A watchdog has slammed three organisations over the locking up of a alcoholic, 43, in a resthome for more than a year without proper legal authority.

The first results from a study of 7000 Auckland and Waikato babies shows that 11 per cent of women smoke throughout their pregnancies.

The other night at Starship Hospital a total stranger didn't quite give me the shirt off his back - but it was close.

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.

Drug-buying agency Pharmac is set to provide greater access to an expensive drug used to treat brain cancer.

Midday sun risky way of getting vitamin D, groups say.

Up to four patients in NZ have contracted a killer strain of a superbug which inhabits other bacteria.

Reports of public hospital errors that caused or could have caused major harm to patients has increased.

Ill health costs the economy at least $5bn a year - with even bigger potential costs from those who drag themselves to work.

United Future are calling for the outright ban of 1080 in the fight against possums and for the introduction of universal health insurance.

A panel of experts has recommended retaining neurosurgery services at both Dunedin and Christchurch hospitals - a verdict met by cheering crowds.