Stories by Jessica Hopkins
News
Drinking alcohol while taking MDMA high-risk says drug checking service
About one in 10 drug samples KnowYourStuffNZ tested this year were not what they were sold as or thought to be.
Copper and robbers: Waikato vicar camps out to catch thieves
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.
Make reading 'fun' so children avoid summer slide - expert
A librarian says primary school pupils could lose up to six months of progress if they stop.
Businesses still positive despite Wynyard bridge 'teething issues'
Those on Auckland's waterfront say they are cautiously optimistic about Wynyard Crossing Bridge being operational again.
Auckland's Wynyard crossing bridge expected to re-open this week
The beleaguered bridge connecting Wynyard Quarter to the Viaduct, which saves people a 20-minute walk, has been undergoing major repairs since March.
No drug testing at several music festivals this summer
Several music festivals will not offer drug testing this summer, according to New Zealand's main drug checking agency for events.
Combating loneliness in older age: 'You have to make the effort'
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.
Man due in court after Auckland bus driver punched
Police said the bus driver in the Auckland CBD was hit several times.
Cathedral Cove track reopens after almost two years
The beach - a popular tourist spot - has been accessible only by boat since storms caused extensive damage.
Suspected treasure hunters rip out, slash native trees
Locals are "distraught" at the vandalism, saying most of the damaged trees "won't survive".
Locals excited as concerts at Eden Park to double
The stadium can now host up to 12 concerts a year, and nearby bars and restaurants are set to benefit. Audio
Council votes against order to add fluoride to water
The move goes against a directive issued by former director-general of health Sir Ashley Bloomfield. Audio
Teens swarm Auckland CBD in hunt for YouTube sensation IShowSpeed
"Everyone saw where he was on the stream and just started running."
Irresponsible pet owners should face harsher punishments, councillor says
It comes after a woman was mauled by three pitbulls in South Auckland.
AT set to be stripped of some functions as part of mayor's shakeup
The council would take control of communications, marketing, legal and finance functions and set its strategic direction.
Destroyed homes given new life through sculpture
Muriwai residents are creating a unique art piece using the remnants of their homes that were destroyed by Cyclone Gabrielle. Audio
Much-needed or 'yet another' fee? Charging for national parks
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".
Popular outdoor sculpture exhibition returns after three-year hiatus
The free display will run for three months.
'No fish is worth dying for': Boaties share harrowing experiences crossing the Manukau Bar
Coastguard said six people had died in bar crossing accidents this winter across the country. Video
Council agency spent $737k on campaign to boost positivity about city
The mayor says it's a waste of ratepayers' money, with less than half of viewers feeling more optimistic about Auckland.
'This is a jack-up': Shock over council's speedway decision
One councillor says it's woeful that the sport is being "evicted" from its acclaimed venue at Western Springs after 95 years. Audio
Supermarkets closing early to avoid late-night anti-social behaviour
Multiple Auckland supermarkets are reducing their trading hours over safety concerns.
'We're depressed, upset, and shocked': Family of man killed in boating accident mourn
A close friend of the man who died in a boating accident on Sunday said his relatives were in shock.
Shock as129-year-old bell stolen from church
The bell is "worth very little in terms of metal, but it's worth a lot to our community".