Stories by Alexa Cook
News
Protesters condemn Ruataniwha Dam investment: 'There's been no transparency'
The electricity distributor's board is putting $100,000 towards a re-scope of the controversial project. Audio
'Don't go far enough': Industry unimpressed by government targets
The targets come after a review found the approval process wasn't always allowing timely access to the products.
Kelp, Pōhutukawa forests could slow down tsunamis - research
The study also found 'natural bioshields' significantly reduce the amount of sediment moved in some locations.
Fifty senior Gisborne Hospital doctors on 24-hour strike
The Association of Salaried Medical Specialists says it's written to the government twice to express concern about the hospital being "on the brink of collapse".
'Left in her chair covered in faeces' - widespread failures at resthome
There were widespread failures at a Geraldine resthome the Health and Disability Commissioner has found
'I beg you to come forward': Killed teen's mother makes public plea
15-year-old Kaea Karauria's killer has not been found.
'Dangerous and, frankly, stupid' - Police fear as dirt bikes illegally taken on footpaths
At least two people have been injured by riders using dirt bikes illegally on roads, footpaths and parks.
Excitement afoot in rural village over Defence Force sock contract
The Norsewood-based factory beat a number of serious international competitors to secure the deal. Audio
Taupō desperate to rekindle flights to Wellington after Originair withdrawal
Taupō Mayor David Trewavas says his door is open to offers from other airlines.
'This is another insult': Rate payers face triple water bill
Water rates in Central Hawke's Bay are set to surge over the next decade, and residents wonder how they'll pay. Audio
'Immense talent': Killed teen remembered as quiet, respectful student
Kaea Karauria, 15, was killed in a fight on the weekend.
Family grieve teenager stabbed to death in Napier
He died at about 3am Sunday in Onekawa during what police are calling a "violent disorder".
Police name Kaea Karauria as teenager killed at Napier party
He died on Sunday morning during what police are calling a "violent disorder".
Neighbour on street where teen killed in 'violent disorder' plans to leave
The police cordon has been lifted at the scene of a homicide in Napier where a teenage boy was killed, and another injured.
Convicted double murderer Mark Lundy leaves prison
The 66-year-old has always maintained his innocence, after twice being found guilty of killing his wife and daughter.
Boutique dairy company in Havelock North to close down after 15 years
Havelock North-based boutique dairy company Origin Earth is closing down after 15 years of providing customers with locally sourced sustainable products.
Rural families amped for duck hunting season
"Getting out of house and seeing what's out and about in the wild ... it's a bonus if you get a duck or two," says 10-year-old George Slavin.
'There's nothing brave about shooting someone's house' - unease after spate of gang crimes
Two private properties were shot at by gangs in the past 10 days.
Hawke's Bay's economic development agency chief executive, board resign
The decision comes after a review into regional architecture, which recommended a merger and formation of a new coordination office.
Hawke's Bay secures funding for Whirinaki flood mitigation project
The area was one of many where homes were flooded and lives were ruined.
'Let down massively': Autistic child's family struggle for support
The family say they have been waiting for 18 months for support after their son suffered a medical injury in hospital that has left him unable to walk. Audio
'Leave the library alone': Napier community fighting against Council proposal to close it
Napier City Council is proposing to close the library from 1 July 2025, and keep Taradale's Library open seven days a week - which is about a 20-minute drive away.
'I forgive you': Ariki Rigby's father to killer
"Have a good life brother. Amen," Peta Rigby said as 32-year-old Jimmy Heremaia was sentenced to life in jail.
Watch: Who will pay for a 100,000-hectare problem?
Tai Rāwhiti wants to take take a huge chunk of forestry and pastoral land and plant it with permanent bush. Audio