Police in New Zealand and Australia are cracking down on alcohol related crime this weekend in the first joint operation between the two countries.

Following a south Auckland booze blitz which nabbed 81 alleged drink-drivers on Saturday night, nzherald.co.nz today followed those and other offenders through the courts.

All Black Keven Mealamu describes witnessing the tragic death of his niece at a family touch tournament.

A former police officer believes he was told to cover-up the alleged assault of a man who was fatally hit by a truck as he ran from police, a court hears.

Auckland Mayor John Banks calls the city's new local government structure "an inspired piece of work".

A mother who beat her 10-year-old child up to 15 times with a piece of hosepipe for wagging school has been sentenced to 15 months in prison.

Police are looking for Jason Pope, described as a 177cm tall European of medium-thin build with short brown hair.

A deadly mishap stuns a quiet street in Manurewa. Anna Rushworth reports.

Big plans for the plaza will benefit the whole community.

Maori get ready to fight firm's plan to put human waste on sacred Puketutu Island.