Teen social media ban planned & storm alerts
New Zealand is moving toward a social media ban for teenagers as the government evaluates new safety laws. Severe weather continues to disrupt travel across both islands, and a rare missile test in the South Pacific has drawn local attention.
Teenagers and parents may soon face new restrictions as the government plans a ban on social media for youth. The proposal follows Australia's recent launch of a similar ban, which aims to protect younger users from online harm. While the exact age limit for New Zealand has not been finalized, the move would change how families manage digital access and how platforms verify their users.
Expect continued travel delays and hazards as heavy rain, snow, and strong winds hit parts of the country. The storm system has been hammering various regions since the weekend, leading to difficult driving conditions and property damage. Local authorities advise checking road closures and weather warnings before heading out, especially in areas prone to flooding or snow.
A rare missile launch into the South Pacific on Monday has raised regional security concerns for New Zealanders. A Chinese navy submarine fired a long-range ballistic missile into international waters; while it was a military test, the location is a significant development for the Pacific region.
Gaining New Zealand citizenship is becoming more common, with the number of grants rising by 62% between 2016 and 2025. Data shows a particular increase in Americans seeking to move to the country, citing a desire for a more laid-back lifestyle.
For more on these stories and updates on the Christchurch Cathedral Square redesign, the new head of high performance for NZ Rugby, or the New Plymouth Airport CEO's resignation, visit the app's News section.