A tornado has ripped through Levin this morning, causing widespread damage, while downed trees and powerlines are blocking roads around the Horowhenua.
A man was beaten with a hockey stick and had mince and cheese pies thrown at him by three disgruntled males who broke into his caravan while he was asleep.
The Pacific's $196 million package in this year's Budget includes a big chunk set to help deliver a proper historical account of the infamous Dawn Raids.
The health sector is being given $13.2 billion over the next four years including more than $1.8b in new spending in the coming year to address historical cost pressures, boost the workforce and guide in the health reforms.