Latest from Bay of Plenty

Cancer-fighting sponge? Discovery off BOP coast

The next step would be getting samples to analyse the sponges and formally identify them.

GP shortage leaves patients waiting two weeks for appointment

Health professionals warn of a looming 'crisis point'.

Waikato law firm Tompkins Wake on a growth roll

Auckland a happy hunting ground for the growth energy of century-old Waikato law firm.

Simon Bridges shares fitting farewell to father, Heath

The National MP said it was his father who instilled the values of service and community.

One seriously injured after Oropi crash

The incident took place around 2.15pm.

'Dangerous' wire ropes and 'nobody can get off the road' on section of SH2

Residents wanted wire ropes removed and a place for drivers to safely pull over.

'I sing every day from dawn to dusk': Talented teen hits new high

He got into choir singing by accident. Now he sings with New Zealand's best.

Hospitals bring in more beds as cases of 'highly contagious' RSV illness rise

Children as young as 10 days old are being admitted to hospital with the virus.

Fatal crushing: Inquest spotlight on faulty safety sensors

'We were all affected by what happened.'

'Severely traumatised': Meth use at home having 'devastating' impact on kids - foster carers

Half of all reports to Oranga Tamariki are related to meth.

'Contrary to our Catholic values': Violent school fights caught on video

Principal reveals the reason behind most of the fights.

Where is New Zealand's hottest region right now?

Building boom, dairy prices driving economic confidence around country.

The last days of the Norske Skog Tasman Mill

In its 66-year history, the mill at Kawerau has provided intergenerational employment.

11 gang members arrested over violent incident outside bar

The arrests relate to an incident on May 22 outside a bar on Arawa St, Rotorua.

'It's gutless': Burglars use electrician's trailer to steal $50k in gear

A Rotorua electrician has been left stressed and anxious after his workshop was robbed.

How 107-year-old Ella Wilson found her pot of gold

Ella Wilson has seen and dealt with a lot in her 107 years but sees it all as a blessing.