Stories by Rachel Helyer Donaldson
News
Three people die each week from preventable overdoses - report
Three New Zealanders die from accidental drug overdoses every week, with the number continuing to rise, new research shows.
Boating deaths a tragic reminder of sandbar risks - Coastguard
The authority says the message needs to be clear after four boating deaths in a fourtnight - if in doubt, don't go out.
Sudden fee rise will turn cruise ships off NZ - warning
Fewer cruise ships could visit New Zealand if border levies are increased at short notice as is planned, the sector says.
Broken sewerage pipe an 'extremely complex' repair - Wellington Water
Wellington's water provider hopes it can start excavating the site of a broken sewerage pipe in the Eastbourne harbour in Lower Hutt on Monday morning. Audio
New postgraduate dentistry course hopes to improve dental care access
The University of Otago's new Adult Restorative Dental Care certificate will allow oral health therapists to give fillings.
Warning out-of-date law could penalise regional airports' ambitions
The government's decision to give effect to the Airports Act sent a "frustrating" signal to the aviation and tourism sectors, the Airports Association says.
'Could be equally devastating' - Are we at the risk of a megaquake?
A seismologist says New Zealand is unlikely to have a megaquake such as the one Japan is on high alert for, but a lesser quake could still be more devastating.
'Enough kōrero': Hundreds attend rally against Māori children in state care
Organisers of the rally say they want action for tamariki and mokopuna in state care.
Rollout of national bowel cancer screening programme stalls
An expert says the programme needs to ramp up urgently to give bowel cancer patients a "fighting chance".
Academic says leave the G-strings as Air NZ promotes 'cheeky' Pacific trips
Many Pacific Islands have "strong views" on what's appropriate for tourists to wear - and "teeny tiny swimwear" doesn't cut it, an expert says.
Excitement and nerves ahead of new bulletin, Stuff owner and publisher says
ThreeNews, produced by multimedia organisation Stuff, is going live for the first time tonight at 6pm.
Fetal alcohol disorder training 'ground breaking' - advocate
Up to 3000 babies are born a year with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder in Aotearoa.
'More, rather than less effort' needed to fight Covid-19 - Baker
From Monday, people aged 14 and over will pay for Covid-related visits to the GP. Epidemiologist Michael Baker says 'we have to do better' with the ongoing response to the disease.
How are NZ businesses using AI?
AI Forum is working with Victoria University and Callaghan Innovation to measure the impact of artificial intelligence on business.
More than 80 earthquakes recorded in Hawke's Bay, Te Tairāwhiti this week
The swarm of tremors is a good reminder to be prepared, scientist says.
Police fear for safety at gang funerals as 501 deportees increase aggression
Gangs have become "more sophisticated" and are carrying more weapons thanks to the 501s, union boss says.
Tough times even tougher on women - research
Tough economic times, like the current cost-of-living crisis, can cause the gender pay gap to widen, a senior economics academic says.
Unsafe long weekend drivers won't be let off with a warning - police
Those risking people's safety on the roads can expect to be fined, disqualified or even jailed.
Event organiser's 'natural disaster' cancellation claim questioned
A parent says organisers of a children's extreme cross country event have left them high and dry with claims of a natural disaster.
May the 4th be with you: How NZ is celebrating Star Wars Day
Whether they are baking Wookie cookies, dressing up as their favourite character or attending a movie marathon, Star Wars fans are having a big weekend.
Chaos, panic and confusion during mall armed robbery
A 27-year-old man has been arrested for his alleged involvement in the robbery. Audio
'Most horrific threats' - Rainbow storytime tour cancellation draws outrage
Members of the rainbow community say they are heartbroken but not surprised at the cancellation of a tour where drag performers read stories to children in libraries.
Fears sick people will 'soldier on' at work with pseudoephedrine
Michael Baker said pseudoephedrine masks Covid-19 symptoms, meaning people could go back to work or school when they are still unwell and contagious. Video
New York earthquake 'very strange and surreal' experience, NZer says
A New Zealander living in New York says the magnitude 4.8 quake that rocked the north-east US reminded her of home.
'You just never know' - Princess's cancer a wake-up call to others
Cancer Society New Zealand says the announcement by the Princess of Wales is a reminder for everyone to look after their health.