PM launches National's election pitch, family speaks as details emerge about tramper’s 19-day ordeal, and more heavy rain on the way.
Prime Minister launches National's election pitch, 'optimistic' on economy
PM Christopher Luxon says there is "no room for extravagant election promises" as he defends his economic management while setting the scene for National's pitch to voters in a state of the nation address.
In his speech to the Auckland Business Chamber today, the National Party leader acknowledged the economic recovery had been frustrating for many Kiwis, suggesting tariff shocks last year had made it feel "like we were back at square one".
Luxon's speech comes as the political year kicks into gear, with both Labour and National holding caucus retreats this week.
'Overjoyed': Family speaks as details emerge of tramper’s 19-day ordeal
The family of rescued tramper Graham Garnett said they are "overjoyed" by his return as new details reveal how the 66-year-old spent nearly three weeks lost and injured in the Kahurangi National Park.
Garnett, who had been missing and feared dead since December 30, was discovered at around 2.30pm on Sunday by DoC contractors installing signs at Venus Hut.
Sergeant Jonny Evans, the officer in charge of the police search and rescue operation, said Garnett was "extremely lucky to be alive".
All Blacks: Jamie Joseph 'still digesting' Scott Robertson's axing
Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph says he's still digesting news of Scott Robertson's sudden dismissal, amid speculation he could be in line to take over as the next All Blacks head coach.
New Zealand Rugby confirmed last Thursday that Robertson would be leaving the role, two years into his four-year contract.
Speaking to 1News in Dunedin on Monday, Joseph admitted the situation had caught him off guard.
Watch: Moment mum reunites with strangers who rescued her baby from burning car
Wesley Beynon and his uncle Marc Willding stopped to help free the nine-month-old from the burning car moments before it was engulfed in flames.
ONE RAINY FORECAST
Heavy rain watches are in place for parts of the upper North Island, bringing downpours to an already saturated Northland, parts of Auckland and the Coromandel Peninsula from this evening.
MetService said a strong and humid easterly flow was forecast to bring heavy rain on Monday and Tuesday, with severe thunderstorms and localised downpours possible.
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