The Auckland Council is withdrawing a $106,500 claim for costs against community groups involved in the Masonic Hotel heritage case.

Space is now being leased in Hamilton's striking triangular glass Citygate on a prominent corner site.

A five-star, 300-room hotel will fill former America's Cup sites on one of the most valuable pieces of waterside property in the country.

Fast food chain McDonald's plans to develop nine new restaurants in New Zealand and hire an extra 4000 people.