Stories by Jessica Hopkins

Auckland's mayor says more work is needed to prevent faults after a pipe burst left thousands of residents without water.

The developer of what was set to be New Zealand's tallest residential building did not want the media around during a meeting updating Auckland Council on the status of the stalled luxury skyscraper. Audio

Significant vegetation and planting areas have been lost at two regional parks from fires started by fishers cooking their catch, a manager says.

With the rate of impounded dogs claimed by owners at a 10-year low, animal management officers in South Auckland say too many people are treating their pets as disposable.

There have been dozens of cases reported to the police's family protection unit, a police inspector says.

About one in 10 drug samples KnowYourStuffNZ tested this year were not what they were sold as or thought to be.

Julie Guest says the copper stolen from the St John's Church roof was worth just $500, but the damage caused will cost $125,000.

A librarian says primary school pupils could lose up to six months of progress if they stop.

Those on Auckland's waterfront say they are cautiously optimistic about Wynyard Crossing Bridge being operational again.

The beleaguered bridge connecting Wynyard Quarter to the Viaduct, which saves people a 20-minute walk, has been undergoing major repairs since March.

Several music festivals will not offer drug testing this summer, according to New Zealand's main drug checking agency for events.

Every week at a community centre in West Auckland, a bunch of bubbly seniors can be found chatting away and working together on craft projects.

Police said the bus driver in the Auckland CBD was hit several times.

The beach - a popular tourist spot - has been accessible only by boat since storms caused extensive damage.

Locals are "distraught" at the vandalism, saying most of the damaged trees "won't survive".

The stadium can now host up to 12 concerts a year, and nearby bars and restaurants are set to benefit. Audio

The move goes against a directive issued by former director-general of health Sir Ashley Bloomfield. Audio

"Everyone saw where he was on the stream and just started running."

It comes after a woman was mauled by three pitbulls in South Auckland.

The council would take control of communications, marketing, legal and finance functions and set its strategic direction.

Muriwai residents are creating a unique art piece using the remnants of their homes that were destroyed by Cyclone Gabrielle. Audio

Some argue conservation areas can no longer take the strain of tourists, but others say it's starting to look like the government is "triple dipping".

The free display will run for three months.

Coastguard said six people had died in bar crossing accidents this winter across the country. Video

The mayor says it's a waste of ratepayers' money, with less than half of viewers feeling more optimistic about Auckland.