NZ@Noon: First animal lifesaver

Thomas Yule is trialing a world first program where he is training his Newfoundland puppy Ted to become a lifesaver. Photo / George Novak

Stories making headlines around the regions today include New Zealand's first water rescue animal and a very lucky cat.

Meet New Zealand's first animal surf lifesaver: A gentle 60kg-plus newfoundland dog called Ted.

Rescuers near Masterton saved the day after battling a blaze and resuscitating a black cat.

A Wanganui woman is calling for better road safety measures after a car crashed into her front garden - for the fifth time.

Think you've won a large sum of money from the 'Government Grants Department'? Think again - police are warning residents of a re-emerging phone scam.

Gazza the cyclist and Bazza the truckie will soon have a cold one together after Bazza helped save Gazza's life.

This Hawke's Bay woman almost lost her life after her heart stopped beating for no apparent reason. Now, she will be on TV.

A group of Rotorua Mini enthusiasts has driven from Kaitaia to Invercargill raising money and awareness for the KidsCan Charitable Trust.

The increase in pest numbers in the Hunua Ranges has caused dismal results for treasured kokako this year.

And finally, Hamilton Zoo needs your help after launching a public naming competition for its two sumatran tiger cubs.