Watch: The moment Jacinda Ardern and Obama meet with a hongi in Auckland

Lake Hāwea residents push back against plan to lower lake levels

Locals fear return of dust storms and dry bores under fast-track hydro proposal, while Contact Energy says move could cut emissions and ease power prices.

Wellington mayoral poll: One candidate holds commanding lead

Andrew Little's emergence as the frontrunner in the race comes after incumbent mayor Tory Whanau pulled out in April.

Shooting up candidate's hoarding 'beyond a step too far'

A resident said people were woken by up to seven gunshots just before 2am on Monday.

Hear me out - let me convince you to vote in the local elections

Only 42% of people voted in the last local elections, but your council is responsible for everything from traffic lights to bin collection.