New Zealand’s COVID-19 response continues amid much larger numbers of daily cases. At 11:59pm Thursday 24 February New Zealand moved to Phase 3 in managing the Omicron surge.

Lent is a time for prayer, fasting and almsgiving. In the gospel reading Jesus tells us to do these things with humility and dignity: 'go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret'. Ash Wednesday is the start of our long and contemplative journey to Easter.

This sporting event was held this morning at Jellie Park pool.