Monday's headlines: NZ Herald weekday issues to move to compact form in September; urgent Waitangi Tribunal hearing; move to club rugby in Japan tipped for SBW; University of Otago determined to tackle student drinking culture.
NZ Herald
The New Zealand Herald leads with police response times in urban areas getting faster over the past three years, with officers now reaching more than half of priority-one incidents within 10 minutes. However, figures released under the Official Information Act show it has not been happening in some places, including Auckland City with the response time just over 31 minutes.
The paper also reports that an urgent Waitangi Tribunal hearing that could delay the Government's asset sales programme begins in Wellington on Monday.
And the paper has announced that its weekday version will move to compact form in September.
Waikato Times
The Waikato Times reports police in Waikato have dropped all charges against a man accused of a fatal hit-and-run accident, sparking outrage from the victim's family.
Where will Sonny Bill Williams go? The paper says sources have indicated an announcement due on Monday by the Chiefs player will reveal a move to play rugby in Japan for the Panasonic club, in a deal reported to be worth $1.7 million.
Dominion Post
The Dominion Post also leads with David Mascelle having charges against him dropped after a fatal hit and run earlier this year outside Hamilton. The victim's father says it's a joke.
A wife's quest to find her husband's favourite childhood biscuit has led to Griffin's announcing the popular Choco-ade biscuits will be back on shelves, more than 20 years after they were removed.
The Press
The Press says police are being accused of ''animalistic behaviour'' after they shut down a Woolston nightclub during a weekend of drunken disorder.
The paper also reports that 18 low-cost sections are being offered to homeowners having to move out of the residential red zone. The Canterbury Co-operative Land Trust is offering the Rolleston sections for between $113,000 - $139,000 - up to 40% cheaper than other sections in the area.
ODT
Leading The Otago Daily Times, the University of Otago says it's determined to tackle the "unacceptable" drinking culture among its students. The University says it will become involved in opposing liquor licensing, the locations of student bars and reducing drinking in student flats to battle the student drinking culture.
And the Otago regional hairdressing awards on Sunday in Dunedin is pictured.
