Latest from New Zealand

NCEA level 1 pass rate revealed and Ministry of Justice privacy breach | NZ Herald News Update

Figures show how many NCEA students achieved level 1 qualification last year and the Ministry of Justice has been encouraged to check its systems following a privacy breach.

Iwi discovers native plant with cannabis-like properties

Discoveries about the plant have exciting potential for new homegrown health products.

Ghahraman reportedly seen putting items into tote bag at Pak’nSave

The former MP was allegedly observed on CCTV by a member of the store's staff.

Kiwi sharemarket rises from lull after rally in the States

Volumes were steady with 22.9 million shares worth $98.56m changing hands.

Westpac's Satish Ranchhod on food price inflation

Westpac senior economist Satish Ranchhod talks to Tom Raynel about what the rise in food prices means for the wider economy.

Food prices rise in December, driven by dairy, fruit, cooking oil

Non-alcoholic drinks and tobacco registered the biggest annual price increases.

Rotorua student named top recruit in NZ Army Reserve training

Leo Schweizer enlisted while on holidays from Otago University.

Kayakers paddle Huka Falls

Professional kayakers are paddling over Huka Falls near Taupō despite warnings. Video / Supplied, Fourb.nz

What's with all the kiwi in central Whangārei?

Why are kiwi being spotted in Whangārei's central business district?

How La Niña could bring sharks back to NZ shores this summer

Despite recent warnings one man is excited about the promise of more sharks in the region.

13-year-old boy died after falling from cliffs in Hāhei

People are still accessing Cathedral Cove via a closed walking track after a young boy on holiday with family at Hāhei fell from the cliffs. Video / Al Williams

‘A hole in all our lives’: Young, married mum of three killed in crash

The hospital nurse who died 'touched the lives of so many' – friend.

'Most demanding airports': World's safest airline revealed

The airline has gone back-to-back despite dealing with challenging airports.

How Nigel Latta is dealing with incurable cancer

'If I could swap this thing for being bankrupt ... I'd do that in a second.'

Summer's coming! Warm air from subtropics headed our way in late January

Good weather should coincide with Waitangi Day and regional anniversary holidays.

Police continue urgent hunt for man who escaped custody at Taupō court

Information sought on Samir Derek Belhajjam, 30, who fled at 6pm on Monday

Fire threat in Los Angeles continues and firefighters battle Coromandel fire | NZ Herald News Update

Strong wind predictions cause more fire concerns for Los Angeles and firefighters are expected to be battling Coromandel vegetation fire for several days. Video / NZ Herald, AFP

Fast food giant cops $30k fine for breaching foreign buyer rules, top law firm tangled in dispute

The foreign investment watchdog says law firm did not provide advice on need for consent.