Criminal charges have been laid against an unemployed man who travelled the world for two years courtesy of the taxpayer. Peter Freedom left for Australia in 2009 but his benefit payments were not stopped until last January.

Households at risk of slow wage growth combined with rising costs.

The impacts of the global financial crisis hit are ingrained in our communities.

John Key says reforms will be based on the premise 'if you can work, you must work'.

Health training funds are being redirected into mental health.

Next week's budget will provide up to $42 million for trades training for Canterbury to meet labour demand.

Child abuse complaints have more than tripled in Rotorua, Whakatane and Taupo in the past five years.