Latest fromAustralasia

PM: Consents for rebuild may be given retrospectively
The Govt may rush through legislation to enable rebuilding in the wake of Canterbury’s earthquake, with retrospective building consents.

Christchurch earthquake: Puppy stitched up after night of panic
A golden retriever puppy needed emergency surgery after cutting off the side of his nose running away in panic when the quake hit.

Three killed on horror highway
Police are investigating whether alcohol played a part in last night's two-vehicle crash on one of NZ's most notorious stretches of highway.

Rugby: Hong Kong test in doubt?
There is speculation that the fourth Bledisloe Cup test could be moved from Hong Kong to Europe due to poor ticket sales.

Earthquake cash flows for Christchurch
Stricken homeowners and workers will start receiving compensation and emergency payouts within days as Christchurch's earthquake bill threatens to exceed $2bn.

Earthquake visit: 'It's John whatever-his-name-is'
Politicians swooped into earthquake-ravaged Christchurch last night, visiting a shelter that descended into chaos at John Key's visit.

Three killed in Waikato crash
Three people are dead following a collision between a car and a ute in the Waikato tonight.

Employers obliged to pay quake-hit workers
Workers worried about loss of pay following Saturday's earthquake could have a case for the Employment Relations Authority if their employer refuses to pay them.

Soccer: Nelsen confirms availability
All Whites captain Ryan Nelsen has confirmed his availability for New Zealand's two home soccer internationals next month.

Heavy rain forces road closures in North Island
Slips and surface flooding are causing havoc for motorists in the lower North Island as heavy rain and gale force winds sweep the region.

Rugby: Composure key to Black Ferns' win
New Zealand's fourth straight women's World Cup win this morning was built around composure, veteran Anna Richards said.

Yachting: Murdoch claims Laser bronze
New Zealand sailor Andrew Murdoch snatched bronze at the Laser world championship off Hayling Island, England, today.

Curfew continues in shaken Christchurch
Safety first is the message authorities want to convey as many displaced locals face a second night away from their homes.

Christchurch earthquake, <i>Day 2 updates</i>
Some residents in the earthquake zone may be without power until the end of the week, says lines company Orion.

Equestrian: Kiwi leads Burghley field
New Zealand's Caroline Powell and mount Lenamore lead the field at Burghley after the Cross Country stage.