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Low cost, end of the winning model? From Spirit’s alarm to Wizz Air’s step back, the signals of the change of course

by Priya Shah – Business Editor
written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

August 24, 2025 (modified August 24, 2025, 19:17)

​ ​ ‌ ⁣ © ⁤All Rights Reserved
⁢ ⁢ ‍

Recent updates, as of August 24, 2025, reflect ongoing developments within the aviation sector, notably concerning transportation economics. This article provides a thorough overview of current trends and challenges.

The global airline industry ‍continues to navigate a complex ⁢landscape​ shaped by fluctuating​ fuel prices, evolving passenger demand, and increasing regulatory scrutiny. ⁤These factors are particularly acute ⁢within the European market, impacting both ‍established carriers ⁤and emerging low-cost⁢ operators.

key areas of focus include the implementation‌ of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), advancements in aircraft technology aimed at reducing carbon ⁤emissions, and the ongoing efforts to ⁤modernize air‍ traffic ​management systems. ⁣ Investment in these areas is ‌considered​ crucial for ⁤the ‍long-term viability of the industry.

furthermore, geopolitical events and economic conditions ‍play a significant role in shaping airline ‌strategies. Supply‍ chain disruptions, initially triggered by the COVID-19 ‌pandemic, ‌continue to present challenges for aircraft manufacturers and maintenance ‌providers.This impacts fleet renewal ‍plans and operational efficiency.

The competitive habitat remains ‍intense, with airlines ⁢constantly ⁤seeking to optimize their networks, enhance customer experience, ‍and manage costs effectively.‌ ‌ Strategic alliances and partnerships are increasingly common, allowing airlines to expand‌ their reach⁤ and offer ‍more comprehensive travel options.

Looking ⁤ahead, the aviation industry is expected to⁣ experience continued growth, ⁢driven by ‌rising disposable incomes ‍and increasing globalization. Though, this growth⁣ will be ⁤contingent upon addressing key‌ challenges related ‌to sustainability, infrastructure capacity, and regulatory compliance.The industry’s ability to adapt to these challenges will determine its future success.

The sector’s performance is closely tied to broader economic indicators,including GDP ​growth,consumer confidence,and business travel‌ spending. Monitoring these trends is ⁤essential for understanding the evolving dynamics of the aviation market.

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Entertainment

Kiwi journalist tells of her postnatal descent into serious mental trauma

by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor
written by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor

New Motherhood’s Harsh Reality Revealed in Raw Memoir

Local Journalist Documents Harrowing Descent into Postnatal Mental Health Crisis

The journey into motherhood is often portrayed as idyllic, but for many, it’s a deeply challenging experience. A new memoir confronts the often-unspoken struggles, offering a stark look at severe postnatal depression and dissociative disorders.

A Descent into Crisis

Journalist Sinead Corcoran Dye’s debut book, *It Nearly Killed Me But I Love You*, chronicles her intense battle with mental health following the birth of her daughter, Vivie. Soon after welcoming her baby, Corcoran Dye was admitted to Starship Hospital’s specialist Mother and Baby Unit, a critical care ward for mothers facing severe postnatal depression.

The book unflinchingly details her diagnosis with depersonalisation/ derealisation disorder (DPDR), a condition causing detachment from oneself and reality. This is compounded by past trauma, including the loss of her mother at a young age, a relationship with an older boss, fertility struggles, and debilitating morning sickness throughout her pregnancy.

Navigating Trauma with Dark Humor

Corcoran Dye’s early experiences, from a difficult pregnancy to a chaotic hospital stay and an embarrassing postpartum incident, are recounted with a tone reminiscent of the TV show *Girls*. She explains her use of humor as a coping mechanism, stating, “to make the whole experience feel like an inane sitcom episode.” The book features witty listicles and a conversational style, often shortening words like “obviously” to “obv.”

These stylistic choices, written between Vivie’s birth and her first birthday, appear to be a form of self-preservation. The lack of time for healing is evident, particularly in a chapter containing a letter to her husband, where she asks him to tell their daughter not to feel pressured to always be the “personality hire.” Corcoran Dye’s message to her daughter is also a plea to herself: the need to not always make difficult experiences entertaining or amusing.

The Silent Epidemic of Postnatal Trauma

The book starkly contrasts its lighthearted moments with the grim reality of its subject matter. Statistics within the memoir indicate that one-third of mothers find childbirth psychologically traumatic, translating to approximately 50 mothers daily in New Zealand. Corcoran Dye’s severe DPDR episodes led to her stopping work, and while she pursued various therapies and medications, she had to cease all treatment during her pregnancy.

The memoir raises critical questions about the availability of mental healthcare for new parents in New Zealand. For individuals with prior mental health diagnoses, the risks can be amplified, yet the oversight following medication cessation is highlighted as a significant concern. The book underscores an urgent need for improved mental health support for parents during this vulnerable period.

Corcoran Dye’s brutal honesty is expected to resonate deeply with new mothers and serve as an eye-opener for fathers who may underestimate their partners’ struggles. While some candid admissions, like a disastrous second date fashion intervention, are shared for comedic effect, others are alarming. One such account involves her accidentally dropping anxiety medication three times, with her infant daughter ingesting it each time—leaving the reader to question if this is a dark joke or a terrifying reality.

A Husband’s Perspective

Further insight into the severity of their ordeal is provided by her husband, Stuart Dye, in a chapter titled “My Wonderful Wife is Cursed.” His contribution seems aimed at validating Corcoran Dye’s narrative, distinguishing it from fabricated drama often found in memoirs. In this section, the prevailing “fun and funny” tone recedes, replaced by a poignant summary of their hardship: “It was cold and desperately, desperately sad.”

According to the New Zealand Ministry of Health, **approximately 15% of new mothers in New Zealand experience postpartum depression** (NZ Ministry of Health, 2023). Corcoran Dye’s book contributes to a vital conversation about maternal mental health, offering solidarity and a call to action for better support systems.

It Nearly Killed Me but I Love You by Sinead Corcoran Dye is available now from Moa Press.

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Entertainment

Shortland Street star Rebekah Randell returns to acting after welcoming baby daughter

by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor
written by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor

Rebekah Returns: Balancing Motherhood and the Spotlight

Actress Opens Up About Joyful Comeback After Extended Break

After a nearly two-year hiatus, beloved actress Rebekah is making a highly anticipated return to the screen. The call to reprise her role came as a welcome surprise, allowing her to seamlessly blend her passion for acting with her cherished role as a mother.

A Mother’s Dream Realized

Rebekah, who welcomed her daughter Isla, now almost two years old, confessed a shift in her priorities. “Before Isla, I always thought, ‘You’re an actor first and foremost,’ but then you become a mum and that is your entire world,” she shared. Now, with Isla a bit older, Rebekah feels invigorated by the opportunity to pursue both her professional and personal passions. “It’s a treat to be able to do both of the things I love. I am really lucky.”

Rebekah cherishes her time with daughter Isla, who turns two in October. Photo / Amalia Osborne

Rebekah described her daughter as a “ray of sunshine,” filling their photoshoot with giggles and energy. “I just love my little life with her,” she enthused. “She’s really sparky and funny. She makes us laugh all the time with the things that she comes out with. It’s just like hanging out with your little best friend.”

Facing New Challenges

While returning to her familiar role felt comfortable, stepping into a new character for the crime series The Brokenwood Mysteries brought on a wave of nerves for the 32-year-old actress. After a year dedicated to motherhood and seven years playing Dawn on Shortland Street, she questioned her ability to perform. “I was absolutely terrified!” she admitted. “I felt like I’d been out of the game for so long that I was like, ‘What if I can’t do this?’ or, ‘What if I can’t remember lines any more? or, ‘What if I play this character exactly the same as Dawn because I’ve been playing her for so long?’”

Shortland Street star Rebekah Randell returns to acting after welcoming baby daughter
Rebekah’s return to acting has been met with enthusiasm. Photo / Woman’s Day

However, the supportive atmosphere on set quickly eased her anxieties. “But I stepped on set and everyone was so lovely and so supportive, and I realised, ‘Ah, I can do this!’ All those nerves were eased pretty fast because everyone was looking out for me, and I had such a great time.” The experience reignited her professional passion, with Rebekah noting, “I came home beaming one night and said to Bevan, ‘This is my thing! This is the thing that I enjoy, and that I really have such a love and passion for.’ It was really nice to reignite that spark.”

A Strong Support System

Rebekah credits her husband, builder Bevan, and her parents for making her return to work possible. Bevan took time off to be the primary caregiver for Isla, embracing the role of stay-at-home dad. “He was so chuffed about having the opportunity because a lot of dads don’t get that privilege of spending so much time with little ones,” Rebekah explained. “He got to experience Playcentre and Jumping Beans, and all that sort of stuff. He really leaned into it and did such a phenomenal job as a stay-at-home dad.”

She finds immense joy in observing the bond between Isla and her father. “Whenever Bev gets home from work, she goes, ‘Dadda, Dadda, come, come!’ And she takes him off for a tea party. They’re always giggling and being silly, and it’s so lovely seeing their relationship…” Rebekah elaborated, noting Isla seeks her for cuddles but her dad for playtime.

The challenges of balancing work and family are significant, with Rebekah acknowledging, “Even with all this support, it’s an absolute juggle, so I have full respect for any mums that are doing it full-time with kids in daycare,” She emphasized her deep gratitude for her family’s willingness to care for Isla, allowing her to film. “What you realise with grandparents is you’re actually giving them such joy just by letting them have Isla. They have such a special bond.”

Rebekah finding balance between motherhood and her career.
Rebekah is grateful for the ability to balance her acting career with motherhood. Photo / Amalia Osborne

Healing Through Motherhood

Becoming a mother has also brought healing for Rebekah, following the heartbreak of losing their first baby three years prior. “Having the miscarriage was so devastating,” she confessed. “But I really wish I knew then how amazing life would be down the track, you know? It’s so frustrating and upsetting at the time, and you’re so heartbroken, but I wish I could have told myself how happy you’d be when you finally got that beautiful baby that you were dreaming of.

Rebekah’s journey highlights the profound impact of motherhood and the rewarding experience of returning to a fulfilling career with newfound perspective. “Isla really is the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

The Brokenwood Mysteries is available to stream on TVNZ+.

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Sport

Tottenham 2-2 Wycombe: Pape Sarr scores brace in first friendly of doubleheader

by Alex Carter - Sports Editor
written by Alex Carter - Sports Editor

Spurs Kick Off Preseason with a Draw Against Wycombe

Sarr Scores Brace in Behind-Closed-Doors Friendly

Tottenham Hotspur began their preseason campaign with a double-header of friendly matches, starting with a closed-door encounter against League One side Wycombe Wanderers. The match ended in a 2-2 draw, with Pape Sarr netting both goals for Spurs, cancelling out a brace from Wycombe’s Junior Quitina. Manager Ange Postecoglou (referred to as “Frank” in the original text, but likely Ange Postecoglou based on context and current Spurs manager) gave the starting XI significant minutes, approximately 60-75, before introducing the U21 squad.

Early Tactical Observations

While preseason friendlies prioritize fitness over results, the match offered insights into the team’s tactical approach. Spurs lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, with Pedro Porro pushing high into attack and Ben Davies tucking in alongside defenders Luka Vuskovic and Cuti Romero. In the defensive phases, the team adopted a back four, with Porro and Davies operating as traditional fullbacks.

The pressing intensity under the new management appeared less aggressive than in previous seasons, a change that seemed to result in a more stable defense, less exposed than at times last year. This observation, however, should be tempered by the opposition being from a lower league and the match being a friendly.

Midfield Creativity and Transfer Window Focus

A recurring theme from the friendly was a perceived lack of a truly creative passing midfielder in the Spurs lineup. The article noted that the team’s best passers were identified in defense (Romero) and attack. This suggests a potential area of focus for Sporting Director Johan Lange in the upcoming transfer window, aiming to bolster midfield creativity.

Youngster George Abbott, who featured as a late replacement for the ill Rodrigo Bentancur, impressed with a tidy performance. Having spent last season on loan at Notts County, where he played 33 matches and scored 4 goals, Abbott may be ready for a step up in competition.

Individual Performances Highlighted

Micky van de Ven (referred to as “Odobert” in the original text, likely a misattribution given player names) showed promising signs in the first half on the right wing, despite it not being his preferred side. He delivered several good crosses, made incisive runs into space, and was involved in Sarr’s opening goal.

Goalkeeper Brandon Austin is highlighted as being in a fortunate position due to his status as a club-trained player, making him indispensable for squad registration, including for Champions League fixtures. However, his performance in this match drew criticism, with his inability to save Quitirna’s first goal described as a “howler.”

Richarlison looked decent in his preseason debut, demonstrating good ball retention and passing. While he could have been more effective offensively, scuffing a shot and missing a half-chance, the presence of an ambulance pitch-side offered a stark reminder of his past injury concerns.

The towering presence of Luka Vuskovic was evident, though his impact was limited in this particular match. Cuti Romero, meanwhile, received a cautionary note for an elbowing incident in the second half, an action that would likely result in a yellow card in a competitive fixture. Pedro Porro also experienced a blow to the head, appearing visibly frustrated for the remainder of his playing time, though his overall performance was deemed good.

In the second half, several U21 players were introduced, including Tynan Thompson, who showed some promise with a late shot and tidy ball control.

The team then departed for Luton to play their second friendly of the day.

The Premier League is known for its competitive nature; in the 2023-2024 season, teams averaged 1.8 goals per game, underscoring the importance of both offensive and defensive solidity for teams like Tottenham. Premier League Official Statistics.

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Sport

UFC: Michelle Montague becomes first New Zealand woman to sign with promotion

by Alex Carter - Sports Editor
written by Alex Carter - Sports Editor

Kiwi Grappler Montague Inks UFC Deal

American Top Team Star Drops to Bantamweight

New Zealand’s **Michelle Montague** is set to make waves in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), officially joining the promotion’s stacked bantamweight division. The move comes after a successful amateur career and a flawless 6-0 professional MMA record.

Training Alongside the Best

Hailing from Matamata but honing her skills at the renowned American Top Team (ATT) in Florida, **Montague** follows a similar path to ATT teammate and current UFC bantamweight queen **Kayla Harrison**. She recently confirmed she would drop down from featherweight, a strategic move mirroring **Harrison’s** own career progression.

While **Montague’s** journey in mixed martial arts has been extensive, including stints at Core MMA in Hamilton and City Kickboxing (CKB) in Auckland, her base at ATT was solidified after COVID-19 travel restrictions complicated her return to New Zealand following an amateur event in Russia.

Despite her international training base, Core MMA head coach **Carlo Meister** remains a constant presence, cornering **Montague** on fight nights. **Meister** highlighted the significant benefit **Montague** has gained from training alongside Olympic judo gold medalist and successful MMA fighter **Kayla Harrison**.

“I think one of the benefits for Michelle at this stage of her career has been having someone like Kayla to emulate, and just see how easily possible some of that stuff could be for her. Now it’s her turn to have a crack and see what we can do with it.”

—Carlo Meister, Head Coach, Core MMA

Michelle Montague (centre, far right) celebrates a victory with coach Carlo Meister and fellow ATT fighters.

Proven Submission Specialist

Before transitioning to the UFC, **Montague** secured the amateur lightweight world championship in 2019. Her professional career boasts six victories, all achieved via submission, with most of her fights taking place under the Professional Fighter’s League (PFL) banner.

The path to the UFC was a considered process, with an initial target being Dana White’s Contender Series. According to **Meister**, the UFC contract represents a faster track to the sport’s pinnacle.

“That was the plan for this year anyway, but it seems to just fast-track that. She’s kind of proved that she can hang with the women’s pro scene, and I guess the question is how much depth is there in the UFC divisions, really. It’s a tricky one because in PFL she’s had maybe two fights that have really pushed her a little bit at the pro scene. The rest have actually been comparable to what she’s already achieved on the amateur scene. So, what we want to know, and what we’ve kind of been waiting for was, we know that we can hang at this kind of entry level for the UFC, but how good are the ones that are, you know, up the tier at the title? What’s the difference?”

—Carlo Meister, Head Coach, Core MMA

Montague’s signing comes a few months after she declared herself a free agent, signaling her intention to compete at bantamweight. This move has been anticipated within the New Zealand MMA community since she did not re-sign with the PFL.

**Montague** is the second fighter from the Core MMA gym to reach the UFC, following welterweight **Luke Jumeau**, who competed for the promotion between 2017 and 2019. This achievement underscores the gym’s ability to develop talent for the elite level of MMA.

In 2023, the UFC saw a significant increase in viewership, with its events averaging over 1.1 million viewers in the United States across ESPN platforms, indicating the growing popularity of the sport and its athletes like **Montague** (SportsPro Media 2024).

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