NZ@Noon: Fire ball consumes home

The ruins of John Cullinane's Matarawa home. Photo/Lynda Feringa

Stories happening across the regions today include a shoplifter hits a security guard over the head with a bottle of stolen drink, a fireball consumes a home in Matarawa and Wanganui may be about to be named one of the world's seven most digitally savvy communities in the world.

A fireball has engulfed a Wairarapa home.

In Hastings a pet dog which killed a local cat has created hostilities among residents.

A shoplifter in Regent hit a security over the head with a bottle.

Te Hiku residents are angered that the end of their beach has been turned into a camping ground.

A sword recognising the bravery of a Te Arawa soldier will be temporarily returned to his people.

Wanganui is in the running to be recognised as one of the seven most digitally savvy communities in the world

And finally, a replica of one of the world's most celebrated aircraft is nearly ready to take to the skies after a 16-year labour of love.

Wayne Cutforth and his hand-built replica of a 1942 Spitfire.Photo/Andrew Warner