John Roughan writes that the Coromandel peninsula's beauty is not exceptional and doesn't warrant particular protection.

Environmental concerns versus a shrinking job market have left Thames locals split on the Govt's plan to open more Coromandel land to mining.

There will be no open cast mining on Great Barrier Island or Coromandel, John Key assured Parliament today, while under attack over the Govt's mining plan.

Some Great Barrier locals say mining will destroy the island's "fragile" environment, while others say the jobs created will be a blessing.

John Key says the public will have to wait for a discussion paper to be released to find out what conservation land may be mined and how.

In the end it was the bronze whaler that came off worse during a terrifying man-versus-shark encounter near Whitianga this week.

Rain eased in Gisborne overnight and surrounding roads reopened after flooding and slips caused evacuations.

Helen van Berkel tackles the Pinnacles walk and discovers astounding scenery - when she works up the courage to open her eyes.

Anne Gibson looks at the homes of some of NZ's richest people.

DoC Director-General Al Morrison weighs in the debate surrounding the controversial Cathedral Cove refreshments stall.

A family were evicted from their rental bach and left $1300 out of pocket after a neighbour dobbed them in for breaking the rules.