Some central Auckland patients could be treated at North Shore and Waitakere Hospitals under a spirit of collaboration, the man now responsible for nearly one million Aucklanders' health has indicated.

The minister responsible for tobacco control, Tariana Turia, wants smoking banned in cars and will push for other tough anti-smoking policies.

Aged care experts want a nationwide review of rest home meals after revelations large numbers of elderly people are malnourished.

Physiotherapy claims paid for by ACC have slumped by nearly a quarter, reflecting the social insurer's sharp cut backs in health treatment - at a time when New Zealand's rate of injuries is continuing to climb.

Tobacco products are to be hidden and anti-smoking officers will get powers to instantly fine shops under new Govt measures.

The Auckland District Health Board will apologise to a mother whose unborn baby did not survive a publicly funded procedure at Auckland Hospital and was sent a $2200 bill for the treatment.

District health boards have asked the Government to "review" the right of health workers to strike, saying patients are being harmed.

One in every four women giving birth in NZ will undergo caesarean section surgery, with nearly 15pc booking the operation before going into labour.