Monday's headlines: Seven weeks of pain for toddler who swallowed super-string magnets; 35kg ovarian cyst removed from woman at Timaru; luggage 'bumped' by Jetstar to make room for military equipment.
NZ Herald
The New Zealand Herald reports on a toddler's horror toy meal. Three-year-old Seth Vagana swallowed 20 super-strong, small toy magnets - then spent seven weeks in pain as they gripped each other and eventually punctured his bowel.
New Zealand is moving towards banning Buckyballs, a popular adult desk toy, after similar incidents and bans in the United States and Australia.
Waikato Times
'Fire-fighters overloaded' is the headline in The Waikato Times. Volunteer fire brigades believe it is only a matter of time before someone will die on their watch as they are sent to a growing number of medical callouts.
Severe weather warnings are being issued as the tail end of cyclone Evan reaches our shores, but Coromandel campers are determined to keep on keeping on.
The Dominion Post reports Christmas cheer became a Christmas nightmare for thousands of fliers after their travel plans were shelved because of fog in Wellington.
Air New Zealand cancelled all flights and told passengers to go home and rebook. Jetstar, Qantas and Virgin were also affected.
Timaru woman Sharon Watts has had the gift of Christmas health this year.
Mrs Watts has had a 35kg ovarian cyst removed - her surgeon said its the largest he's ever seen, being about the size of 10 babies.
The Press reports the race to develop Christchurch's City Mall is all on, with one would-be developer confirming its first land purchase and a new contender also emerging for the site.
Also on the front page: 60 Jetstar passengers on a delayed flight to Christchurch faced a further 24 hour wait after discovering that their luggage was 'bumped' to make room for military equipment.
And Santa is pictured with Bruce the kunekune pig and his owner Cat Henderson. Bruce was amongst a host of pets having a photo opportunity with the jolly old gentleman this year.
ODT
The Otago Daily TImes reports the Luggate Park residential development by Delta is under offer. Delta, which is owned by Dunedin City Council, paid $5.3 million for a 50-50 stake in 2009.
Otago retailers are said to be delighted after a last minute turnout of holiday shoppers.
