Latest from Australasia

Fire threatens Rakaia River forest

Ten firefighting crews with six water tankers are battling a blaze near Methven.

Myth of Mangahawea: Is this NZ's first human settlement?

Scientists have uncovered evidence of one of the first Polynesian settlements in Aotearoa.

Keep a brolly handy: Rain forecast for most of the weekend

It's wet and a bit chilly, so rug up and remember to pack a brolly this weekend

Convicted killer recalled to prison

Dean Purdy was arrested in Christchurch last night

From fudge to heritage condoms - royal wedding proves to be big business

The royal family certainly makes for great retail business in the United Kingdom.

Source of noxious fumes eludes searchers

Investigators find no source for fumes that sent Qantas staff to hospital.

NZDF gets extra $360m

Defence Minister: "Funding will help the Defence Force meet increasing demand."

Inquiry to assess where EQC quake response failed

Inquiry will look into EQC's handling of 2010 and 2011 quake claims.

The Big Read: Gloriavale wants to be left alone

Gloriavale: "If you were sorry for our loss, you wouldn't pester us like you do."

Weather warning: 'Severe' storms on the way for North Island

Heavy rain and thunderstorms are set to batter much of the central and upper North Island.

Māori carving exhibited by Nazis in WWII up for sale

World's top auction houses selling Māori artefacts worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Local Focus: Petrolhead sisters tear up the highways

Female motorbikers indulge their passion for petrol. Made with funding from NZ On Air.

Local Focus: Petrolhead sisters tear up the highways

Female motorbikers indulge their passion for petrol. Made with funding from NZ On Air.

What to expect this weekend: Heavy rain on its way

We'll be spared worst of the extreme winds causing havoc in Australia, but it'll be wet.

Policeman attacked after Nomad knocked on wrong door

Gang member got more than he bargained for when pretending to be a cop.

Church member stored slaughtered pig in her shop

Blood splatter from the meat was found on other food products in dairy's freezer.

Boss accused of hiring Black Power to threaten staff has fines slashed

Chirag Ahuja arranged for workers to be intimidated during a wage dispute.

Skipper fined over trawler grounding

Skipper whose trawler wrecked after running aground is now fined $2000