbent Jacinda Ardern is looking to consolidate her hold on the government by winning another term while Conservatives led by Judith Collins is seeking to unseat her. The polling booths opened at 2000 GMT on Friday (1:30 am, Saturday by IST). Jacinda Ardern is hoping to steer her left-of-center government to victory riding on her handling of the coronavirus pandemic in New Zealand. The elections were due to be held on September 19 but were delayed by coronavirus outbreak in Auckland that has now been contained. New Zealand is one of the few countries in the world where wearing mask is not mandatory as the pandemic has been contained. Jacinda Ardern has won global praise for her handling of the outbreak. Her challenger Judith Collins has positioned herself as a candidate better suited to handle the financial difficulties New Zealand is likely to encounter. Restrictions are in place on what news media can report about the race until polls close at 7 p.m. (0600 GMT), after which the Electoral Commission is expected to begin releasing preliminary results. The Electoral Commission said on Saturday that almost 2 million ballots had already been cast as of Friday, accounting for more than half of the roughly 3.5 million New Zealanders on the electoral rolls. Special votes, including ballots from New Zealanders overseas and those who vote outside their home constituencies, will only be released on Nov. 6. This means that result of the election may be declared as early as Saturday night. Voters will also cast ballots in two referendums, one on legalising recreational cannabis and the other on legalising euthanasia, although the results of those votes will not be known until October 30. New Zealand switched to a mixed member proportional system in 1996 in which a party or coalition needs 61 of Parliament's 120 seats - usually about 48% of the vote - to form a government. This means minor parties often play an influential role in determining which major party governs. (With agency inputs)

Jacinda Ardern looks to win second term as poll booths open in New Zealand

Voting is underway in New Zealand elections 2020. Will PM Jacinda Ardern win a second term in office?

Will Jacinda Ardern win a second term? New Zealand election 2020

Jacinda Ardern has won a second term as New Zealand's Prime Minister after her success at handling the country's coronavirus outbreak that helped secure a landslide victory.

Jacinda Ardern wins second term as New Zealand PM in landslide election victory

Jacinda Ardern has dominated the final leaders’ debate as she appeared confident and took on a subdued Judith Collins. Watch report.

New Zealand leaders hold final debate | PM Ardern takes on Oppn leader Collins | World News

New Zealand great John R. Reid, who led the nascent cricketing nation to their first Test victory in 1956, has died aged 92, officials said on Wednesday, hailing him as a "colossus".

Reid, who was New Zealand's oldest surviving Test cricketer and one of the best all-rounders of his day, captained the Black Caps in 34 Tests including their maiden win, against the West Indies.

The victory in Auckland ended a 26-year winless streak for New Zealand, who are now second in the Test rankings and were narrowly beaten finalists at last year's ODI World Cup in England.&nbsp;

"John R. Reid was New Zealand cricket's Colin Meads," said New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White, referring to the legendary All Blacks lock.

"He was, and will remain, a household name in this country, having helped pave the way for everything that has come in his wake."

Reid, a hard-hitting batsman and a brisk seam bowler, also led New Zealand to their second and third Test wins during the drawn series in South Africa in 1961-62.

After making his debut aged 19 on the 1949 tour of England, Reid played 58 Tests, scoring 3,428 runs at an average of 33.28, while taking 85 wickets at 33.35. His top score was 142 against South Africa in 1961.

No cause of death was announced. Reid, who was also a New Zealand selector and an ICC match referee, is survived by his wife, three grandchildren and four grandchildren.

New Zealand great John R. Reid, who led the nascent cricketing nation to their first Test victory in 1956, has died aged 92, officials said on Wednesday, hailing him as a "colossus".

New Zealand great John R. Reid, who led the nascent cricketing nation to their first Test victory in 1956, has died aged 92, officials said on Wednesday, hailing him as a "colossus". Reid, who was New Zealand's oldest surviving Test cricketer and one of the best all-rounders of his day, captained the Black Caps in 34 Tests including their maiden win, against the West Indies. The victory in Auckland ended a 26-year winless streak for New Zealand, who are now second in the Test rankings and were narrowly beaten finalists at last year's ODI World Cup in England. "John R. Reid was New Zealand cricket's Colin Meads," said New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White, referring to the legendary All Blacks lock. "He was, and will remain, a household name in this country, having helped pave the way for everything that has come in his wake." Reid, a hard-hitting batsman and a brisk seam bowler, also led New Zealand to their second and third Test wins during the drawn series in South Africa in 1961-62. After making his debut aged 19 on the 1949 tour of England, Reid played 58 Tests, scoring 3,428 runs at an average of 33.28, while taking 85 wickets at 33.35. His top score was 142 against South Africa in 1961. No cause of death was announced. Reid, who was also a New Zealand selector and an ICC match referee, is survived by his wife, three grandchildren and four grandchildren.

New Zealand's first victorious Test cricket captain dies aged 92

The 2020 New Zealand general elections are slated to take place on Saturday, October 17. This will determine the leadership of the 53rd New Zealand Parliament.&nbsp;

But the country is battling a problem rampant across the globe: harassment of women. This becomes peculiar in New Zealand, where the election is being fought among two women - the incumbent Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, along with Judith Collins, her main opposition.&nbsp;

The country has come up with a new solution: an abuse-fighting bot! In a bid to tackle harassment of female candidates in the country, the bot is sending out positive messages across social media platforms in the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/new-zealand-pm-jacinda-ardern-says-we-beat-the-virus-again-332552" hreflang="en">New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern says 'we beat the virus again'</a>

Along with the two major candidates, more than 260 parliamentary candidates have become a target for sexism and harassment online.

Owing to this precarious situation, the country launched the “Parity Bot”, which was also used in Canadian elections last year. For every negative and abusive tweet against female candidates, the bot sends out a positive message.

"A whole bunch of studies out there show women candidates get exponentially more toxic tweets than men, which is why we have created this for women," Jacqueline Comer, a creative technologist for the bot, told Reuters.

"It is not to say that men don't suffer from this, but it is a bigger problem for women," she further said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/new-zealands-ardern-takes-on-housing-crisis-issue-ahead-of-early-voting-331917" hreflang="en">New Zealand's Ardern takes on housing crisis issue ahead of early voting</a>

The bot has analysed over 95,000 tweets and found over 1,800 abusive tweets, with most directed at Ardern and Collins.

The messages sent out by the bot read something like this - "great women like you running to make NZ a better place".

New Zealand was the world’s first nation to give voting rights to women in 1893.&nbsp;

The 2020 New Zealand general elections are slated to take place on Saturday, October 17. This will determine the leadership of the 53rd New Zealand Parliament. But the country is battling a problem rampant across the globe: harassment of women.

The 2020 New Zealand general elections are slated to take place on Saturday, October 17. This will determine the leadership of the 53rd New Zealand Parliament. But the country is battling a problem rampant across the globe: harassment of women. This becomes peculiar in New Zealand, where the election is being fought among two women - the incumbent Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, along with Judith Collins, her main opposition. The country has come up with a new solution: an abuse-fighting bot! In a bid to tackle harassment of female candidates in the country, the bot is sending out positive messages across social media platforms in the country. Also read: New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern says 'we beat the virus again' Along with the two major candidates, more than 260 parliamentary candidates have become a target for sexism and harassment online. Owing to this precarious situation, the country launched the “Parity Bot”, which was also used in Canadian elections last year. For every negative and abusive tweet against female candidates, the bot sends out a positive message. "A whole bunch of studies out there show women candidates get exponentially more toxic tweets than men, which is why we have created this for women," Jacqueline Comer, a creative technologist for the bot, told Reuters. "It is not to say that men don't suffer from this, but it is a bigger problem for women," she further said. Also read: New Zealand's Ardern takes on housing crisis issue ahead of early voting The bot has analysed over 95,000 tweets and found over 1,800 abusive tweets, with most directed at Ardern and Collins. The messages sent out by the bot read something like this - "great women like you running to make NZ a better place". New Zealand was the world’s first nation to give voting rights to women in 1893.

Election bot deployed in New Zealand to fight online sexism

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern declared on Monday New Zealand "beat the virus again" and announced restrictions in the country's largest city would be eased after a second Covid-19 wave was contained.

New Zealand beat the Coronavirus again, claims PM Jacinda Ardern

New Zealand's ruling Labour Party promised to deliver more homes and replace a 30-year-old law blamed for high housing costs and impeding urban development, as it looked to tackle a hot election issue ahead of early voting starting on Saturday.

Labour would replace the Resource Management Act (RMA), and continue its plan to deliver more than 18,000 public houses by 2024, party leader and Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in a policy announcement on Friday.

“Overly restrictive planning rules are one of the causes of high house prices," Ardern said, adding she was determined to remove unnecessary barriers to the supply of land and infrastructure for housing.

New Zealand's house prices have soared nearly 90 per cent over the past decade, analysts have said, due to an acute housing shortage of over a 100,000 homes.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jacinda-ardern-admits-to-past-cannabis-use-during-new-zealand-election-debate-331661">Also read:&nbsp;Jacinda Ardern admits to past cannabis use during New Zealand election debate</a>

Successive governments have failed to ease the red tape around land approval, making land artificially scarce. For private developers the costs and consent process are significant hurdles, making properties unaffordable.

Ardern's flagship affordable housing project KiwiBuild also faltered and to date has just built about 600 homes, with nearly 1,000 under construction.

The housing crisis is creating a policy headache for Ardern as she seeks a second three-year term in the October 17 polls.

Opinion polls suggest she is on track for a comfortable win, although the opposition National Party has been clawing back support.

Early voting for the election starts on Saturday.

Ardern also said the party would support first home buyers with loans and introduce regulations for property management services.

The party said it would bring up its core recommendations in the next parliamentary term if elected.

The opposition National Party has said the state housing waiting list has risen under Ardern, and claims it has a plan to deliver cheap homes faster.

New Zealand's ruling Labour Party promised to deliver more homes and replace a 30-year-old law blamed for high housing costs and impeding urban development, as it looked to tackle a hot election issue ahead of early voting starting on Saturday.

New Zealand's ruling Labour Party promised to deliver more homes and replace a 30-year-old law blamed for high housing costs and impeding urban development, as it looked to tackle a hot election issue ahead of early voting starting on Saturday. Labour would replace the Resource Management Act (RMA), and continue its plan to deliver more than 18,000 public houses by 2024, party leader and Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in a policy announcement on Friday. “Overly restrictive planning rules are one of the causes of high house prices," Ardern said, adding she was determined to remove unnecessary barriers to the supply of land and infrastructure for housing. New Zealand's house prices have soared nearly 90 per cent over the past decade, analysts have said, due to an acute housing shortage of over a 100,000 homes. Also read: Jacinda Ardern admits to past cannabis use during New Zealand election debate Successive governments have failed to ease the red tape around land approval, making land artificially scarce. For private developers the costs and consent process are significant hurdles, making properties unaffordable. Ardern's flagship affordable housing project KiwiBuild also faltered and to date has just built about 600 homes, with nearly 1,000 under construction. The housing crisis is creating a policy headache for Ardern as she seeks a second three-year term in the October 17 polls. Opinion polls suggest she is on track for a comfortable win, although the opposition National Party has been clawing back support. Early voting for the election starts on Saturday. Ardern also said the party would support first home buyers with loans and introduce regulations for property management services. The party said it would bring up its core recommendations in the next parliamentary term if elected. The opposition National Party has said the state housing waiting list has risen under Ardern, and claims it has a plan to deliver cheap homes faster.

New Zealand's Ardern takes on housing crisis issue ahead of early voting

New Zealand's ruling party leader Jacinda Ardern said she tried cannabis "a long time ago" when asked during a heated live debate on Wednesday ahead of the Oct 17 general election. Watch report.

Marijuana vote divides New Zealand: Jacinda Ardern admits using cannabis | World News

A referendum next month on legalising recreational cannabis has divided opinion in New Zealand with ruling party politicians staying clear of the contentious issue ahead of a general election they are likely to win.

Referendum in New Zealand to legalize Cannabis

New Zealand has entered a recession with the economy contracting 12.2% in the June quarter.

New Zealand economy in deepest recession

New Zealand plunged into recession for the first time in a decade Thursday, as data confirmed a record-breaking economic collapse that forced Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern to defend her pandemic response ahead of next month's general election.

The 12.2 per cent contraction in April-June was "by far the largest" since records began, national data agency Stats NZ said, with the country put into a strict lockdown for almost two months and the country's borders closed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-scores-f-for-failure-as-unicef-report-on-obesity-youth-suicide-reveal-dismal-results-325176">New Zealand scores 'F for failure' as Unicef report on obesity, youth suicide reveal dismal results</a>

Ardern rejected opposition accusations that the tough measures had pushed the economy "off a cliff", saying the restrictions helped contain the virus, which allowed business to resume far earlier than in many other countries.

The centre-left leader, who will go to the polls re-election on October 17, also pointed out that New Zealand had recorded just 25 Covid-19 deaths, out of a population of five million.

"Success for me is saving people's lives, supporting and saving people's businesses, coming out the other side (of the crisis) faster, quicker and with more activity," she told reporters.

"I back our results."

She said the economic pain of lockdown in the June quarter would be followed by a rebound in July-September, when virus-related restrictions were eased significantly.

Ardern retains a strong lead in opinion polls and is expected to retain office, despite the ugly pre-election economic figures.

Finance Minister Grant Robertson said it could have been much worse, with budget papers in May predicting a 23.5 quarterly decline and Treasury forecasting a 16 per cent drop just this week.

"There is no way that any political party could claim that there would not have been a recession in New Zealand during this period," he said.

"This is a one-in-100-year global economic shock."

'This was traumatic'&nbsp;

The opposition National Party said the figures showed a change of government was needed because Ardern's administration could not properly manage the economy or the pandemic response.&nbsp;

"It is now official that we are in the deepest recession in living memory and it's proof that New Zealand needs a National-led government now that has a very clear plan," National leader Judith Collins said.

She said New Zealand "compares very unfavourably" with neighbouring Australia, which recorded an economic contraction of seven percent in the June quarter after adopting a more flexible approach to lockdowns and border controls.

New Zealand's most recent recession was in 2008-09 and until the first three months of this year it had recorded non-stop quarterly growth since 2010.

The second-quarter decline follows a 1.6 per cent contraction in the first three months of 2020, confirming widespread expectations that New Zealand is in recession.

Kiwibank chief economist Jarrod Kerr said the figures were unprecedented.

"We've never seen anything like this. It was traumatic," he said.

"Service exports were stonewalled, and down 40 per cent in the quarter, consumption was down 12 per cent, and investment was slashed by 20 per cent."

But he said the figure was a one-off that was set to be followed by a growth surge of 10 per cent in the September quarter, which would also be a record.

"Businesses and households have clearly adapted to trading in a world with limited face-to-face contract," he said.

New Zealand plunged into recession for the first time in a decade Thursday, as data confirmed a record-breaking economic collapse that forced Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern to defend her pandemic response ahead of next month's general election.

New Zealand plunged into recession for the first time in a decade Thursday, as data confirmed a record-breaking economic collapse that forced Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern to defend her pandemic response ahead of next month's general election. The 12.2 per cent contraction in April-June was "by far the largest" since records began, national data agency Stats NZ said, with the country put into a strict lockdown for almost two months and the country's borders closed. Also read | New Zealand scores 'F for failure' as Unicef report on obesity, youth suicide reveal dismal results Ardern rejected opposition accusations that the tough measures had pushed the economy "off a cliff", saying the restrictions helped contain the virus, which allowed business to resume far earlier than in many other countries. The centre-left leader, who will go to the polls re-election on October 17, also pointed out that New Zealand had recorded just 25 Covid-19 deaths, out of a population of five million. "Success for me is saving people's lives, supporting and saving people's businesses, coming out the other side (of the crisis) faster, quicker and with more activity," she told reporters. "I back our results." She said the economic pain of lockdown in the June quarter would be followed by a rebound in July-September, when virus-related restrictions were eased significantly. Ardern retains a strong lead in opinion polls and is expected to retain office, despite the ugly pre-election economic figures. Finance Minister Grant Robertson said it could have been much worse, with budget papers in May predicting a 23.5 quarterly decline and Treasury forecasting a 16 per cent drop just this week. "There is no way that any political party could claim that there would not have been a recession in New Zealand during this period," he said. "This is a one-in-100-year global economic shock." 'This was traumatic' The opposition National Party said the figures showed a change of government was needed because Ardern's administration could not properly manage the economy or the pandemic response. "It is now official that we are in the deepest recession in living memory and it's proof that New Zealand needs a National-led government now that has a very clear plan," National leader Judith Collins said. She said New Zealand "compares very unfavourably" with neighbouring Australia, which recorded an economic contraction of seven percent in the June quarter after adopting a more flexible approach to lockdowns and border controls. New Zealand's most recent recession was in 2008-09 and until the first three months of this year it had recorded non-stop quarterly growth since 2010. The second-quarter decline follows a 1.6 per cent contraction in the first three months of 2020, confirming widespread expectations that New Zealand is in recession. Kiwibank chief economist Jarrod Kerr said the figures were unprecedented. "We've never seen anything like this. It was traumatic," he said. "Service exports were stonewalled, and down 40 per cent in the quarter, consumption was down 12 per cent, and investment was slashed by 20 per cent." But he said the figure was a one-off that was set to be followed by a growth surge of 10 per cent in the September quarter, which would also be a record. "Businesses and households have clearly adapted to trading in a world with limited face-to-face contract," he said.

New Zealand plunges into recession as economy shrinks record 12%

Protesters in Melbourne defied coronavirus lockdown for a second weekend on Sunday. The city has been under hard lockdown for last six weeks. The protests against the lockdown resulted in 74 arrests and at least 175 infringement notices for breaching public health orders. Melbourne is coronavirus hotspot. Number of new infections has risen to 41.

A riot squad marched through fruit and vegetable stalls at the city's landmark, the Queen Victoria market, before the scuffling with protesters erupted, with some people throwing fruit at the police, television footage showed.

Victoria Police said in a statement that there were between 200 and 250 people involved in the protests, but there were no immediately known injuries to the police.

"It was extremely disappointing to see people not just protesting but putting the lives of other Victorians at risk despite all the warnings," the police said in an e-mailed statement.

Australian state of Victoria, the capital of which is Melbourne, accounts for about 75 per cent of Australia's more than 26,609 coronavirus cases.

The state accounts for more than 90 per cent of the total deaths. The death toll is currently at 810.

The city will remain under hard lockdown, but the amount of time people will be able to spend outside will double to two hours per day and the overnight curfew will be shortened by an hour as of Monday.

Protests in New Zealand:

Anti-restriction protests were also witnessed in New Zealand where the government has been able to stop the community transmission stage. People rallied in Auckland against social distancing restrictions in effect.

On Saturday, television footage showed tightly packed crowds, with many people not wearing masks, with estimates of the attendance varying in reports between a thousand and a few thousand people.

Protesters in Melbourne defied coronavirus lockdown for a second weekend on Sunday. The city has been under hard lockdown for last six weeks. The protests against the lockdown resulted in 74 arrests and at least 175 infringement notices for breaching public health orders.

Protesters in Melbourne defied coronavirus lockdown for a second weekend on Sunday. The city has been under hard lockdown for last six weeks. The protests against the lockdown resulted in 74 arrests and at least 175 infringement notices for breaching public health orders. Melbourne is coronavirus hotspot. Number of new infections has risen to 41. A riot squad marched through fruit and vegetable stalls at the city's landmark, the Queen Victoria market, before the scuffling with protesters erupted, with some people throwing fruit at the police, television footage showed. Victoria Police said in a statement that there were between 200 and 250 people involved in the protests, but there were no immediately known injuries to the police. "It was extremely disappointing to see people not just protesting but putting the lives of other Victorians at risk despite all the warnings," the police said in an e-mailed statement. Australian state of Victoria, the capital of which is Melbourne, accounts for about 75 per cent of Australia's more than 26,609 coronavirus cases. The state accounts for more than 90 per cent of the total deaths. The death toll is currently at 810. The city will remain under hard lockdown, but the amount of time people will be able to spend outside will double to two hours per day and the overnight curfew will be shortened by an hour as of Monday. Protests in New Zealand: Anti-restriction protests were also witnessed in New Zealand where the government has been able to stop the community transmission stage. People rallied in Auckland against social distancing restrictions in effect. On Saturday, television footage showed tightly packed crowds, with many people not wearing masks, with estimates of the attendance varying in reports between a thousand and a few thousand people.

Protests against coronavirus lockdown erupt in Melbourne, 74 arrested

Campaign for general elections in New Zealand began on Sunday as Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is looking forward to riding popularity for the nation's COVID-19 response and compassionate handling of a massacre at two mosques to a revived mandate.

The parliament in New Zealand was dissolved in a brief ceremony for the official start of campaigning for the elections that are set to be held on October 17.&nbsp;

Polls in Auckland were delayed for a month in August due to lockdown after cases re-emerged. Auckland constitutes nearly a third of New Zealand's population.&nbsp;

In 2017, Ardern became the world's youngest female leader. Her decisive response to the pandemic and handling of last year's shooting by a white supremacist at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand's worst mass murder will play a major role in this year's election.&nbsp;

According to recent polls, Labour Party has a strong lead over the conservative National Party.

The advanced voting will begin on October 3.&nbsp;

Campaign for general elections in New Zealand began on Sunday as Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is looking forward to riding popularity for the nation's COVID-19 response and compassionate handling of a massacre at two mosques to a revived mandate.

Campaign for general elections in New Zealand began on Sunday as Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is looking forward to riding popularity for the nation's COVID-19 response and compassionate handling of a massacre at two mosques to a revived mandate. The parliament in New Zealand was dissolved in a brief ceremony for the official start of campaigning for the elections that are set to be held on October 17. Polls in Auckland were delayed for a month in August due to lockdown after cases re-emerged. Auckland constitutes nearly a third of New Zealand's population. In 2017, Ardern became the world's youngest female leader. Her decisive response to the pandemic and handling of last year's shooting by a white supremacist at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand's worst mass murder will play a major role in this year's election. According to recent polls, Labour Party has a strong lead over the conservative National Party. The advanced voting will begin on October 3.

Campaign for general elections begin in New Zealand: Ardern seeks mandate

New Zealand has found itself in the bottom in a recent report by Unicef due to poor statistics in childhood obesity and youth suicide.

As per the report by Innocenti, New Zealand was ranked 35 out of 41 developed countries in Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and European Union (EU), which Unicef NZ executive director Vivien Maidaborn described as "woeful".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/looking-at-new-zealands-response-to-christchurch-shootings-should-us-mend-their-gun-laws-323502">Looking at New Zealand's response to Christchurch shootings, should US mend their gun laws?</a>

The country's youth suicide rate stands at 14.9 deaths per 100,000 adolescents, which is second-most in the developed world, according to the report.&nbsp;

It also said only 64 per cent of the country's 15-year-olds have basic skills of mathematics and reading.&nbsp;

Among the OECD countries, New Zealand also has the second-highest obesity rate as one in three children is either obese or overweight.&nbsp;

"The report card gives New Zealand an F for failure when it comes to wellbeing outcomes for children," Maidaborn said as reported by The Guardian.&nbsp;

"This is a woeful result for a country that prides itself on the great outdoors, academic achievement, and the international success of our sports teams. It is time to be alarmed and activated about the inequality of opportunity, health and wellbeing in New Zealand."

After the report went public, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said that the findings show previous administration's underinvestment in families and did not cover the recent progress and funding that has been allocated to these areas.&nbsp;

Earlier in December, New Zealand's Children's Commissioner Andrew Becroft said the government had failed to lower child poverty.&nbsp;

His report found that 148,000 children lived in homes with material hardship in six or more regions, which include a lack of access to basics such as warm clothing, health care and food.&nbsp;

New Zealand has found itself in the bottom in a recent report by Unicef due to poor statistics in childhood obesity and youth suicide. As per the report by Innocenti, New Zealand was ranked 35 out of 41 developed countries in Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and European Union (EU), which Unicef NZ executive director Vivien Maidaborn described as "woeful".

New Zealand has found itself in the bottom in a recent report by Unicef due to poor statistics in childhood obesity and youth suicide. As per the report by Innocenti, New Zealand was ranked 35 out of 41 developed countries in Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and European Union (EU), which Unicef NZ executive director Vivien Maidaborn described as "woeful". Also read | Looking at New Zealand's response to Christchurch shootings, should US mend their gun laws? The country's youth suicide rate stands at 14.9 deaths per 100,000 adolescents, which is second-most in the developed world, according to the report. It also said only 64 per cent of the country's 15-year-olds have basic skills of mathematics and reading. Among the OECD countries, New Zealand also has the second-highest obesity rate as one in three children is either obese or overweight. "The report card gives New Zealand an F for failure when it comes to wellbeing outcomes for children," Maidaborn said as reported by The Guardian. "This is a woeful result for a country that prides itself on the great outdoors, academic achievement, and the international success of our sports teams. It is time to be alarmed and activated about the inequality of opportunity, health and wellbeing in New Zealand." After the report went public, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said that the findings show previous administration's underinvestment in families and did not cover the recent progress and funding that has been allocated to these areas. Earlier in December, New Zealand's Children's Commissioner Andrew Becroft said the government had failed to lower child poverty. His report found that 148,000 children lived in homes with material hardship in six or more regions, which include a lack of access to basics such as warm clothing, health care and food.

New Zealand scores 'F for failure' as Unicef report on obesity, youth suicide reveal dismal results

Trading was unaffected in New Zealand stock market continues despite NZX's website crashed again today morning for the fifth-trading day in a row. It appears to be another cyber-attack

NZ stock market website offline for the fifth consecutive day

Today was the verdict day for the man who killed 51 people in a mosque shooting in New Zealand last year on March 15. The families of the victims, and the victims to managed to survive&nbsp;the carnage were present in the court for the four-days long hearing.

The shooter, Brenton Tarrant, has been sentenced to life in prison for killing&nbsp;51 people in cold blood while live streaming&nbsp;the act on Facebook for 17 minutes.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-life-sentence-for-christchurch-gunman-listen-to-the-moving-testimonies-from-victims-323536/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Christchurch shootings were beyond shocking. They showed the world how hatred and terror are amplified on social media. It was the deadliest mass shooting in the history of New Zealand.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/looking-at-new-zealands-response-to-christchurch-shootings-should-us-mend-their-gun-laws-323502">Also read|&nbsp;Looking at New Zealand's response to Christchurch shootings, should US mend their gun laws?</a>

Brenton Tarrant opened fire on two mosques in Christchurch. He entered while the Friday prayers were going on&nbsp;and opened fire on worshippers.

This week, the trial has concluded and it is safe to say that&nbsp;the four day sentencing hearing was a mere formality.

The verdict was foregone conclusion as the terrorist showed no guilt or remorse for what he had done.

He was charged with the murder of 51 people and the attempted murder of another 40 people. There was one charge of terrorism, and today he has been found guilty for all these counts.

Last year, in an admission to the police, Tarrant said he wished he had killed more people. He doctored the triggers to make his weapons fire faster and&nbsp;used a strobe light to blind his victims.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/you-should-thank-god-on-that-day-i-didnt-catch-you-christchurch-hero-confronts-killer-in-court-323343">Also read|&nbsp;'You should thank God on that day I didn't catch you': Christchurch hero confronts killer in court</a>

Through this week, as he was being sentenced, Tarrant appeared emotionless and showed no remorse even when&nbsp;he was confronted by almost 90 victims.

In the last three days, many people came face-to-face with the man who killed their loved ones.&nbsp;The testimonies were moving and heartbreaking.

Maysoon Salama, who lost her son in the attack, faced the terrorist while holding back her tears and said,&nbsp;"I constantly try to imagine how my beloved ata felt at the moment of the attack, how he faced the shooter with his chest armed only with his courage like others. What was in his mind when he realised he is departing this life to his last journey? How is life going to be without him being around?

"May you get the severest punishment for your evil act in this life and in the hereafter, we know that allah is the most just.&nbsp;

"Ata is gone but never forgotten, he will always be the light of our lives and we will live his legacy everyday."

Justice Cameron Mander, the judge presiding over the hearings showed no mercy. and announced the first terrorism conviction in his country.

Since New Zealand does not have the death penalty as part of its justice system, Mander handed down the toughest sentence possible — a life sentence without the possibility of a parole.

"It is difficult to look beyond the wicked nature of each murder. And pain and suffering you have caused to individual victims, to their families and loved ones," Judge Mander said.

"It was brutal and beyond callous. Your actions were inhuman," he continued.

The victims and their families&nbsp;celebrated outside the court&nbsp; by raising their hands and fists, and greeting supporters with roses and signs painted with hearts.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said she is relieved by the verdict.&nbsp;"Well this is, this has. This has been a crime in new zealand the likes of which have never occurred before. And now we've seen a sentence the likes of which we've seen before as well. But yes, it gave me relief, to know that that person will never see the light of day."

Today was the verdict day for the man who killed 51 people in a mosque shooting in New Zealand last year on March 15. The families of the victims, and the victims to managed to survive the carnage were present in the court for the four-days long hearing.

Today was the verdict day for the man who killed 51 people in a mosque shooting in New Zealand last year on March 15. The families of the victims, and the victims to managed to survive the carnage were present in the court for the four-days long hearing. The shooter, Brenton Tarrant, has been sentenced to life in prison for killing 51 people in cold blood while live streaming the act on Facebook for 17 minutes. The Christchurch shootings were beyond shocking. They showed the world how hatred and terror are amplified on social media. It was the deadliest mass shooting in the history of New Zealand. Also read| Looking at New Zealand's response to Christchurch shootings, should US mend their gun laws? Brenton Tarrant opened fire on two mosques in Christchurch. He entered while the Friday prayers were going on and opened fire on worshippers. This week, the trial has concluded and it is safe to say that the four day sentencing hearing was a mere formality. The verdict was foregone conclusion as the terrorist showed no guilt or remorse for what he had done. He was charged with the murder of 51 people and the attempted murder of another 40 people. There was one charge of terrorism, and today he has been found guilty for all these counts. Last year, in an admission to the police, Tarrant said he wished he had killed more people. He doctored the triggers to make his weapons fire faster and used a strobe light to blind his victims. Also read| 'You should thank God on that day I didn't catch you': Christchurch hero confronts killer in court Through this week, as he was being sentenced, Tarrant appeared emotionless and showed no remorse even when he was confronted by almost 90 victims. In the last three days, many people came face-to-face with the man who killed their loved ones. The testimonies were moving and heartbreaking. Maysoon Salama, who lost her son in the attack, faced the terrorist while holding back her tears and said, "I constantly try to imagine how my beloved ata felt at the moment of the attack, how he faced the shooter with his chest armed only with his courage like others. What was in his mind when he realised he is departing this life to his last journey? How is life going to be without him being around? "May you get the severest punishment for your evil act in this life and in the hereafter, we know that allah is the most just. "Ata is gone but never forgotten, he will always be the light of our lives and we will live his legacy everyday." Justice Cameron Mander, the judge presiding over the hearings showed no mercy. and announced the first terrorism conviction in his country. Since New Zealand does not have the death penalty as part of its justice system, Mander handed down the toughest sentence possible — a life sentence without the possibility of a parole. "It is difficult to look beyond the wicked nature of each murder. And pain and suffering you have caused to individual victims, to their families and loved ones," Judge Mander said. "It was brutal and beyond callous. Your actions were inhuman," he continued. The victims and their families celebrated outside the court by raising their hands and fists, and greeting supporters with roses and signs painted with hearts. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said she is relieved by the verdict. "Well this is, this has. This has been a crime in new zealand the likes of which have never occurred before. And now we've seen a sentence the likes of which we've seen before as well. But yes, it gave me relief, to know that that person will never see the light of day."

Justice prevails as Christchurch shooter jailed for life without parole

On April 10, 2019, New Zealand's parliamentarians were voting in the house just 25 days after the Christchurch shooting. They were changing the gun laws. The Christchurch tragedy had forced them to introspect.

On April 10, 2019, New Zealand's parliamentarians were voting in the house just 25 days after the Christchurch shooting. They were changing the gun laws. The Christchurch tragedy had forced them to introspect. The MPs realised that the 1,983 gun laws were equally responsible for the mass shooting. Under it, anyone above the age of 16 could apply for a gun licence. Once you had the papers, you could buy as many weapons as you like. At the time of the Christchurch shootings, One in every four New Zealanders had a firearm. Brenton Harrison Tarrant, who carried out Christchurch shootings, was armed with numerous semi-automatic rifles. More than 50 deaths later, New Zealand vowed to never let history repeat itself. It banned semi-automatic weapons. 119 parliamentarians voted in favour of it. Also read| Justice prevails as Christchurch shooter jailed for life without parole David Seymour was the only MP who did not quite agree. He's going down the history books along with a why. According to him, the bill is too rushed. It is this very rush that makes New Zealand's response to terror exemplary. Their neighbours Australia adopted sweeping gun laws after the Port Arthur massacre. All semi-automatic weapons were banned, and ownership of guns- made extremely difficult. Scotland, England and Wales outlawed private ownership of guns in 1997 after 16 students and teachers were killed in a mass shooting in 1996. Also read| 'You should thank God on that day I didn't catch you': Christchurch hero confronts killer in court In 1991, Canada passed a law restricting automatic and semi-automatic weapons. It was 2 years after a gunman attacked a school in Montreal. Death by shooting has fallen considerably since. So, here's a question. What is stopping the US from following the lead? The country has a very high gun death rate of 10.6 per 100,000 people. Over 39,000 people have died from gun-related injuries in the US. Yet anyone above the age of 18 can carry a gun. In many states, owners are not required to carry a permit. The gun show loophole-- allows even children under 18 to carry a gun as long as it is gifted by an adult. Why does gun control have to such a divisive issue? There are so many roadblocks. President Donald Trump is one. Then there is the national rifle association. It is monied and all against strong gun laws. In 2016, the NRA spent $50 million on political advocacy. It reportedly spent around $30 million on trump's campaign. Numerous shootings later, gun control continues to be just another election issue in the US. This year is no exception.

Looking at New Zealand's response to Christchurch shootings, should US mend their gun laws?

New Zealand changed its gun laws 25 days after the Christchurch shootings. The U.S. has seen numerous such incidents. What's stopping it from adopting gun control? Palki Sharma Upadhyay has a report.

Gravitas: New Zealand's exemplary response to terror

The terrorist behind the Christchurch shootings has been sentenced to life in prison. Almost 90 victims and survivors confronted the shooter during the hearings. The terrorist showed no remorse for what he had done. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: Life sentence for Christchurch Gunman: Listen to the moving testimonies from victims

Three months after the stand-off at the Galwan valley, a&nbsp;survey was conducted on India-China relationship by the Chinese mouthpiece, Global Times., and the results show that the Chinese citizens are not happy with the actions of their leaders.

In this survey, it has been revealed that the Chinese citizens like India with more than 50 per cent holding a favorable impression of China. Almost 51 per cent respondents appreciate the Modi government.

Nearly 70 per cent believe the anti-China sentiment in India is excessive. More than 30 per cent feel the ties will improve, and almost nine per cent of the respondents said they see improvement in the short term, while 25 per cent feel&nbsp;things will improve in the long term.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-ambassador-wins-seat-international-tribunal-for-law-on-the-sea-323276">Also read: Chinese ambassador wins seat International Tribunal for Law on the Sea</a>

Meanwhile, China’s biggest tech company Huawei is trying to woo India by running big advertisements on all leading dailies of India. Huawei claims to as committed as ever, with india, for India and&nbsp;says it has been doing business in India for 20 years now.

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The reason behind this gesture by Huawei may lie in a report published by the Financial Times earlier this week. The report claims&nbsp;that India is looking to phase out equipment from Huawei and other Chinese players.

Instead of a formal ban, India has reportedly indicated to telecom companies that they should stay away from Chinese gear.

Huawei is already facing a complete ban in the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia. It is also partially banned in New Zealand.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-court-blocks-release-of-intelligence-documents-to-huaweis-meng-wanzhou-323085">Also read:&nbsp;Canada court blocks release of intelligence documents to Huawei's Meng Wanzhou</a>

Canada might soon join this list as a Reuters' report states that the country will soon be deciding the fate of Huawei.

But, Canada has delayed a final verdict --- the delay is long enough for huawei to get the message.

Huawei's CFO Meng Wanzhou is facing extradition proceedings in Canada, with the US hoping to get her custody over alleged violations of Iran sanctions.

While Canada and China are fighting a diplomatic war, Huawei is caught in the crossfire.

So, the advertisements and gestures may be Huawei's trial of saving its position and relationship with India. With Global Times recent survey, Huawei is expected to make a major PR push and they seem to be regretting the decisions of the Communist Party.

Three months after the stand-off at the Galwan valley, a survey was conducted on India-China relationship by the Chinese mouthpiece, Global Times., and the results show that the Chinese citizens are not happy with the actions of their leaders.

Three months after the stand-off at the Galwan valley, a survey was conducted on India-China relationship by the Chinese mouthpiece, Global Times., and the results show that the Chinese citizens are not happy with the actions of their leaders. In this survey, it has been revealed that the Chinese citizens like India with more than 50 per cent holding a favorable impression of China. Almost 51 per cent respondents appreciate the Modi government. Nearly 70 per cent believe the anti-China sentiment in India is excessive. More than 30 per cent feel the ties will improve, and almost nine per cent of the respondents said they see improvement in the short term, while 25 per cent feel things will improve in the long term. Also read: Chinese ambassador wins seat International Tribunal for Law on the Sea Meanwhile, China’s biggest tech company Huawei is trying to woo India by running big advertisements on all leading dailies of India. Huawei claims to as committed as ever, with india, for India and says it has been doing business in India for 20 years now. The reason behind this gesture by Huawei may lie in a report published by the Financial Times earlier this week. The report claims that India is looking to phase out equipment from Huawei and other Chinese players. Instead of a formal ban, India has reportedly indicated to telecom companies that they should stay away from Chinese gear. Huawei is already facing a complete ban in the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia. It is also partially banned in New Zealand. Also read: Canada court blocks release of intelligence documents to Huawei's Meng Wanzhou Canada might soon join this list as a Reuters' report states that the country will soon be deciding the fate of Huawei. But, Canada has delayed a final verdict --- the delay is long enough for huawei to get the message. Huawei's CFO Meng Wanzhou is facing extradition proceedings in Canada, with the US hoping to get her custody over alleged violations of Iran sanctions. While Canada and China are fighting a diplomatic war, Huawei is caught in the crossfire. So, the advertisements and gestures may be Huawei's trial of saving its position and relationship with India. With Global Times recent survey, Huawei is expected to make a major PR push and they seem to be regretting the decisions of the Communist Party.

More than 50% Chinese citizens like Modi government: Global Times

A New Zealand judge sentenced white supremacist Brenton Tarrant to life in prison without parole on Thursday for killing 51 Muslim worshippers in the country's deadliest shooting, saying the sentence was not enough punishment for the "wicked" crimes.

New Zealand mosque shooter sentenced to life in prison

A New Zealand judge sentenced white supremacist Brenton Tarrant to life in prison without parole on Thursday for killing 51 Muslim worshippers in the country's deadliest shooting, saying the sentence was not enough punishment for the "wicked" crimes. Sara Qasem, daughter of victim Abdelfattah Qasem, said she would miss smelling her father's garden sauce cooking and wanted to hear his stories about the "olive trees in Palestine".

Survivors, family members of victims of Christchurch shooting share their pain

A New Zealand court has sentenced a man who killed 51 people at two mosques to life in prison without parole

News Alert: Brenton Tarrant given life term imprisonment without parole

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