The quake was recorded at a depth of 10 kilometres.

Wildfires worsened overnight on Lou Island in Papua New Guinea, with local authorities saying at least half of the islands forests are gone.

Jotham Napat has shut down claims that he could be facing a leadership challenge through a no-confidence vote at the next parliamentary sitting in two weeks' time.

The deal, from the European Union's point of view, would recognise nickel's place as a strategic resource and raw material.

Aitutaki's primary port has been partially destroyed as Tropical Cyclone Wati sweeps through the Southern Cook Islands.

The 82-year-old host has worked at the station since 1961, when he was just 17 years old.

Anyone who has seen the man or his kayak is urged to call 111.

The Secretary for Education Ellen Macgregor-Reid has twice tried to close the West Coast Christian community's school over student safety concerns.

Steven John Karehana, who was awarded the Commissioner's Award, has pleaded guilty.

The teenagers fell several metres from the ride and hit another girl on the ground.