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Kiwi pilot freed after being held hostage for 592 days

After 592 days in <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/rebel-fighters-share-eerie-footage-of-abducted-kiwi-pilot" target="_blank" rel="noopener">captivity</a>, a New Zealand pilot is finally going home. Phillip Mehrtens was taken hostage in Indonesia by a West Papua rebel group in February 2023 when he was working for Indonesian airline Susi Air. The pilot was kidnapped by rebels from the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) insurgent group at Papua’s Nduga airport on February 7th 2023, and spent over a year and a half in captivity. On Saturday, the 38-year-old was collected by police and military forces from a village in Nduga district before being given medical and psychological checks. He was then flown to the Papuan city of Timika before jetting to the capital Jakarta where he was handed over to New Zealand’s ambassador. “Today I have been freed,” Mehrtens told reporters. “I am very happy that shortly I will be able to go home and meet my family." “Thank you to everybody who helped me today so I can get out safely in a healthy condition.” New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters earlier said Mehrtens was “safe and well” and had been able to speak with his family, saying, “This news must be an enormous relief for his friends and loved ones." Mehrtens' long-anticipated release came after intense negotiation efforts between Wellington and Jakarta, with Indonesian President Joko Widodo saying that Jakarta had secured Mehrtens’ freedom through negotiation, not force. “We prioritised the safety of the pilot who was held hostage. It took a long process and I appreciate the authorities,” he told reporters. The rebels had demanded that the Indonesian government recognise Papuan independence in return for his freedom, as Mehrtens' kidnapping was part of a long-term, often brutally violent conflict between the Indonesian government and West Papua’s Indigenous people. Image credits: The West Papuan National Liberation Army / Handout

Travel Trouble

American zoo apologises to disgruntled New Zealanders

An American zoo has issued an apology after admitting it made a “huge mistake” that outraged an entire country. Footage of Miami Zoo’s paid encounters with Paora the kiwi went viral online, showing the bird being handled and passed around for pictures in broad daylights and under bright lights despite being a shy, nocturnal animal. The handling of their national icon had New Zealanders fired up, with a petition to save the “mistreated” animal being launched amid the video, which received more than 10,000 signatures. “He has been tamed and is subjected to bright fluorescent lighting four days a week, being handled by dozens of strangers, petted on his sensitive whiskers, laughed at, and shown off like a toy,” the petition read. “Kiwi are nocturnal animals, who should be kept in suitable dark enclosures, and minimally handled. “The best practice manual for kiwi states that they shouldn’t be handled often or taken out of their burrow to be held by the public. He is kept awake during the day, with only a small box in a brightly lit enclosure to mimic his natural underground habitat.” The zoo’s communications director Ron Magill has confirmed the attraction has been cancelled and has issued his own apology in an interview with the New Zealand Herald. “We regret the unintentional stress caused by a video on social media depicting the handling of Paora, the kiwi bird currently housed within Zoo Miami,” Magill said. He also told RNZ he had informed the zoo’s director that “we have offended a nation”. “When I saw the video myself I said we have made a huge mistake here,” he said. “I am so sorry. I am so remorseful. Someone asked how would you feel if we did that to your bald eagle, and you’re 100 per cent right. “I never want to come across as making excuses, I am here to apologise … to everyone. I feel profoundly terrible about this.” However, Magill noted Paora was healthy and well despite the uproar. “He eats like he’s on a spa day every day and he’s doing well. It doesn’t excuse what he was subjected to. But I promise it will never happen again,” he said. After the video went viral, the zoo was bombarded with complaints, with New Zealand’s Department of Conservation confirming it would be “discussing the situation with the American Association of Zoos and Aquariums to address some of the housing and handling concerns raised”. New Zealand prime minister Chris Hipkins also weighed in, claiming the ordeal “shows a lot of Kiwis take pride in our national bird when they’re overseas”. “The New Zealanders who witnessed what was happening there caught it pretty quickly,” he said, adding that the zoo had “made public statements of regret on what’s happened, and I acknowledge that and thank them for taking it seriously”. The kiwi is considered to be a Taonga species - native birds, plants and animals of special cultural significance and importance to native New Zealanders. Image credit: Getty

Travel Trouble

Kiwi rugby star found dead at just 33

New Zealand rugby player Billy Guyton has been found dead at the age of 33. The death of the halfback player, who played for the Blues, Crusaders and Hurricanes, was confirmed by the Tasman Rugby Union. "It is with great sadness to hear of the passing of Billy Guyton (a 52 game Mako player, and recent coach of our FPC Mako team),'' the Tasman union said in a statement. "Billy was a much-loved member of our whole Tasman Rugby Union team and had a positive impact on those he played alongside and coached. Billy has been a major contributor to the development of women's rugby across our Tasman region.” "Our condolences and aroha are extended to Billy's whanau, friends and colleagues during this sad time.'' <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> It is with great sadness to hear of the passing of Billy Guyton. Billy was a much-loved member of the Blues from 2016-17, as well as playing for the Crusader and Hurricanes. Our condolences and aroha are extended to Billy’s whānau, friends and colleagues during this sad time. <a href="https://t.co/5KBfCpRyPV">pic.twitter.com/5KBfCpRyPV</a> — Super Rugby Pacific (@SuperRugby) <a href="https://twitter.com/SuperRugby/status/1658007748800548864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2023</a></blockquote> During his prolific career, Guyton also represented the Māori All Blacks, Tasman and North Otago, but it was his time playing for the Blues that had the biggest impact on his sporting career. Guyton was a member of the Blues squad in 2016 and 2017, and played 24 Super Rugby games for the franchise. Upon hearing of his death, the Blues said in a statement, "We are shocked and saddened by the tragic death of Billy Guyton... we cannot imagine the heartache his family and friends must be feeling at this difficult time. To everyone who knew Billy, we send them our sincere sympathy." Guyton was forced to announce his retirement from playing in 2018, after concussion symptoms continued to impact his daily life. After retiring, the Tasman union announced Guyton was working as an assistant coach with the women's provincial team, where he guided the Marist side to a title in the senior women's club competition. Image credits: Getty Images

News

Rebel fighters share eerie footage of abducted Kiwi pilot

Rebel fighters in Indonesia’s Papua region have released terrifying footage of Captain Philip Mehrtens, who they kidnapped last week. The New Zealand pilot touched down in Paro village on February 7th to pick up 15 construction workers who had been building a health centre in the remote Papua province. The rebel group set fire to the Susi Air plane and released all five passengers on board the flight, but held onto Mehrtens as a hostage. The group have said they will be holding Mehrtens until Indonesia recognises Papua’s independence. In a series of videos, released to The Associated Press, a man understood to be Mehrtens is surrounded by rebels holding rifles, spears, and bows and arrows. “Indonesia must recognise Papua is independent,” he says in one, seemingly under duress. “I took him hostage for Papua independence, not for food or drinks,” Rebel leader Egianus Kogoya says in another one of the videos. “He will be safe with me as long as Indonesia does not use its arms, either from the air or on the ground.” Indonesian officials are believed to be making efforts to secure the Kiwi pilot’s release. The West Papuan National Liberation Army (TPNPB), who are responsible for Mehrtens' abduction, has also issued a warning to Australia. “This pilot is a citizen of New Zealand,” a statement from Sebby Sambom, a spokesman for the TPNPB armed wing, said last week. “TPNPB considers New Zealand, Australia, Indonesia, America, Europe, all are responsible. The US, Europe, Australia and New Zealand has supported the Indonesian government, trained The Indonesian National Police, supplied weapons to kill us West Papuans from 1963 to today. They must be held accountable.” Violence in the region has seen a sharp increase over the last year, with dozens of rebels, security forces, and civilians killed in the name of demanding indolence from Indonesia. Image credits: The West Papuan National Liberation Army

News

"We're offering plenty": Kiwis targeted for job no Aussies want

A Perth mining company has resorted to looking for workers from New Zealand after Aussies have continued to turn down roles that offer up to an enticing $300,000 salary per year – and that's for roughly six months of work in any standard 12 months. As a result, Mineral Resources has launched a brand new advertising campaign, geared up to attract Kiwi tradies, guaranteeing “a great pay packet”. “We’re offering plenty,” Mineral Resources CEO Mike Grey told NZ programme AM. “The incentives are amazing, and I have no doubt that our salaries double [New Zealand salaries]; in some examples, they triple.” <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/ClX7JZZv16i/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/ClX7JZZv16i/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Mineral Resources (@mineral_resources)</a> </div> </blockquote> The mining business is on the hunt for new workers to fill a range of roles including: construction, mining, operations, unskilled labour and administration. The firm is also recruiting higher-paying roles such as mining engineers. One of the highest paying jobs on offer is for construction supervisors and superintendents who can earn up to $300,000 a year. Workers will be required to work on a fly-in, fly-out basis. They would be flying out of New Zealand to work the mines in Perth, with roughly half of the workforce only working for six months per year. It’s not the first time Australian mines have struggled to find workers for highly-paid roles. Earlier in 2022, mining services firm Thiess offered new staff members a $10,000 sign-on bonus and a $5000 bonus for a successful referral. Image: Getty

Money & Banking

Kiwi firefighters receive rare Aussie honour for heroic efforts

A New Zealand firefighter has been awarded one of Australia’s special service awards for his efforts in fighting bushfires during the summer of 2019 and 2020. Phil Muldoon, Lake Ōkāreka’s chief rural fire officer, was one of 53 firefighters awarded the Australia National Emergency Medal during a recent awards ceremony. Muldoon, who worked 16-hour days fighting fires, said the honour was very humbling. “It’s not what we do it for but it is nice to be recognised, especially from the Australian Government,” Muldoon told <a href="https://www.nzherald.co.nz/kahu/australia-bush-fires-nz-firefighter-given-rare-and-special-honour/4K7KKB2WRVEHXJKJ7IC5WBFY4I/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NZ Herald</a>. He was among a 208-strong contingent of New Zealanders sent to help their Aussie neighbours, including personnel from Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ), the Department of Conservation, forestry company partners, and the New Zealand Defence Force. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> We were proud to see 27 Department of Conservation firefighters awarded the Australia National Emergency Medal last week for their efforts fighting the devastating Australian wildfires during the 2019/2020 black summer. 🎖️<a href="https://t.co/Wh7xVdZQ8g">https://t.co/Wh7xVdZQ8g</a> <a href="https://t.co/vl8iEC9acs">pic.twitter.com/vl8iEC9acs</a> — Department of Conservation (@docgovtnz) <a href="https://twitter.com/docgovtnz/status/1591974150008377344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2022</a></blockquote> The majority of those who took part received the award during recent official ceremonies hosted in New Zealand by Australian High Commissioner HE Harinder Sidhu. Muldoon received his award along with 38 firefighters from FENZ, two members of the NZ Army, eight NZ Air Force members, two from the Department of Conservation, and three from forestry company partners. Having been a firefighter for 25 years, Muldoon said fighting the bushfires was his 16th deployment and that firefighters were chosen to deploy based on their skillset. “We went to help their firefighters in Australia who had a tough season. We’re fresh feet on the ground and give them a break,” Muldoon said, adding that the contingent brought New Zealand’s “can-do” attitude with them. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> A great honour to present the Australian National Emergency Medal at Ohakea <a href="https://twitter.com/NZAirForce?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NZAirForce</a> base, and to personally thank members of the <a href="https://twitter.com/NZDefenceForce?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NZDefenceForce</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/FireEmergencyNZ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FireEmergencyNZ</a> for their service to Australia in support of the 2019-20 Australian Bushfires response. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZAirForce?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZAirForce</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Force4NZ?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Force4NZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/GtTUay8VY6">pic.twitter.com/GtTUay8VY6</a> — Harinder Sidhu (@AusHCNZ) <a href="https://twitter.com/AusHCNZ/status/1580682019985854464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2022</a></blockquote> Earlier this month, nine firefighters from Northland received the award, including wildfire specialist Rory Renwick. After spending 14 days fighting blazes in remote Australian bush, Renwick said the gratitude expressed through the medal was just “icing on the cake”. "People stopped you on the street to shake your hand and say thank you. It's humbling and pretty amazing," he told <a href="https://www.nzherald.co.nz/northern-advocate/news/northland-firefighters-awarded-medal-for-efforts-during-australian-bushfires/FIMYEOSD5QQGEYTVSFHIRP34WI/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NZ Herald</a>. Renwick explained that New Zealand crews were often working in remote areas and tackling large fires. "We were trying to put out the edge of the fire to stop it spreading," he said. "We did anything from patrolling edges [and] dealing with small hotspots to working with aircraft and heavy machinery to slow the fire down and stop it." <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> I was presented with a national emergency <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/medal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#medal</a> Monday night for the 19/20 bushfires here in Australia. <a href="https://t.co/L8il9Eob7P">pic.twitter.com/L8il9Eob7P</a> — Craig Chiffers (@cchiffers) <a href="https://twitter.com/cchiffers/status/1569818214888263681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2022</a></blockquote> The award, which was approved by Queen Elizabeth II in 2011, is given to those who performed significant or sustained service during “nationally-significant emergencies”, according to the Governor-General’s <a href="https://www.gg.gov.au/australian-honours-and-awardsnational-emergency-medal/bushfires-2019-20" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website</a>. Muldoon, Renwick, and the many others recognised for their efforts during the bushfires will receive a medal with a clasp that reads, “BUSHFIRES 19-20”. Russell Wood, the national commander of FENZ, said the award had never been given to any member of the organisation before. “This is a rare and special honour that the Australian Government has extended to us,” he said. “The bushfires in Australia in 2019/20 were catastrophic and we were glad we could be there to help them. “I am immensely proud of our people, who responded to the call so selflessly and put their time and energy into fighting one of the biggest wildfire disasters of our time. “It was a dangerous environment for everyone to be in, and they showed true Kiwi spirit in their sustained efforts under challenging conditions. “As a nation, we are very proud of our fine firefighters.” Image: Fire and Emergency NZ (Facebook)

Domestic Travel

King Charles III offloads Kiwi mansion

In an estate that boasts the likes of Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle, one property belonging to the newly-minted King Charles III is located in a surprising place: northwest Auckland. But, the documents for the two-storey heritage villa in Hobsonville show the registered owner to be the Queen herself, forming part of an expansive portfolio inherited by the new king. In actual fact, the home doesn’t belong to King Charles III since Crown real estate is owned by the Defence Force. As a result, the Auckland mansion, known as Clark House, was used for Royal New Zealand Airforce operations from 1950 to 2016, when they moved out and left the home boarded up and unused. According to historical records, the Crown paid just £8000 for the home, which now holds a category 1 listing on the Historic Places Register. The home was built in 1902 to showcase innovative new building blocks created by entrepreneur Rice Owen Clark, whose family stayed in the house until it was sold to the Crown. During its use by the RNZAF, the house became the office of Task Force Headquarters and even hosted a South East Asian Treaty Organisation conference in the grand rooms in 1955. Phill Gurnsey, a general manager of estate strategy for Defence, said Clark House had most recently been used as a medical unit, with rooms upstairs acting as offices and the lower floor used for reception and medical testing. Harcourts agent Graham Lewis said the sale of Clark House was an opportunity to own a piece of New Zealand history that might not be seen again in our lifetime. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a special buyer to purchase a slice of New Zealand’s history from the current owner, His Majesty the King,” Mr Lewis said. “The building is a fine example of the Italianate villa style. Because of its role as a showpiece, no expense was spared in the building.” Most of the original features have survived, including the grand staircase, ceilings and carved mantlepieces made with timber from the kauri tree, stained glass windows, a wrought iron verandah and a tiled entry floor. As a historical building, Mr Lewis noted that potential buyers should be aware of the responsibilities and restrictions that come it, adding that the home could be turned into a lodge or fine hotel, an art gallery, or even corporate headquarters. “It takes your breath away the first time you see it. This was a supreme legacy to Rice Owen Clark’s beloved family, status and ambitions,” Mr Lewis said. “I think he’d be pleased that the passion and care of a new owner will bring this home back to its former glory as a historic landmark for generations to come.” The house will be <a href="https://www.oneroof.co.nz/25-59-clark-road-hobsonville-waitakere-city-auckland-1823259" target="_blank" rel="noopener">available for tender</a> until November 21. Images: Getty Images, Harcourts Realty

Real Estate

Kiwi journalist hits back at viewer’s complaints about her Māori tattoo

A popular New Zealand newsreader has hit back at an irate viewer who has repeatedly complained about her traditional Māori face tattoo, asking him to keep his comments for “another lifetime”. Oriini Kaipara made headlines in 2021 when she became the first person to bear a moko kauae - a traditional Māori tattoo that covers a woman’s lips and chin - while anchoring a prime-time news broadcast in New Zealand. While many viewers have applauded Ms Kaipara, others were less kind, with one repeat objector prompting her to take to Instagram to respond on Thursday, saying she had “had enough” of his complaints. “Today I had enough. I responded. I never do that. I broke my own code and hit the send button,” the Newshub presenter shared with followers in a since-deleted post. The viewer, identified only as David, had written to the entire newsroom to complain about Ms Kaipara’s tattoo, which he mislabelled as a “moku” and said was “offensive” and “a bad look”. “We continue to object strongly to you using Māori TV presenter with a moku, which is offensive and aggressive looking. A bad look,” he wrote. David also objected to the use of te reo Māori during broadcasts, despite the fact that the Māori language features in most Kiwi TV broadcasts. “She also bursts into Māori language which we do not understand. Stop it now,” he said. On Instagram, Ms Kaipara shared her full response to him. “Thank you for all your complaints against me and my ‘moku’. I do find them very difficult to take seriously, given there is no breach of broadcast standards,” she wrote. “If I may, I’d like to correct you on one thing – it is moko not ‘moku’. A simple, helpful pronunciation guide of ‘Maw-Caw’ will help you articulate the word correctly. “I gather your complaints stem from a place of preference on how one must look on-screen, according to you. Moko and people with them are not threatening, nor do they deserve such discrimination, harassment or prejudice. “Moko are ancient cultural markings unique to the indigenous people of Aotearoa, myself included. We mean no harm or ill intent, nor do we deserve to be treated with such disregard. Please refrain from complaining further, and restrain your cultural ignorance and bias for another lifetime, preferably in the 1800s.” She ended her message with, “Nga mihi matakuikui o te wa,” a polite te reo Māori farewell, and signed off as “the lady with the moko kauwae who speaks Māori but MOSTLY English on TV”. Speaking to the <a href="https://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/newshubs-oriini-kaiparas-response-to-viewers-complaint-about-her-offensive-moko-kauae/LWLE2VNRPXM2GJTQ73Z3FNME74/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NZ Herald</a> after, Ms Kaipara said the viewer had been “relentless” in his complaints. “These types of complaints are being sent by a minority,” she told the publication, adding that she receives plenty of “lovely and thoughtful” messages from viewers. “The fact that my existence triggers some people is testament to why we need more Māori advocates in key roles across every sector.” Ms Kaipara, who is of Ngāti Awa, Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Ngāti Rangitihi and Ngāi Tūhoe descent, has previously said she got her moko in 2019 to remind herself of her identity as a Māori woman. “When I doubt myself, and I see my reflection in the mirror, I’m not just looking at myself,” she explained. “I’m looking at my grandmother and my mother, and my daughters, and those to come after me, as well as all the other women and Maori girls out there. It empowers me.” Image: @oriinz (Instagram)

Technology

“We will miss you brother”: Kiwi soldier killed in Ukraine identified

A New Zealand soldier who died in Ukraine fighting alongside other foreign troops in the International Legion has been remembered by fellow soldiers as “strong, hardcore and handsome”. Corporal Dominic Abelen was fighting on the frontline in the east of Ukraine while on leave away from the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) and not on active duty, as reported by the <a href="https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/russia-ukraine-war-off-duty-new-zealand-soldier-dominic-abelen-killed-in-ukraine/M45ZWJEZ47I2Z5XD4Q44KNJFD4/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NZ Herald</a>. The 30-year-old soldier was based at Burnham Military Camp, outside Christchurch, with the Royal New Zealand Regiment’s 2nd/1st Battalion. “At this early stage, there is still more information to be gathered in order to understand the circumstances fully,” the NZDF said in a statement. Brigadier Rose King, the Acting Chief of Army, said <a href="https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/news/further-details-released-on-nzdf-soldier-reportedly-killed-in-ukraine/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">in a statement</a> that their efforts would be concentrated on supporting Abelen’s family and NZDF personnel. “Any loss of one of our whānau (‘family’) is deeply felt across the New Zealand Defence Force. We are concentrating our efforts on supporting Corporal Abelen’s loved ones and our personnel as they grieve,” she said. His family have requested not to be approached by the media, with his father, Bryce, sharing a statement with the NZDF. “Dominic was in the New Zealand Army for 10 years but never got to fight for his country,” Bryce said. “He didn't tell us he was going to Ukraine until he was there. He knew we would talk him out of it. He also knew the risks of going there but still went to fight for them. “That is Dominic, always thinking of helping others. “We understand why he went and hold no grudge against the NZ or Ukraine Army and fully support what he did. “Dominic loved being in the army, the life-long friends he made there. “There has been relentless support from half the Burnham Military Camp that knew him, as well as personnel from overseas. “A kind, gentle man with the most infectious smile that you couldn't help but smile back. “He had a love of the outdoors and did a lot of tramping. He spent his holidays travelling around New Zealand and the world. “I'm extremely proud of my children and especially Dominic for standing up and doing what he thought was right. He leaves a massive hole in all our hearts.” Abelen’s siblings describing him as “the most amazing human being”, the “buffest” member of their family, and that he had “the biggest heart to match”. A former NZDF soldier who is also fighting with Ukraine’s International Legion paid tribute to his fallen comrade, describing him as “a warrior until the end”. “The bro was anything but scenery. Strong, hardcore, handsome but extremely humble,” he wrote online. “Best believe he died doing what he loved and was extremely good at. “We will miss you brother. So much. You have left a hole that we are feeling and we could never hope to fill.” Sources have since told the <a href="https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/russia-ukraine-war-off-duty-new-zealand-soldier-dominic-abelen-killed-fighting-re-taking-trench-in-ukraine/26EVXCDFPOAROXLSARVPKIZSQU/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Herald</a> that Abelen was involved in a joint operation to retake the frontline of a trench network and was instantly killed in a firefight during a dawn assault. Another American fighter is also said to have died. Defence Minister Peeni Henare expressed his condolences to Abelen’s family, friends, and colleagues. “I have been advised the New Zealand Army are supporting the soldier’s family through this difficult time,” he said. Tenby Powell, the former commanding officer of the NZDF who is currently in Ukraine undertaking humanitarian work, said he was asked by Abelen’s family to bring him home. Though he didn’t go into the details surrounding the soldier’s death, he told Today FM that the family were distraught. “It’s a very sad day here in Ukraine, not just for New Zealanders but for everyone,” Powell said. “I’ve talked to a family member they have asked me and I have agreed to go and get him. We need to do this in a very respectful and expedient manner. I have given the family my assurances that he will be well looked after all the way back. “The critically-important thing is to ensure that he is recovered and brought back in a way where he is looked after for the entire trip back to New Zealand.” Powell intended to drape the New Zealand flag over the coffin for the trip home and ensure that Abelen had all the care a person serving in the defence force warranted. Abelen would be taken first through Warsaw, then Ukraine and on to New Zealand. “We are determined to bring him out. He will come out and he will be looked after all the way,” Powell said. The soldier’s passing comes after the New Zealand government announced that a further 120 NZDF personnel would be sent to Britain to help train Ukrainian soldiers, on top of the 30 personnel deployed in May. "New Zealand has been clear that we will continue to answer the call of Ukraine for practical support as they defend their homeland and people against Russia's unjustified invasion," Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on August 15. "We know that one of the highest priorities for Ukraine right now, is to train its soldiers, and New Zealand is proud to stand in solidarity alongside a number of other countries to answer that call." Image: NZDF

Caring

Missing Kiwi cameraman remembered as “exceptional” and “sweetest” person

A top New Zealand cameraman has been remembered as the “sweetest” and an “exceptional” colleague after he was found dead several days after disappearing. Jason Day, who formerly worked for New Zealand’s TVNZ, was last seen on Saturday, April 30 in the British city of Bristol, where he was living with Kelsey Mulcahy, his partner of five years. Just three days later, Mr Day’s next of kin were informed by police that they located a body at Avon Gorge, as reported by <a href="https://7news.com.au/entertainment/celebrity/top-tvnz-cameraman-joseph-day-found-dead-in-mysterious-circumstances-in-bristol-uk-c-6672258" target="_blank" rel="noopener">7News</a>. “While formal identification has not yet taken place, we have updated the family of missing 31-year-old Joseph Day,” Avon and Somerset police said in a statement. “Our hearts go out to them and we thank them for their patience while inquiries into the circumstances of death continue. “We’d ask the public to avoid speculation and respect the privacy of Joseph’s family at this time.” <iframe style="overflow: hidden; border: initial none initial;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Favonandsomersetpolice%2Fphotos%2Fa.66888374811%2F10159874114884812%2F%3Ftype%3D3&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="451" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> Mr Day and his partner were engaged and reportedly planning to return to New Zealand to tie the knot at the end of the year. Ms Mulcahy last spoke to her fiancé on the same night he disappeared, with her last text reminding him to pull the blinds down at home before going to bed. “My last message to him was reminding him to pull down the blackout blinds because he always forgets and it’s light so long in the UK now,” she told the <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/world/europe/something-s-gone-wrong-kiwi-cameraman-goes-missing-in-the-uk-20220503-p5ahxz.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sydney Morning Herald and The Age</a>. “His reply was ‘will do’ and then he stopped responding but before that we were talking about how we were going to go to London in three weeks. “We just adore each other, we have not had problems in our relationship and I would be truly honest if we did.” When she arrived home the next afternoon, she said she panicked after discovering he wasn’t home and the grocery box that had been delivered to them was still outside. “I ran upstairs and the bed was made and the blinds were open and everything was shut up,” she said. After his disappearance, Ms Mulcahy took to social media asking for any help locating him, writing: “This is extremely out of character for him, we always keep in touch every minute of the day. “Everyone who knows Joe loves him very much, he is incredibly special to me, and his family and friends.” Speaking to <a href="https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/new-zealander-and-former-tvnz-cameraman-joseph-day-missing-in-bristol-england/JL5N7G4JIHJMR6VZY3GG6UIEOQ/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NZ Herald</a>, she said her partner had planned to have “a really nice night in” with the apartment all to himself. “It’s hard because there are so many people that love him in New Zealand, his family and all of his friends adore him - he’s just the sweetest, nicest guy ever,” she told the publication. Mr Day’s colleagues have echoed the same sentiments in their tributes to the cameraman, describing him as “exceptional”, “loyal” and “humble”. “He had the ability to capture angles, lights and moments that added so much beauty to each story. He was loyal and honourable,” TVNZ current affairs reporter Maca Moayyed wrote on Twitter. “When we would go out on shoots, the people we were filming adored him. He was humble, hardworking, but work wasn’t his life. “It was clear how much he loved his family and his fiancée. My heart is broken for them. Rest in peace, Joe.” Correspondent Mark Crystall wrote: “Absolutely devastated to hear of Joe Day’s passing. “Joe like his dad, Pete, was a much loved member of our SundayTVNZ whanau - his beautiful eye & deep soul became pictures that lifted our stories to another level. “Our deepest sympathies & love to Pete & mum, Feloani.” Image: Facebook

News

“I need a new butt!” Kiwi book leads to teacher being fired

An assistant principal has claimed that he was fired from his job after reading a book about butts to his year two students. Toby Price was reading I Need A New Butt! to his second graders at Gary Road Elementary School in Mississippi. The children’s book, written by New Zealand author Dawn McMillian, tells the story of a boy who looks for a new bum after seeing a crack on his. Mr Price said the children “loved” and “really liked” the book, but it appears those on top did not and he was soon called to the principal’s office. "About 10 minutes after that, the principal called me into her office and said, 'Mr Price we are probably going to get some parent calls about this book' and I understood, a very professional lady, I get it," he told <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/radio/asithappens/as-it-happens-the-monday-edition-1.6384517/this-assistant-principal-says-he-was-fired-for-reading-kids-a-book-called-i-need-a-new-butt-1.6384717" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CBC</a>. "A few minutes after that I was called to the superintendent's office - there are two superintendents - the main superintendent, she let me have it pretty good for choosing that book. "She asked me if that was the kind of thing I thought was funny - butts and farts - and before I walked in there I thought it was." Mr Price was placed on administrative leave and two days later was “totally blinded” after being fired. The educator of 20 years has the support of the parent-teacher association and because of how much traction his story received, it will go to court to reverse the decision. He admits he’s scared of the decision because it “might not be the happiest work environment". Image: Facebook

Books

Cheaper in Oz: One Kiwi shopper’s savvy way to save on groceries

A New Zealand woman has shared the unusual way that she saved 35 percent on her usual grocery bill - and it involves and it even comes with free shipping. The woman, who asked not to be identified, told the <a href="https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/kiwi-shopper-saves-35-per-cent-ordering-groceries-from-australia/BL3RATPOZGLJQASWDRVY3DC4O4/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NZ Herald</a> that purchasing her usual groceries from Australia and shipping them to New Zealand ended up being significantly cheaper than shopping at her local supermarket. The Otago woman ordered 13 items from the neighbouring country, including pasta, nuts, dried fruit, rolled oats, toothbrushes, shampoo and hair dye, via Amazon. She told the publication she received her goods within five days, having paid just $AUD 93.30 ($NZD 100.59). “I only bought items that were included in a free shipping promotion, so I wasn’t charged for shipping. According to the receipt, shipping would have added $15,” she said. When she compared prices using the Countdown online shopping app, she found that the same items would have cost her an upwards of $30 more, totalling $NZD 139.96 ($AUD 129.82). She found the best deal was on toothpaste, which she paid $AUD 2.50 ($NZD2.69) for. “All the items were long-shelf life items. I don’t think ordering from Australia would work for fresh food,” she said. Though she made a significant saving, the savvy shopper says she might not repeat her “crazy little experiment” due to the carbon footprint that came with it. Image: Getty Images

Money & Banking

Qantas’ eight-year streak as safest airline ended by Kiwi rival

In the wake of some of its toughest years during the pandemic, the airline industry has welcomed the gradual return of travelling by announcing the safest airlines in the world for the year ahead - with the top prize going to Air New Zealand. The 2022 rankings were compiled by <a href="https://www.airlineratings.com/news/air-new-zealand-worlds-safest-airline-2022/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AirlineRatings.com</a>, which considered the number of serious incidents over the previous two years, safety initiatives, fleet age and COVID-19 safety protocols in each airline’s score. Air New Zealand was lauded for its technical innovation and young fleet of planes, with the website’s editors noting that the airline operates in “some of the most challenging weather conditions and remote environments”. <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CagcvZXlCNq/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CagcvZXlCNq/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Air New Zealand ✈️ (@airnz)</a> </div> </blockquote> “The last two years have been extremely difficult for airlines with COVID-19 slashing travel and Airline Ratings editors have particularly focused on the lengths airlines are undertaking to re-train pilots ahead of a return to service,” said Editor-in-Chief Geoffrey Thomas, He added that Air New Zealand was a leader in the field thanks to its “comprehensive retraining”.. This year’s rankings has also seen the end of Qantas’ eight-year streak, with the website stating that an incident at a Perth airport in 2018 caused the drop in its ranking. Despite this, the Aussie airline still made the top 20 of the 385 airlines included in the ranking, coming in seventh place. The top 20 ranking, in full, is as follows:Air New Zealand, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airways, TAP Portugal, SAS, Qantas, Alaska Airlines, EVA Air, Virgin Australia/Atlantic, Cathay Pacific Airways, Hawaiian Airlines, American Airlines, Lufthansa/Swiss Group, Finnair, Air France/KLM Group, British Airways, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and Emirates. Meanwhile, the safest low-cost airlines have also been ranked, with Jetstar, Ryanair, Vietjet, Westjet and Wizz were among those that made the top ten list for 2022. Image: @qantas (Instagram)

Domestic Travel

See the Aussie and Kiwi cities that stun by night

Sydney has <a href="https://travel.nine.com.au/latest/sydney-named-among-most-beautiful-cities-to-visit-by-night/50b6ffaf-037a-409a-a1c9-8078690f6328#1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">topped</a> a list of Australia and New Zealand’s most Instagrammable cities by night, according to a new study of the world’s best cities when the sun goes down.The <a href="https://www.premierinn.com/gb/en/news/2021/instagram-cities-by-night.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">study</a>, conducted by Premier Inn, analysed thousands of hashtags to determine the best cities by region and globally, with Paris taking out the worldwide No. 1 spot.<blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF;border: 0;border-radius: 3px;margin: 1px;max-width: 540px;min-width: 326px;padding: 0;width: calc(100% - 2px)" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CZZNRR1u2mL/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"><div style="padding: 16px"><div style="flex-direction: row;align-items: center"><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;border-radius: 50%;flex-grow: 0;height: 40px;margin-right: 14px;width: 40px"> </div><div style="flex-direction: column;flex-grow: 1;justify-content: center"><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;border-radius: 4px;flex-grow: 0;height: 14px;margin-bottom: 6px;width: 100px"> </div><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;border-radius: 4px;flex-grow: 0;height: 14px;width: 60px"> </div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0"> </div><div style="height: 50px;margin: 0 auto 12px;width: 50px"> </div><div style="padding-top: 8px"><div style="color: #3897f0;font-family: Arial,sans-serif;font-size: 14px;font-style: normal;font-weight: 550;line-height: 18px">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0"> </div><div style="flex-direction: row;margin-bottom: 14px;align-items: center"><div><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;border-radius: 50%;height: 12.5px;width: 12.5px"> </div><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;height: 12.5px;width: 12.5px;flex-grow: 0;margin-right: 14px;margin-left: 2px"> </div><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;border-radius: 50%;height: 12.5px;width: 12.5px"> </div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px"><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;border-radius: 50%;flex-grow: 0;height: 20px;width: 20px"> </div><div style="width: 0;height: 0;border-top: 2px solid transparent;border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4;border-bottom: 2px solid transparent"> </div></div><div style="margin-left: auto"><div style="width: 0px;border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4;border-right: 8px solid transparent"> </div><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;flex-grow: 0;height: 12px;width: 16px"> </div><div style="width: 0;height: 0;border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4;border-left: 8px solid transparent"> </div></div></div><div style="flex-direction: column;flex-grow: 1;justify-content: center;margin-bottom: 24px"><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;border-radius: 4px;flex-grow: 0;height: 14px;margin-bottom: 6px;width: 224px"> </div><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;border-radius: 4px;flex-grow: 0;height: 14px;width: 144px"> </div></div><a style="color: #c9c8cd;font-family: Arial,sans-serif;font-size: 14px;font-style: normal;font-weight: normal;line-height: 17px;text-decoration: none" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CZZNRR1u2mL/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Paris Living Way (@parislivingway)</a></div></blockquote>Sydney scored the top spot for the Australia and New Zealand region with over 15,600 hashtags for #SydneybyNight.Sadly, it didn’t make the cut for the global rankings, where European cities dominated. Coming in second place in the regional rankings was Melbourne, followed by Brisbane and Perth.New Zealand only claimed one spot in the list, with Auckland coming in fifth place out of eight cities.Adelaide and the Gold Coast took up the rear, claiming just over a thousand hashtags between them.Image: @vividsydney (Instagram)

Domestic Travel

Kiwi rugby star dies after freak accident

Image: Ina Olaizola/ordizia rugby The Spanish Rugby Federation has paid tribute to Kiwi lock Kawa Leauma after he died following a "freak accident" in the Netherlands, aged only 32. The Auckland-born Leauma had been hospitalised and underwent surgery after he "suffered an accident that caused severe head trauma" on Saturday, the federation said. Spanish media reports said Leauma fell eight metres from a building in Amsterdam. It has been reported his condition had "slightly improved" on Sunday after surgery but worsened 24 hours later. "World Rugby, and Spanish rugby in particular, is in mourning, and from the Spanish Rugby Federation we can only thank the commitment of a player admired and loved by all his team-mates from XV del León [Spain's national men's team] and his club, AMPO Ordizia," the federation said in its obituary to Leauma. Leauma, who played for the AMPO Ordizia club in Spain's Basque Country, was in Amsterdam for Spain's Rugby Europe Championship match against the Netherlands. The federation said he died because of a "freak accident" suffered just hours after Spain beat the Netherlands 52-7 in a match that doubled as a qualifier for the next Rugby World Cup in France in 2023. He was on-track to make his official international debut for Spain after becoming eligible through three years of residency, but he was withdrawn at the last minute because of doubts about eligibility. He played in a friendly for Spain against an Italian side in Madrid in October. The federation said its president Alfonso Feijoo and Ordizia sports director Iñigo Marotias would meet Leauma's wife when she arrived in Amsterdam. In the obituary, Leauma was described as "a person who made himself loved" and made his mark on Spanish rugby. At 197cm and weighing 110kg, Leauma was hoping to become a regular in Spain's team.The federation said they would honour his memory by trying to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since their only appearance in the UK in 1999. Leauma played for a handful of Auckland clubs, including Otahuhu, Papatoetoe, Mount Wellington and Manukau Rovers. A blindside flanker, No 8 or lock, he represented Samoa's under-20s and played for Auckland's sevens team. Leauma also took his rugby career to Australia, playing for the Sydney Rays and West Harbour clubs in New South Wales, before moving to Spain in 2018. The Mount Wellington and Papatoetoe clubs led the tributes for Leauma on social media. "These posts aren't easy to do and this one in particular is pretty upsetting as this club acknowledges the passing of Kawa Leauma," Mount Wellington's Facebook post said. "Kawa was an integral part of our Mount Wellington Premier side, great player and humble both on and off the field and we enjoyed seeing him continue to thrive beyond his time at our club. He will be sorely missed by many of our community and we extend our sincere condolences to his wife and family as they navigate this tough time in a foreign country." Papatoetoe tribute's said "another brother gone way too soon". "Our sincere condolences go out to the family and friends of Kawwa Leuma who passed away in a tragic accident whilst living abroad in Spain," the club's Facebook post said. "Kawwa had been playing professional rugby and just recently made his international debut for Spain. He was part of a strong Papatoetoe U21s team back in 2010. "Rest in love brother Kawwa."

Caring

Aussies and Kiwis top the world in trusting scientists

A new global survey has determined that people in Australia and New Zealand have the most trust in scientists out of 113 countries. The <a rel="noopener" href="https://wellcome.org/news/public-trust-scientists-rose-during-covid-19-pandemic" target="_blank">Wellcome Global Monitor</a> surveyed more than 119,000 people aged 15 or older about their views on science during COVID-19 pandemic, finding that public trust in scientists actually increased since the last survey in 2018. In Australia and New Zealand, 62 percent said they trusted scientists “a lot” compared to 41 percent globally. The survey also found that trust in doctors and nurses, charity workers, journalists, and national governments increased, while trust in the people living in the same neighbourhood decreased. With the influx of scientific jargon and knowledge during the pandemic, 48 percent of participants said they had “some” knowledge of science versus only 39 percent in 2018. “The COVID-19 pandemic has thrust scientists into the spotlight, where they have provided information and guidance affecting the day-to-day lives of billions of people,” said Lara Clements, the associate director of public engagement and campaigns at Wellcome. “In both 2018 and 2020, we saw a link between people’s perceived knowledge of science and their trust in science. As the pandemic has brought science into more people’s lives, it is perhaps no surprise that people’s trust in science and scientists has risen so much.” The survey also found differences influenced by the wealth of a country, with participants from high-income regions being more likely to say their government should spend money to help prevent and cure diseases wherever they occur. Meanwhile, those from traditionally middle-income countries were more likely to support government spending on preventing and curing disease only if their country was at risk. Beth Thomspon, the associate director of policy at Wellcome, <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.scimex.org/newsfeed/aussies-and-kiwis-now-have-the-worlds-highest-level-of-trust-in-scientists" target="_blank">said</a>: “This survey highlights a clear willingness and generosity of people in mainly high-income countries to prevent and cure diseases wherever they occur. “However, since this survey was conducted, stark inequalities in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic have unforgivably left low- and middle-income countries further behind particularly with access to vaccines. “Although this report provides a snapshot of views in 2020, prior to successful or licenced treatments, it’s vital that we can listen to - and understand - people’s views.” Importantly, the survey was conducted between August 2020 and February 2021, before the widespread approval of either the Pfizer or AstraZeneca vaccines. “Trust has always been intrinsic to public health and success can only be achieved when communities are open to and readily understand the science,” Ms Clements said. “This vast dataset can offer huge potential to learn how the public relate to science, particularly during this crucial stage of the pandemic.” Image: Master Steve Rapport (<a rel="noopener" href="https://flickr.com/photos/148102174@N05/33398946193" target="_blank">Flickr</a>)

Mind

Kiwi millionaire found dead in Kenya

Kiwi entrepreneur and teen millionaire Jake Millar has died in Kenya, eight months after moving there from New Zealand. The cause of the 26-year-old’s death has not been confirmed. Mr Millar, a former Forbes under 30 lister, sold the second of his businesses in February before moving to Kenya. Founded in 2015, Mr Millar's motivational video platform Unfiltered was worth $11.47 million at its peak, but was reportedly sold to consultancy group Crimson Education for about $84,000. The move upset investors - who accused him of poor management and a lack of transparency around the sale - and drew criticism from New Zealand media, with some comparing it to failed ventures such as WeWork and Fyre Festival. In an interview with The Spinoff in March, Mr Millar said moving halfway across the world would be the “massive shake up” he needed. “Life over the next 30 years is probably going to be very similar and very predictable,” Mr Millar explained. “So the question I asked myself is ‘what can I do to massively shake up the trajectory in an otherwise relatively predictable life?’ And the idea of moving to sub-Saharan Africa felt like shaking up that trajectory. “My business has commercially failed and I have no obligations anymore to a set of investors. I haven’t raised a fresh set of capital and I don’t owe my time to any venture. I really am able to go in any direction I want and try something new.” <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7846020/jake-millar1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/ccc71b276c7d4ccf8cbaefea9e54bf2c" /> Mr Millar posing with Sir Richard Branson, who he interviewed through Unfiltered. Image: news.com.au Since the news of his death broke, tributes have flowed in for the young entrepreneur from noteworthy businesspeople, including Sir John Kelly, the former New Zealand Prime Minister. “From the first time I met him, I knew he was someone special. He had a mixture of courage, warmness, intellect, and a maturity and strength to deal with adversity, which is never easy for a young person. I respected him and I will miss him,” he told the New Zealand Herald. New Zealand actor and comedian Rhys Darby shared a tribute to Mr Millar on Twitter, writing, “Rest in Peace Jake Millar. I met him when he was 17 and he was inspiring then! He had such discipline and drive and a great sense of humour.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Like many, I was immediately struck by Jake Millar’s poise/energy & love the focused intensity he brought to interviews. Many places to watch his storytelling w/ voices more famous, but forever grateful to have shared the <a href="https://twitter.com/TechweekNZ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TechweekNZ</a> stage in 2019 RIP 😔<a href="https://t.co/SHVZXbN5Zo">https://t.co/SHVZXbN5Zo</a> <a href="https://t.co/osAPbdmMQ6">pic.twitter.com/osAPbdmMQ6</a> — Savannah ✨Savvy✨ Peterson (@SavIsSavvy) <a href="https://twitter.com/SavIsSavvy/status/1465396763339083778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2021</a></blockquote> Some have also criticised Mr Millar’s treatment after he sold Unfiltered, with Crimson Education CEO Jamie Beaton saying it was reflective of broader issues. “New Zealand often suffocates ambition in its young people,” Mr Beaton said. “I had never met anyone in New Zealand like Jake Millar. Jake had an ability to connect with people that was mesmerising. “He understood what drove people and could inspire them, drive them and unite them.” Another user blamed Mr Millar’s criticism and death on “Tall Poppy Syndrome”. “We don’t know Jake Millar’s cause of death; but we can be certain Tall Poppy Syndrome was a contributing factor,” entrepreneur Yoav Lurie wrote. “The way NZ cuts down those who strive to do big things always disgusts me. “Gutted for the loss; I was looking forward to his next thing.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Can't help but feel uneasy that the same media now reporting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JakeMillar?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JakeMillar</a>'s passing is a tragedy, are the same media that tore him to shreds when he succeeded, and when he tried and failed. NZ Tall Poppy syndrome is the worst! RIP Jake, you were an inspiration. — Brady Dyer (@BR4DY) <a href="https://twitter.com/BR4DY/status/1465175981325307909?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2021</a></blockquote> Mr Millar first saw success after founding Oopher with his friend, Yuuki Ogino, while they were still in high school. The motivation app was later sold to Careers New Zealand, and the duo went on to create Unfiltered. In 2010, Mr Millar lost his father, Rod Millar, in a plane crash on New Zealand’s South Island. He explained the impact of the widely-publicised tragedy to The Spinoff, pointing to it as one of the reasons he became “more controversial than (he) ever set out to be”. “As a young entrepreneur, some people would probably accuse me of having quite strong defence mechanisms,” he wrote in an email shared with the publication. “I have always stood up for what I have believed in and also against people I have felt wronged by, often even if they have been much wiser and more successful than me. When I reflect over my journey, I think this is one of the reasons I became, inadvertently, more controversial than I ever set out to be.” Image: Getty Images

Travel Trouble

Tiger Woods' secret Kiwi home hits the market

An estate on the Kāpiti Coast, to the north of Wellington, which has been home to diplomats, Danish heavy metal icons, and famed golfer Tiger Woods has entered the market in a rare sale. The 40s-styled manor is surrounded by manicured gardens and native bushland and features an extensively remodeled interior that is just as luxurious. But, it’s guest-list has been kept tightly under wraps by its current owners Ralph Green, his wife Letizia Columbano, and their son Lorenzo Green. “We don’t kiss and tell about our guests,” Green <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.stuff.co.nz/life-style/homed/houses/127024230/inside-tiger-woods-secret-kiwi-hideaway-beloved-of-nottobenamed-rock-stars-and-foreign-dignitaries" target="_blank">said</a>. “Tiger Woods was rather hard to hide. He was meant to be a secret, but it got out because he’s like that. Other guests… I’m struggling to remember on purpose.” Woods stayed at the 1.89-hectare Greenmantle estate in 2002 while competing in the New Zealand Open. Before Green took over the property in 2012, the then-owner was the former head of New Zealand’s Criminal Investigation Bureau. “This was just after September 11, and there was a lot of scuttlebutt around that they were going to target an American ison, and that New Zealand was seen as a soft target area,” Green explained. “So there was something like 13 police patrolling around this place, the security was unusually high.” More recently, Green said the Greenmantle estate had been approved to host heads of state by the diplomatic protection squad. “We have quite high clearance,” he said. Without revealing too many details, he said the most “surprising” celebrities he’s hosted had included “well-known” rock stars, with the lead singer of a Danish metal band with a quite profane name topping the list. But the chance to host A-list guests wasn’t the reason why Green and his family took over the property. After seeing the “beautiful pink house sitting proudly up a lovely drive” while growing up in the area, Green and Columbano jumped at the chance to tour the property when it hit the market years later. “We went in there and fell in love,” Green said, referring to the tour he and his wife took of the gardens and the nikau forest behind the house. “To have a virgin nikau forest in your backyard, it was just too much. We surprised the real estate agent by saying, ‘yes, we’ll take it’. He was a little shocked. After the previous owner had run the home as a boutique hotel, Green and Columbano converted it into “a luxury lodge”. “Having a home and income combined quite usefully. THat’s how we ended up here, because of the gardens, the birdlife, looking at Kāpiti [Island], and having something that’s quite distinctive,” he said. The house boasts six bedrooms - each with balconies and stunning views - as well as seven bathrooms, two separate guest cottages, a heated outdoor pool, and a permanent marquee house nearby. Within the nikau forest, walking trails lead to a secluded spa. “It’s like going to Indonesia but without the heat or the insects,” Green said. “There is an area we call the nikau amphitheatre that people seem to want to get married in. It’s so nice to sit under all these nikau and listen to the sound of the owls at night.” Having just become grandparents, Green and Columbano are saying a reluctant farewell to the property and moving to be with their daughter in Venice. “It’s a question of priorities, we’ve become grandparents for the first time, and we want to be grandparents,” Green said. Having last sold for $2.05 million in 2012, propertyvalue.co.nz values the property between $3.25 and $3.5 million now. The property, which is expected to sell for an even higher price, is on sale for tender by <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.nzsothebysrealty.com/purchasing/property/wtn10334/" target="_blank">Sotheby’s International Realty</a> and closes on Thursday, December 9. Images: Getty Images, Sotheby's International Realty

Real Estate

First the dance floors and now the Kiwis

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced on Friday that the state will open its borders to New Zealand from 1 am Saturday December 12. Palaszczuk told the Today show that the “great success story of Queensland” and of New Zealand that had led to the chief health officer’s surprise decision. “(Chief health officer) Dr Jeannette Young advised me late last night that New Zealand is good to go,” she said. “So, visitors coming in from New Zealand from 1 am tomorrow are welcome into Queensland. “We are hoping that eventually New Zealand will not have to hotel quarantine upon return, and then there would be free flowing movement between the two.” Those returning from Australia will still have to quarantine for two weeks upon arriving into New Zealand. New Zealand has reached 28 days of no community transmission, and as a result, Dr Young told Ms Palaszczuk she was “more than happy” to allow Kiwis into Queensland. “It’s a wonderful time of year to allow that to happen as well. All the stars are aligned at the moment, and fingers crossed that everybody is keeping a really tight reign on their hotel quarantine … That’s the biggest risk,” Ms Palaszczuk said. New Zealand workers will also be able to work on Queensland fruit farms, which are desperately in need of help. Ms Palasczuk says she remains concerned by hotel quarantine, due to the rising number of infections in the northern hemisphere, which has resulted in more cases being detected in hotel quarantine. “We have more Australians returning home, and that’s a good thing,” Ms Palaszczuk said. “I think it is great to see returning Australians are getting home to their loved ones.” Ms Palaszczuk will attend the first in-person National Cabinet meeting in nine months on Friday. She will discuss returning traveller caps and whether international students should be allowed in with other leaders. “I’m very concerned about international students returning. The priority has to be on Australians coming home,” Ms Palaszczuk said. “I have always raised concerns about students not doing hotel quarantine … It’s a big protective measure. “I would not like to see students allowed in to stay at dormitories on campuses. I think that’s a huge risk, not just to students, but a huge risk to the Australian population.” It comes just one day after Queensland announced indoor dancing would be allowed again from Monday. The Premier said the announcement would be a big boost to the state’s young people. “Young people will be celebrating next week when the dance floors open,” she said.

International Travel

Jacinda Ardern slams Australian government telling Kiwis to go home

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has hit out at Australia’s new ruling on temporary visa holders after acting Immigration Minister Alan Tudge told those unable to support themselves or access government schemes “it’s time to go home”. The Australian government has advised to the 2.17 million people in Australia on temporary visas, including 672,000 New Zealand citizens on the 444 visa, that they should leave if they could not sustain themselves for six months outside the critical sectors. The sectors are health, aged and disability care, agriculture, food processing and childcare. “Temporary visa holders who are unable to support themselves under these arrangements over the next six months are strongly encouraged to return home,” Tudge said on Saturday. “For these individuals, it’s time to go home, and they should make arrangements as quickly as possible.” Ardern said she had been taken aback by Tudge’s statement. She said many Kiwis were not eligible to access the JobKeeper scheme despite making up “a key part” of the Australian workforce. “If they wish for Australia to be in a position to gear up in the aftermath of the outbreak then they will need a workforce to do that and New Zealand make up that workforce,” Ardern said. “They on average earn more and pay more taxes than others. They are a key part of the Australian economy and I would have thought they wouldn’t want to be so quick to lose them.” Kiwis who arrived in Australia before February 26, 2001 are eligible for Centrelink and JobKeeper benefits. The 444 visa holders who arrived after 2001 had access to the JobKeeper payments, but not the JobSeeker payments. However, others in casual work or without employment have no support, <a href="https://www.sbs.com.au/news/jacinda-ardern-hits-out-at-australia-s-time-to-go-home-temporary-visa-advice">SBS</a> reported. “New Zealanders should consider returning to New Zealand if they are unable to support themselves through these provisions, work or family support,” Tudge said.

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