Timeline
This page contains all audio and news items we publish, in chronological order, with the most recent first.
One dead following crash on State Highway 26 in Waikato
The sole occupant of the single vehicle crash died at the scene.
Motorists asked to avoid Makarau after 'incident'
Police have closed Kaipara Coast Highway, north of Auckland, in both directions.
Why did fashion make us so mad in 2025?
While fashion can be a source of pleasure, pain and humor, this year it was more likely to inspire something else: pure, unadulterated rage.
'Parks and Recreation' star aims to delight tough child critics with new film
The Pout-Pout Fish features an international voice cast led by Nick Offerman and Nina Oyama, who can't wait for children to see the film.
World begins to welcome 2026 after a year of Trump, truces and turmoil
In Australia, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the joy usually felt at the start of a new year was "tempered by the sadness of the old".
GPs worried by lack of information on ManageMyHealth data breach
The country's largest patient information portal on Wednesday confirmed it had identified a cyber security incident involving "unauthorised access" to its platform.
Historic Ōpiki Bridge cable falls into Manawatū River again
The regional council says it's the same cable which fell into the river in September 2023, but the issue is different.
Israel to suspend operations of several aid groups in Gaza
Other countries are warning of a renewed 'catastrophic' humanitarian crisis.
Revellers ring in 2026 across the country
More than half a tonne of fireworks were launched from high up Auckland's Sky Tower, while Wellington's entertainment strip, Courtenay Place, turned into a carnival zone for the night.
New Zealander arrested for going onto tarmac at Perth Airport
The man allegedly broke the glass on an alarm and activated it, before pushing past airline staff at the international terminal.
Wild weather hasn't dampened New Year celebrations
New Year's celebrations were well underway - despite the dreary weather in many regions.
ManageMyHealth confirms cyber breach
The personal health portal ManageMyHealth has identified a cyber security breach.
Unease in Palau over US deportee deal
There's unease and confusion in Palau over a deal made with the US to accept deportees.
A renewed search for flight MH370 aims to find answers for families
Is the new search likely to find new evidence more than a decade after the flight went missing?
How this clever film proves romance isn't about choosing 'the one'
Eternity is not truly about a love that could last forever. It is about the way that love, real ordinary love, involves more than happiness, writes Tony Milligan.
18 Māori in New Year Honours - 'Wonderful work in maintaining and uplifting our identity'
Eighteen Māori have been recognised for 2026, and include Companions, Officers, and Members of the New Zealand Order of Merit.
Mega strike, police scandals and bye-bye Census: The biggest stories from 2025
We look back at some of the biggest stories that made headlines around the country.
Police dog and handler injured in Whangārei while pursuing suspects
Four people were arrested, including a 19-year-old and a 48-year-old man.
Auckland motorway reopens after crash closes road for most of afternoon
Southbound lane of State Highway One near Takanini has reopened after being closed by a crash for much of the afternoon.
2025's most powerful world news photos
AFP's Pictures of the Year 2025 shows some of the world's top events and stories over the past year.
Cricket: Australia's Head hopes Ashes rivals meet for post-series drinks
Players and staff from both teams routinely meet for drinks at the end of an Ashes series, but the tradition that fell by the wayside after the 2023 series.
Navy Commodore involved in NZ's response to HMNZS Manawanui sinking awarded in New Year Honours List
Andrew Brown has been recognised for his leadership of New Zealand's response to the grounding and subsequent sinking of HMNZS Manawanui.
'The Wire' actor Isiah Whitlock Jr. dies aged 71
The American actor had a storied career spanning more than three decades in both TV and film.
Those we lost: Remembering the most notable world deaths of 2025
A look back at some of the most notable world figures who died this year, from Jane Goodall to Hulk Hogan.
Urgent call to conserve water as storm clean-up continues
A severe thunderstorm watch remains for part of the North Island as a stormy week continues.
UAE to pull forces out of Yemen as 24-hour deadline set
The United Arab Emirates' defence ministry said it was withdrawing "counter-terrorism teams...of its own volition".
What to expect from power prices in the coming year
Consumer NZ is hopeful that electricity prices will improve in 2026, saying there are some positive signs.
2025 in review: The year that was in Pacific news
RNZ Pacific's bulletin editor Christina Persico looks in the rearview mirror at 2025. Audio
NZ doesn't join international statement warning of deteriorating situation in Gaza
The statement describes conditions for civilians as "appalling" as winter approaches.
One dead after crash near Ohau Point
One person has died after a crash this morning on State Highway 1 north of Kaikōura.
'Genius in him': Racing Bulls boss praises Liam Lawson
The Racing Bulls boss has some encouraging words for New Zealand driver Liam Lawson.
Northland hero recounts 'hairy' rescue after yacht capsizes
Gordon Pengelly was on his deck on Tuesday afternoon when he noticed a catamaran sailing past Elizabeth Reef in rough weather.
New Year honour reflects the 'resilience, strength, and contributions of refugee communities'
Half a dozen Asian New Zealanders have been recognised for their contributions to the country in the New Year Honours list released today.
Denmark becomes first country in world to end letter delivery
In Denmark, posting a letter in one of its iconic red mailboxes is no longer an option as the country fully embraces the digital age.
SH1 bridge blocked in Canterbury after crash
The Rakaia Bridge at State Highway 1 in Canterbury is blocked following a crash.
Nominations open for new vote after election nullified
Nominations are open for a new election in an Auckland local body after previous results have been voided by a judge.
Urgent call to conserve water as storm clean-up continues
A severe thunderstorm watch remains for part of the North Island as a stormy week continues.
Can the 'Scandinavian sleep method' help couples find peace?
The 'Scandinavian sleep method' is having a moment on social media. But what is it? And will it stop you fighting over the duvet?
Auckland to Perth flight diverted after person dies
The flight was diverted to Sydney due to the incident and emergency services were provided.
Libby Fletcher honoured for protecting Lake Tarawera
The recognition follows more than a decade of work in environmental protection, community engagement, and local public service.
Arsenal crush Villa to confirm title credentials
Premier League leaders Arsenal slammed the door shut on charging Aston Villa with a 4-1 home thrashing that kept them clear at the top of the table going into the New Year.
Max Verstappen named top driver of the year
Max Verstappen may have been beaten for the Formula 1 title this year but he has been voted the top driver of the year by his peers.
'Worst nightmare': Hundreds hunt for beloved runaway horse
Auckland rider Erin Swainston knew she had to let go of the reins or be crushed by her horse, Scooter, when he lost his footing.
Authorities urge violence-free New Year's Eve
It comes after two straight nights of violence in Auckland, involving group brawls.
'Real hero' lends hand after dramatic boat capsize
A search is underway for a dog missing after a man was rescued from a capsized yacht in Whananaki in Northland yesterday.
CNMI eyes China access via Phillipine Airlines
The return of Philippine Airlines' Manila-Saipan service next year is expected to broaden access to the CNMI and could bring more Chinese tourists to the islands. Philippine Airlines is set...
Hastings woman killed in 'unique way,' police say as probe continues
Teishallia Te Paea's body was found at a house in the Hastings suburb of Camberley on 29 October.
'Princess Bride' star's emotional tribute to Rob Reiner
The star of one of Rob Reiner's most celebrated films says he "can finally put my grief into words", more than two weeks after Reiner and his wife were found dead.
RNZ Pacific News at 11am for 31 December 2025
The latest RNZ Pacific news and sport. Audio
US President John F Kennedy's granddaughter dead at 35
Tatiana Schlossberg, an environmental journalist who was a granddaughter of US President John F. Kennedy, has died, her family announced.
'The abuser was protected and the women blamed': Anglican priest honoured for advocacy
Reverend Dr Patricia Allan learnt of sexual abuse and harassment within the Church while she was preparing for ordination.
New Year Honours: Greytown couple applauded for lifetime of service to music
Ed and Juliet Cooke have both been awarded the King's Service Medal (KSM) for their services to music.
George Clooney becomes French citizen
The American actor and director has long been vocal about his privacy concerns surrounding his family.
Burst tyre and speed contributed to Anthony Joshua crash, say investigators
The British boxer was in a "stable condition" in hospital after the Monday car accident that killed two close associates.
RNZ Pacific News at 10am for 31 December 2025
The latest RNZ Pacific news and sport. Audio
PNG Christmas cruise ends in chaos as Coral Adventurer passengers return home
An angry passenger has confronted cruise ship staff after her dream Christmas voyage came to a crashing halt off the Papua New Guinea coast on the weekend.
Dark sky champion initially didn't believe New Year honour email
Viv Napier, former South Wairarapa District Council mayor, said the honour came as a complete surprise to her.
Eight Pasifika recipients in New Year Honours
Leading the accolades is All Blacks great Saveatama Eroni Clarke for services to the Pacific community and rugby.
NZ tourist thought grounded cruise ship was 'going to sink'
An angry passenger has confronted cruise ship staff after her dream Christmas voyage came to a crashing halt off the Papua New Guinea coast on the weekend.
RNZ Pacific News at 9am for 31 December 2025
The latest RNZ Pacific news and sport. Audio
One dead in early morning Waikato crash
One person has died following a single-vehicle crash in Waikato early this morning.
New Year Honours 2026 - the full list
Here is the full list of everyone receiving a 2026 New Year Honour.
Ten businesses that didn't survive 2025
It was another tough year financially for many businesses, and some high-profile names didn't make it.
Working 'at the intersection of where the eye meets the brain'
Dame Helen Danesh-Meyer has been made a Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to ophthalmology.
RNZ Pacific News at 8am for 31 December 2025
The latest RNZ Pacific news and sport. Audio
Eight Pasifika recipients in New Year Honours
All Blacks great Eroni Clarke is among eight Pasifika recipients of New Year Honours in Aotearoa.
'I’m excited to give back':Roy Krishna signs for Bula FC
After years plying his trade overseas Fiji football star Roy Krishna is returning home.
Hundreds still without power after storms
Severe wind and rain battered the North Island and upper South Island on Tuesday.
New Year Honours: Indycar, bowls, and running icons recognised
An Indycar icon, a name synonymous with bowls, and a long-distance runner who pushed for women's equity in sport are among those who have been recognised in the New Year Honours.
'Worst nightmare': Hundreds hunt for beloved runaway horse
Auckland rider Erin Swainston knew she had to let go of the reins or be crushed by her horse, Scooter, when he lost his footing.
Phoenix women climb A-League table with another big win
The Wellington Phoenix women have jumped from ninth to fourth in the A-League standings following a 3-nil win at Western Sydney Wanderers.
Seven new Knights and Dames in New Year Honours
From the chairperson of the Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry to a champion racing driver, a look at who is being recognised in the honours list this year.
'I thought it was maybe some spam' - Dixon stunned by knighthood
'I've been called a lot of things, but I never thought that 'Sir' was going to be one of them' - NZ's most successful modern motorsport champion has been knighted.
New Year Honours: Wellingtonians in line for applause
Three new dames and four knights have been announced in this year's New Year Honours - and the capital is home to three of them.
What the man behind one of NZ's largest tech exporters is most proud of
Founder of accounting company Xero, Sir Rod Drury, has been made a Knight Companion in the New Year Honours.
RNZ Pacific News at 7am for 31 December 2025
The latest RNZ Pacific news and sport. Audio
Pacific sport year in review: The highs and lows of 2025
Opinion - From rugby to badminton Pacific sport fans were spoilt for choice this year.
Recognition for woman who led abuse in care royal commission
Teacher, lawyer, judge and head of a royal commission - Dame Coral Shaw's career has always been about giving back to those most vulnerable.
RNZ Pacific News at 6am for 31 December 2025
The latest RNZ Pacific news and sport. Audio
State Highway 2 reopens after fatal crash
One person has died after a single vehicle crash on State Highway 2 near Tangoio.
Essential New Zealand Albums: The Warratahs - The Only Game In Town
This 1987 album launched Kiwi country institution The Warratahs on a career that has spanned four decades.
China encircles Taiwan in massive military display
China has carried out 10 hours of live-firing drills around Taiwan as its military rehearses a blockade of the island's north and south.
Germany bank heist nets about 30m euros in cash, valuables
A police spokesman said that the break-in was "indeed very professionally executed", likening it to the heist movie 'Ocean's Eleven'.
Mayor's mission to bring back Rotorua hydroslide
Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell has made it her mission to bring back the hydroslide that used to be part of the Leisure World theme park.
Ten businesses that didn't survive 2025
It was another tough year financially for many businesses, and some high-profile names didn't make it.
Diaspora of Atafu in Tokelau look to work more closely with families back home
A community of Tokelauns in New Zealand is making moves to work more closely with communities back home. Audio
Te Arawa Lakes battles invasive gold clams
Te Arawa Lakes Trust is worried about the lakes in its area and the boaties coming to use them.
Sport in 2025: The weird, wacky and wonderful
Jonty Dine takes a look back at the most bizarre, quirky, and eye popping moments in sport in 2025.
A history of New Zealand's wildfires - and what's to come
Off the back of two devastating wildfires in Tongariro National Park, Kate Green takes a look back at some of the big ones, and a look forward at future risk. Video
Rhythm and Vines dries out after soggy start
Festival director Kieran Spillane was confident the grounds will dry up in hours: "The sites are actually holding up very, very well."
Thousands without power around country as wild weather moves south
Stormy weather has been moving slowly south down the country today, leaving thousands without power.
Inside Big Ben, a London icon that's been ringing since 1859
It's among the world's most photographed landmarks, but London's Big Ben also has an important job to do as it rings in the new year.
Lost hiker rescue: 'They've certainly saved him in some shape or form'
"That's six hours he could have been by himself if these members of the public hadn't stepped up and help us out," says the local head of police.
Year in review: NZ Warriors ride rollercoaster to NRL playoffs
After a strong 7-2 start to their campaign, the Auckland-based side were left wondering how to return to the grand final.
New York City's first Muslim mayor gets ready to take office
At the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve, New York Attorney General Letitia James will swear in the new mayor in a private ceremony.
Scientists investigate venomous spider 'hotspots'
The invasive noble false widow spider was first spotted in Porirua last year with further sightings in Christchurch, Nelson, Waikato and Northland.
Liam Lawson tests out Australian Supercar
Formula 1 star Liam Lawson got to try out the car of another New Zealand champion driver.
Beyonce declared a billionaire by Forbes magazine
The 44-year-old entertainer joins a select club that includes her husband, rapper Jay-Z, as well as Taylor Swift, Bruce Springsteen and Rihanna.
China fires live rounds in military drills near Taiwan
China has fired live rounds in the waters to the north of Taiwan, with 130 Chinese military aircraft detected near the island in a 24-hour period.
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