The number of whales to have perished on Karikari beach has now reached 44 - but rescuers are trying to save 14 survivors.

Crew of the Amaltal Atlantis rubbed warmth into the bodies of the rescued fisherman and gave up their clothing to keep them warm.

Heavy security surrounded the arrival of survivors from the sinking of the Oyang 70, with three crew taken to hospital. Photo / Simon Baker

Prepare to navigate the ghostly decks of the Titanic.

NZ will foot the bill to investigate the sinking of the Oyang 70 even though it was registered in Korea and sank in international waters.

The operator of a fishing ship is "shell-shocked" after three crew died and another three were lost, presumed dead, in waters off NZ.

The search for three men missing in the Southern Ocean has been called off, with rescuers saying their chance of survival is 'nil'.

Three bodies have been found and three crew are still missing after a NZ chartered trawler sank in the Southern Ocean with 51 crew on board.

Despite rescuers' efforts, a surfer attacked by a shark in Western Australia died after suffering a deep bite to his leg.

The public is being advised to supervise dogs and children on Kohimarama Beach after toxic sea slugs were discovered there for the first time.

A huge undersea volcano has dramatically reduced in size after partly collapsing more than 100 metres toward the ocean floor.

The launch of 63,500 tonne superliner Pacific Pearl in Auckland is a vote of confidence for NZ, says Cruise NZ chairman Craig Harris.

Sealegs' 'incubation' is now over.