Stories by Melanie Earley
News
Mason Clinic patients wait 50 days for a bed
An average wait of 50 days for a bed at Auckland's forensic psychiatric service the Mason Clinic, means many patients are held in prison.
Woman seeks $30k refund from builder as garage sits unfinished
"I think he's blocked me": Roshni Devi says a builder has left her in the lurch with an unfinished job and poorly done flooring.
Suitcase murders: Trial adjourned, trial date to be set
The trial for a woman accused of murdering her two children and hiding their remains in suitcases will not go ahead this week.
The real cost of the school ball experience
With tickets going for more than $300 a pop in some cases, a parent says balls are being "Americanised through TV, movies and social media".
Laura Fergusson Trust vows to rebuild spinal rehab centre
The Trust's new board says there is a "desperate need" for the Auckland centre, which caters to people with spinal cord and brain injuries.
'Lucky to be alive': Mum, daughter injured at car racing event
Moments before a car collided with the barrier they were standing behind, Anita Rossiter's boyfriend joked about a crash happening.
'Highly respected' tramper missing for two weeks
Judy Donovan, 79, has not been seen since becoming separated from her group.
Friends of Kiwi who died in Australia trying to bring body home
A friend of Danielle Whittaker says she was "larger than life" and would want her body returned to New Zealand.
NZer dies while celebrating 40th birthday in Gold Coast
A New Zealand woman has died on Australia's Gold Coast following a suspected overdose during celebrations for her 40th birthday.
Port of Auckland workers protest mayor's long-term lease proposal
Workers gathered on the streets outside Auckland Town Hall to oppose the ports being leased out by the council.
TVNZ staff rally against proposed cuts: 'Implications are very concerning'
Sunday, Fair Go, Midday and Tonight are facing cuts along with up to 68 jobs, TVNZ announced earlier this month.
Auckland's Wynyard crossing bridge closure causing strife for businesses
The bridge is stuck in the up position, after closing to the public in January due to several faults and it's unclear when it will reopen.
Leaky building lawsuit: Council breached duty of care, court finds
Owners of units at a leaky Auckland apartment building have spent a decade getting their compensation lawsuit to court.
AT reassures big events' attendees after P!nk concert woes
A number of large events including Polyfest, the Auckland Arts Festival and a Blues vs Crusaders game are taking place this weekend.
PM's Auckland office vandalised again
The words "grant the visas" have been painted on the walls of Christopher Luxon's electorate office in Auckland.
Why red seaweed has blanketed beaches
Masses of red "hair-like" seaweed has covered beaches on Auckland's Hibiscus Coast.