Karina Cooper

Three people have died on Northland's coastline in eight days, prompting a warning from the country's leading water safety advocates.

Fire crews are battling a 3ha srub fire in remote Pataua South on Northland's East Coast.

As of 3.45pm four fire trucks and 3 helicopters were on site.

Evacuations are under way as firefighters battle a scrub fire in Whangārei this afternoon, with smoke visible above Waikaraka.

Daniel Allen, 46, dies snorkelling in Northland; family honours his adventurous spirit.

A man who died snorkelling at a popular Northland bay on New Year's Eve had been determined to experience everything the world had to offer.

Cruelties against protected birds have increased, with 19 incidents reported this summer, up from 14 last year.

Nineteen incidents were recorded nationwide in the past three months.

A key state highway in Central Hawke's Bay is closed following a crash early this morning.

Police have launched a homicide investigation after a motorcyclist was found dead in a Whangārei creek.