A report on police handling of a drunk driver who killed three young people is a cover-up, the mother of a victim says.

A Taranaki businessman's proposal to give away a historic 10-bedroom lodge on the slopes of Mt Taranaki has drawn almost 300 submissions from New Zealand and overseas.

Police surveillance set up to catch a drunk driver who went on to kill three young people was flawed, a report released today said.

The Fire Service is increasingly being sent to emergencies when an ambulance has been requested, statistics show.

Maori Party MP Hone Harawira says the sentiment behind his "white mother....ers" remarks remains and the "rape of Maori land" continues.

New Zealand sevens coach Gordon Tietjens has named a clutch of newcomers in his 16-strong training squad.

It could be something in the water or maybe it's the clean country air - but for whatever reason, Opunake has produced more than its fair share of high-achieving New Zealanders.

Diesel and whey have spilled into the Awakino River after a milk tanker crashed into the waterway and overturned.

Four people, including a child, have been rescued after spending all night clinging for dear life to their capsized dinghy.

Australian Idol winner Stan Walker says he is still coming to terms with his new-found fame.

TVNZ stars converged on New Plymouth yesterday to see sports presenter Toni Street marry to longtime boyfriend Matt France.

A Taranaki rugby player today had a $750 fine added to previously ordered reparation costs for choking and punching his pregnant partner.

Parts of the North Island are set for a soaking today, with up to 140mms of rain expected to fall in some areas.