Midday Report Essentials for Wednesday 22 October 2025

Fire and emergency New Zealand is stepping up efforts to fight multiple fires around Kaikoura, as weather forecasts predict worsening conditions; New Zealand video game developers will have more access to a $40m rebate scheme should Labour win next year's election, under policy announced on Wednesday; The wind hasn't stopped after yesterday's deadly day around Aotearoa, but tomorrow is set to be worse with elevated warnings; Oamaru's Victorian precinct and port could become New Zealand's third National Historic Landmark, if a proposal gets enough support from the public.