Two dead in US after sniper fires at crews responding to blaze, Govt introducing criminal offence for 'coward punches', and what's changing tomorrow.
1 Two dead after sniper fires at crews responding to a blaze in Idaho
A sniper ambushed firefighters responding to a blaze in a northern Idaho mountain community, killing at least two people and unleashing barrages of gunfire over several hours in an attack that the state governor called a "heinous" assault.
Sheriff Bob Norris said officials believe the two people killed were fire personnel. He didn't know if anyone else had been shot.
2 Government introducing specific criminal offence for 'coward punches'
Specific criminal offences for "coward punches" are to be introduced by the Government.
Announced by Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith, the new law will introduce an assault offence for one-punch attacks which cause grievous bodily harm.
The maximum penalty when the offender intended to cause injury or acted with a disregard for safety would be eight years' imprisonment.
3 More heavy rain forecast for some areas of NZ later this week
Flooded communities in Nelson-Tasman have begun a massive clean-up effort, as MetService warns of more rain to come later in the week.
The severe weather prompted States of Emergency to be declared for the Nelson-Tasman region, and part of Marlborough, but the rain had eased today and roads were beginning to reopen.
4 Another blow for All Blacks as Williams is ruled out of French series
All Blacks prop Tamaiti Williams is out of the French series due to a knee injury which requires surgery.
Described today as one of the best looseheads in the world by head coach Scott Robertson, Williams’ withdrawal due to a torn meniscus comes after he started for the Crusaders in their Super Rugby Pacific final victory over the Chiefs.
5 Multi-millionaire couple granted approval for private helipad
Despite uproar from the community, multi-millionaire Auckland couple entrepreneur Anna Mowbray and former All Black Ali Williams will be allowed a helicopter pad at their Auckland property.
After weeks of deliberation, three independent hearing commissioners appointed by Auckland Council have approved the couple's controversial resource consent application — with some concessions.
Watch: Former Kiwis league star KO'd at Dubai Runit event
Kevin Proctor received medical attention after appearing to have a seizure following a big hit during the tackle game.
ONE SET OF CHANGES WORTH NOTING
It's July 1 tomorrow, and believe it or not, we're halfway through 2025, which means the Government will roll out several new changes to policies and regulations. Here are some of the highlights you need to know.
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