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March 09, 2026
#waatea #firstatfive: First @ 5am News from the weekend
Matthew Tukaki
Posted On March 9, 2026
Here are the latest stories making news this morning.
A North Canterbury power company is offering a reward of up to five thousand dollars for information following a surge in copper thefts from its electricity network. More than two hundred earthing wires have already been stolen this year, creating safety risks and costly repairs across the region.
Rising global fuel prices are also expected to push up freight costs and eventually the price of everyday goods. Transport operators say a sharp jump in diesel prices means trucking companies will likely have to pass those costs through the supply chain, adding further pressure to household budgets.
In housing news, a 203-home build-to-rent development has been announced for Mount Albert on land owned by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei. The project is designed to boost long-term rental supply in Auckland and reflects the growing role of iwi landowners in large-scale urban development.
In the economy, Fonterra’s sale of its Mainland consumer brands business has been declared unconditional, clearing the way for a multi-billion-dollar deal with French dairy company Lactalis. The move signals a major shift in strategy for the dairy co-operative as it focuses more on dairy ingredients and food service.
In sport, Caleb Clarke scored a hat-trick as the Blues defeated the Crusaders twenty-nine to thirteen at Eden Park in Super Rugby.
And in international rugby, Scotland stunned France in a high-scoring Six Nations clash, blowing the championship race wide open ahead of the final round.
In health news, a five-point-one million dollar programme has been launched to eliminate cervical cancer across the Pacific, expanding HPV vaccination, screening and treatment in countries where the disease remains one of the leading causes of death among women.
From the weekend
Aotearoa is mourning the passing of Dilworth Karaka, the founding member and frontman of the legendary Pacific reggae band Herbs. Karaka helped define the Pacific reggae sound and his music became closely associated with social justice movements across Aotearoa and the Pacific.
Waatea’s Question of the Day drew a strong response online, with tens of thousands engaging in debate about whether the Government is doing enough to support disabled whānau. Many respondents said the system is struggling to meet the needs of families already under pressure.
That discussion follows Waatea’s investigation into the disability sector, highlighting growing strain on Whaikaha services, including housing shortages and barriers to accessing support.
Police are continuing to investigate a fatal crash in Dome Valley, north of Auckland, which left one person dead.
In politics, a new election poll shows the centre-left narrowly edging ahead, suggesting the 2026 election race could be closely contested.
Health leaders are also raising concerns about a deteriorating renal unit, warning dialysis treatment may soon need to be rationed if infrastructure pressures continue.
In sport, the Warriors opened their NRL season in dominant fashion, defeating the Sydney Roosters in a strong start to the competition.
Emotional scenes unfolded at Auckland Airport as New Zealanders returning from the Middle East crisis were reunited with their families after days of uncertainty.
Other stories making news
Aotearoa has claimed a historic treble at the World Shearing and Woolhandling Championships, reinforcing the country’s dominance in the global wool industry.
Athletes across the country are preparing for the Z Manu World Champs grand final, with competitors looking to secure their place in the international manu bombing competition.
Teachers are welcoming stronger protections for rangatahi online, while education unions are warning that gender bias may be returning to parts of the education sector.
International tensions are also pushing fuel prices higher globally, raising fresh questions about New Zealand’s fuel reserves and energy security.
And a new screen agreement between New Zealand and Brazil is expected to create new opportunities for film and television producers in both countries.
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