The rain Aucklanders have copped today is likely to ease for a relatively fine but cool weekend.

Two South Island teens stole firearms and several cars - including a Jaguar - in a 24-hour crime spree that finally came to an end when they were arrested in Nelson this afternoon.

The 'claim of right' defence that saw three activists escape conviction despite wilfully damaging the Waihopai spy base will be repealed or reformed.

Top sommelier Jean-Marie Pratt brings his global quest for tasty tipples Downunder.

Farmers, foresters and others questioned the integrity of the Kyoto Protocol and the theory of global warming at an ETS meeting in Blenheim.

Pleasure and a touch of pain intertwine for Greg Bowker on a four-day cycle trip in the South Island.

The Independent Police Conduct Authority will investigate the death of a 22-year-old man after a brief police chase in Christchurch this morning.

Resort has eating outlets, water frontage and established clientele.

Nine tourists have been stranded by floodwaters on State Highway 1 north of Oamaru after failing to observe warning signs earlier today.

Heavy rain and gales are expected to lash the main islands from tonight, with the MetService warning of one of the "bigger weather events" for some time.

Rugged up and in sturdy shoes, with a rucksack full of clothes, shampoo and cash, Jeanette Mary Alder was going "as far as she could go".

The Health and Disability Commissioner has suggested that access to publicly-funded health services depends on where patients live.