Morning Report Essentials for Friday 16 May 2025
In today's episode, the Auditor General has issued a scathing assessment of Oranga Tamariki's procurement and contracting practices last year, after a day of uncertainty, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky says he's sending a team to Istanbul for peace talks with a Russian delegation, the next America's Cup will be hosted by the Italian city of Naples. America's Cup Defender Team New Zealand chief executive, Grant Dalton, made the announcement on Thursday night, the Black Ferns will face off against defending Pacific Four champions Canada this Saturday, we have our weekly Political Panel and Kerry-Anne Walsh brings us the latest from Australia.
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NZ Herald
2 days ago
- NZ Herald
America's Cup: Auckland ‘haven't made an approach' to host preliminary regatta, says Grant Dalton
Expect more sailing in the next America's Cup. As outlined by the protocol for the 38th America's Cup, which was signed and circulated on Tuesday, there is the potential for more racing in the next cycle before the main event gets under way in Naples, Italy, in 2027.
RNZ News
2 days ago
- RNZ News
Rugby: Final Ferns farewell before World Cup defence
The theme of the Black Ferns World Cup campaign is to 'be brave.' Coach Alan Bunting embodied this notion during their farewell at Manurewa Intermediate today, belting out a rendition of Dua Lipa's Levitating . His performance captured the energy of the goodbye perfectly, as the Ferns boogied away with their young fans before departing for their Rugby World Cup defence in England. Black Ferns (from left) Chryss Viliko, Tanya Kalounivale, Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu, Jorja Miller and Braxton Sorenson McGee at today's farewell. Photo: RNZ/Marika Khabazi Ferns fever ran absolutely rampant in South Auckland, as a deafening reception greeted the squad. Bunting said it was special to see the students so inspired by the Black Ferns. "I know that every one of these ladies here had someone to look up to and I know that for you to be her, you had to see her. These connections are vital to the Black Ferns heartbeat and we will take that with us." Black Ferns fever ran rampant at Manurewa Intermediate on Wednesday afternoon. Photo: RNZ/Marika Khabazi Following formalities was a Q+A with members of the school's champion girls sevens team. Asked who inspired her on her rugby journey, flanker Jorja Miller responded "Probably Richie McCaw," which drew a bit of a groan from the audience, before she continued "and Portia Woodman", as the crowd erupted in cheers. "Do you ever get scared during a game?" prop Chryss Viliko was asked. "Of course, but you overcome that and find the joy in it." Manurewa Intermediate student asks Black Ferns a question during their World Cup farewell. Photo: RNZ/Marika Khabazi The fitting final question went to prop Tanya Kalounivale: "What do you want all the kids who love to play rugby to know?" "Enjoy the little moments." A dance party then broke out with players, staff and students rocking out to Justin Bieber, Whitney Houston and Beyonce. But the Ferns know the serious stuff is just around the corner. "It's a bit daunting but I feel we have done the hard yards to get to this position, we are prepared for what's to and we have the support of our nation and that's all that matters," Kalounivale said. "We are all we have over there." Coach Alan Bunting addresses students at Manurewa Intermediate. Photo: RNZ/Marika Khabazi It marks a debut tournament for fellow prop Viliko. "When I think about it I get emotional, I think about my family and the people I carry with me and who have supported me on my journey." She said it won't be just her whanau she carries to the United Kingdom. "We stand on the shoulders of the wahine toa who have played before us, we wouldn't be here without them." Manurewa Intermediate students in full voice as they farewell the Black Ferns ahead of their Rugby World Cup campaign. Photo: RNZ/Marika Khabazi As for what 'being brave' looks like come World Cup time? "Putting our hand up, giving it a go, and playing with freedom." The quest to go back to back begins. Manurewa Intermediate pupils were excited to see the players on Wednesday. Photo: RNZ/Marika Khabazi Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
Scoop
3 days ago
- Scoop
New Zealand Rugby & Sky New Zealand Team Up For Triple Threat Docuseries, Showcasing The Rise Of Black Ferns
New Zealand Rugby and Sky have teamed up to deliver Triple Threat, an eight-part documentary series that offers unprecedented access into the lives of three of Aotearoa's most exciting Gen Z rugby talents, Maia Joseph, Jorja Miller, and Katelyn Vahaakolo, as they pursue their dream of representing the Black Ferns at the Rugby World Cup 2025. Premiering today, Wednesday 13 August at 6pm on NZR+ and screening the same day on Sky Go and Sky Sport Now, Triple Threat is a raw, personal, and unfiltered look at the drama, drive, and cultural identity that shapes these young athletes both on and off the field. From selection pressure to social media, from whānau to international fame, this is the story of three wāhine toa forging their path in the modern era of elite sport. With behind-the-scenes footage, emotional interviews, and intimate moments, the series reveals the resilience and passion it takes to chase the black jersey. Triple Threat is a celebration of women's rugby, cultural diversity, and the unique mana of the Black Ferns. About the series Maia Joseph says: "The show not only gives a real insight into the Black Ferns, but also Jorja, KV and my personal lives. It's been an amazing experience, and I am so fortunate to have my first World Cup frozen in time for the future". Advertisement - scroll to continue reading Jorja Miller added: " You only get to debut once at a Rugby World Cup, and it's been a goal of mine for some time. I'm excited to be part of a show that follows that journey alongside KV and Maia, while sharing more insights on and off the field, from our daily routines to the family and people who support us". Katelyn Vahaakolo finished with: 'I'm a reflection of the love, laughter, and resilience that I'm surrounded by, and I hope it shows in what I share in this doco. I love that I get to do it with two of my mates, we are all opposite of each other, but somehow make it work'. The premiere episode introduces each of the three players as the Black Ferns begin the PAC4 Series squad process. Viewers will see candid moments with their families, honest reflections on their goals, and the deep significance of pulling on the black jersey for the first time. Throughout the series the athletes also spend time with other rugby stars like Ardie Savea and Dan Carter, who share their wisdom before the players head to the UK. Executive Producer Dame Julie Christie from NHNZ Worldwide, whose vision helped shape the series, says Triple Threat offers a fresh look at women's sport. 'This series brings a fresh lens to rugby, a young female lens, a Gen Z lens, and a digital-first approach,' says Christie. ' These are the stories we want to hear. Personal stories of vulnerability, strength, resilience, and pride from these players that inspire and connect with a new generation of fans, whether they already have a love for rugby or not.' How to Watch Triple Threat: Premieres: Wednesday 13 August, 6pm on NZR+ and All Blacks YouTube with subsequent episodes shared on these channels. Also available from 13 August on: Sky Go and Sky Sport Now Weekly episodes on free-to-air: Sky Open, Wednesdays at 8pm from 27 August
