Latest from South Island

Weekend rain warnings to lift, mid-week cold snap expected

The outlook is good for today's Santa Parade in Auckland.

Body in the boot homicide: Alleged killer named

Richard Leman's dismembered body was found inside the boot of his own car.

'Landscape poisoned by fast food giant' - Wanaka locals' petition to stop McDonalds

A petition has been launched against plans to bring Maccas to Wānaka.

Father brought to tears during young daughter’s account of alleged abuse by family friend

A cellphone recording revealed the young girl telling her father.

Nelson City Council says name change not on the cards for four to 10 years

Whakatū Marae is urging the council to rename the 'colonial' Founders Heritage Park.

'We're really scared': Christchurch synagogue vandalised, politicians criticised

Jewish Council spokesman Ben Kepes wants authorities to take threats more seriously.

Kiwi sports star faces 7 years jail after taking car, wilful damage at Christchurch home

He is accused of wilful damage and taking a $10,000 car but has name suppression.

'Bitter campaign': Petition calling for Gore council exec to go labelled 'vindictive'

Most councillors voted to prevent the organiser from speaking at the meeting.

‘This is the real story’: Girl says she was sexually abused by parents' friend

A Cromwell man has denied indecently groping a friend’s 6-year-old.

Trial under way for man accused of sexual offending against children

One of the complainants was aged 12 at the time of the alleged offending.

Scarfies rental woes: 'Students will stop coming to Dunedin'

Fears soaring student flat rent prices could send them elsewhere.

Grand Business South Awards celebrated in Dunedin

Grand Business South Awards.

This shop offering staff unlimited holidays and sick leave

No one has yet abused the unlimited annual leave, shop's managing director said.

Name suppression leaves dead toddler 'invisible' - whānau

Heavy court suppressions have left dead boy 'faceless and nameless'.

'He was hurting for us': Rider killed in Pike River memorial ride crash remembered

Craig Percasky had married his long-term love four years before his tragic death.

Drug deal gone wrong ends in car crash

The pair reportedly attempted to buy cannabis before they were attacked at a house.

Two out-of-control scrub fires keep South Island crews busy

A large vegetation fire is burning on the Port Hills, near the tunnel to Lyttelton.

Shock resignation: Christchurch city council chief executive steps down

It comes after behind-closed-doors talks last week.