New Zealand Labour Party stories
Homeowners could still face charges of up to $45,000 in major growth areas as the council seeks to recoup infrastructure costs.
More than 400 people turned out in Paraparaumu as local leaders warned closing Kāpiti Coast Airport would hit civil defence, jobs and flight training.
A threatened closure would leave the district without a crucial air link, but both major parties are only promising to lobby for Kāpiti Airport's survival.
A potential sale has raised hopes and fears over whether the Paraparaumu runway will stay open for scheduled flights and emergency landings.
Policy uncertainty and a stagnant housing market have deepened the slump in retirement village shares, even as analysts see recovery potential.
Local activists say the planned sale could reduce Wellington's already scarce public housing, with more than 600 households waiting for homes.
Expectant mothers were flown or driven to Nelson for safety after temporary staffing gaps at Wairau Hospital exposed Marlborough's obstetrics shortage.
Wellington households face mounting pressure as fixing ageing pipes could add more than $80,000 to each ratepayer over 25 years.
Government revenue would fall by NZD $264 million in year one if landlords could offset rental losses against other income.
A survey of 250 tradespeople found 56% want council fees and slow consenting tackled, as costs and delays are squeezing small builders.
Animals, homes and emergency crews could be spared disruption if New Zealand First wins support for its proposed fireworks ban.
Passengers could get automatic refunds under Labour's plan, which also targets hidden fees and limited competition on regional routes.
Rents are expected to stay subdued despite the election, as weak demand, ample supply and household finances continue to cap increases.
Higher mortgage costs and uncertainty have kept turnover weak, with August deals down 11.6% year on year and values still subdued.
A train nearly hit a car at Morningside as the Greens unveiled a $2.5 billion plan to remove Auckland level crossings and ease congestion.
Households could get cheaper, more flexible power deals as National proposes new rules to boost competition and rein in network charges.
Lower taxes and energy bills could unlock hiring at UK small firms, with 38% saying they would recruit more staff if costs eased.
Unemployment at an 11-year high is driving Labour's plan to spend more than GBP £4 billion on jobs and public repairs.
Waiting times remain starkly uneven, with Northland and Southern lagging on planned care while other regions meet health targets.
The move is likely to keep rents steadier and has eased fears investors would face higher costs under Labour's tax plan.
