New Zealand's central bank slashed its benchmark interest rate by 50 basis points to 4.25%, marking a third straight cut to its benchmark interest rate.

The cut brings the cash rate to its lowest level since November 2022.

Whale stranding is an unexplained natural phenomenon, with New Zealand holding one of the world's highest rates of the event. The whales were refloated by lifting them on sheets. Patuharakeke remained on the beach through the night to make sure none of the rescued whales were re-stranded.