The Government reveals the details of this year's budget, a victim of AI-generated porn explains why NZ's first-ever conviction was so hard-fought, and the head of a drug syndicate's efforts to smuggle lands him in prison.
Government unveils Budget 2026
New Zealand will return to surplus sooner than previously expected, new Treasury forecasts released at today's Budget show – as the Government reveals a new bank profits levy and other tax measures.
There are Budget 2026 changes, including for fringe benefit taxed vehicles, a new levy on banks and insurers, and an overhaul of charity donation rules.
The forecasted return to surplus in the 2028/29 financial year leaves the books in a better shape than many had expected, including the last update in Treasury's half-year update in December.
Budget 2026: New motorway funded, bowel cancer screening age lowered
The Government has unveiled a grab bag of funding for new projects and initiatives at this year's Budget – ranging from a $1.77bn new SH1 expressway extension, a free new photo ID card for over-65s, and lowering the age of eligibility for bowel cancer screening.
Health Minister Simeon Brown has also been at pains to highlight a "record investment" of $5.8 billion in new operational spending for health over the forecast period, with targeted upgrades for hospitals across New Zealand in capital investments.
'Struggle after struggle': Celebrity Treasure Island 2026 winner
Social media star Nix Adams has been crowned the winner of Celebrity Treasure Island, becoming the first wahine Māori to win the modern-day era of the show.
Adams defeated actor Liv Parker and content creator Louis Davis in the final treasure hunt, which sent the trio racing around the island collecting symbol cards needed to uncover the buried treasure.
Watch: Victim in landmark deepfake legal case says 'it feels like redemption'
In an exclusive interview, a victim of AI-generated porn explains why NZ's first-ever conviction was so hard-fought.
ONE SNEAKY SMUGGLER
The head of a national drug syndicate has been sentenced to 12 years in prison after a Customs investigation linked him to more than $20 million worth of illicit drugs hidden in household items.
The contraband was hidden in garden gnomes, fish food cans, T-shirts, and baby formula, and smuggled through air freight and international mail.
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