Police accountability: NSW Police is moving toward mandatory body-worn cameras after Four Corners raised alarms about a “culture” of gratuitous violence and cover-ups, with calls for more transparency around complaints and outcomes. Disaster storytelling: Twizel students have published a book about Hebe the Border collie, the fire hero who helped villagers escape the Lake Ōhau blaze. Arts funding fight: Dame Lynda Topp says she won’t back down on Budget 2026 arts cuts, arguing the sector’s economic and cultural value is being ignored. Education & workforce: Victoria’s teacher shortages are being eased by New Zealand registrations, while local schools face rising pressure. Māori-led environment protection: Otago’s new no-take marine reserves, Te Au Roa o Te Rakihouia, come into force next month, strengthening iwi governance of the moana. Research policy: Cabinet has approved the Tertiary Research Excellence Fund, replacing PBRF to cut red tape and reward research impact. Rugby culture: New Zealand officials are exploring options to keep Moana Pasifika alive, as bids and funding questions swirl. Gender law debate: A bill to legally define “woman” and “man” is open for public submissions, setting up another heated national conversation.