Contesting the Mana by-election will provide a clear alternative for voters and put pressure on the major party candidates to respond, says Unite Union leader Matt McCarten.

Veteran political organiser Matt McCarten has announced he will contest the Mana by-election.

Warner Brothers have confirmed that they are considering alternative locations in which to film the two Hobbit films.

The Government is leaving the door open to more tax incentives to keep the shooting of The Hobbit films in New Zealand.

The Arts Foundation's Simon Bowden says we can learn something from the US when it comes to cultural philanthropy.

Possums, rats and stoats have something new to fear after the Government and the Green Party today announced $4 million in funding to trial self-resetting traps.

A mother is calling for a city council to take action after a falling football goal crossbar broke all but one bone in her son's face.

Wellington Phoenix fans are scamming their way into home games by using children's tickets.

A severe weather warning has been issued as heavy rain and gales are expected to hit areas across the country.

Police Commissioner Howard Broad says New Zealand should remain a routinely unarmed police force - and that is something to be proud of.

Wellington's new mayor Celia Wade-Brown says the closeness of her victory over Kerry Prendergast highlights the need for inclusiveness.

The Green Party's Celia Wade-Brown has ousted Kerry Prendergast as Wellington mayor after the counting of special votes was completed this afternoon.

A warning for pregnant or menstruating women to stay away from an exhibit tour is just an advisory and women could decide to ignore it, Arts, Chris Finlayson says.