State Highway 8, the Tekapo-Twizel Highway, remains closed after two bus crashes involving international tourists. One person is in serious condition, with two others moderately injured. The Police’s Commercial Vehicle Safety Team is investigating, and weather conditions were foggy at the time. Passengers not needing medical attention have been taken to Twizel, and the relevant Consulate has been informed.

An Auckland man was arrested after police discovered over 65 kilograms of cannabis worth nearly $800,000 in his vehicle during a traffic stop in Flat Bush. The driver, a 25-year-old, faces charges related to drug possession and computer search obligations. Detective Inspector Karen Bright highlighted the impact on the local cannabis market. In a separate incident, police in Avondale found cannabis in a woman's handbag during a traffic stop, leading to her arrest.

New Zealand's independent foreign policy is under scrutiny as official documents reveal a shift towards strategic alignment with the United States, raising concerns about the democratic process and national interests. The current government, led by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, is criticized for reversing its stance and aligning with US strategies, potentially compromising New Zealand's agency and regional security. The alignment with the US, particularly through initiatives like Aukus, is seen as provocative and detrimental to New Zealand's trade and security interests in the Pacific. The article emphasizes the importance of maintaining an independent foreign policy to uphold New Zealand's global reputation and regional stability.

The United Nations General Assembly marks two decades since its initial resolution to limit bottom trawling on seamounts, highlighting the leadership of Palau and other island nations in marine conservation. Over the years, agreements have expanded protections for the deep sea, culminating in a treaty to safeguard marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdictions.

Police in Napier are seeking public assistance following a firearms incident on Clarence Cox Crescent, where shots were fired at an address. An unoccupied vehicle was damaged, and investigations are ongoing. Authorities urge witnesses or those with information to contact them via their 105 service or anonymously through Crime Stoppers.

A serious crash has led to the closure of SH8 from Lake Tekapo to Lake Pukaki, with no immediate detour routes available. The NZ Transport Agency advises road users to expect significant delays and plan for extended travel times. Emergency services and the Serious Crash Unit are on the scene, and the road is expected to remain closed for the rest of the day as investigations continue. The condition of the vehicles involved will be examined as part of the investigation.

MetService forecasts potential heavy rain for parts of New Zealand's North and South Islands due to a low pressure system expected to pass east of the country on Friday and Saturday. Watches for heavy rain have been issued for several regions, with the weather expected to ease by Saturday evening. Another weather system is anticipated to bring rain and showers by Sunday afternoon, continuing into Monday. Fog is less likely in the North Island over the weekend, though some areas in the South Island may still experience it.

Christchurch has launched new Community Beat Teams to enhance police visibility and public safety, with ten officers patrolling high-demand areas. The initiative has already led to successful apprehensions and aims to improve community trust. Superintendent Lane Todd emphasizes the importance of community input in determining patrol areas. The teams will collaborate with local partners, including the Christchurch City Council and Business Canterbury, to maximize safety benefits. The city plans to expand the team to 18 officers for seven-day coverage in the coming months.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former president of Liberia and Nobel Prize Laureate, founded the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Presidential Centre for Women and Development and co-chaired the Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response.

Indonesia renamed the waters northeast of the Natuna Islands to 'North Natuna Sea', a move that overlaps with China's nine-dash line and has led to maritime disputes. President Jokowi has increased military presence in the area and made visits to demonstrate sovereignty, but remains focused on narrow territorial interests rather than broader South China Sea issues. China's response to the renaming was dismissive, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the current situation. The article suggests that while Indonesia's actions may protect its interests in the short term, they are unlikely to deter China's growing naval capabilities and aggressive behavior in the long term. The piece also reflects on historical names of the sea and suggests that Southeast Asian states should focus on practical measures against Chinese coercion rather than name changes.