The union has withdrawn its cabin crew strike notice for 18 December, avoiding disruptions over the Christmas period.

Several helicopters and firefighter crews were called to a fire in the Whanganui district.

St John Ambulance was called to the crash in Parawera, at the intersection of Monckton Road and Arapuni Road, about 9.42pm.

The blaze was initially across an area of about 200 square metres, but was fanned by high winds.

The best chance to view the meteor shower is Monday morning between 2am and sunrise.

Jodie Collins said long wait times for diagnosis and treatment often leave patients feeling anxious and powerless.

Police are speaking to a person about the incident and are not seeking anyone else over the matter.

The Ministry of Education says it contacted schools where auditors identified financial problems, but did not formally intervene in any.

FENZ said the temporary bans are part of ongoing efforts to reduce the risk of wildfire over the summer.

Heavy rain and severe gales are expected to hit the South Island, with MetService issuing orange warnings and watches.

Unlike when driving a car, there is no blood alcohol limit for drivers of a recreational boat.

A 19-year-old man was arrested in relation to the altercation.

Police have located a teenager who absconded from a youth justice residence near Christchurch.

The operation will be held on Sunday between Port Taranaki and the Bell Block area.

Two bodies were found at a rural property on Saturday afternoon.