Schools and a hospital are in lockdown and residents have been told to stay away while police respond to a suspected hostage situation in Nelson. Video / Tim Cuff

Simon Harris, a collagen technician, denied the offending but was found guilty at trial.

Police said there could have been a terrible and needless tragedy.

The single-vehicle crash happened around 6.15pm on Wednesday.

Kwan Loong Lee was caught trying to flee the country after a relationship with a 13yo.

Incoming system set to deliver widespread wind, rain - and a potential heavy dump of snow.

Niwa says the weather system is 'potentially conducive' to snow.

The Serious Crash Unit is currently investigating.

The judge told Harrison Oliver he should be “thoroughly ashamed” of his behaviour.

'The common thread was his destructive use of methamphetamine.'

Hamish Ray hung his head and cried as the consequences of his actions sunk in.

He arrived dragging a road cone under his car and left without the alcohol he wanted.

The Nelson woman's lawyer says she's trying to be a productive member of society now.

The man says his family have been deeply impacted by the situation.

'They were real victims and their suffering was recorded for the world to see.'

A few days later he threw a pet bunny against the wall, killing it instantly.

The fire was reported about 11.45am.

'You have no insight into the harm you could cause to others,' the judge said.

He was driving drunk in a vehicle without a court-imposed interlock device.

May-laise: A soggy month for many in the housing market.

'Thank you judge - thank you for your understanding," the patched Comanchero said.

'You just don't really ever think of something like this happening to you.'

Judge: 'If you went to prison, I don’t know you would come out a better person.'

She responded by kicking and punching him before trying to bite the officer's arm.

Residents at the top of the South Island could see up to 170mm of rain.

Couple checked in carrying a guillotine, printer and multiple laptop bags.

There's no shortage of opportunities for graduates wanting a start in the regions.

Three weeks later she punched a woman stocking Easter products at The Warehouse.