NZ at Noon: Face-biter declared insane

The man who bit the lip off a police officer has been deemed insane at the Whangarei High Court.

A man who bit the lip off a police officer in Northland and a bad taste comment about prams that has angered Tauranga mothers are just two of the stories making headlines around the regions today.

A Northland man who bit off a police officer's lower lip and spat it on the ground is apparently insane.

An off-the-cuff suggestion that prams should be banned from the Mauao base track has sparked an online backlash.

Police are investigating a claims a young woman was raped by members of a rugby team in Wanganui.

A Hawke's Bay lawyer has escaped a jail sentence for indecencies and assault.

A 6-year-old boy hit by a car in Rotorua last night has been transferred to Auckland's Starship Hospital.

Three teenage boys are being dealt with by police after a spate of break-ins in Kerikeri.

An unemployed Masterton woman eyed up a Holden Commodore for a month before stealing it.

Tauranga takeaways have been highly commended in this year's best chip shop competition.

A film crew has been exploring the history of a Rotorua marae for an upcoming series on Maori Television.

For the first time men and families will be welcomed with open arms at Tauranga's annual "pink walk".

From gumboots to heels, Miss Wairarapa Joanna Watkinson wants to inspire other young girls.

Kiwi hatching season has begun for the Kiwi Encounter team at Rotorua's Rainbow Springs.

And finally, just 36 hours after traps were set, more than half a tonne of noxious pests have been caught in Rotorua.

Other stories making headlines around the regions today include:

Pillowcases turned to dream bags.

Hangi and cupcakes do the trick.

Ex-coach to face twice as many charges.

Old school meets new technology.

Warning to drivers after boy injured in hit, run.

Bail denied for drink driver after crash.

Store selling legal highs faces picket.

Craftswomen set to close.

Young singers on stage.