The number of new homes approved for construction in August was up 17 per cent, the second month of increases, with retirement units and earthquake-related replacement homes lifting the numbers, says Statistics New Zealand.

Chinese Deputy Premier, Hui Liangyu, got concrete proof that Chinese investment in New Zealand is welcomed, with the signing of a memorandum of understanding in Wellington today.

Community groups and the Historic Places Trust face a huge claim for costs from the developer who wants to turn the Masonic Hotel