Latest from North Island

Bail denied for hit and run bench death

The man accused of driving the car that smashed into a bench seat in Kaitaia's main street on January 12, killing 54-year-old Edward

Honey season 'worst in 20 years'

Some frustrated beekeepers have now declared our dismal summer the worst in two decades for honey-making - but it's still too early to say whether consumers will also feel a sting.

Cordons lifted: Pukekohe bomb scare over

The army bomb squad has dealt with a mystery object found by road workers in South Auckland this morning.

Young teacher granted prestigious award

Havelock North High School teacher Matthew McGovern is one of only two people in the region to receive a prestigious award for their

Tankers carry water to parched Mangawhai

Mangawhai residents' empty water tanks are being filled, thanks in part to the milk of corporate kindness. Last weekend's rain eased

Pool scheme funds house purchase

A couple have just bought their first home in Whanganui outright using an alternative banking system. Jayne and Paul Dew moved to

'Emotional penalty' after son's death

A Hastings mother has been spared jail after causing a car crash that killed her 8-year-old son. Kim Crous has been sentenced in

Dad-son tragedy: 'Words don't even cut it'

The family of a man killed alongside his young son in a truck crash this week have spoken of their utter devastation at the double tragedy.

Home ransacked shortly after owner dies

"Lowest of the low" - that's how former MP Dover Samuels describes the thieves who ransacked a friend's home within days his death

Stormy summer: What we're in for next

Power remains out in pockets across Auckland, from Orere Point in the east to Papakura in the south, according to Vector's website.

Glass falls from building

Police have closed a section of Vivian St in Wellington after a piece of glass fell from a building and landed on a parked car.

3000 still without power after storm

Vector says more than 15,000 Auckland households were without power this morning. As of 5pm, that number was now 3000.

Summer: Is it too little, too late?

Summer may still be on the cards - but expect the cool temperatures to linger for at least a few more weeks.

Mali the dog gives wee Frankie the breath of life

Man's best friend could give a Levin youngster with a rare lung disease a new lease on life. Assistance dog Mali has been hanging

Big wet: Severe weather warnings in place

But the good news is that the bad weather should clear by Sunday and hopefully we'll be on track for some real summer feels.

Yes, it's snowing in the middle of summer

It might be the middle of summer but that hasn't stopped the snow from falling.

Van full of children crashes

Children on a school holiday programme escaped major injury when the van they were in hit a tree.

CIA spies monitor Tauranga's drug trade

American spies have monitored Tauranga drug traffickers as they gather intelligence on the worldwide trade in narcotics. The revelation