Latest from Government Administration and Defence

'National can get home with Luxon': Sir John Key shares blueprint for PM to win tight election

The former PM urges National MPs to stick with Luxon and avoid a late leadership swap.

Revealed: What PM says about India trade deal v what the secret text says

The Herald has seen parts of the highly secret trade agreement.

Billion-dollar plan to import gas: Worthy insurance policy or costly last resort?

Industry is supportive, the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment is sceptical.

Retail crime advisory group scrapped after several resignations

The group had been funded to last until September this year.

Another Labour MP suggests party will work with Te Pāti Māori once issues resolved

Labour's leader is adamant a decision on who the party could work with won't be made now.

Trade Minister standing by India FTA claims as others point out contradictions

Todd McClay says he stands by his statements last month on some controversial aspects.

Trespass law controversy: The 'should have known' rule that can land you in jail

The minister backed the 'deeming' approach against his officials' recommendations.

'Reasonable investment certainty': Industry urges clarity on Auckland housing rules

Chris Bishop wants growth centred on the central city, rail hubs and key transport routes.

Waitangi 2026 in photos: Pukana, pōwhiri and protest mark 186th anniversary

Herald photographers captured the week's events as they unfolded.

Inside the quiet war at Christchurch’s border: How Customs fights rising drug threats

Christchurch Customs officers talk about their working environment.

Adam Pearse: Promises of unity not easy to see from Waitangi 2026

OPINION: Many are quick to echo the late Kīngi Tūheitia's call for kotahitanga.

Ngāti Hine chair Pita Tipene says messages coming from Te Pāti Māori are confusing

Ngāti Hine chair Pita Tipene on Rawiri Waititi's "fantastic" speech but "confusing" tautoko haka. Video / NZ Herald

Waitangi: Ngāpuhi chair says Te Pāti Māori pōwhiri haka 'last straw'; offer to meet off table

The iwi had invited the political party to a meeting in November last year.

NZ Herald Headlines | Friday, February 6, 2026

NZ Herald Headlines | Friday, February 6, 2026. Waitangi Day begins with a dawn service as hecklers interrupt speeches. The US and Russian Military resume 'high level talks'.

The Conversation: Is NZ defence and intelligence policy aligning with Aukus in all but name?

OPINION: Plans include spending $100–300m on long-range drones for vast ocean patrols.

Waitangi 2026: Te Pāti Māori apologises, calls for new hui with Ngāpuhi as fractures continue to show

Politicians faced relatively peaceful protests and persistent heckles in annual visit.