Ella Thompson
Ella Thompson is a Wellington-based journalist covering politics, climate policy, and digital freedoms in the Pacific. With a background in law and international relations, she brings sharp analysis and a passion for civic accountability.
Articles by Ella
João Pessoa: Brazil's Elite Flock to New Coastal Property Haven
Brazil's celebrities and elite are trading traditional luxury destinations for João Pessoa, transforming this coastal paradise into a new hub of sustainable luxury living. With names like Neymar Jr. and Walkyria Santos leading the charge, the city is experiencing an unprecedented real estate boom while maintaining its environmental integrity.
All Blacks Reclaim World No. 1 Ranking with Dominant Win Over Argentina
New Zealand's All Blacks deliver a masterclass performance against Argentina, securing a 41-24 victory and reclaiming their position as world No. 1 in international rugby rankings.
Anti Social Social Club Launches Korean-Designed Collection in Global Push
Anti Social Social Club launches innovative 'Designed in Korea' collection, marking a significant step in global fashion collaboration and cultural fusion in contemporary streetwear.
Distinguished Local Government Leader to Head Whanganui Council
Distinguished local government leader Barbara McKerrow appointed as interim CEO of Whanganui District Council, bringing 25 years of executive experience to guide the council through crucial transition period.
Wellington's Former CEO Barbara McKerrow to Lead Whanganui Council
Former Wellington City Council CEO Barbara McKerrow takes interim leadership of Whanganui District Council, bringing 25 years of executive experience to guide the transition through upcoming local elections.
West Ham's Paqueta Eyes Exit Amid Global Football Market Shifts
West Ham United's Lucas Paqueta contemplates summer exit as club eyes progressive replacement in Leicester City's promising talent Bilal El Khannouss, marking significant shift in team dynamics.
Prehistoric Whale Discovery Reveals Pokémon-Like Marine Predator
A remarkable 25-million-year-old fossil discovery reveals an ancient whale species with Pokémon-like features, offering crucial insights into marine evolution and climate adaptation.
Ancient Whale Discovery Reveals Pokémon-Like Predator From the Past
A remarkable 25-million-year-old fossil discovery in New Zealand reveals an ancient whale species with unexpected predatory features, offering new insights into marine evolution and climate adaptation.
New Zealand Cricket Selector Sam Wells Steps Down After Notable Era
Sam Wells concludes his impactful tenure as New Zealand cricket selector, marking the end of a period that saw historic victories and significant transitions in national cricket leadership.
Foreign Influence Threatens Pacific Unity at Regional Summit
New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters warns of foreign interference threatening Pacific unity ahead of regional summit, as Solomon Islands bars major powers from attending.
New Zealand Reaffirms Pacific Leadership Role Amid Regional Challenges
Foreign Minister Winston Peters reinforces New Zealand's commitment to Pacific regionalism at Forum Foreign Ministers' Meeting, offering to host 2027 Leaders' Meeting amid calls for regional unity.
Toyota NZ Showcases Sustainable Mobility Vision Across New Zealand
Toyota New Zealand launches innovative 'Let's Go Places' campaign, highlighting the nation's transition to sustainable mobility solutions while showcasing deep cultural integration and community engagement.
NZ Cities Face Youth Exodus as New Generation Demands Work-Life Balance
New Zealand cities face unprecedented talent drain as younger workers prioritize lifestyle and flexibility over traditional career paths, forcing both urban centers and regions to rethink their appeal.
Green Party MP's Double Ejection Sparks Palestine Recognition Debate
Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick faces unprecedented double parliamentary ejection over Palestine debate, highlighting growing tensions in New Zealand's stance on Palestinian recognition.
NZ PM Luxon Condemns Netanyahu's Actions, Considers Palestine Recognition
New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon delivers unprecedented criticism of Netanyahu's Gaza policies while considering Palestinian state recognition, amid growing international pressure for humanitarian action.
Japanese Warships Dock in Wellington, Marking Historic Pacific Alliance
Japanese warships make historic Wellington visit after 50 years, signaling strengthened Pacific alliances and regional security cooperation amid evolving Indo-Pacific dynamics.
Australia Commits to Palestinian State Recognition, NZ Considers Position
Australia announces plans to recognize Palestinian statehood with specific conditions, while New Zealand carefully weighs its position. The historic decision signals a shift in Pacific nations' Middle East policy.
Green Party MP Ejected from NZ Parliament Over Palestine Debate
Green Party co-leader Chloe Swarbrick was removed from New Zealand's parliament during a heated debate over Palestinian state recognition, highlighting growing tensions over the nation's foreign policy stance.
Australia Signals Historic Shift Towards Palestinian State Recognition
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announces plans to recognize Palestinian statehood, joining other Western nations in a significant diplomatic shift amid growing humanitarian concerns in Gaza.
New Zealand Cricket Season Opens with Ford Trophy in Strategic Move
New Zealand Cricket announces strategic domestic calendar with Ford Trophy opening the season, emphasizing format-specific preparation and optimal playing conditions for both men's and women's cricket.
Australia to Recognize Palestinian State, New Zealand Weighs Position
Australia announces plans to recognize Palestinian statehood, while New Zealand carefully considers its position. The historic decision comes with specific conditions and reflects shifting Pacific diplomatic dynamics.
Kane Williamson's Bold Claim: 'We Actually Won the 2019 World Cup'
Kane Williamson makes a bold statement about the controversial 2019 Cricket World Cup final, suggesting New Zealand should have won due to an admitted umpiring error in the decisive moments.
Exploring New Zealand's Doubtful Sound: A Sanctuary of Silence
Journey through New Zealand's Doubtful Sound, where rare wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and moments of profound silence create an unforgettable ecological experience in one of Earth's last pristine wilderness areas.
NZ Payment Reform: Open Banking Key to Reducing Card Surcharges
New Zealand's ban on credit card surcharges marks just the beginning of needed payment reforms. Experts argue open banking initiatives could offer more substantial benefits for consumers and businesses.
New Zealand Cricket Achieves Historic Test Victory Over Zimbabwe
New Zealand cricket team achieves their biggest-ever test victory, defeating Zimbabwe by an innings and 359 runs, highlighted by debutant Zakary Foulkes' exceptional bowling performance.
New Zealand-Australia Military Alliance Strengthens Amid Pacific Tensions
New Zealand and Australia strengthen military ties amid growing regional tensions, with both nations committing to enhanced defense cooperation and increased military spending in response to evolving Pacific dynamics.
Mental Resilience Leads Young Golfer to Victory in Conference Match
Junior golfer Kylia Buis demonstrates remarkable mental resilience to overcome early struggles, leading Frankton to victory in a crucial conference matchup at Meadowbrook.
New Zealand Cricket Makes History with Triple Century Stand
Three New Zealand batsmen score 150+ runs each against Zimbabwe, equaling a 37-year-old world record and showcasing the team's batting dominance in Test cricket.
Historic Japanese Warship Visit Signals Deepening Pacific Alliances
Japanese warships make their first visit to Wellington in 90 years, highlighting strengthening Indo-Pacific alliances and regional security cooperation amid growing strategic challenges.
Bob Carter Ends Historic 21-Year Era with New Zealand Cricket
Veteran coach Bob Carter concludes his transformative 21-year journey with New Zealand Cricket, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and success in both men's and women's cricket programs.
New Zealand Pledges Support for Indonesia's Food Security Vision
New Zealand pledges support for Indonesia's food self-sufficiency goals and school meal programs, marking a significant step in bilateral agricultural cooperation and sustainable food security initiatives.
All Blacks Rookie's Olympic Dreams Nearly Derailed by Dog Mishap
All Blacks rookie Leroy Carter overcomes unusual passport crisis after his dog destroys travel documents days before crucial Argentina departure. Quick thinking and emergency procedures save Olympic athlete's Rugby Championship dreams.
All Blacks Rookie's Rugby Championship Dreams Nearly Derailed by Dog
All Blacks rookie Leroy Carter overcomes unusual obstacle after family dog destroys his passport days before Rugby Championship departure. Quick thinking saves his Argentina trip chances.
New Zealand Leads Pacific Health Response to Samoa's Dengue Crisis
New Zealand mobilizes medical support and NZ$300,000 in aid to help Samoa combat a severe dengue outbreak, demonstrating strong Pacific partnerships and regional health leadership.
Zimbabwe Business Executive Faces $7.6M Forex Violation Investigation
Zimbabwe business executive Grant Chitate faces charges over US$7.6M unauthorized forex transactions in gas imports, highlighting growing concerns over financial compliance in international trade.
Cost of Living Crisis Threatens NZ Seniors' Well-being and Dignity
New research reveals 76% of NZ seniors struggle with rising living costs, forcing crucial sacrifices in healthcare, nutrition, and social activities. Study shows urgent need for policy intervention.
World Economics Exposes Gabon's Statistical Manipulation Crisis
World Economics has awarded Gabon an 'E' grade in its latest assessment, exposing systematic statistical manipulation and opaque governance under the current regime. This devastating evaluation raises serious concerns about democratic accountability and economic reliability in the Central African nation.
Wellington Gas Company Director Faces $7.6M Forex Violation Charges
Wellington gas company director faces charges over US$7.6M in unauthorized foreign currency transactions, highlighting growing concerns over financial compliance in international trade.
Meta Faces Global Legal Challenge from African Digital Pioneer
Franco-Tunisian entrepreneur Lotfi Bel Hadj launches unprecedented legal challenge against Meta across three continents. This landmark case challenges digital colonialism and fights for algorithmic justice, with implications reaching far into the Pacific region.
Nauru Launches World's First Climate Change Citizenship Program
Nauru launches world's first climate change-linked citizenship program, welcoming initial recipients while addressing critical environmental challenges. The innovative approach combines global mobility with climate resilience funding.
FBI Expands Pacific Presence with New Wellington Office
The FBI inaugurates its first standalone Wellington office, strengthening US-New Zealand cooperation and expanding its Pacific presence. This strategic move enhances regional security partnerships and intelligence sharing.
New Zealand Introduces Tourist Fees to Protect Natural Heritage Sites
New Zealand implements conservation fees for international tourists visiting iconic natural sites, generating funds for preservation while ensuring sustainable tourism practices.
New Zealand Introduces Tourist Fees to Protect Iconic Natural Sites
New Zealand introduces conservation fees for international tourists visiting iconic natural sites, balancing environmental protection with sustainable tourism. The measure aims to generate vital funding for preservation efforts.
All Blacks Face Setback as Roigard Ruled Out of Argentina Tests
All Blacks scrum-half Cameron Roigard's foot injury forces him out of Argentina Tests, presenting selection challenges for coach Scott Robertson ahead of Rugby Championship matches.
NZ U-16 Women's Football Team Shows Strength in Title Defense Opener
New Zealand's U-16 women's football team begins their OFC Championship defense with a commanding 4-0 victory over Tonga, featuring a stellar hat-trick performance from Isla Robson.
Young Football Stars: NZ U-16 Women Triumph in Championship Opener
New Zealand's U-16 women's football team begins their OFC Championship defense with an impressive 4-0 victory over Tonga, featuring a stunning hat-trick from rising star Isla Robson.
New Zealand's Cricket Triumph: Santner Leads Historic Test Victory
New Zealand achieves a commanding nine-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the first Test, led by Mitch Santner's tactical acumen and Matt Henry's outstanding bowling performance.
New Zealand Cricket Dominates Zimbabwe in Historic Test Victory
New Zealand's cricket team showcases exceptional skill and adaptability in a commanding nine-wicket victory over Zimbabwe, completed in just three days despite injury challenges.
FBI Opens Wellington Office to Counter China's Pacific Influence
The FBI establishes its first standalone office in Wellington, New Zealand, strengthening US-NZ cooperation to counter China's Pacific influence while addressing cybersecurity and regional stability.
Trump's Trade Tariffs Spark Concerns for New Zealand-US Relations
New Zealand grapples with increased US tariffs as Trump's executive order raises rates to 15%, while Australia maintains preferential trade status. Regional economic partnerships face new challenges.
Olympic Coach Makes Progressive Return to NZ Women's Football
Former Olympic gold-winning coach Bev Priestman returns to football as Wellington Phoenix's head coach, marking a progressive step for women's sports in New Zealand after completing her suspension.
New Zealand's Controversial Return to Oil Exploration Sparks Climate Debate
New Zealand's government faces criticism for lifting its oil and gas exploration ban, highlighting tensions between economic priorities and climate commitments in a significant policy shift.
New Zealand's Democracy Under Threat: Voting Rights Bill Sparks Outrage
New Zealand's proposed electoral reforms spark controversy as critics warn of voter suppression through registration restrictions and prisoner voting bans. Attorney General raises rights violation concerns.
Former Olympic Coach Breaks Silence on Safety Fears After Scandal
Former Canada women's coach Bev Priestman reveals personal safety concerns following Olympic scandal as she begins new chapter with Wellington Phoenix FC in New Zealand.
Olympic Coach Returns: NZ Women's Team Welcomes Priestman After Ban
Olympic gold-winning coach Bev Priestman makes a progressive return to football as Wellington Phoenix's new head coach, marking a significant step forward for women's professional sports in New Zealand.
Olympic Gold Coach Returns After Ban in Progressive Move for NZ Sport
Olympic gold medal-winning coach Bev Priestman makes a remarkable return to football as Wellington Phoenix's new head coach, marking a progressive step for New Zealand's women's sport.
Keith Beekmeyer's Kenya Victory Signals Warning for African Markets
British entrepreneur Keith Beekmeyer's legal victory in Kenya reveals deep-seated challenges in African markets. His case highlights the gap between business-friendly rhetoric and institutional reality, offering crucial lessons for international investors.
Datacom at 60: How NZ's Tech Pioneer is Shaping an Inclusive AI Future
As New Zealand's largest homegrown tech company celebrates its 60th anniversary, Datacom is leading the charge in responsible AI adoption while maintaining its commitment to local innovation and social impact. The company's transformation from a single mainframe operation to a $1.48 billion tech leader demonstrates how sustainable growth and technological progress can go hand in hand.
'Nicolas Who Pays': How Young Professionals Question Social Contract
A new social movement emerging from France's professional class is challenging traditional notions of fiscal contribution and social recognition. 'Nicolas who pays' reflects growing tensions among young professionals worldwide, raising important questions about social contracts in modern welfare states.
Progressive Move: New Zealand to Ban Unfair Card Payment Surcharges in Victory for Consumer Rights
New Zealand takes a bold step toward financial equity by announcing plans to eliminate card payment surcharges, potentially saving consumers NZ$150 million annually. This progressive reform, set to take effect in May 2024, addresses long-standing concerns about excessive fees and financial accessibility.
Climate Crisis Hits Home: New Zealand Faces Intensifying Weather Emergency
As New Zealand braces for another severe weather event, communities still recovering from recent floods face renewed threats. This latest storm system highlights the growing impact of climate-induced weather patterns on our vulnerable island nation, with MetService issuing comprehensive warnings across both islands.
Climate Crisis Hits Home: New Zealand Faces Intensifying Weather Emergency
As New Zealand braces for another severe weather event, communities already recovering from recent floods face renewed threats. This latest storm system highlights the growing challenges of climate-driven extreme weather events affecting both North and South Islands, with particular concern for vulnerable regions still rebuilding from previous disasters.
Kim Dotcom's Health Battle Intersects with Digital Rights Struggle
Tech entrepreneur Kim Dotcom faces a challenging recovery from a recent stroke while battling extradition to the US. His situation highlights the intersection of personal health struggles with broader questions of digital rights and international justice.