NZ@Noon: Gremlins strike cars in Masterton

Mechanics in Masterton are puzzled by a mysterious radio frequency preventing some shoppers from unlocking or staring their cars, and free parking in Hastings CBD could soon be scratched as locals prefer a return to a user-pays system. These are just two of the stories making headlines around the regions today.

Masterton mechanics are scratching their heads over a mysterious radio frequency interference on Queen St which is leaving some shoppers unable to unlock or start their cars in the area.

Free parking in Hastings CBD could be a thing of the past with 80 per cent of ratepayers wanting to return to a user-pays system.

Pressure from Western Bay's rural ratepayers has succeeded in adding $2.5 million to the money earmarked to seal gravel roads.

Impostors pretending to be from a local residents association are asking locals for money, prompting a warning for the community to be vigilant.

Whangarei will be getting yet another taste of international cricket as Cobham Oval is set to host Bangladesh in a warm-up one-day match against the Black Caps.

Air Chathams will be in Whanganui today to outline its plans for its services through the city, stepping in to fill the void Air New Zealand leaves with its decision to quit its Whanganui-Auckland service.