How many stars are in the cluster that is celebrated during Matariki?

• Five

• Seven

• Nine

Answer explanation

c. Nine – The Matariki cluster, also known as the Pleiades, includes nine stars recognised in modern Māori tradition.

Matariki marks the Māori New Year, a time for remembrance and renewal.

This year’s national theme highlighted the star Puanga, which some iwi use instead of Matariki to mark the new year.

What was the main slogan used by the nationwide protests that coincided with Donald Trump's military parade on 14 June 2025?

• No Kings

• Liberty First

• March for Democracy

Answer explanation

a. No Kings - The "No Kings" slogan was used during a series of nationwide protests against Donald Trump, accusing him of acting like a monarch and overstepping presidential powers.

The protests coincided with a rare military parade in Washington, DC, marking the 250th anniversary of the US Army.

Which team did the Crusaders defeat at the weekend to win the Super Rugby title?

• The Blues

• The Chiefs

• The Brumbies

Answer explanation

b. The Chiefs - The Crusaders edged the Chiefs 16-12 in Christchurch on Saturday night to bag their record-extending 15th Super Rugby crown, and eighth in nine seasons.

A North Island iwi has taken legal action over the government's handling of ski field concessions for which ski fields?

• Tūroa and Whakapapa

• Coronet Peak and The Remarkables

• Mount Hutt and Porters

Answer explanation

a. Tūroa and Whakapapa – The central North Island iwi Te Patutokotoko has filed court action against the Minister of Conservation and the Department of Conservation, alleging Treaty of Waitangi breaches over concessions granted to private operators at the Tūroa and Whakapapa ski fields on Mt Ruapehu.

Britain's MI6 was in the news last week as it appointed its first female chief in its 116-year history. What is MI6?

• A long-distance running event held in New York

• The United Kingdom’s secret intelligence service

• A championship-level chess tournament

Answer explanation

b. The United Kingdom’s secret intelligence service - MI6 is responsible for gathering intelligence overseas to help protect the UK. Its new chief, Blaise Metreweli, is the first woman to hold the role in the agency’s 116-year history.

Why did New Zealand pause nearly $20 million in funding to the Cook Islands last week?

• Because the Cook Islands signed new agreements with China without consulting the NZ government

• Because New Zealand is cutting all Pacific development funding

• Because the Cook Islands held elections New Zealand deemed illegitimate

Answer explanation

a. Because the Cook Islands signed new agreements with China without consulting the NZ government – Under their constitutional arrangement, the Cook Islands must consult New Zealand on defence and security issues.

New Zealand paused the funding after the Cook Islands signed a strategic partnership with China, including infrastructure and maritime agreements, without informing Wellington.

It was announced last week that melatonin will soon be available from pharmacies without a prescription. What is melatonin used for?

• Reducing high blood pressure

• Treating sleep disorders like insomnia and jet lag

• Preventing allergic reactions

Answer explanation

b. Treating sleep disorders like insomnia and jet lag – Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle. New Zealand announced that it will now be available over the counter, bringing it in line with countries like Australia and the US. Those under 18 will still need a prescription.

Following recent conflict between Iran and Israel Donald Trump has told the leader of Iran that his country must surrender. What is the leader of Iran known as?

• The Supreme Leader

• The Emperor

• The High Commander

Answer explanation

a. The Supreme Leader – Iran’s Supreme Leader is the most powerful figure in the country, with control over the military, judiciary, and major aspects of government.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has held this position since 1989, making him one of the longest-serving leaders in the Middle East.

How many people live in Iran?

• About 5 million

• About 27 million

• About 92 million

Answer explanation

c. About 92 million – As of mid-2025 estimates, Iran's population is around 92.4 million people, making it the 17th most populous country in the world.

In comparison, Israel has a population of about 9.7 million.

What did new research from Australia reveal about heading a football?

• It only affects players under the age of 18

• It increases vision and balance in amateur players

• It can alter brain chemistry even without causing a concussion

Answer explanation

c. It can alter brain chemistry even without causing a concussion – A study by the University of Sydney and Griffith University found that heading a football can cause subtle changes in brain chemistry and electrical activity.

Researchers observed elevated levels of biomarkers linked to head trauma, though the players did not show signs of concussion.