Te Reo Māori Through Waiata: An RNZ feature follows a Tāmaki Makaurau class where people from different backgrounds learn te reo Māori by singing, with students describing it as connection and hauora. Local Democracy Clash: Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown warns Auckland Council could walk away from the Auckland Deal after the Government moves to ban voting rights for non-elected committee members, including Houkura. Election Politics & Economy: RNZ reports Nicola Willis hinting National will campaign on research and development tax credit changes and income tax bracket “bracket creep,” as polls point to a possible hung parliament. Auckland Education Leadership: Around 1,250 school principals head to Auckland for the International Confederation of Principals convention, putting Aotearoa’s cultural identity front and centre. Health & Housing Pressure: RNZ says flu is hitting children’s hospitals hard, with elective procedures deferred at Starship and extra paediatricians brought in. Indo-Pacific Moves: India’s navy chief visits New Zealand to expand maritime cooperation and plan a first bilateral naval exercise in 2027. Rough Sleeping Pushback: A coalition calls to end move-on orders before Christmas, arguing they push people further into harm. Music Scene Growth: Mixmag ANZ launches a City Rep network across 11 cities in Australia and Aotearoa to spotlight grassroots dance music. Food Culture: Three Kiwi icons—Galaxy Blue Vein, Weet-Bix, and Tip Top Jelly Tip—are shortlisted for a Lifetime Achievement award.