River flow levels and a minimal rain forecast suggest Queenstown's Lake Wakatipu might only rise by a further 10cm.

Queenstown is preparing for the worst as the swollen Lake Wakatipu threatens to burst its banks and flood the CBD.

California geology officials have released an updated seismic activity map that they hope will improve earthquake preparedness.

Northland's drought may be endangering motorists - and stock - as hungry farm animals go wandering for food and water.

Queenstown businesses are being warned to brace for potential flooding as more heavy rain is predicted over the next two days.

The brief respite of rain for Northland farmers yesterday is not enough to quench the parched pastures.

Trampers were evacuated by air, phonelines cut and bridges washed out last night as the South Island was inundated by rain and flooding.

It's Bjork's fault. "One day it will happen," sings the Icelandic star on the prophetic 1993 song, One Day.

The first flight back from London after disruptions from volcanic ash has landed at Auckland airport.

The quiet of the no-fly zone has been replaced by the roar of airplane engines across Britain today.

Sydney Airport is ready to send flights to Europe after the reopening of airspace.

Another Icelandic volcano is expected to explode, potentially causing more disruption than Eyjafjallajokull.

Europe has received a sharp shock of awareness about its addiction to cheap jet travel.

A NZ couple's wedding plans are in tatters - they are grounded in London and their guests are waiting in Tauranga.

Tourism Auckland has had more than 200 offers from people offering rooms for stranded travellers.