US military carries out 'self-defence' strikes in Iran; kiwifruit company owner fined after making worker pay $23k to secure job; and the average KiwiSaver balance revealed.
US military says it carried out 'self-defence' strikes in Iran
The US military said that it carried out “self-defence” strikes in southern Iran, including on missile launch sites and boats placing mines, even as President Donald Trump said on social media that negotiations were “proceeding nicely".
The strikes were done “to protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces,” but the military was “using restraint during the ongoing ceasefire”, Captain Tim Hawkins, US Central Command spokesman, said in a statement.
Kiwifruit company owner fined after making worker pay $23k to secure job
The owner of a now-liquidated Bay of Plenty kiwifruit contracting company must pay $40,000 in fines for exploiting migrant workers, including for making one worker pay more than $23,000 to secure his job.
Hariom Horticulture Limited owner Tarun Gautam neglected to keep wage, time, holiday and leave records, as well as failing to pay minimum wage rates, a Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment release said.
Labrador attacked by group of dogs on Palmerston North walking track
A woman's labrador was mauled by three dogs while out with a dogwalker in Palmerston North, requiring surgery.
Palmerston North City Council was now considering enforcement options.
Watch: Hipkins asked about MP's 'duck-faced horse' comment aimed at Willis
Barbara Edmonds says she got it wrong, and feels "absolutely terrible about it".
ONE AVERAGE BALANCE
The average balance across all members is up 11.3% from 2024 – but the gender gap remains.
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