“We just don’t accept that local authorities should be given the ability to set different standards."

Christchurch mayor Bob Parker acknowledges the council has responsibility for issuing consents, but says the building was approved almost three decades ago.

The royal commission's final three volumes into the Canterbury earthquakes are released.

Public consultation begins today on the Canterbury earthquakes' royal commission recommendations.

The families of those killed in the CTV building collapse will be told first.

John Key admits the labour department is partially to blame for failings which led to the mine tragedy.