Latest from New Zealand

Two controversial 'run it straight' events cancelled after safety backlash

The Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board opposed the event, citing safety risks.

Taser probe incident: Woman appears in court

The alleged incident occurred at Kokako St shops in Rotorua on May 7.

'Terrifying': Union urges tougher laws after stevedore's nighttime fall from ship into sea

The Government says changing laws governing visiting ships is 'complex' and 'difficult'.

The Conversation: Less than a 5% increase in health amounts to standing still

OPINION: A 5% rise in New Zealand health funding may only sustain current service levels.

Afternoon quiz: Who was the only Lord of the Rings actor to meet J.R.R. Tolkien?

Test your knowledge with the Herald's afternoon quiz.

Armed police arrest two, seize firearm in South Auckland raid

A 38-year-old man is charged with unlawful possession of a pistol.

Hospital EDs are sending up to 25 patients a day to private care with vouchers

Some patients said they had used the voucher system to get a free check-up.

Jail for woman who stabbed cabbie six times after announcing she couldn't pay fare

The woman, who had been out of prison less than a month, victimised an Afghan refugee.

'Challenging times': Social workers see spike in meth, mental health issues

'We’re trying ... but at times it feels like we are chasing our tails.'

'Grossest depravity': Man jailed for helping run child sex abuse website

Family bewildered 'gentle and loyal man' could be involved in harming children.

Midwife security bolstered after ‘very violent attack’ on worker leaving shift

A Christchurch birthing unit staff member was attacked soon after finishing work.

Listen: Peters says he won't feel bad if railway heckler is sacked

Tonkin + Taylor has apologised to the Deputy PM about the incident.

Prices dip at final GDT auction for the season

This is the final GDT auction for the season, which officially finishes on May 31.

'Te reo belongs on our roads': Iwi demands reinstatement of 'taihoa' roadworks sign

'Te reo Māori is not a translation, a novelty, or a risk. It is official. It is sacred.'

'No talking' limit: Union raises concerns over workplace policy

Health NZ denied a 'no talking' policy, but issues remain unresolved.

Auckland mayor inks friendship deal with governor of Chinese province

Delegates from Chinese province have visited Auckland 'a couple of times' in past year.

Winston Peters talks on Hosking about train station heckler

On Newstalk ZB Mike Hosking Breakfast Winston Peters addresses the Heckler at train station stand up.

Woman who set her own home alight rescued by heroic neighbour - then jailed

Kristle Manuel was unconscious in her burning Blenheim home when help arrived.