Wellington specialist GP Richard Tyler died after apparently being struck by a falling tree branch during high winds in the capital, according to a health website.
The Labour Party is concerned the Public Service Commissioner is acting in an "overly politicised way", as teachers and health workers prepare for a 'mega strike' this week.
One person has died, thousands are without power and evacuation warnings have been issued while multiple scrub fires burn, as severe winds buffet parts of NZ.
Te Pāti Māori MP Mariameno Kapa-Kingi has hit back at the allegations of "major overspending" from her own party, insisting her electorate budget has never been overspent.
The new Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Act - in force from this weekend - has been watered down and politicised, a recreational fishing advocacy group says.