Stories by Louise Ternouth

From West Auckland to Whangārei, complaints and concerns about the government's revamped school lunch programme continue. Audio

"Every job that I apply for has hundreds if not thousands of applicants," a former senior public servant who has tried for 90 roles says.

Auckland woman Michelle Mann has undergone six surgeries since being hit by an e-scooter seven years ago. Audio

A victim warns that new stalking laws could "do more harm than good".

Suzanne George has been job hunting for over a year in Wellington. "Demoralising wouldn't even be the word for it," she says.

Many do not have the luxury of working from home or calling in grandparents so childcare is stressful and potentially expensive. Audio

Amid ongoing health issues and "unbearable" pain, Ellie is scared for her future: "My teeth are going to kill me." Audio

The idea of a sculpture made out of salvaged materials was dreamt up to give to those who lost their homes. Audio

"It's like this void, this emptiness in the room." Audio

Almost two years on from the Auckland Anniversary floods and Cyclone Gabrielle, residents are still picking up the pieces from ruined homes. Audio

One says they should have been given early notice because now they have pre-ordered stock in hopes of a busy summer. Audio

More NZers are snapping up pre-loved clothing as the cost of living bites. Audio

Preparations have been four years in the making, with businesses stockpilling supplies, villages decorated in each country's colours and a huge community effort to be ready to host.

The sunken Navy ship is leaking diesel from three spots on its underside, officials say. Audio

Defence Force diving crews found the voyage data recorder - the equivalent of an aeroplane's flight recorder - on Tuesday.

The Kiwi dream of owning a home has turned into a nightmare for some flood-affected first home buyers who bought in the last few years. Audio

GPs had their funding increased by four percent in July and were given the green light to lift their fees by more than seven percent. Audio

Some are spending up to 95 percent of their superannuation on rent. Audio

Some South and West Auckland liquor stores fear they could lose up to 40 percent of their business under new liquor sale rules. Audio

A woman who experienced pain "beyond anything" getting her IUD inserted is joining calls for stronger pain relief. Audio

For over two years, Checkpoint has been tracking the price of 36 supermarket items. Audio

Some shoppers in South Auckland are going without it and other dairy products because they are simply too expensive. Audio

In RNZ's new series, we're out chatting to Kiwis about all things affecting their wallets. First up: renting.

The rise of bigger discount pharmacies could force the closure of smaller businesses, they say. Audio

Midwives are battling burnout and calling for urgent support to keep students and improve working conditions. Audio