Latest fromGisborne District

Police launch homicide investigation after death of Gisborne toddler
The 19-month-old was brought into Gisborne Hospital with critical injuries on January 6.

Horror holiday period the deadliest for drownings in 25 years
It's been the deadliest holiday period in New Zealand waters in nearly 25 years.

'Savage on my soul': Dad loses two boys in drowning - his heartbreaking message
A lifelong boatie, Chris Wakelin has never returned to the sea since his sons drowned.

The heat is on: Temps to hit 30C again as fine weather spreads across NZ
The weekend is shaping up to be sizzling hot, with temperatures hitting 30C or higher.

Shock as talented young rugby player diagnosed with stage 4 cancer
Hunter Donghi's family thrown into turmoil, but the community's rallying around them.

Get out of town: Where to escape Auckland's sky-high house prices
How to achieve work-life balance and pay less for your home.

Growing places: The eco-warriors fighting for our forests' future
'From an early age, I just loved the bush.'

Bumper-to-bumper: Motorists told to allow extra time in heavy holiday traffic
AA says 100 lives could be saved each year if road improvements were made.

Water tragedy: East Coast rugby legend dies in diving accident
Diver who died off East Coast was a rugby hero of the province

Police hunt alleged shooter after injured person arrives at marae seeking help
Multiple ambulances were dispatched to the marae overnight.

Search operation underway for missing diver near Te Araroa
Searches are taking place on the sea, on the ground and in the air for the diver.

Apirana Ngata's 1919 expeditions documented moments of cultural significance
The Dominion Museum Ethnological Expeditions 1919 - 1923 captured Māori culture.

'Terrified': Homeless family of seven 'squat' in empty house
'My desperation surpassed my fear,' says mum-of-five Ashleigh Wawatai.

PM's wedding: Billionaire's homestead venue, Lorde to sing
Hedge fund billionaire to host prime minister's wedding.

NZ summer travel: Five new things to do in Gisborne
Heading to Gisborne for the summer? Here are 5 things you can't miss.

Tairāwhiti community leaders call for Covid checkpoints over summer
The region has the second-lowest full vaccination rate in the country, at 82 per cent.

Businesses fuming over orange delay, Northland 'nowhere near' leaving red
Delayed party for Auckland has northern neighbour envious - but local businesses fuming.

Local Focus: Bub Dewes lives in his canvas
East Coast artist Bub Dewes talks about his evolving art piece and exhibition.

When you need a vax pass and when you don't - your traffic light questions answered
The differences between green, orange and red are important to remember over summer.

Covid cases below 100 on back-to-back days, positive test in Cook Islands
The second sub-100 day comes on day two of the new traffic light framework.

Local Focus: East Coast teens scouted for Japan
Two East Coast teens have earned rugby scholarships in Japan.

Research connects passion for women's and Māori health
Sophie Couper has been recognised for her work on sleeping positions in late pregnancy

Campsite set to 'welcome' unvaccinated travellers this summer
Epidemiologist Rod Jackson labels the move "crazy".

Baby dies after co-sleeping with mother in hospital
DHB: 'His death was tragic and our thoughts are still with his family on their sad loss'.

Local Focus: Flying doctor boosts jabs on the East Coast
Flying vaccination clinic and Māori Battalion pulling whānau on board for vaccinations.

Local Focus: PM's day cheering Tairāwhiti
Prime Minister visits Gisborne to praise vaccinators.

Live: Two Covid cases in Tauranga; one in Manawatū - 'We know there will be concern', says PM
As Aucklanders wait for their day of freedom, another city is now dealing with a new case.

Local Focus: Gisborne mums are hot competition for the Fittest Mums competition
Fit Gisborne mums are competing globally.

Regional mayors reluctant to take position on reopening borders
The Prime Minister will reveal when the gates to the supercity will open on Wednesday.