Members' bills from opposition MPs are more often than not doomed to fail, but there have been exceptions to the rule this term.

Like drivers issuing their own warrants of fitness - that's how building experts and renter advocates describe the new Healthy Homes Standards.

Slash and sediment polluted an important stream in Waihī for over a year and despite six inspections, and two abatement notices, a logging company refused to change its behaviour and continued to cause environmental damage.

A convicted British criminal who duped more than 20 Kiwis into giving him $337,700 says he is now disgusted and embarrassed by his actions.

Forecasters say more bad weather could bring significant rain to the waterlogged top of the South Island towards the end of this month and into August.