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.

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

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

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

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