NZ Herald Afternoon Headlines | Sunday, July 5, 2026

NZ Herald Afternoon Headlines | Sunday, July 5, 2026 <!--mynz:youtube-chapters--> {"v":1,"chapters":[{"timeSeconds":0,"label":"National Promises New Trade Agreements","summary":"National leader Christopher Luxon has pledged to pursue seven new trade agreements with countries including Brazil, Switzerland, Argentina, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Uruguay, and the European free trade association if re-elected. These agreements aim to boost New Zealand's exports."},{"timeSeconds":15,"label":"Reducing Red Tape in Trade","summary":"National also plans to cut red tape by expanding paperless trade and digital customs. This initiative is projected to save approximately $1 billion in non-tariff barriers."},{"timeSeconds":45,"label":"Severe Weather Warning for South Island","summary":"Heavy rain, snow, and severe gales are expected to hit the South Island starting tomorrow. A heavy snow warning is in place for central Otago and northern Southland."},{"timeSeconds":58,"label":"Significant Snowfall Expected","summary":"The heaviest snowfall of the winter is predicted for Otago, with up to 20 centimeters expected in the high country and lower passes. Snow showers are also anticipated in the Lindis and Haast passes."},{"timeSeconds":124,"label":"NZ Joins Largest Maritime Warfare Exercise","summary":"New Zealand is participating in the world's largest international maritime warfare exercise, held in the Hawaiian Islands. The exercise involves the US Pacific fleet and over 30 nations."},{"timeSeconds":155,"label":"Exercise Focus: War and Disaster Response","summary":"The exercise aims to train multinational forces to work together effectively in war and disaster response scenarios. It includes dozens of ships and over 30,000 personnel."},{"timeSeconds":195,"label":"Native Trees for Nicotine Dependence","summary":"Research suggests that compounds found in native trees could be key to overcoming nicotine dependence. A University of Auckland study is testing products derived from these trees."},{"timeSeconds":223,"label":"New Marine Reserves for Otago Coast","summary":"New marine reserves protecting 308 square kilometers of Otago's coastline have been established. These reserves are the first of their kind in a decade and restrict fishing and mineral extraction."}]} <!--/mynz:youtube-chapters-->