Travel Scams Warning: A New Zealand traveller says a “dream cabin” deal shared on social media via WhatsApp turned out to be a scam—comments were disabled, the location was vague, and a reverse search found the listing was actually in NZ and priced far higher than advertised. Auckland Dining Buzz: New restaurant openings across Tāmaki Makaurau include Parnell’s Aarth, a Korean-barbecue-style spot in Wairau Valley, and a European bistro with breakfast-to-dinner service. Air New Zealand Upgrade: Air NZ’s Economy Skynest is now bookable on the Auckland–New York route, offering six lie-flat pods in economy for $495 for a four-hour sleep shift. Canterbury Nature Moment: A giant 2.5m sunfish washed up at Lake Ellesmere, with locals calling it “like something from the dinosaurs.” Cook Strait Rescue: Navy and Air Force teams helped rescue a skipper after a yacht took on water, following another medical evacuation earlier the same day. Marlborough Sounds Fishing Data: Blue cod fishers are being asked to log catch details via a free app or paper forms to support research. Road Safety Tension: A Mackenzie mayor is criticising NZTA speed camera installs on SH8 as more “revenue gathering” than crash reduction. Nelson Hospital Parking: Work is underway on a new multi-storey car park at Nelson Hospital, adding about 270 spaces, with construction expected to start in 2027. Housing Debate: New Zealand Initiative research argues housing targets should be replaced with price indicators to judge whether rules create real affordability.