Forecast rain today is expected to raise the Lake Wakatipu level, but not beyond its peak, reassures Queenstown Lakes District Council.

A wealthy developer has lost his claim to a $1 million wine stash from his top Otago winery.

River flow levels and a minimal rain forecast suggest Queenstown's Lake Wakatipu might only rise by a further 10cm.

David Bain will have to meet an "extraordinary circumstances" test in his bid for compensation for wrongful conviction.

A shocked Dunedin mother who claimed her Lotto Powerball prize today is used to the winning feeling.