New Zealand’s decision to recognise a new official language draws sharp criticism: ‘Embarrassing waste of time’

August 4, 2026 · The Independent

Ben Stokes responds to England retirement U-turn speculation
Ben Stokes responds to England retirement U-turn speculation
French and British teams rescue 157 migrants after a boat engine fire in the Channel
French and British teams have rescued 157 migrants trying to cross the Channel after their boat's engine caught fire
Guatemala evacuates villages due to an eruption of the Fuego volcano
Authorities in Guatemala have ordered evacuations around the Fuego volcano, which is erupting
Where will the total solar eclipse be visible across the world? A guide to August’s spectacle
Maximum totality will occur off Iceland’s west coast – but hundreds of millions of people more are in for a treat
Five councillors resign over £50,000 public toilet saga in Kent village
Protracted dispute triggers protests – and two costly by-elections