HOUSTON — NASA’s Artemis II mission hit a major milestone Thursday as the four-person crew aboard the Orion spacecraft successfully completed the critical translunar injection burn, sending them out of Earth orbit and on a trajectory toward the Moon for the first time in more than five decades.
(VIDEO) Artemis II Launch: 4 Astronauts Blast Off on Historic Crewed Moon Mission
The burn, which lasted five minutes and 50 seconds, began at 7:49 p.m. EDT after mission managers in Houston polled “Go” for the maneuver. Orion’s main engine, powered by the European Service Module, fired flawlessly, accelerating the spacecraft to escape velocity and committing the astronauts to a free-return trajectory around the Moon and back to Earth.
Commander Reid Wiseman, Pilot Victor Glover, Mission Specialist Christina Koch and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen are now hurtling through space at nearly 40,000 kilometers per hour (about 25,000 mph) on their approximately 10-day test flight. The mission, launched Wednesday evening atop NASA’s powerful Space Launch System rocket from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, marks the first crewed journey beyond low Earth orbit since Apollo 17 in 1972.
Flight controllers confirmed the burn’s success shortly after completion, with Orion now on course for a lunar flyby expected early next week. At closest approach, the crew will pass roughly 4,000 to 6,000 miles (6,400 to 9,700 kilometers) from the lunar surface, skimming past the far side before the Moon’s gravity slings them back toward home. The spacecraft is projected to reach a maximum distance of more than 230,000 miles from Earth, surpassing the record set by Apollo 13.
Earlier on Flight Day 2, the crew focused on routine but essential tasks while still in high Earth orbit. Wiseman and Glover started their day by setting up and checking out Orion’s flywheel exercise device, completing the mission’s first workouts to help maintain muscle and bone density in microgravity. Koch and Hansen followed with their own exercise sessions later in the day. These activities also served as an important test of the spacecraft’s life support systems ahead of the long journey.
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Koch spent part of her morning preparing the vehicle for the translunar injection burn, configuring systems on the European-built service module that provides propulsion, power and thermal control for Orion. The crew also continued monitoring spacecraft health, communicating with Mission Control and acclimating to the weightless environment after their dramatic launch the previous evening.
Launch on April 1 occurred at 6:35 p.m. EDT from Launch Complex 39B, with the SLS delivering more than 8.8 million pounds of thrust at liftoff. The rocket performed flawlessly through its major phases: solid rocket booster separation, core stage burnout and separation, and interim cryogenic propulsion stage operations. Orion’s solar array wings fully deployed shortly after spacecraft separation, locking into place and beginning to generate power.
The crew spent much of Flight Day 1 becoming familiar with Orion — nicknamed “Integrity” — checking life support systems, practicing manual piloting and conducting a proximity operations demonstration. They maneuvered close to the spent upper stage, approaching within about 10 meters (33 feet) in a rehearsal of future docking maneuvers needed for Artemis missions that will land astronauts on the lunar surface.
NASA officials described the early mission as proceeding smoothly, with only minor, non-critical issues noted and quickly resolved. “This is a flight test,” one NASA leader emphasized during a post-launch briefing, adding that true success will be declared only when the crew safely splashes down in the Pacific Ocean around April 10.
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The Artemis II mission serves as a crucial dress rehearsal for future lunar exploration under NASA’s Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon’s surface as early as 2028 and establish a long-term presence there. Unlike Apollo, Artemis emphasizes sustainable exploration, international partnerships and eventual crewed missions to Mars. Canada’s contribution of astronaut Hansen and the European Service Module underscores the collaborative nature of the effort.
Throughout the day, mission managers highlighted the crew’s health and the spacecraft’s performance. All four astronauts are experienced: Wiseman has flown on the International Space Station, Glover became the first Black astronaut to pilot a spacecraft during a Crew Dragon mission, Koch holds the record for the longest single spaceflight by a woman, and Hansen is making his first trip to space.
After the TLI burn, the crew’s schedule lightened somewhat, giving them time to adjust to the deep-space environment. Over the next several days, they will perform additional system checks, practice emergency procedures such as rapid suit donning, and conduct observations of Earth and the receding Moon. Small trajectory correction burns may be needed to fine-tune the path.
Flight controllers noted that once past a certain point, a direct abort back to Earth becomes less feasible, and the mission will rely on the free-return trajectory that uses the Moon’s gravity for the return leg. This profile provides a built-in safety margin for the test flight.
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Public interest in the mission has been intense, with live streams from NASA+ and YouTube drawing large audiences. Views from Orion’s cameras have offered stunning perspectives of Earth shrinking in the distance and the vastness of space. The crew has shared brief messages of excitement and gratitude, describing the launch as “a great day for the team” and the view as breathtaking.
As Orion continues its outbound journey, NASA will hold daily status briefings from Johnson Space Center in Houston, except for the day of the lunar flyby when the focus shifts to real-time operations. The agency has invited global audiences to follow along via multiple platforms.
Looking ahead, the mission will test Orion’s deep-space capabilities in ways never before attempted with this new generation of hardware. Engineers are particularly interested in how the spacecraft handles thermal extremes, radiation exposure and long-duration life support far from Earth’s protective magnetosphere.
Artemis II builds directly on the uncrewed Artemis I test flight completed in 2022, which successfully sent Orion around the Moon and back. With humans now aboard, the stakes are higher, but so is the potential payoff in data and experience.
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The international aspect adds another layer of significance. Hansen’s participation represents Canada’s growing role in lunar exploration, including contributions to the future Lunar Gateway station. The European Space Agency’s service module has performed as designed, providing reliable propulsion that will be essential for later missions.
Back on Earth, recovery teams are already preparing for splashdown in the Pacific, with U.S. Navy and Department of Defense assets on standby to assist the astronauts once Orion parachutes into the ocean.
NASA Administrator and other officials have stressed that every phase of the mission — from launch through the flyby and return — is being scrutinized to inform the design and operations of Artemis III, the first crewed lunar landing in the new era.
For now, the four astronauts are focused on the journey ahead. With the TLI burn behind them, they are truly “on the way to the Moon,” as NASA succinctly put it in its mission updates. The coming days will bring more system demonstrations, scientific observations and the historic sight of the lunar far side up close — a view only 24 Apollo astronauts have previously experienced.
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As the crew settles into their routine among the stars, the world watches a pivotal step in humanity’s return to deep space. Artemis II is not just a test flight; it is a bridge to a future where humans live and work on the Moon and venture farther into the solar system.
The West Yorkshire Combined Authority is reviewing the future of the site
An artist’s impression of a West Yorkshire tram(Image: WYCA)
A planned redevelopment site in West Yorkshire will be reviewed after it was revealed a section of the land has been “safeguarded” for the Bradford to Leeds tram route.
The Parry Lane Enterprise Zone, in the Bowling Back Lane area, was due to be one of the biggest regeneration schemes in West Yorkshire. It was earmarked for a £19m development industrial units that would bring almost 500 jobs to the area, with hopes that the development would be completed by 2025.
But although £8.8m has been spent on clearing the site, it currently remains vacant, and now it has emerged that the land has been sold to West Yorkshire Combined Authority – which will “assess options” for its future.
Parry Lane was one of nine Enterprise Zones first proposed by the authority a decade ago. It had hoped to take vacant areas of land that were in prime locations, but had attracted little investment, and make them more attractive to potential developers.
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The Parry Lane site was the former home of Yorkshire Energy, but had been vacant for years before it was suggested as an Enterprise Zone. In 2020, plans for 25,000 square metres of employment space across 10 industrial units on the site was approved.
Since then, the site has been referenced in the early plans for a new tram line between Bradford and Leeds. One possible route would pass through the Bowling Back Lane area, with a possible stop at Parry Lane.
WYCA has now purchased the Parry Lane site at the request of its Mass Transit team.
A West Yorkshire Combined Authority spokesperson said: “As of March this year the Combined Authority is the new owner of the land at Parry Lane, following the successful completion of an £8.8m remediation of the site.
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“Options will now be assessed in the proper way to determine the future use of the land, some of which remains safeguarded for Mass Transit. Further details will be made available to the public and to members of the Combined Authority at its next full meeting.”
Meghan Markle is pressing ahead with her lifestyle brand As Ever and a paid speaking engagement in Australia, even as her production partnership with Netflix faces changes and speculation swirls about tensions in her marriage to Prince Harry.
IBTimes US
The Duchess of Sussex, 44, appeared barefoot in a new promotional video posted on As Ever’s Instagram on Tuesday night, demonstrating flower-arranging skills and tablescaping for a limited-edition tea box priced at around $191. The clip, which showed her arranging a “complicated” floral display, highlights her continued focus on lifestyle content following the end of Netflix’s direct investment in the brand.
Markle and Prince Harry, also 41, announced in March 2026 that their Archewell Productions company would develop a new fictional series based on the world of polo for Netflix, while promising additional projects across multiple streaming platforms. The couple’s production firm has faced challenges, with some Hollywood insiders describing slowed momentum after earlier Archewell content underperformed expectations. A spokesperson for the couple insisted that Markle’s lifestyle series “With Love, Meghan” is not canceled and will return for seasonal specials.
The latest developments come as the Sussexes prepare for their first joint trip to Australia since 2018. Markle is scheduled to speak at the Her Best Life luxury wellness retreat in Sydney from April 17-19, an event with ticket prices ranging from about $2,699 to $3,199 per person. Prince Harry is set to appear at the InterEdge Psychosocial Safety Summit in Melbourne. A petition with more than 35,000 signatures has called for no use of Australian taxpayer funds for the visit, noting the mix of business and private engagements.
Reports surfaced Thursday claiming Prince Harry is “furious” over Markle’s paid appearance at the wellness event, with some insiders describing it as a potential “tasteless money-grab” ahead of the couple’s tour. The claims, which could not be independently verified, add to ongoing tabloid speculation about strains in the couple’s relationship. Separately, broadcaster commentary suggested Markle may be “pretty annoyed” with Harry following the leak of alleged flirty text messages.
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Markle’s As Ever brand launched with Netflix support last year alongside the lifestyle series, which featured cooking, gardening and hosting tips with celebrity guests. In early March 2026, Netflix confirmed it was ending its investment in the lifestyle company, though the streamer had never planned long-term backing. Viewership for the second season of “With Love, Meghan” reportedly declined, and the show did not receive an order for a full third season. Markle is now running As Ever independently, with recent promotions focusing on tea, chocolate and home goods.
A website glitch earlier in 2026 briefly revealed strong early sales for As Ever products, which royal commentators interpreted as a positive sign for Markle’s pivot to direct-to-consumer business. One analyst suggested the success could embolden her to return to the U.K. later this year as a “Californian business elite,” potentially complicating family dynamics with the Waleses.
The Sussexes restructured their charitable arm at the end of 2025, renaming Archewell Foundation to Archewell Philanthropies and shifting to a fiscal sponsorship model. The change was framed as allowing greater flexibility and family involvement, including with their children, Prince Archie, 6, and Princess Lilibet, 4. Several senior staffers departed around the same time, leading to reports that the organization entered 2026 “substantially weakened.” In February, the couple visited a refugee camp in Jordan as part of a Middle East trip focused on health, women’s empowerment and humanitarian issues.
Public interest in the couple remains high, fueled by occasional glimpses into their Montecito life. On New Year’s Day, As Ever shared photos marking a “Reset & Rituals” theme for 2026, including black-and-white images of Markle with Lilibet and a casual anniversary portrait of the couple. Markle has largely kept her children’s faces obscured in public posts, citing privacy concerns.
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Relations with the British royal family continue to show little sign of thaw. In March, Harry and Meghan issued a strongly worded statement accusing royal author Tom Bower of pushing “deranged conspiracy and melodrama” after extracts from his book alleged that Queen Camilla had described Markle as having “brainwashed” Harry. The couple rejected the claims as fixation rather than fact.
Speculation persists about a possible return to Britain. Some reports suggest Markle could join Harry for Invictus Games-related events in Birmingham in July, marking her first U.K. visit since Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral in 2022. Others point to ongoing security disputes and family rifts as barriers. Prince William has reportedly taken a firmer stance against any significant reintegration of the Sussexes.
Markle’s Hollywood ambitions have encountered mixed results since the couple stepped back as working royals in 2020 and relocated to California. Early projects, including the Netflix deal and Spotify podcast “Archetypes,” generated significant upfront payments but faced criticism over delivery and audience numbers. The polo series announcement signals continued efforts to expand their media footprint beyond lifestyle content.
At the same time, Markle has maintained selective public appearances, including attending the 2026 Fifteen Percent Pledge Fundraising Gala in Los Angeles honoring Tina Knowles. She has also been linked to potential cameo roles and other entertainment ventures, though details remain limited.
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Critics and supporters alike continue to debate the Sussexes’ post-royal path. Some commentators describe Markle’s business moves as a determined effort to build an independent brand, while others portray the couple as struggling to translate royal fame into sustainable Hollywood success. Tabloid coverage frequently highlights perceived tensions, staff turnover and financial pressures, though representatives for the couple have dismissed much of it as inaccurate or agenda-driven.
As the Australia trip approaches, security and logistical details are expected to draw attention, particularly given past controversies over public funding and privacy. The couple has emphasized that the visit combines personal, philanthropic and professional elements.
Markle’s latest promotional activity underscores her commitment to As Ever as a standalone venture. The brand’s focus on mindful living, home entertaining and limited-edition products aligns with her pre-royal interests in lifestyle blogging and acting. Whether the independent model can achieve long-term commercial success remains an open question in an increasingly crowded wellness and lifestyle market.
For now, the Duchess appears focused on the present. In the flower-arranging clip, she moved confidently through the demonstration, offering tips that echoed the approachable tone of her Netflix series. Supporters see it as evidence of resilience; detractors view it as another chapter in an ongoing quest for relevance outside palace walls.
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The coming weeks will likely bring more details about the Australia engagements and any further Archewell Productions announcements. As Markle and Harry balance family life, philanthropy and business ambitions, their every move continues to captivate audiences on both sides of the Atlantic.
New research from the Folk Group shows the growing use by consumers of AI in searching for the best financial deals
ChatGPT(Image: Getty Images)
The increasing use of AI as a financial advice tool could pose a threat to the business models of price comparison sites, claims new research.
A report from Cardiff-based strategic communications consultancy the Folk Group says that up to 50% of financial services website traffic could be at risk as AI tools begin to replace traditional search-led journeys.
It says that the price comparison model, built on the assumption that consumers arrive via Google search, complete a form, receive a ranked results table and click through to buy, is precisely the journey that AI is beginning to challenge.
Wales is home to some of the biggest players in the price comparison with Moneysupermarket, GoCompare and Confused. The industry was created in Wales with the first website launched by Admiral (Confused) in 2002.
The AI and the Disruption of Financial Search and Distribution report, identifies early but clear signs of behavioural shift, with 11% of focus group participants already using AI to compare financial services products including insurance, mortgages and bank accounts.
However, price comparison sites remain the principal route for researching and choosing financial products such as car insurance. This is backed up by data from Mintel showing that 67% of UK adults have used a price comparison website to search for insurance policies in the last year.
For AI competitors the report says that regulatory and accuracy hurdles are high with direct price comparison and financial advice highly regulated. General purpose assistants like ChatGPT and Gemini are still prone to “hallucinations” (making up facts) and giving inaccurate or even risky davice on high-stakes financial questions
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The report identifies three plausible paths for price comparison websites as AI reshapes consumer journeys:
They are bypassed as consumers shift to conversational AI interfaces, their traffic thins and market share transfers to whoever owns the AI layer.
They become the data backbone powering AI agent recommendations, surviving commercially but losing the direct customer relationship that has historically been their greatest asset.
Price comparison websites moves quickly to build or acquire a regulated AI agent capability and competes for the conversational front door in financial services
Moneysupermarket became the first UK comparison brand to launch a ChatGPT app in February, a signal that at least one Welsh business is already moving toward the third path.
Dan Mines, co-founder of Menna.ai and former head of customer and innovation at Confused.com – which was acquired from Admiral by Uswitch in 2020 – said: “It’s not ‘ask Google’ time anymore, it’s ‘ask ChatGPT or Gemini.’ These tools fundamentally change consumer behaviour in terms of expectations.
“The consumption of the internet is changing; you’ve now got a much more diverse landscape, including AI assistants, social platforms, embedded finance and app-based ecosystems. Anyone whose distribution model was built around the browser-based journey needs to be asking hard questions now.”
Nicolas Weng Kan, former chief of both Confused.com and Google Compare, said: “Price comparison sites still offer a purely price-led vision, but customers don’t buy purely on price. AI can use your history, who you bought from before, to predict what you actually want, not just what’s cheapest. That’s a fundamentally different model.”
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Sharon Flaherty, chief executive of the Folk Group and former head of communications at both Confused and Moneysupermarket, said: “Wales built the price comparison industry and it’s a genuine success story. These businesses changed how millions of people shop for financial products and drove a shopping around mentality to get the best deal.
“But what we’re seeing now is a shift that challenges the foundations that this success was built on. The businesses that understand how to navigate it, not just move fast will win. Those that don’t risk being displaced by players who weren’t even in this market five years ago.”
The Corcoran Group’s Mick Duchon gives Fox News Digital a tour of a $21.95 million unit at the Four Seasons residences in Surfside, where ex-Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz just bought the penthouse.
From the moment you step through a private foyer and into the sun-washed living area, it’s clear that $44 million buys more than just a view; it buys a masterpiece.
At the legendary Four Seasons Surf Club in Surfside, Florida, the modern coastal aesthetic is defined by striking architecture and a warm glow all around, illuminating custom millwork and slatted wood feature walls. Outside, rows of crisp white umbrellas line tranquil pool decks that reflect resort-style luxury.
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For titans like former Starbucks Chairman and CEO Howard Schultz, this is the new “Wall Street South” — a place where floor-to-ceiling glass erases the line between a high-stakes boardroom and the turquoise horizon of the Atlantic.
“It seems like the frequent thread that we discuss is, if they can facilitate business here, why would they do it in a place that is freezing cold? They may as well do it sitting next to the ocean,” The Corcoran Group’s Mick Duchon told Fox News Digital during a showing of a $21.95 million unit in the same residential building Schultz just moved into.
“What I find with a lot of the buyers that are looking in this space in the market, they never really retire,” he continued. “So they’re looking for the next step in their adventure, like [Schultz], and it’s an exciting place to take that step.”
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The Four Seasons Private Residences at The Surf Club in Surfside, Florida, on Monday, March 23, 2026. (Getty Images)
Last month, Schultz and his wife announced they had relocated to Florida for their “retirement phase,” leaving Washington state after nearly half a century. Schultz shared the news in a post on LinkedIn, recounting how he, his wife Sheri, and their golden retriever, Jonas, made the move from New York City to Seattle 44 years ago.
“We were starting a new life,” Schultz wrote, recalling how Sheri would be their primary income earner as he started a new job “at a place called Starbucks” in September 1982.
“The spirit of continuing forward has long underpinned our approach to life—in business, in philanthropy and most importantly, as a family,” Schultz further wrote. “We will be forever grateful for the memories made in Seattle and the relationships built along the way… To the family, friends and partners who made Seattle our home for so many years, thank you.”
The unit’s balcony overlooks the resort-style pool and the Atlantic Ocean.
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He and his wife purchased a $44 million penthouse at the Four Seasons Surf Club Residences, The Wall Street Journal first reported, down from an initial listing price of $55 million. It features five bedrooms, a rooftop terrace, central courtyard, private garage and oceanfront cabana.
Schultz’s announcement came as Washington state has been working to pass what has been dubbed the “millionaires tax,” which would impose a 9.9% income tax on households earning more than $1 million annually. The Washington State House of Representatives passed the controversial bill in a 51-46 vote, and it was signed into law by Democratic Gov. Bob Ferguson on Monday.
“The wealth tax as a threat in the states that potentially may implement… is a major catalyst for these high-net-worth people moving here, and where we are right now at the Four Seasons Surf Club is a perfect landing for them because of everything that it offers,” Duchon said.
Living at the Four Seasons Surfside means buying into a history where Winston Churchill used to paint and the Rat Pack hung out. In 2026, it has been updated for the modern business leader with dining by three-Michelin-starred Thomas Keller and a state-of-the-art hammam and spa.
Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club opened on New Year’s Eve in 1930.
“The 1930s history… creates this historical importance, and it just adds character to the property, which is meaningful. It has a story built into the property that these people really appreciate,” Duchon noted. “It creates a place that these people are comfortable in.”
“The lifestyle here is extraordinary, the climate’s extraordinary, and the landscape is unbelievable and there’s a few properties — the Surf Club being one of them — that really fits the criteria that they’re looking for from a service perspective, an exclusivity perspective, security, architecture, design and location,” he added.
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The billionaire landing pad that Duchon has as a pending sale is a turnkey four-bedroom, multiple-bathroom sanctuary spanning just over 5,000 square feet. Upon entering, guests are greeted by fine art, remarkable light fixtures and calming, comfortable white and beige furniture. In the dining area, a bespoke travertine wine cellar towers to the ceiling. The primary lounging space feels vast and grand, all while overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
When it comes to greater Miami, some might see a cooling market. However, insiders argue that in the ultra-luxury tier, the rules of traditional real estate don’t apply.
“The market dictates the price, and sellers are entitled to ask whatever they want,” he continued. “The price points are open oftentimes, there isn’t a ceiling… They’re oftentimes willing to spend more than any other transactions in order to achieve what they want.”
Fox News Digital gets a tour of Indian Creek Village from the Corcoran Group’s Julian Johnston, who shows why the world’s wealthiest are choosing to move into the ultra-exclusive neighborhood.
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“That market is separate from the rest of the market,” he expanded, “and there’s only specific properties that those high-net-worth people would consider, including Indian Creek, the Four Seasons… It’s a specific demographic that we’re focusing on, and it’s only really a specific type of product that they’re going to be interested in.”
As the sun sets over the emerald green lawns and white cabanas at the Surf Club, the message to the rest of the country is clear: Miami is the new destination for American capital and culture. The multimillion-dollar sales aren’t just isolated events; they are the catalysts for a “trickle-down” economy that is “really growing culturally” at a record pace.
“The transactions that are occurring now in this price point, they create a lot of momentum for the rest of the market, and it does have a trickle-down effect,” Duchon said. “It’s across the other markets on the islands and single-family homes and other condos… It has created more demand and appreciation comes from that. But it is a market within itself. So there are other spaces within the Miami market that are pretty stable and steady and approachable.”
SYDNEY — Sydneysiders and visitors can look forward to a mix of family fun, outdoor adventures and selective shopping during the Easter long weekend 2026, which runs from Good Friday, April 3, to Easter Monday, April 6.
New South Wales treats Good Friday and Easter Sunday as restricted trading days, meaning most major retail stores, supermarkets and shopping centres must close. Easter Saturday operates under normal trading rules, while Easter Monday follows public holiday hours with many businesses open but often on reduced schedules.
Good Friday (April 3) Most large retailers, including Coles, Woolworths and Aldi stores across Sydney, remain closed. Westfield shopping centres and other major malls are shut for the day. Small exempt businesses such as pharmacies, petrol stations, convenience stores and some fruit and vegetable shops may open with limited hours. Many cafes and restaurants in tourist areas stay open, though some apply public holiday surcharges.
Easter Saturday (April 4) Trading returns to normal with no restrictions. Most supermarkets, department stores and shopping centres operate standard hours, typically 9am to 5pm or 6pm at Westfield locations and similar centres. This is often the busiest shopping day of the weekend.
Easter Sunday (April 5) Another restricted day in NSW. Major supermarkets and most Westfield centres close, though a small number of exempt or regional stores may trade. Some smaller independent retailers and tourist-focused outlets remain open. Dining options are widely available, especially near harbourside and beach precincts.
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Easter Monday (April 6) Public holiday trading applies with fewer restrictions. Most supermarkets reopen, often from 8am to 8pm with some variations. Shopping centres typically open from around 9:30am or 10am to 4pm or 6pm. Check individual venues, as hours can differ.
Supermarkets and grocery stores
Coles, Woolworths and Aldi: Closed Good Friday and largely closed Easter Sunday in metro Sydney; open normal or extended hours Easter Saturday and Monday.
Smaller IGA or independent grocers may have more flexible hours on restricted days. Bottle shops face tighter rules, particularly on Good Friday when alcohol sales are heavily restricted unless served with a meal at licensed venues.
Cafes, restaurants and diningPlenty of options stay open across the long weekend, especially in popular areas such as the CBD, Darling Harbour, Bondi, Manly and Surry Hills. Chains like Bills, Black Star Pastry and many harbourside spots operate with adjusted hours and possible surcharges. Book ahead for popular venues, particularly on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.
Public transport Transport for NSW runs on a Sunday or public holiday timetable for Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, with fewer services than weekdays. Extra trains serve Sydney Olympic Park for the Royal Easter Show. Ferries and light rail generally follow holiday schedules. Travellers should check the Transport NSW app or website for real-time updates and allow extra time.
Major attractions and activities Many of Sydney’s top draws operate throughout the Easter long weekend, though crowds are expected and advance booking is recommended.
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Sydney Royal Easter Show: Runs from Thursday, April 2, to Monday, April 13, at Sydney Olympic Park. Gates open daily around 8:30am. Families can enjoy rides, showbags, animal displays, fireworks and entertainment. This is one of the biggest draws of the period.
Sydney Family Easter Show at the Entertainment Quarter (Moore Park): Features rides, animals and activities from early April.
Beaches and outdoors: Bondi, Manly, Coogee and other beaches remain open for swimming, surfing and walks. Coastal tracks and national parks are popular for hiking.
Iconic experiences: Sydney Harbour Bridge climbs, Opera House tours, Taronga Zoo, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and Luna Park typically open with possible adjusted hours. Harbour cruises and ferry rides offer scenic alternatives.
Easter egg hunts and family events: Venues such as The Grounds of Alexandria, Centennial Parklands and various gardens host egg hunts and seasonal activities, often on Good Friday through Easter Sunday.
Markets and other events: Some local markets and Easter-themed fairs operate, though major retail centres are limited on restricted days.
Tips for the weekendPlan grocery shopping for Thursday or Easter Saturday to avoid shortages. Book tickets for major attractions and restaurants early, as demand spikes. Public holiday parking and traffic rules apply, with potential congestion near Olympic Park and harbourside spots. Weather in early April is usually mild and pleasant for outdoor activities, but check forecasts.
Essential services including hospitals, emergency services and selected pharmacies remain available. Many smaller cafes and takeaway outlets provide coffee and meals when big chains close.
The Easter long weekend offers a balance of relaxation and excitement in Sydney. Whether hunting for chocolate eggs at family events, exploring the Royal Easter Show or enjoying a harbourside walk, plenty of options exist despite retail restrictions on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.
For the latest updates, consult official websites for individual stores, attractions and Transport for NSW, as hours can change.
Australians are being urged yet again to stop panic buying as more than 600 service stations run out of fuel.
This is despite the government’s assurance that billions of litres of fuel are on their way to Australia.
Aussies Told to Stop Panic Buying
According to a report by Sky News, Energy Minister Chris Bowen revealed that 410 service stations across Australia have run out of diesel. 193 service stations, on the other hand, have run out of petrol.
New South Wales reported the most shortages as of Friday. 182 service stations are without diesel, while 48 are without petrol.
Victoria follows behind NSW with 76 service stations out of diesel and 37 out of petrol. Queensland reported the third highest shortage with 75 service stations out of diesel and 24 service stations running out of petrol.
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Here are the numbers for other states and territories:
Western Australia – 37 stations without diesel and 58 without petrol
South Australia – 28 stations without diesel and 15 without petrol
Tasmania – seven stations without diesel and seven without petrol
Northern Territory – five stations without diesel and four without petrol
Despite this, Bowen has assured the public that there is no need to panic buy.
“I encourage people to be sensible, not to take more fuel than you need, to fill up when you need to, but not before that, and to get as much fuel as you normally would,” said Bowen.
Billions of Litres of Fuel on the Way to Australia
There has been good news amidst the fuel crisis as the Australian government assured that billions of litres of fuel are now on the way to the country.
According to ABC News, Bowen revealed that 53 ships carrying fuel are currently on their way.
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However, some industry stakeholders have expressed uncertainty regarding whether the fuel will even make it to Australia or not.
It can be recalled that six oil tankers meant to deliver fuel to Australia either deferred or cancelled at the end of March.
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