Three men charged in connection with what police say is the nation's biggest ever methamphetamine haul have appeared in Kaitaia District Court.

A 35-year-old man been charged with attempted murder in relation to an alleged shooting in Kaitaia in February.

Iwi leader hits out at lack of opportunities in Far North after boy, 12, tried to rob dairy with gun.

They won't be home for Christmas, but that will be a very small price to pay for the 22 men and women who packed their bags and headed for Christchurch.