Latest from South Island

Inside the Aratere ferry grounding: Midnight emails, mud and a disappointed minister

Correspondence reveals the back-up plan if the first refloat attempt was unsuccessful.

Coroner hears from last person to speak with young Gloriavale man before his sudden death

The inquest into Gloriavale man Sincere Standtrue's death continues.

Police catch group fleeing alleged hit-and-run

Four young people were taken into police custody.

Mayor's son says drink-driving was 'bad judgment'

The driver says a poor decision was made.

Firefighters free person after car ploughs into house

The crash happened in a gated community for people aged over-60.

Nelson hostage situation: Two people leave house, one taken to hospital as cordons continue

Armed officers are in the area, residents are told to stay away.

'Batten down the hatches': Red severe thunderstorm watch issued for lower North Island

Severe weather alerts have been issued along the East Coast.

The Feelers' lead singer sentenced after third drink-driving conviction

James Reid has been sentenced for refusing a blood test.

Suspected hostage situation in Nelson

Schools and a hospital are in lockdown and residents have been told to stay away while police respond to a suspected hostage situation in Nelson. Video / Tim Cuff

Police raid uncovers loaded guns stashed in child's bedroom

Police said there could have been a terrible and needless tragedy.

Person dies in crash in Hope, Tasman District

The single-vehicle crash happened around 6.15pm on Wednesday.

Mines of contention: Plans for more mining on the West Coast divide locals

Frank Film gauges local attitudes to increased plans for West Coast mining.

The Dickason Family Tragedy: Herald podcast revisits Timaru triple murder

Herald podcast A Moment In Crime looks back at the murder of the Dickason children.

Release of captive NZ pilot in Papua remains ‘top priority’ for Government after killing of fellow Kiwi

NZ Government seeks answers over how separatist rebels killed chopper pilot.

Survivors of Riverton boating tragedy now recovering at home

Three people lost their lives when a boat capsized on the Riverton bar on Saturday.

'No more bloodshed': Liberation leader's plea after Kiwi pilot shot dead in Papua

His family say he was 'the most caring and loving husband and dad'.

'Our hearts are broken': Family devastated by Kiwi pilot's Papua death as rebel group denies responsibility

His family say he was "the most caring and loving husband and dad".

'I will love you forever': Devastated parents of ice rink fall victim farewell daughter

Her father says wearing helmets on the school trip should have been enforced.