New Zealand's central bank slashed its benchmark interest rate by 50 basis points to 4.25%, marking a third straight cut to its benchmark interest rate.

The cut brings the cash rate to its lowest level since November 2022.

Following are facts and figures ahead of the three-match test series between New Zealand and England, which begins on Thursday:

England will be searching for redemption after their series loss in Pakistan when they face a buoyant New Zealand in three Tests starting in Christchurch on Thursday.

Whale stranding is an unexplained natural phenomenon, with New Zealand holding one of the world's highest rates of the event. The whales were refloated by lifting them on sheets. Patuharakeke remained on the beach through the night to make sure none of the rescued whales were re-stranded.