Canterbury

About 600 people could lose their jobs - and Federated Farmers says "excessive red tape" is partly to blame.

Seven people have been taken to hospital following a single-vehicle crash in Canterbury.

There's "absolute outrage" in the community and calls for quad bikes to be banned from beaches following the deaths.

Thousands of people are expected to protest today over the latest setbacks in the rebuild project. Audio

Beef + Lamb NZ says it had been a "challenging time" for farmers and processing companies due to spiralling costs.

The jury asked what happened if they could not reach a unanimous decision and were advised they could return a majority verdict.

Declining sheep processing numbers are blamed for proposed closure. The plant employs more than 600.

Hundreds of Canterbury meatworkers are waiting to find out if their jobs are safe.

They were mounting the appeal for their 3-year-old daughter, "who has lost her future through this decision".

A hut holder says Ashburton's council made the right decision not to apply for resource consent to divert water from Balmacaan Stream to the troubled Lake Camp.

The owner of Auto Inspection Services says his business is a "quite a mess" after a fire spread through the premises.

Customers required emergency hospital treatment after suffering severe allergic reactions in two separate incidents at Ashburton cafes.

Alpine Guides has confirmed one of its heli-skiing guides was buried when the avalanche occurred and later died.

"It has become increasingly apparent that the focus on me is a distraction from the work," Peter Scott says.

Heavy rains are on their way and some areas could face 160mm, while strong winds are also expected in some places.

Christchurch's Port Hill residents are disappointed Fire and Emergency can not say what started the 14 February fire.