Bay Of Plenty

The investment arm of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has purchased a new kiwifruit orchard in Bay of Plenty.

The partner of Mark Hohua confronted his killers in court, asking why they chose violence, when they could have "talked it out".

Jason Butler went missing four years ago after he was taken into the bush by a Department of Conservation contractor on unapproved work experience.

Police officer Sergeant Russell Owen, was at times close to tears as he recollected the events of 9 December 2019, where 22 people died and 25 others were injured.

Gang associate Kayleb​ Renata was 16 when he fatally stabbed Jamaine​ Wharton at a 21st birthday party.

The Whakaari/White Island disaster inquest has heard how the quick thinking of a tour boat passenger helped treat survivors with fresh water.

More than 200 women made the journey in the past year - a third of them emergency transfers - amid a shortage of obstetricians. Audio

Trevor Maxwell's election success may soon see him set a national record.

Police have been combing the area around the hot and cold pools on Waiotapu Loop Rd for Rotorua man Jayleb-Che.

Mahé Drysdale is "disappointed" $4.7m was spent on "ridiculous" plans to overhaul the Memorial Park aquatic centre, which his council has abandoned.

There remained many unanswered questions from bereaved families, the inquest into the Whakaari / White Island tragedy has heard.

Roofs have been lifted after an isolated thunderstorm likely caused a small tornado in Awakeri.

The coronial inquiry into the 2019 eruption, has been delayed several years due to criminal proceedings related to the events.

In several personal statements it was suggested the island should be handed over to the government and never used again for tourism.

The crash shut a part of State Highway 2 but it has since reopened.

Residents say they will not be signing new tenancy agreements until they receive assurances over rental fee increases.

A 34-year-old woman has appeared in court on charges of murder, and wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

All areas of Kawerau have been subject to strong chemical smells over the past week.

Tupaea Mika had a previous conviction for drink-driving while still a teenager.

The mental health minister's office has been briefed after a woman allegedly murdered one person and seriously injured another inside a car.