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Several Hospitalised After Synthetic Drug Use in Auckland

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The Indian Weekender reports that health authorities have issued a high alert after multiple people were hospitalized in Auckland following the use of synthetic cannabis products. Officials fear a particularly dangerous batch of synthetic drugs is currently circulating in the community, posing a serious risk to users across the city and potentially beyond. According to a report by Stuff, drug monitoring service High Alert confirmed that those hospitalized had used synthetic cannabinoids-commonly known as “synthetics” or “synnies”-within the past 24 hours. The rapid onset and severity of symptoms prompted immediate concern among health professionals and emergency services. High Alert described the sudden spike in hospital admissions as alarming. While harm related to synthetic cannabinoids has been rising nationwide over recent months, officials say the sharp increase in severe cases in Auckland marks a worrying escalation. The organisation warned that this pattern reflects a broader ...

Tauranga Man Jailed for Brutal Attack on Dog

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A disturbing case of animal cruelty in Tauranga has resulted in a prison sentence, drawing renewed attention to the seriousness of violence against animals in New Zealand. A Tauranga man who repeatedly struck his dog with a shovel has been sentenced to four months in jail following a violent incident that occurred in September 2024. According to a report by 1News, the man pleaded guilty after a witness raised the alarm upon hearing a dog yelping in distress at the property. Concerned by the sounds, the witness went to investigate and was confronted with a horrifying scene: the man was seen hitting his dog, Marama, on her body and head with what was described as a “large” shovel. The shovel was then thrown at the dog, striking her head. The witness immediately contacted authorities. The SPCA later confirmed that Marama attempted to retreat while yelping and whimpering, before running into a corner of the yard in fear. When confronted about his actions, the man claimed he was beati...

Papatoetoe by-election decision awaited amid fraud claims

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A district court judge has reserved his decision on whether Papatoetoe could face a rare by-election, following serious allegations of voting irregularities in Auckland’s most recent local body elections. The ruling, expected before Christmas, could have significant implications for public confidence in New Zealand’s postal voting system. The case was heard at Manukau District Court and stems from a petition lodged under the Local Electoral Act by former Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board member and deputy chair, Lehopoaome Vi Hausia. Hausia, who failed to be re-elected , alleged widespread issues in the Papatoetoe subdivision, including stolen voting papers, votes cast without voter consent, and unexplained statistical anomalies in turnout. The respondent to the petition is Dale Ofsoske, an independent electoral officer for Auckland. At a preliminary hearing in November, Judge Richard McIlraith ordered five ballot boxes to be transferred from Auckland District Court to Manukau District C...

Swiss Driver Pleads Guilty in Fatal Canterbury Crash

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A Swiss national has pleaded guilty to causing a fatal crash in Canterbury , marking a deeply emotional chapter in a case that has drawn significant public attention. The incident, which claimed the life of a woman on a Canterbury highway, has left a lasting impact on both families involved and the wider community. The Indian Weekender brings you the full account of the courtroom proceedings and what lies ahead. Emotional Court Appearance in Christchurch Swiss national Patrick Keusch appeared visibly emotional in the Christchurch District Court as he pleaded guilty to a charge of careless driving causing death. The hearing took place before Community Magistrate Sarah Steele, where Keusch stood tearful as his lawyer entered the plea on his behalf. According to reporting by Stuff, the court heard that the case represents a profound tragedy. Defence lawyer Grant Fletcher told the court, “ Clearly this case is a terrible tragedy, ” acknowledging the devastating consequences of the crash ...