Trump wants to create manufacturing jobs. His tech allies help automate them.

Headline: President Trump aims to revive U.S. manufacturing, yet some tech allies like Musk and Bezos invest in automation, creating a conflict. Experts note Trump's reshoring goals clash with the enthusiasm for robots replacing workers. Despite concerns, Huang suggests AI will generate new jobs. Automation is driven by competition.

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Just three nights of poor sleep might harm your heart

Headline: A Swedish study revealed that just three nights of roughly four hours of sleep triggered changes in blood linked to heart disease in young, healthy men. Sleep deprivation increased inflammatory markers and weakened the usual beneficial effects of exercise on heart-healthy proteins. The timing of blood tests also mattered.

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An anomaly - Moana Pasifika attempt to put Chiefs thrashing behind them

Headline: Moana Pasifika is focused on their upcoming game against the Hurricanes after a devastating loss to the Chiefs. Coach Tana Umaga believes the defeat was an anomaly. A win against the Hurricanes is crucial for Moana Pasifika to secure a playoff spot, however, it could be complicated by the Blues result.

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Confusing and unhelpful police directive canned

Headline: Police Commissioner Chambers canned a directive setting value thresholds for retail crime investigations, calling it "confusing and unhelpful." The directive, revealed by RNZ, de-prioritized cases below certain values. Chambers emphasized retail crime remains a priority, reassuring retailers that police support is unchanged. He acknowledged the directive could erode public trust.

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Gaza aid distribution paused for 24 hours after deadly shooting, overwhelming need

Headline: Following a deadly shooting near a Gaza aid distribution center that killed dozens, the U.S.-backed GHF will pause operations for 24 hours for logistical adjustments. The ICRC responded to multiple mass casualty incidents. The IDF acknowledged firing warning shots, while Hamas was blamed for violence by Israeli forces. The UN calls for an investigation and unimpeded aid.

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Army Corps analysis finds Great Lakes pipeline tunnel would have sweeping environmental impacts

Headline: A U.S. Army Corps analysis suggests Enbridge's Line 5 tunnel project, aiming to prevent spills, could harm wetlands and bat habitats. While eliminating anchor strike risks, construction impacts include noise, damaged views, and potential archaeological site disruption. Environmentalists oppose the tunnel, citing spill threats, while legal challenges against Line 5 continue.

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Christchurch soul singer: I wear my heart right on my forehead

Headline: Ladi6, aka Karoline Tamati, releases "Le Vā", a dance album honoring her late mother. Despite grieving lyrics, the tracks are energetic, reflecting her creative partnership with husband Brent 'Parks' Park. Ladi6, also a counselling student, emphasizes empathy and connection, aiming to help others navigate life's challenges. Her songs offer hope and shared experience.

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New Zealand Parliament suspends 3 Māori Party lawmakers for haka protest

Headline: New Zealand suspended three Māori lawmakers for performing a haka to protest a bill they said reversed Indigenous rights. Hana-Rāwhiti Maipi-Clarke received a seven-day ban, while Debbie Ngarewa-Packer and Rawiri Waititi were suspended for 21 days. The committee cited the lawmakers' behavior as egregious and intimidating, but they claim to be treated unfairly. The debate sparked wider discussions about Māori culture in Parliament.

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What to know about the glacier that buried a Swiss village after it collapsed

Headline: A piece of the Birch Glacier collapsed in the Swiss Alps, burying the village of Blatten. Accelerated by warm temperatures, the collapse was likely triggered by thawing permafrost. Homes were flattened and a search for a missing person was suspended due to instability. Glaciologists expect more such events due to climate change.

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Will Trumps tariffs survive legal challenges? Experts weigh in.

Headline: President Trump's tariffs face legal uncertainty after federal courts invalidated them, including levies on China. A federal appeals court temporarily reinstated the tariffs while the legal justification is weighed. Experts say the ensuing court battle could reach the Supreme Court. If defeated, the White House may explore other legal avenues to reimpose tariffs. Companies could receive refunds if the tariffs are struck down.

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Arrest made in theft of instruments stolen from the rock band Heart at NJ venue

Headline: Police arrested a New Jersey man for stealing Heart band members' instruments, including Nancy Wilson's custom guitar and Paul Moak's vintage mandolin, before their Atlantic City tour kickoff. The suspect was caught on video trying to sell the stolen goods. One instrument remains missing. The band expressed heartbreak over losing their irreplaceable musical extensions.

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Russian airstrikes kill 3 in Ukraine as Zelenskyy warns of evolving drone tech

Headline: Russian attacks on Kharkiv killed three and injured 56, damaging over 100 buildings. Ukraine's air force reported downing 49 of 85 launched drones. Zelenskyy urged increased pressure on Russia and emphasized the need for international action, particularly from the U.S., criticizing the spread of warfare technologies. A Russian explosives plant was reportedly hit by drones.

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Apple unveils new operating system and AI capabilities

Headline: Apple unveiled expanded AI capabilities and a redesigned interface across its products with iOS 26. New features include real-time language translation and advanced image identification. The update offers call screening, muting hold music, and alerting users when agents answer. Apple is providing developers AI tools to enhance software creation.

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Corinne Bailey Raes first childrens book, Put Your Records On, draws upon her musical past

Headline: Corinne Bailey Rae will release a children's book, "Put Your Records On," based on her hit song and childhood music memories. The book, illustrated by Gillian Eilidh O'Mara, arrives March 2026 and follows a girl discovering her great aunt's record collection. Rae hopes to inspire children to find their voice through music.

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What to know about the Nintendo Switch 2: Price, features

Headline: The Nintendo Switch 2 launches early Thursday, ending months of anticipation. Pre-orders are mostly sold out, but limited in-store purchases begin at 12:01 a.m. ET. The new console boasts improved graphics, modified controllers, and new games, while maintaining compatibility. The console price is $449.99, with a bundle available for $499.99.

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Apples loses bid to halt ruling that blocks some fees from its iPhone app store

Headline: An appeals panel denied Apple's request to pause an order banning fees on external iPhone app transactions. This challenges Apple's revenue model and follows a contempt of court finding against the company. The ruling stems from Epic Games' antitrust suit alleging monopolistic practices. Apple must now allow alternative payment systems, potentially impacting its profits.

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What to know after anti-immigrant violence flares in a Northern Ireland town

Headline: Anti-immigrant violence in Ballymena, Northern Ireland, injured 17 police officers after a second night of rioting. The unrest followed a march supporting a sexual assault victim, with two boys charged. Rioters threw projectiles, set fires, and targeted homes. Police responded with water cannons and rubber bullets, arresting five. Authorities blame social media agitators and unchecked migration for fueling "racist thuggery."

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Trumps tax bill could raise taxes on foreign companies

Headline: A tax provision in Trump's tax cuts, Section 899, may deter foreign investment in the US by taxing companies from countries with "unfair" taxes. The Global Business Alliance warns this could cost the US 360,000 jobs and $55 billion annually. Supporters claim it protects US interests, but critics say it risks harming businesses and workers.

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Colombia charges 15-year-old with attempted murder of presidential candidate

Headline: A 15-year-old was charged with attempted murder for shooting Colombian presidential candidate Miguel Uribe. Uribe is in critical condition. The teenager, captured fleeing with a gun, pleaded not guilty. Authorities are investigating possible masterminds. Armed groups often use minors due to lenient penalties. Uribe's shooting has sparked security concerns, political tensions, and calls for unity.

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AI risks broken career ladder for college graduates, some experts say

Headline: Experts warn AI may disrupt entry-level white-collar jobs, potentially replacing roles in fields like law and programming. Companies are adopting AI for efficiency, leading to concerns about reduced opportunities for recent graduates. While some jobs may disappear or be altered, skills like problem-solving and AI proficiency will be crucial. Manual labor and "human-intensive" roles remain relatively safe.

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EU and UK reach accord on cross-border trade and travel in Gibraltar

Headline: The EU and U.K. reached a historic agreement to ease trade and travel in Gibraltar, resolving a major post-Brexit issue. It removes barriers between Spain and Gibraltar, respecting EU rules. The deal ensures free movement for people and goods, benefitting Gibraltar's economy and 34,000 residents, with the U.K. touting protected sovereignty.

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Trump promised to welcome more foreign students. Now, they feel targeted on all fronts

Headline: During his campaign, Trump promised green cards to graduating foreign students. However, his administration shifted, enacting policies that created fear and uncertainty, with some students feeling targeted and expendable. Students now hesitate to travel home and are rethinking their plans to build lives in America due to fears of deportation and visa complications.

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A Grammy category is created for album covers just as Sabrina Carpenters takes the spotlight

Headline: For the 2026 Grammys, the Recording Academy is introducing a stand-alone "Best Album Cover" category. Also, "Best Recording Package" category gets a revamp. Other changes include adding a "Best Traditional Country Album" category and allowing artists previously featured on "Album of the Year" nominees to qualify for "Best New Artist". Nominations will be announced on November 7th.

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Music Review: Dierks Bentleys Broken Branches offers safe, familiar, cold beer country

Headline: Dierks Bentley's "Broken Branches" delivers familiar country rock themes with catchy, radio-friendly songs. While dependable, the album offers few surprises. Tracks hint at internal struggles, with "Jesus Loves Me" exploring faith and heartbreak. "Broken Branches," featuring John Anderson and Riley Green, is an energetic drinking song. Stephen Wilson Jr.'s duet on "Cold Beer Can" stands out as a memorable highlight.

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Home & Leisure Show bursting with ideas

Headline: The Star Media Home & Leisure Show returns to Christchurch from June 27-29 with free entry and $20,000 in prizes. Discover home renovation ideas, innovative products, and on-trend solutions. Enjoy the Taste Zone's food and the Leisure Zone's outdoor accessories. See new exhibitors and take advantage of show-only specials.

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Just how bad is black mould for your health?

Headline: Household mould, especially "black mould," is often feared, but the dangers are debated. While linked to allergies and asthma, evidence is weak connecting mould mycotoxins to serious illnesses. The fungus *Stachybotrys chartarum* can produce mycotoxins, but significant health issues from household mould exposure are unconfirmed. Removing mould remains important for respiratory health.

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Fire engulfs two houses in Canterbury, person rescued

Headline: A large fire in Lyttelton engulfed two houses and threatened a third. Fire and Emergency NZ rescued one person. Six fire engines and other units responded. Nearby buildings were evacuated as a precaution. The fire's containment is unconfirmed. The public is asked to avoid the area.

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Tributes to Brian Wilson flood in from across the music world

Headline: Following Brian Wilson's death at 82, tributes poured in from the music world. Carole King, Questlove, John Cusack, and bandmates from The Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac, and America shared condolences. Many recognized Wilson's musical genius and influence, calling him an "American Mozart" and spiritual giant whose melodies shaped generations.

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Crusaders hold off Blues to extend streak in semifinal thriller

Headline: The Crusaders defeated the Blues 21-14, extending their home playoff record. After trailing, the Crusaders scored 21 unanswered points. The Blues threatened late, but a turnover sealed the Crusaders' victory. The Crusaders will host either the Chiefs or Brumbies in the final. The Blues had two yellow cards while the Crusaders had one.

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Christchurch tsunami sirens face axe after failed test, communication breakdowns

Headline: Christchurch may reduce tsunami sirens to four due to their unreliability and confusion. A review recommends prioritizing emergency mobile alerts, aligning with national best practices. Sirens are prone to failure, misinterpretation, and create delays. Mobile alerts provide clear evacuation instructions. The city aims for a straightforward, effective system to prevent loss of life during a tsunami.

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New dinosaur species related to T. Rex discovered

Headline: Paleontologists discovered a new tyrannosaurid species, Khankhuuluu mongoliensis, from fossils found in Mongolia's Gobi Desert. Reanalyzed by a student, the fossils revealed unique features, including a nasal air cavity, unseen in Tyrannosaurus species. This "missing link" sheds light on tyrannosaur evolution, connecting smaller dinosaurs to apex predators like T. rex and suggesting dispersal patterns during the Cretaceous period.

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