Budget 2026: Finance Minister Nicola Willis’ third budget aims to return the books to surplus sooner, but critics say it’s “socially narrow” and leaves households, child poverty targets and older Kiwis short on real relief. Housing & growth funding: Local Government New Zealand backs a $400m incentive for councils to approve more homes, while transport and rail groups warn the country needs sustained investment, not one-off boosts. Auckland Trotting Club: Brad Steele has taken leadership after leaving HRNZ, with the club promising a push to improve race-day experience and commercial performance. Workplace rights: The UN’s top court says the right to strike is protected under international labour law, a ruling expected to reverberate across the Pacific. Health & safety: Women’s Refuge says Budget 2026 must be judged by safety outcomes for women and children facing violence, while the Prostate Cancer Foundation calls the lack of a screening pilot another missed chance. Court case: In the Gulf Harbour kidnapping and manslaughter trial, jurors heard about rice bags tied to the victim and “very thin” women allegedly seen at the house. Travel: Singapore Airlines and Air New Zealand expand the Singapore–NZ network, adding capacity to Auckland and Christchurch. Sport: Cricket West Indies confirmed West Indies’ 2026 home series including New Zealand in five ODIs in July.