31 July 2008 - A lifetime of commitment to New Zealand horticulture has been recognised with the presentation of the industry's most prestigious prize, the Bledisloe Cup, to Bay of Plenty grower Hugh Moore

31 July 2008 - ``The Big Latch On this year has already broken it's first record with over 100 venues throughout New Zealand.

30 JULY 2008 - The people who are employed to prevent injuries and illness in New Zealand workplaces believe they are paid less than for roles of similar responsibility.

This is one of the findings of a survey of health and safety salaries undertaken by Safeguard magazine.

30 July 2008 - Residents alerted to possible evacuation

Emergency sand bagging is at full pace in Waitakaruru to avoid breaches of stop banks that would lead to a possible evacuation of residents.

30 July 2008 - Army life is not all about being in the field; it requires skills that go beyond the use of weapons and knowledge of war craft.

30 July 2008 - Organics Aotearoa New Zealand (OANZ) is pleased at the Minister of Economic Development's decision, announced today, that OANZ will receive $1.04 million over three years to continue its promotion and support of New Zealand's organic sector.

30 July 2008 - The Council of Trade Unions today reiterated its call for National to release any background material in support of last week's employment policy release.

Mayor back at the helm as storm hits

Thames-Coromandel Mayor Philippa Barriball has returned to full duties and is at the Civil Defence Headquarters in Thames urging residents to stay where they are and avoid any unnecessary travel.

Given the current weather conditions, Police are appealing to motorists to either refrain from travelling or if they have to, reduce speed, turn their lights on and drive to the conditions. A number of motorists have been observed as late as 2:30pm today still driving too fast.

30 July 2008 - A Lotto Strike Four prize worth $290,216 has been claimed by a very surprised Christchurch man.

The lucky winner, who wishes to remain anonymous, said he regularly plays Lotto games but has never won a big prize.