Blake Benny is a Christchurch-based reporter with a focus on tourism and social issues, along with general news.
Blake joined Newstalk ZB in 2022, having previously studied Broadcast Journalism at the New Zealand Broadcasting School. You can contact Blake at blake.benny@nzme.co.nz.
Exotic pet show dubbed ‘Willy Wonka experience' could return after SPCA dismisses concerns
Organiser says she's been cleared of animal abuse claims, considering show's return.
Unexpected partnership between NZ’s largest iwi and medical cannabis producer
Ngai Tahu confirms financial investment into Marlborough-based company, Puro.
'You will live with this tragedy': Father avoids jail over crash that killed his children
The tragedy happened when the family was going to see the snow for the first time.
Tourism operators buy hotels to house workers as housing crisis hits hard
Queenstown housing issues continue, as businesses supply their own worker accommodation.
Under-fire zoo responds to animal welfare claims; MPI officials visit animals today
Orana Wildlife Trust Board says a ‘thorough review’ is underway.
Eloping couples changing the way we say ‘I do'
More Kiwis are ditching traditional weddings and opting to elope instead.
Exotic pet show slammed as a ‘Willy Wonka’ experience; complaints to SPCA
Organiser rejects claims of animal abuse and underwhelming stalls.
Seeing out another summer - Peketa Campground to stay open under iwi management
Campers and long-term residents had been on edge, with concerns a closure was imminent.
Revealed: Gun licence suspensions skyrocket 5000 per cent since mosque attacks
Firearms lobby groups critical of police moves since 2019.
‘Right a historic wrong’: Old school site of child sex abuse renamed
Dozens of boys were abused at Marylands School in Christchurch over decades.
Popular camping ground facing closure gets possible lifeline
The beachside spot was given notice it would be closing down by July.
Future of popular holiday park 'in limbo', residents want answers from iwi owners
Ngāi Tahu, owner of the land, hasn't revealed its plan for the future of the site.
Fears of rise in anti-transgender and queer-phobic rhetoric
There are fears a rise in anti-trans and queer-phobic rhetoric is driving a wave of hate.
'Will you marry us?': Celebrant numbers soar as couples ask friends to officiate
NZ citizens can become legal independent celebrants without having to undergo training.
Parent in 'utter disbelief' as preschool emails conspiracy theories
The centre's weekly update encourages parents to view a video on BitChute.