A police investigation has begun into Peter Mandelson, Britain's former ambassador to the US over alleged misconduct in public office, after claims he leaked market-sensitive info to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Serial rapist Malcolm Rewa has admitted to sexually attacking another woman.

The nationwide police search for a 39-year-old Christchurch mum who was last seen in Burwood in August has hit a wall.

Handler A J Dereume holds Phil the groundhog, as Phil makes his prediction on how long winter will last in the US.