Thursday's headlines: Report into Len Brown's affair being stalled while the mayor takes legal advice; runaway millionaire to be released from prison soon; parents of missing man want to cuddle him again.
NZ Herald
The New Zealand Herald leads with the delayed report into Len Brown's affair and says its release is being stalled while the mayor takes legal advice about its content. The paper also reports that some councillors say the drawn out review is affecting their ability to do their jobs.
The man dubbed the "French Spider-man" is pictured as he scaled the Metropolis in Auckland building without climbing ropes.
Waikato Times
The Waikato Times continues its coverage of the search for missing Australian tennis coach, Paul Arber. His parents believe their son is still alive but he may be in an "irrational, psychotic state''. The couple spoke of the last time they saw him and how they just want to cuddle him again.
The paper has also spoken to those taking part in the Waikato Christmas Junior Tournament following Mr Arber's disappearance. Organisers says every effort is being made to keep things normal for the tennis players.
Dominion Post
The Dominion Post reports that runaway millionaire, Hui "Leo" Gao is soon to be released from prison - but asks the question, "Where's the money?". The former petrol station owner was given a $10 million overdraft by mistake but the paper says it is not clear how much of the money Gao still has access to.
In other news: a report on an inquiry into leaks at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade which is due on Thursday. The paper says it is one of the costliest of its kind, but none of the key players are expected to be named.
The Press
The Press leads with the news that about 150 people are currently classified as ''at risk'' on Housing New Zealand waiting list in Canterbury. The paper reports that the number has almost tripled since the earthquakes.
The front page also carries a picture showing the underneath of the bridge on the Bridge Street in Christchuch which will receive major repairs this weekend, much to the relief of the community.
ODT
The Otago Daily Times leads with the major delays on State Highway 88 on Wednesday following botched road works. Motorists and cruise-ship passengers stuck on buses were frustrated by the snarl-up on the only direct route between Port Chalmers and the central city.
And in other news: Alexandra ratepayers could face increased water rates of up to $800 per year to get improved domestic water.
