12 November 2008 - The decision by the National Party to put women candidates in contention for crucial electorate seats for their party paid off says the National Council of Women of New Zealand (NCWNZ).

12 November 2008 - New Zealand's largest Christmas gift appeal for needy families got underway today, with television presenter Sarah Bradley officially launching the 2008 Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal.

12 November 2008 - Kapiti Mayor Jenny Rowan of Kapiti, has challenged the National Government to make local government a high priority during the next three years.

12 November 2008 - Kapiti Mayor Jenny Rowan of Kapiti, has challenged the National Government to make local government a high priority during the next three years.

12 NOVEMBER 2008 - The Christchurch City Council's Annual Report 2008 shows the organisation came out ahead of its financial targets in the 2007/08 financial year.

12 November 2008 - A support programme that each year helps over 5,000 children with heart conditions and their families has received a funding boost from the Sovereign Sunshine programme.

12 November 2008 - The new John Key government needs to address the serious concerns relating to bright young women with eating disorders, a leading new private health addiction treatment clinic said today.

12 November 2008 - Philippa Ashford is paying a huge price for years spent baking in the sun.

Six years ago Philippa, a 57-year-old Auckland tourism promoter, had a melanoma removed from her lower leg.

12 NOVEMBER 2008 - Prepare for one of the biggest and best International Chardonnay Challenges ever.

The 2009 event has attracted a stellar judges' panel, headed by the only onshore female Master of Wine in New Zealand, Jane Skilton.

12 November 2008 - Kiwis wanting to quit smoking need psychological support according to a leading smoking cessation expert.