NZ@Noon: Maori schools soar in popularity

Rotorua schools are bursting as parents seek Maori education for their children, and the #ILoveKaitaia hashtag makes an appearance across the ditch. These are just two of the stories making headlines around the regions today.

The number of Rotorua parents wanting their tamariki to get a full-immersion Maori education has led to overflows at some kura kaupapa.

The hashtag designed to highlight the positives of Kaitaia has made its way across the Ditch, making an appearance at the recent New Zealand Warriors game in the Gold Coast.

A senior manager at the Minister for Primary Industries has warned there will be zero tolerance for those who abuse fisheries staff after a man deliberately drove his car at an officer.

Hawke's Bay is one step closer to claiming the title of a major food destination as two Napier restaurants placed at this year's Cuisine New Zealand Good Food Awards.