Latest from Auckland

Melatonin to be sold over counter at NZ pharmacies, 'magic mushroom' rules relaxed
The Government has also approved the use of psilosybin, known as magic mushrooms.

Ben Francis: Why State of Origin doesn't belong in New Zealand
OPINION: Tribalism is diluted when major sports events are exported to neutral territory.

'It's frustrating': Fire truck shortage for supermarket fire angers union
Firefighters had to call an aerial truck from Hamilton for the Auckland blaze.

Baby-killing Mobster loathed being called 'kid killer' in prison, so he murdered again
Donovan Duff was already serving a life sentence. He was handed another one today.

'Biggest New World upgrade in NZ' - what was happening before the fire?
'This was the biggest New World upgrade in NZ because that store is the flagship.'

Movie magic and Marlon Williams: Auckland's best entertainment offerings this Matariki weekend
Light trails and lunches are also on offer.

An end to doctor fee hikes? What GPs say as funding wrangle ends
General practice representatives are in the final stages of negotiations with Health NZ.

All rentals must meet five Healthy Homes standards by July 1
Heating, insulation, ventilation, moisture and draught-stopping standards all coming in.

Air NZ flights cancelled, passengers stranded as Indonesian volcano erupts
Air NZ cancelled flights due to ash from Mt Lewotobi Laki-Laki.

Charge withdrawn in family feud murder case
Tensions erupted in the courtroom in April when the shooter pleaded guilty.

New Zealand's most trusted firms revealed
The 2025 Kantar Corporate Reputation Index has been announced.

Wapiti burger takes Rotorua eatery to Wild Food Challenge final
Black Label Barbecue is a finalist in the Monteith's Wild Food Challenge today.

Watch: Owners of Victoria Park New World to gain back control of fire-damaged building
New World Victoria Park staff will continue to be paid following fire, boss says.

Auckland teen girl located safely, search continues for teen boy
Alexander went missing on Monday, while Mya was missing for 24 hours.

Watch Herald NOW: Foodstuffs North Island CEO speaks on New World fire
You can watch Herald NOW 7am – 9am weekdays on the NZ Herald homepage.

‘Devastated’ family of Samoan fashion designer shot dead at US protest seek justice
His eldest brother said they were struggling to comprehend their sudden loss.

'Restricted is a lot more intense': Students back overhaul of full driver licence test
Restricted licence test so difficult and complex that full test is 'unnecessary'.

'Feeding kittens': Debate on supporting Rotorua's rough sleepers heats up
About 50 people attended a public meeting to discuss homelessness in Rotorua.

'I wept': White Island tragedy doctor’s anguish at child’s death
The young doctor started a rotation training in intensive care on the day of the disaster.

ECE expert calls for more regulations after issues raised in coronial reports
Two coroner’s reports highlight tragic deaths at early education centres.

On The Up: No Lack of goals as Super Sam hunts pro football dream
Injury ended a trial with Auckland FC - but Sam Lack's pro football dream is still alive.