Latest fromManawatu-Whanganui
Tararua farmer's runaway truck terror
80-year-old Tararua farmer Donald Robbie was driving his farm truck, with 4.5c metres of gravel down a steep hill when his brakes failed.
Icon towns: Ohakune
We look at spots made famous by some classic Kiwi landmarks. Today: Ohakune.
Tariana Turia: It's time to restore the 'h' in Whanganui
Last Friday, Whanganui District Health Board members voted 9-2 to spell the name of their hospital correctly as Whanganui with an "h".
Kia ora: Norsewood
Elisabeth Easther finds a town with Scandinavian heritage and real socks appeal.
Kia ora: Whangamomona
An unforgettable stop on the Forgotten Highway entrances Elisabeth Easther.
Tongariro National Park: Easy hike among giants
Tongariro National Park turns on a bright blue day for a ramble to its even bluer lakes, writes Josie Dale.
Kia ora: Whanganui
This diverse river city offers adventures, galleries, top cafes and more, writes Elisabeth Easther.
Road to family adventure
Even with three kids in tow, Rob Cox manages to have a ball in Rotorua and Ruapehu.
Ruapehu: Wake to a pristine world of white
Snowmen, snowball fights and skiing: Children won't forget their first experience of playing in fresh snow, writes Liam Dann.
Powderhorn Chateau, Ohakune
This inviting hotel, with a cosy alpine lodge feel, is the perfect place to retire to after a busy day exploring the Ruapehu District.
For further information see: powderhorn.co.nz.
Powderhorn Chateau, Ohakune
Tristram Clayton finds a warm welcome and cold craft beers at the foot of Mt Ruapehu.
Central North Island: Snow in July - you can rely
Paul Charman on the joys of a weekend driving around the Central Plateau.
Arrest made in Hall homicide case
Police investigating the homicide of Wanganui man Brett Hall have arrested and charged a man with his murder.
Mum pleads guilty over toddler's death
A young woman wept as she admitted causing the death of her preschool-age child in a hearing at the Palmerston North High Court today.
Four fruity festivals
Small town New Zealand does wonderful and whacky to keep up our winter spirits.
Ruapehu District: Going out for a duck
Elisabeth Easther visited Blue Duck Station with her son and found the perfect spot.
Four of the best Central North Island adventures
Ride golf carts, horses or canoes to explore this wonderful area ... or get going on foot.
Taumarunui: If you go down to the woods today
Elisabeth Easther finally knocks off the other half of the Timber Trail.
Missing man found alive in hay barn
A missing Rangitikei man, who hasn't been seen for a week, has been found in a hay barn, police say.
Man survives 40m fall from cliff
A contractor who plunged 40m down the same cliff where his uncle fell to his death has spoken of his miraculous survival.
Mt Ruapehu: Adventures in the snow
Rachel Grunwell offers tips on how to survive taking the kids on a ski holiday.