NZ@Noon: $100k sting and a whale of a tale

Kerikeri beekeeper Graham Wilson says his hives had never been stolen in 29 years in the industry - until last year. Now bee theft is rife. Photo / Peter de Graaf

Sting targets sticky fingers in Northland and a whale of a tale in Hawke's Bay - some of the stories making headlines around the country.

Sticky fingers in Northland have stolen close to $100k worth of "liquid gold" in the past eight months.

Not something you see everyday - a whale has washed up in Southern Hawke's Bay.

A lesson learned - the search for Thames the dog may help police in future ventures with their furry companions.

Now that's hot! Rotorua locals have braved "dragon fire" in a particularly spicy competition. Check out the video here.

The Tauranga Women's Refuge is apparently attending over twice the number of calls than it has funding for.

And finally, the Wanganui Wall Memorial Hall was alive with the sound of music yesterday as Homai Te Paki Paki hit town.