South Auckland

Local Democracy Reporting

South Auckland author calls out lack of Pacific children's books

A bilingual children's book is out as Sāmoan Language Week gets underway. But concerns remain about a shortage of Pacific children's books.

Taelegalolo'u Mary AfemataTue, 02 Jun

Local Democracy Reporting

Pay continues for Manurewa board member while SFO assesses complaint

Auckland Council says elected members remain entitled to remuneration while they hold office, as the Serious Fraud Office assesses a complaint referred by the council.

Taelegalolo'u Mary AfemataFri, 29 May

Politics

Budget backlash grows over rents, poverty and Pacific family hardship

Advocates warn Budget 2026 will deepen pressure on low-income families, with Pasifika communities expected to feel some of the biggest impacts.

Christine RovoiThu, 28 May

Local Democracy Reporting

'We’ll be in this dance next year': Local Pacific councillor fears future rates funding squeeze

Māngere-Ōtāhuhu and Ōtara-Papatoetoe local boards have avoided targeted rates for now, but elected members warn funding pressures remain.

Taelegalolo'u Mary AfemataWed, 27 May

Opinion

Joe Daymond’s 2026 Comedy Mixtape: Pacific stars, crowd chaos and heavy hitters

From emerging acts like Jonjon, Ama and Tesi Naufahu to comedy favourites including Bubbah and Richie Fa’avesi, Joe Daymond’s latest mixtape proved NZ comedy’s next generation is already here.

Taelegalolo'u Mary AfemataFri, 22 May

Local Democracy Reporting

Diabetes wait times fall in Counties Manukau but pressure on public services rise: HealthNZ

Te Whatu Ora says changes to Counties Manukau’s diabetes dietitian service have nearly halved patient wait times, although waitlists are rising again amid staffing turnover.

Taelegalolo'u Mary AfemataTue, 19 May

Education •

Aotearoa New Zealand

Pacific creators push into gaming as South Auckland tech showcase returns

A Wiri showcase is putting Pacific storytelling and digital skills in the spotlight as organisers say the global gaming industry is “hungry” for new voices and perspectives.

Aui'a Vaimaila Leatinu'uMon, 18 May