Top five stories for Thursday, October 8

Brett Gander had his hair shaved in support of Sheree Dodson (left) and Kelly Mitchinson, who are being treated for breast cancer. Photo / John Borren

1. Carrots and lettuce cause outbreak in Bay

Packaged carrots and lettuce are being blamed for a painful epidemic of food poisoning sweeping through New Zealand.

2. Alleged Tauranga gunman to defend himself

Donny Falakoa is accused of firing a gun at police during a pursuit.

A man accused of shooting at Tauranga police after a chase tried to sack his lawyer to do his own "research" during a colourful hearing today.

3. More jobs on offer in Tauranga

Tauranga's job listings on Trade Me are up significantly on a year ago as employment opportunities improve "across the board", local recruitment specialists say.

4. Bay child molester referred to High Court

Sentencing for a convicted paedophile who committed a further raft of sexual crimes against three victims, including attempted rape of a teenage girl, has been referred to the High Court at Rotorua.

5. Battlers are feeling the love

Three friends involved with the same Tauranga cheerleading team are supporting each other after being diagnosed with breast cancer.