An iwi provider has a waiting list and backlog for its social services for the first time.

The fire began on Saturday night and burned through about 37ha of scrub and pine slash.

A dry summer with “plenty of clear skies”.

A single vehicle collided with a power pole and lines came down across the road.

The huge fire has been described as 'a beast' and like a 'taniwha'.

'It’s just the best thing that could have ever happened to him.'

'There is a lot of unknown in the ocean,' shark expert Dr Riley Elliott says.

Many usually sunny spots are in for a wet Christmas.

Firefighters responded to a blaze on Matakana Island off the Bay of Plenty.

Some opted for a Kiwi classic.

Firefighters are fighting a blaze on Matakana Island off the Bay of Plenty.

It's been a pleasant surprise for the foodbank as people battle a cost-of-living crisis.

For some people Christmas Day is still a working day, but one with a difference.

Water is deemed safe but some locals have linked it to them getting sick.

North Island will be under a moist and humid northerly air flow.

"We want to do whatever we can to help".

'It’s looking like it’s going to be a great summer.'

Offender led from the dock in tears after hearing judge's sentence.

The band is set to part ways next year.

Emergency services were called around 11.40am.

Business owner says donations positively impact staff and create “culture of giving".

About 24 banana boxes a week of fresh produce are donated to the foodbank.

Contractors will pause work from midday tomorrow through to 8am on January 8.

Council says the water is 'safe to drink' and there's no public health issue.

'It’s the best option ... I didn’t want to have to wear a nappy for the rest of my life.'

With finances tight, many families may need to approach festivities differently.

Emergency services are at the scene.