This week's top 5 biggest stories

A policeman stands guard at the Domain Rd entrance to Dickson St, Papamoa. Photo/Andrew Warner

This week's most read stories include a police lockdown in Papamoa, the unlikely long life of Christopher Ranby, a yachtie's death and the liquidation of a Tauranga building company.

1. The man who lived 52 years longer than doctors expected

Christopher Ranby was never expected to live longer than 20 years. Against all odds, Christopher lived a long, inspiring life right up until less than two weeks ago when, aged 72, he died in his sleep.

2. Police cordon off Papamoa streets

Police called to Papamoa to deal with a "firearms incident" and shut down residential streets for more than three hours while dealing with a man in a house.

3. Tragic accident blamed for yachtie's death

A yachtsman was found floating face-down in the sea on the main shipping approach to Tauranga Harbour. Detectives said the grisly discovery appeared to have been the result of a 'tragic accident'.

The Bay of Plenty Times Christmas Lights Trail is popular among festive fans. Photo/file

4. Christmas Lights Trail 2017

Download the list of this year's Bay of Plenty Christmas Lights Trail entrants.

5. Liquidated building company leaves unfinished homes

A Tauranga building company is being wound up after work stopped on about 30 houses at The Lakes in October. Bella Vista Homes went into voluntary liquidation this week, leaving one young family worried about the prospect of incurring extra costs to complete their home.