Top stories for Wednesday, September 17

1. The day 'all hell broke loose'

Colleen Killeen will never forget December 28, 1950. It was one of Tauranga's darkest days.

2. Free buses for Saturday

If you've ever thought about taking the bus but never have, this Saturday could be the day to give it a go.

3. SH2 crashes keeping police busy

Emergency services are responding to two crashes on State Highway 2 this morning, with one blocking traffic at Papamoa.

4. Armed callout: Man arrested

Police say a situation which required an armed response in Whakatane this morning has now been resolved.

5. Tenders chosen to remove Mount surf reef

Work will start soon on removing the Mount Maunganui surf reef to reduce the risk to swimmers near Tay Street beach.