The cause of the fire is not yet know but an investigation will take place on Friday.

A helicopter with a monsoon bucket can be seen over Waikaraka, Whangārei where smoke is visible. Video / Rachel Maher

Restricted fire season in Waikato begins at 9am on January 10.

Napier firefighters tackle suspicious fire at empty house in Maraenui.

The home he shared with wife Heidi Montag and their children burned down in a blaze. Video / Spencer Pratt

It's believed a chasm of up to 2sq m lies underneath the ruptured road.

A sinkhole has appeared in St Mary's Bay, revealing old brickwork beneath the road. Video / M. Video / Michael Craig

Plumes of black smoke billowing into the air could be seen from the Southern Motorway.

There has been a big fire break out at a Takanini recycling facility. Video / Supplied

Fire risk prompts ban on Serene wall-mounted bathroom heaters.

A witness on the scene moments after the crash said both vehicles were badly damaged.

At the same time, a power outage affected 200 properties in the same area.

The fire had caused traffic congestion in the area.

The man was quickly freed by paramedics and firefighters this morning.

Firefighters battle house fire in Napier's Tamatea; three appliances on-scene.

Early indications are the driver may have fallen asleep at the wheel. Video / Jayden Jameson

Suspect remanded in custody after special hospital bedside hearing.

One person is in moderate condition after the two-vehicle crash.

Jake and Richelle Wilkinson and their two kids lost their home and all their belongings.

A man aged 34 has been charged with murder and attempted murder.

34-year-old allegedly killed baby and attacked its mother and a second child in Hamilton.

A helicopter attended the fire south of Kawakawa, near the Oyster Factory.

Emergency services are at the scene of a serious incident in Fairfield, Hamilton.

Brigades from Whangamatā, Ōnemana-Ōpoutere, Waihi, Paunanui, Tairua and Paeroa attended.

Luna's fellow enclosure mate caused a number of wounds, which led to her death.

A martial artist, firefighter, dementia researcher, conservationists and more.

John Oliver has served with the Ōtāne Volunteer Fire Brigade for more than 50 years.

Plus - we ask why one city, unusually, has no honourees on this year's list.

Warning to be aware of products with lithium batteries purchased over holiday period.