Redback spiders could thrive in some areas of NZ, posing a real threat to native wildlife, a scientist says.

A Tauranga drug dealer who shot another man in the leg with a cut-down rifle and was also caught with 18 cannabis 'tinnies' inside a coffin in his lounge, has been sentenced to 10 months' home detention.

Cooking demonstrations, fish filleting and mussel opening competitions are part of the fun at the Tauranga Moana Seafood Festival.

The owners of a stranded luxury launch have put it up for sale after failing to free it from sand.

An old postcard has revealed skeletons under the Mt Maunganui beach and an academic says a new bill would allow access to be restricted.

Greg Meads enjoyed his final months of freedom in a plush beachfront home with another woman before being convicted of murder.

A launch believed to be worth more than $400,000 was this morning lying wrecked on the Tauranga coast after hitting rocks.