NZ Herald Morning Headlines | Friday, July 17, 2026

NZ Herald Morning Headlines | Friday, July 17, 2026 <!--mynz:youtube-chapters--> {"v":1,"chapters":[{"timeSeconds":2,"label":"Switzerland next for trade deal","summary":"Minister Todd McClay has revealed that Switzerland is the next country to be considered for a trade deal with New Zealand. He met with the Swiss Secretary of State yesterday to discuss the ongoing trade talks."},{"timeSeconds":28,"label":"Lower fuel prices boost recovery hopes","summary":"Recent forecasts indicate a potential annual economic growth of 2.7 percent next year. This is partly attributed to lower fuel prices, with diesel now costing around $2.40 per litre, down from $3.80 earlier this year."},{"timeSeconds":57,"label":"Eggs safe despite bird flu","summary":"Despite the detection of an H5N1 bird flu strain on the West Coast, eggs remain safe for consumption. Biosecurity measures are in place to prevent the spread of the virus to poultry."},{"timeSeconds":128,"label":"DOC warns against disturbing wildlife","summary":"The Department of Conservation (DOC) is warning the public against disturbing New Zealand's native wildlife. Last year, 210 incidents involved people or dogs harming or harassing native animals, though no prosecutions were made."},{"timeSeconds":155,"label":"Mystery surrounds dead stingrays","summary":"Over 30 dead stingrays and two rig sharks were found washed up on a beach in Porirua last month. Investigations have ruled out exotic pets or diseases as the cause of death."},{"timeSeconds":226,"label":"Queenstown braces for busiest winter","summary":"Queenstown is preparing for its busiest winter season yet, with an expected 785,000 passengers travelling through the airport between July and September. This is a significant increase from last year."}]} <!--/mynz:youtube-chapters-->