Midday Report: Recent Episodes
RNZ
Midday Report - Te Pūrongo o te Poutūtanga. RNZ's midday current affairs programme, including RNZ News, business, rural and sports news, plus the long-range weather forecast and Worldwatch. Presented by Charlotte Cook.
A Libyan living in New Zealand says the scale of the devastation from catastrophic flooding is difficult to comprehend. Thousands of people have been killed and about 10,000 are still missing in the Libyan city of Derna, following a huge storm that burst dams, swept away buildings and wrecked whole neighbourhoods. Baha Mabrouk lives in Wellington and told Charlotte Cook he's hearing some awful stories from back home.
Former All Black Julian Savea will play Super Rugby for Moana Pasifika next year after being let go by the Hurricanes. Jonty Dine has sports.
Homeware and sports retailer Briscoe Group remains upbeat in the face of challenging conditions, with flat sales and shrinking margins. Kim Moodie has the business news.
The Labour Party is promising to deliver more than 300 more doctors a year from 2027. It says if elected to government it will increase medical school places by 95 students in each of 2025, 2026 and 2027. It says the increases on top of 50 new places next year would provide an additional 335 doctors every year from 2027. Association of Salaried Medical Specialists president Dr Julian Vyas spoke to Charlotte Cook.
Former Labour Minister Kiri Allan has pleaded not guilty to a charge of of refusing to accompany an enforcement officer, after crashing her car in Wellington in late July. Reporter Krystal Gibbens updated Charlotte Cook with the latest.
The ACT party wants to increase the prison population back to the 10,000 inmate record from 2017 as part of its law and order package. The policy includes a billion dollars to increase capacity by 500 beds and tougher penalties for people who assault vulnerable workers. Its leader David Seymour told Charlotte Cook the policies would put more emphasis on victims.
Experts project almost 15,000 extra construction workers could be needed at the peak of Cyclone Gabrielle recovery efforts. In Hawke's Bay specifically, that number could reach 8,700 additional workers. So what does that mean for the region and its recovery? Hastings District Council chief executive To'osavili Nigel Bickle spoke to Charlie Dreaver.
National's Health Spokesperson, Shane Rei, says his party cannot commit to adopting Labour's free cervical smear policy if elected, without first seeing the costings and impact it will have on labs. On Tuesday morning Labour announced it would make cervical screening free for 25-to-69 year olds, if they're re-elected. National's health spokesperson, Dr. Shane Reti, told Charlie Dreaver the policy is too light on detail for his party to decide whether to back it.
The two booking agents accused of health and safety failings in the Whakaari/White Island trial have had their charges dismissed. ID Tours and Tauranga Tourism Services made a submission for dismissal to the Auckland District Court last week. Reporter Lucy Xia was at Auckland District Court and spoke to Charlie Dreaver.
Leptospirosis cases in humans are on the rise, but an expert in infectious zoonotic diseases - passed from animals to humans - says more research is needed to understand how the bacterial disease is being transmitted between animals and between species. Monique Steele has the rural news.
The All Blacks have turned to a former mentor as they look to bounce back from their opening game loss to hosts France at the Rugby World Cup. Sir Steve Hansen, who has the highest winning percentage of any All Blacks coach, is with the team until later this week. Felicity Reid has sports.
Air New Zealand expects there will be significant disruptions to its regional flight schedule from next year, as a result of maintenance delays. Andrew McRae has the business news.
Dunedin's deputy mayor Sophie Barker has resigned, saying the breach of a confidential council meeting was the final straw. Just days ago, she and senior city councillor Jim O'Malley filed a complaint about Mayor Jules Radich, for minimising a racist outburst by community board chairman Barry Williams. Barker will continue on as a councillor. Radich has accepted her resignation and RNZ has contacted the Mayor for comment. Sophie Barker was not available for an interview today, but councillor Jim O'Malley spoke to Charlie Dreaver.
Treasury will this afternoon publish its Pre-election Economic and Fiscal Update - or PREFU - with much of the speculation being that it will paint a rocky economic picture. It will outline forecasts for inflation, government debt, unemployment and economic growth. ASB senior economist Mark Smith spoke to Charlie Dreaver.
National, Labour and the Green Party last night all committed to building one thousand state houses in Auckland each year, if they're elected into Government. The commitment was made at a debate in Auckland last night. Paul Gilberd, chief executive of Community Housing Aotearoa, spoke to Charlotte Cook
Animal rights group SAFE launched a new advertising campaign focused on National's live export policy. Monique Steele has the rural news.
Robyn Broughton, one of New Zealand's most successful netball coaches, has died. Broughton coached the Southern Sting and then Southern Steel between 1998 and 2011 and won seven national titles. Barry Guy has sports.
Transport software company and takeover target - ERoad - is raising $50 million to repay debt and fund growth, particularly in North America. Anan Zaki has the business news.
Under pressure over law-and-order, the Labour Party is promising to add another 300 police officers to the front-line over four years. It says that will be one of the new ways it will crackdown on gangs. In June, the Government announced it had delivered an extra 1,800 police while in office - a previous commitment. Labour's leader Chris Hipkins says he intends to grow that further - ensuring there is at least one officer for every 470 New Zealanders - the best ratio in modern history. Meanwhile in Queenstown the Leader of the National Party, Christopher Luxon, has set his sights on increasing tourism, and making changes to working holiday visa rules. Our Political Editor Jane Patterson was at the announcement and spoke to Charlotte Cook.
Emergency department doctors want political parties to commit to 24-hour security staff in every ED across the motu. The Australasian College for Emergency Medicine has issued a call for proper solutions to the problems in the health system that are leading to long waits for care, staff burnout and rising levels of aggression and violence in EDs. The College's chair, Dr Kate Allan, spoke to Charlotte Cook.
The Coroner has found the driver of a van that crashed, killing himself and six family members in Picton last year, was operating the vehicle on less that four hours sleep. One of the children who died was a 14-year-old student at Pukekohe High School - one of his surviving brothers continues to study there part time. Pukekohe High School principal Richard Barnett spoke to Charlie Dreaver.
The Commerce Commission is asking fuel companies to explain why there are differences in fuel prices between regions. The latest Quarterly Fuel Monitoring Report for the period ending March 2023 has found variations in pricing, with motorists in Whangarei paying more for fuel, while Hamilton had the lowest prices. Joining us now is Automobile Association's fuel spokesperson/petrol watch spokesperson/principal advisor, Terry Collins.
After blocking imports of our dairy products, Canada has been told it's been breaking international trading rules and needs to stop. Monique Steele has the rural news.
The Black Caps turned around the T20 series with England to draw the series after winni game four at Trent Bridge in Nottingham by six wickets. Barry Guy has sports.
The Commerce Commission says it will do what it can to encourage more competitive fuel pricing, but it is ultimately up to consumers to shop around for better prices. Anan Zaki has the business news.
Labour has just announced its plan to supercharge New Zealand's economy if re-elected. Among its promises is a hundred-million-dollar cash injection for agricultural technology and expanding trade agreements. Deputy Political Editor Craig McCulloch spoke to Charlie Dreaver about the newly-released policy.
The man accused of an axe attack on Auckland's North Shore has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. Three people were injured after the incident at a block of Chinese restaurants on Corinthian Drive in Albany earlier this year. RNZ reporter Finn Blackwell was at the Auckland District Court and spoke to Charlie Dreaver.
The police say the Waikato fugitive Tom Phillips is considered dangerous, after he was linked to a bank robbery in Te Kūiti in May. Police issued a warrant for his arrest yesterday, after he was charged with aggravated robbery, aggravated wounding and unlawfully possessing a firearm. Phillips and his three children, Jayda, Maverick, and Ember, were reported missing from their home in January last year. Jordan Dunn was at the media conference and spoke to Charlie Dreaver.
New Zealand Rugby has been urged to make dramatic changes after a review of the running of the organisation. Barry Guy has sports.
High profits in the electricity industry shows a broken structure which needs to be reviewed, according to Consumer NZ. Kim Moodie has the business news.
Māori-owned Moana Fisheries says people need all the facts about commercial fishing in the Hauraki Gulf before responding to government plans to restrict fishing there. Sally Murphy has the rural news.
Novak Djokovic returns to the U.S. Open spotlight this afternoon as the three-time champion takes centre stage on opening night at the season's final Grand Slam. Jonty Dine has sports.
Campervan company Tourism Holdings is riding the wave of rebounding tourism demand, with profits surging after last year's loss. Kim Moodie has the business news.
The US market could offer a glimmer of hope for struggling sheep meat prices - with more New Zealand product being exported there. Sally Murphy has the rural news.
Scott Dixon has won back to back races in the Indy car series with victory on an oval track in St Louis. Bridget Tunnicliffe has sports.
Fast food operator Restaurant Brands' half year profit has slumped more than 85 percent on the back of higher costs, staff shortages and global inflationary pressures. Kim Moodie has the business news.
Midday sports News for 25 August 2023 The All Blacks captain Sam Cane has been in touch with Steve Hansen and says he has no problem with his former coach helping out the Wallabies. Plenty of eyebrows were raised when it was announced former All Blacks mentor Hansen would help rivals Australia with their preparations ahead of Monday's test against France.
The single-desk kiwifruit exporter Zespri admits it was not nimble enough to deal with poor quality fruit late last year which threatened the reputation of the $4 billion industry. Susan Murray has sports.
The All Blacks coach Ian Foster will be keeping a close on Luke Jacobson this weekend as he looks to settle on his first choice loose forward line-up for their opening World Cup game against hosts France in a couple of weeks. Barry Guy has sports.
Air New Zealand has surged back into profit, but is wary of uncertain economic pressures and volatile costs. Kim Moodie has the business news.
A number of rural school principals nationwide are bucking the Government's plan to outfit 800 schools with synthetic flooring tiles - and are fundraising to purchase New Zealand wool carpet themselves. Susan Murray has the rural news.
An impressive final lap earned George Beamish fifth place in the men's steeplechase in Budapest - a best ever finish by a New Zealand man in a track event in the 40-year history of the championships. Barry Guy has sports.
Gaming company Sky City Entertainment has had a strong recovery as open borders and no-Covid restrictions lifted activity. Kim Moodie has the business news.
A recurrence of an old injury hampered Eliza McCartney's World Athletics Championships campaign on what was a disappointing night for New Zealand's pole vaulters in Hungary. Felicity Reid has sports.
Honey exporter Comvita has reported record full-year revenue, with all market segments seeing double-digit growth. Kim Moodie has the business news.
A2 has today announced its financial results and its sales have risen by more than ten percent amid a challenging market. Susan Murray has the rural news.
The Spanish Football Association has been quick to promote a united front following Spain's victory in the Women's World Cup. Jonty Dine has sports.
Strong growth in speciality dairy company A2 milk's Chinese market has lifted its profit but it's warning of a slowdown next year. Kim Moodie has the business news.
A further price shock is rattling the rural sector as dairy giant Fonterra slashes its milk price forecast for the second time in a fortnight. Monique Steele has the rural news.
The All Blacks first-five Richie Mo'unga has slammed the decision to overturn England captain Owen Farrell's red card for a dangerous tackle. Bridget Tunnicliffe has sports.
Telecommunications company Spark's profit has skyrocketed after selling a majority stake in its mobile towers and quitting its sports streaming business. Gyles Beckford has the business news.
Conservation group Forest and Bird is calling on the fishing industry to put an end date on the controversial practice of bottom trawling. Monique Steele has the rural news.
Coach Tony Gustavsson believes the current Australian side have added to the Matildas legacy and he says their run at the World Cup must result in more funding for women's football in the country. Felicity Reid has sports.
Strong demand from the industrial sectors has powered Skellerup to another record-full year result amid challenging economic conditions. Gyles Beckford has the business news.
New Zealand dairy farmers are gritting their teeth as global dairy prices nose-dive to a four-year low. Monique Steele has the rural news.
England and Australia are both chasing history as they bid to reach the women's football World Cup final for the first time. Felicity Reid has sports.
Fletcher Building's full year profit has been hit by ongoing costs associated the International Convention Centre and Hobson Street Hotel project in Auckland. Gyles Beckford has the business news.
Rural services provider PGG Wrightson's annual profit has dropped by nearly a third with high debt and weaker real estate impacting returns. Monique Steele has the rural news.
Sweden's Fridolina Rolfö has been cheering on her Barcelona team mates playing for Spain at the Women's World Cup but will now hope to send them packing from the tournament in tonight's semi-final at Eden Park. Stephen Hewson has sports.
Rural supplies business PGG Wrightson has posted what it calls a strong result in the face bad weather, easing prices, and volatile conditions. Gyles Beckford has the business news.
It's been six months since Cyclone Gabrielle hit the East Coast, and in the worst hit regions along the East Coast many farmers and growers are still in survival mode. Monique Steele has the rural news.
Reigning Supercars champion Shane van Gisbergen has finished tenth in his second NASCAR race. Barry Guy has sports.
Contact Energy's full year profit is down nearly a third on the last year, reflecting an 11 percent drop in revenue. Gyles Beckford has the business news.
R-CALF USA, the largest body representing producers of cattle and sheep in America, says the sheep industry there has been decimated over the last three decades with an explosion of lamb and mutton from Australia and New Zealand pushing down returns for local producers. Sally Murphy has the rural news.
Tomasi Cama has been named as Head Coach of the All Blacks Sevens for the 2024 season. Jonty Dine has sports.
Fonterra's improved full year profit outlook is a bright spot in an otherwise tough year ahead for farmers. Anan Zaki has the business news.
Punnets of kiwifruit have been recalled in the US - over listeria concerns. Zespri says the fruit has been traced back to two orchards - so all the fruit from them is now on hold - which is about 3,400 trays. Sally Murphy has the rural news.
World champion cyclist Aaron Gate says victory in the points race this morning at the world champs in Glasgow was simply a bonus. Jonty Dine has sports.
The agri-business group Scales Corporation is expanding its pet food investments with a 50-percent ownership stake in a newly-established European ingredient processing operation. Anan Zaki has the business news.
News from the rural farming sector With over 15 thousand signatures the petition calling on the government to use only wool carpets in its buildings has so far failed to reach the final stage due to an administrative error. New figures have confirmed the conversion of farmland to forestry has slowed amid uncertainty around the future of carbon credits. While export beef and lamb prices continue to drop - the venison market is beginning to show some strength.
Midday sports News for 9 August 2023 New Zealand cyclist Aaron Gate was confident his partner Campbell Stewart would win the final sprint and get them on the Madison podium at the World Cycling Champs in Glasgow. Pace bowler Trent Boult will play his first one day cricket international in a year having been named in the Black Caps squad for the team's penultimate series before the World Cup in India in October.
News from the business sector ASB Bank has posted a record full year profit of 1.56 billion dollars, thanks largely to a strong first half. Kiwisaver funds have continued their rebound as global markets stage a recovery. Homewares and sport goods retailer Briscoe Group is boosting investment in security for its stores as it sees a rising number of breaks ins.
Some confronting footage of effluent from a pig farm overflowing into a stream has been released by Waikato Regional Council. Sally Murphy has the rural news.
All Blacks coach Ian Foster says they've learnt lessons from the 2019 World Cup. After naming his squad for this year's tournament, Foster says the All Blacks of 2023 won't repeat the mistakes of four years ago. Stephen Hewson has sports.
The Commerce Commission expects merchants to pass on an estimated $105 million a year in savings on the Mastercard and Visa card fees charged to consumers. Anan Zaki has the business news.
An advisor says many farmers will be working 50 hour weeks for the rest of the year without taking home a paycheck due to falling commodity prices. Schedules for sheep and beef continue a downward spiral with competition from overseas producers and lower international demand. Sally Murphy has the rural news.
The All Blacks World Cup squad is named later today and while the majority of selections are fairly predictable, there will still be some players who will be unlucky to miss out and others who might be considered fortuitous to have made it. Felicity Reid has sports.
Fast food retailer Restaurant Brands is warning of a big drop in profit as it faces significant cost pressures. Anan Zaki has the business news.
Midday sports News for 4 August 2023 Former All Black captain Tane Norton has died, he was 81.
News from the rural farming sector For the first time since eradication efforts began there are no farms infected with m.bovis. It's a hugetone in the eradication of mycoplasma bovis, but officials say we're still not out of the woods just yet. It's expected the forecast milk price will drop further after values nose-dived at the global dairy auction overnight. A dumping of snow around the bottom half of the South Island isn't causing issues for farmers with many saying the bad weather has headed north.
Midday sports News for The Silver Ferns play South Africa at the World Cup in Cape Town tomorrow morning knowing they can't afford a slip up. With both the Bledisloe Cup and Rugby Championship locked away, the All Blacks are expected to give some wider squad members a crack against the Wallabies in Dunedin this weekend, with Samipeni Finau likely to make his debut. The odds of the USA retaining their World Cup title are fading, but for another couple of teams they're on the rise.
News from the business sector The labour market shows few signs of weakening just yet. Unemployment for the year ended June lifted slightly to 3.6 percent from 3.4 percent. Air New Zealand is looking for two local airports to be part of initial testing for a new generation of zero or low emissions aircraft. Life experience has replaced family wisdom as the main source of financial information for younger people and that's leading to calls for better financial education in high school.
Securing a stable workforce was top of the agenda at this morning's Apples and Pears Conference in Christchurch. Sally Murphy has the rural news.
The United States, the Netherlands and England will attempt to seal knockout stage places in FIFA World Cup action today. In their final group matches the US play Portugal at Eden Park, the Netherlands play Vietnam in Dunedin and England play China in Adelaide. Jonty Dine has sports.
The country's biggest glass manufacturer Metro Performance Glass has been grilled by shareholders over the potential sale of its Australian business and its overall performance. Kim Moodie has the business news.
Hawkes Bay growers say following changes the Government has made to one of its cyclone recovery packages, they have a clearer path forward. Monique Steel has the rural news.
The Football Ferns concede they simply didn't score enough goals to reach to the knockout stage of the World Cup. Felicity Reid has sports.
People trading on high risk investment platforms are being advised to know the ins and outs of their trades, after an investor was left more than $150,000 out of pocket. Kim Moodie has the business news.
Waikato Federated Farmers dairy chair, Matthew Zonderop, says the combination of inflation, paying wages, high feed prices and a falling beef price schedule is putting people off raising bobby calves. Monique Steele has the rural news.
The Silver Ferns begin their Netball World Cup title defence in Capetown tonight with the side seen as tournament favourites by many, despite a disappointing third place finish at last year's Commonwealth Games. Stephen Hewson has sports.
Consumers have become slightly more pessimistic with more signs job security is under threat in the cooling economy. Kim Moodie has the business news.
The Forest Owners Association says the Government's reset of the ETS is a step in the right direction, but it isn't enough to restore confidence in the forestry sector. Monique Steele has the rural news.
Ardie Savea will captain the All Blacks against the Wallabies in Melbourne on Saturday night with regular skipper Sam Cane ruled out with injury. Stephen Hewson has sports.
Small and medium sized businesses are cautiously optimistic about their future despite ongoing tough economic conditions. Anan Zaki has the business news.
A Waikato dairy company was fined over $32,000 for failing to declare hundreds of animal movements. Sally Wenley has the rural news.
Last night's football has the kiwi coach asking 'where has the grit gone?' Jonty Dine has sports.
The majority of investors plan to increase investment over the coming year as they feel more confident about market conditions, according to a new survey. Anan Zaki has the business news.
A Canterbury farmer has started a petition calling on the government to buy only wool carpets. Sally Wenley has the rural news.
The Football Ferns have achieved their first goal at the World Cup - winning a game - the aim now is to reach the round of 16 knockout phase. Stephen Hewson has sports.
Demand for credit has risen for the first time in two years as consumers sign up for credit cards and personal loans. Anan Zaki has the business news.
Huge downpours in Canterbury over the weekend flooded paddocks and created muddy conditions for stock and roads that were repaired after flooding two years ago have been wrecked. Sally Wenley has the rural news.
Teenage New Zealand swimming sensation Erica Fairweather says she'll have to continue breaking the four minute barrier if she's to be a medal contender in the 400m freestyle at next year's Paris Olympics. Stephen Hewson has sports.
The founder of transport software company ERoad is returning to the company in a consultancy role, just over a year since he stepped down as its chief executive. Gyles Beckford has the business news.
Over 250 Hawkes Bay farmers will receive 75 kilometres of fencing materials, including 20,000 fence posts, today in a bid to help them get back on their feet after Cyclone Gabrielle. Sally Murphy has the rural news.
It's business as usual today for the Football Ferns, with coach Jitka Klimková keen for the players move on from the elation of last night's World Cup triumph. Stephen Hewson has sports.
Two former senior executives of the failed honey export company, Oceania Natural, have been ordered to pay more than $2 million for trying to manipulate the company's share price and breaching disclosure rules. Gyles Beckford has the business news.
Since the beginning of June, exporters have been talking about tough market conditions for lamb, and now we have some trade data to back that up. Sally Murphy has the rural news.
The opening match of the Football World Cup will still go ahead despite today's shooting in Auckland. Stephen Hewson has sports.
The Livestock Improvement Corporation has posted a modest rise in full year profit as demand for its genetics and herd improvement services increased. Gyles Beckford has the business news.
Much of Auckland's CBD has been shut down this morning following a shooting on Quay Street. The gunman entered the building just after seven this morning and climbed the levels to then hide in a elevator shaft. Heart of the City chief executive Viv Beck spoke to Charlotte Cook.
Auckland's deputy mayor Desley Simpson provides an update after the shooting in Auckland CBD on Thursday morning. St Johns Ambulance has confirmed 3 people were treated for moderate injuries, three others for serious injuries. Simpson spoke to Charlotte Cook.
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown told RNZ this morning a police officer was injured in the incident. Scores of police officers responded to the incident, many of them carrying rifles. Police Association president Chris Cahill spoke to Charlotte Cook.
The first game of the FIFA Football Women's World Cup is due to take place at Eden Park tonight. It was supposed to be an almost sellout game, but now many attendees will be shaken by this morning's event. Eden Park chief executive Nick Sautner spoke to Charlotte Cook.
Two workers at the Deloitte building construction site say they came face to face with an armed gunman. As we've been reporting the man entered the building just after 7 this morning and climbed the levels to then hide in a elevator shaft. RNZ reporter Lucy Xia is at the scene and spoke to some of the workers who were inside the building.
Police have confirmed three people are dead and half a dozen injured after an active shooter in Auckland this morning. The shooter has been confirmed as one of the deceased after he opened fire at One Queen St which was under construction. Reporter Jemima Huston has wrapped up the unfolding situation so far.
Jordan Hamilton-Bicknell who runs boutique butchery, Wild Game, in Hastings took out both supreme honours at the 100% New Zealand Bacon and Ham awards in Auckland last night. Sally Murphy has the rural news.
Two-time Commonwealth Games shot put champion Tom Walsh says the doubt now surrounding the 2026 Commonwealth Games will strip many New Zealand athletes of something to strive for. Stephen Hewson has sports.
Inflation has slowed its lowest level since the end of 2021. Gyles Beckford has the business news.
According to a new report The veterinary profession and its training are approaching a crisis point and need an urgent overhaul. Sally Wenley has the rural news.
Australia's Victoria state will not host the 2026 Commonwealth Games because of cost overruns. Stephen Hewson has sports.
The country's biggest bank has unveiled a $250 million fund to support business customers affected by extreme weather. Gyles Beckford has the business news.
DOC rangers are out surveying whitebait populations ahead of the upcoming season. Sally Wenley has the rural news.
Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz says he didn't expect to win the grand slam tournament this early in his career. Barry Guy has sports.
Computer chip maker Rakon says it's first quarter trading is better than expected but it could be short lived. Gyles Beckford has the business news.
New research led by University of Otago Professor Garry Nixon, shows twice the number of under-30-year-olds living in rural areas die, compared to those in cities. Kim Moodie has the rural news.
New Black Ferns captain Maia Roos is hoping her own play will help lead the team around the field in Saturday morning' Pacific Four game against the USA in Ottawa. Felicity Reid has sports.
The manufacturing sector contracted for the fourth month in a row in June to its lowest level of activity since November 2022. Gyles Beckford has the business news.
The Ministry of Education has pushed back at wool farmers and suppliers who complained about its decision to buy nylon carpet for more than 600 schools from the United States. Sally Murphy has the rural news.
Having wrapped up the T20 series against Sri Lanka with a game to spare, the White Ferns will look to give some of their less experienced players game time in today's match in Colombo. Barry Guy has sports.
The union representing Westpac bank members says they're threatening industrial action as a last resort option to get a better wage offer after four months of bargaining. Kim Moodie has the business news.
Black Caps coach Gary Stead still believes a split-coaching role should be considered in the future. Felicity Reid has sports.
Households are reluctant to spend on big ticket items although overall consumer spending is higher, according to Kiwibank. Kim Moodie has the business news.
Primary Industry exporters are getting ready to take advantage of the EU free trade deal. Sally Wenley has the rural news.
Belarusian Victoria Azarenka says it was unfair she was booed off court by Wimbledon fans after losing a three set thriller to Ukraine's Elina Svitolina. Bridget Tunnicliffe has sports.
Utilities investor Infratil is to take an 80 percent stake in a Hong Kong based business Console Connect for close to $260 million. Kim Moodie has the business news.
Bull auctions wrapped up this week. Farmers around the country sought out the best genetics to add to their breeding stock. Kim Moodie has the rural news.
All Blacks coach Ian Foster is defending his selection of Damian McKenzie at first five ahead of Richie Mo'unga for Sunday's first test of the year against Argentina in Mendoza. Bridget Tunnicliffe has sports.
A new report from Retail NZ says more than a third of retailers aren't confident they can survive the next 12 months. Gyles Beckford has the business news.
Novak Djokovic joked that Stan Wawrinka stole two grand slams off him before saying he was looking forward to a battle of the "veterans" at Wimbledon, if his old rival can win his next match. Jonty Dine has sports.
A clash of heavyweights is looming as the Commerce Commission wants telecommunications concern One NZ, formerly Vodafone, to stop its high profile 100-percent mobile coverage advertising campaign. Gyles Beckford has the business news.
A new venture is catching kina and feeding them in land-based tanks to bolster their roe production which is apparently delicious to eat. Sally Wenley has the rural news.
England batter and former skipper Joe Root says it's time to move on from the Jonny Bairstow controversy and concentrate on winning the Ashes. Jonty Dine has sports.
The possible production of sustainable aviation fuel at the former Marsden Point refinery has taken a step forward with further work on the feasibility of such a project. Gyles Beckford has the business news.
The top researchers and innovators in the primary industries have been recognised for their work. This years Primary Industry Awards were held in Wellington last night. Sally Wenley has the rural news.
All Blacks first five Richie Mo'unga says they've taken a simple approach to training this week ahead of the Rugby Championship opener against Argentina in Mendoza. Barry Guy has sports.
Business confidence remains deeply negative as firms are being squeezed between still high inflation and slowing demand. Gyles Beckford has the business news.
Farmers in the lower half of the South Island are battling blizzard like conditions and freezing temperatures as a cold snap sweeps across the land. Sally Murphy has the rural news.
The Marylebone Cricket Club has suspended three of its members after verbal altercations with Australia players at Lord's on the fifth and final day of the second Ashes cricket test. Stephen Hewson has sports.
New Zealand's productivity is one of the worse among developed economies and needs serious long term commitment and investment to turn it around, according to a new report. Gyles Beckford has the business news.
The Football Ferns team for the upcoming World Cup is being named today in Auckland. The tournament is being hosted by New Zealand and Australia, with the first match kicking off at Eden Park in just under three weeks time. Sports reporter Barry Guy spoke to Perlina Lau from the team naming.
Mount Ruapheu's ski fields are opening to skiers from tomorrow, after been thrown a last minute lifeline loan by the Government. It looked like Whakapapa and Turoa ski fields would stay closed this year, after the operators went into liquidation last week, but the Government has stepped in and given them a $5 million loan. The Chief Executive of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, Jonathan Dean, spoke to Perlina Lau.
Four farms covering more than 2,000 hectares have been sold to overseas investors. Sally Murphy has the rural news.
Consumer confidence is at its best level in 18 months. Anan Zaki has the business news.
The conduct of cabinet minister Kiri Allan remains under scrutiny, after another media report of poor workplace behaviour. Senior public service officials have said they were aware of concerns regarding relationships in the Minister's office, while this morning The Post reported new allegations from an anonymous public servant, who told the paper Ms Allan 'yelled and screamed' at staff. Ms Allan has strongly refuted all of the allegations. Political commentator Brigitte Morten spoke to Perlina Lau.
Motorists are taking advantage of the last day of the government's fuel subsidy, with long lines forming at some fuel stations. The 25 cents a litre discount for petrol will end at midnight, as well as half price public transport for people over 25. RNZ's reporter in Auckland, Delphine Herbert, spoke to Perlina Lau from outside the Costco petrol station in West Auckland.
There are calls for more peer support workers to play a bigger role in the mental health and addiction system. A new paper released by Te Hiringa Mahara - the Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission - is highlighting the significant contribution peer support workers make, thanks to their unique first-hand understanding of distress, addiction and recovery. At the moment they account for almost 3.5 percent of the total workforce. Chief executive of Te Hiringa Mahara, Karen Orsborn spoke to Perlina Lau.
Name suppression lapsed yesterday for millionaire and arts patron Sir James Wallace, who for five years was known only as a "prominent businessman" who had indecently assaulted three young men between the early 2000s and 2016. Mr Wallace emailed hundreds of people while under name suppression, asking for support towards not going to jail. Public law expert Graeme Edgeler spoke to Perlina Lau.
The Black Ferns will be sticking with a tried and true game plan but with a few "tweaks" when they kick off their year against Australia in Brisbane tonight. Stephen Hewson has sports.
An increase in direct flights between China to New Zealand is lifting optimism of a significant lift in business and travel. Anan Zaki has the business news.
Cabinet Minister Kiri Allan has flatly denied ever treating staff poorly after revelations several public services bosses have previously flagged concerns. A Department of Conservation staffer seconded to Ms Allan's office left more than a year ago due to problems with work relationships. The chief executive of the National Emergency Management Agency also says he was aware of concerns about relationships in the Minister's office. Deputy Political Editor Craig McCulloch spoke to Perlina Lau.
The Government has announced it will help businesses affected by recent weather events to secure cheaper loans, rather than giving them cash. Hawke's Bay growers previously asked for $750 million to cover some of the cost of recovery following Cyclone Gabrielle. Instead, the Government has introduced a five-year scheme beginning at the end of next month, which will make it easier and cheaper for affected businesses to loan the finances they need. Finance Minister Grant Robertson spoke to Perlina Lau.
El Niño is on its way, and there are some indications it could cause the Earth's warmest ever year. NIWA Meterologist Ben Noll spoke with Perlina Lau.
If you were thinking about racing down to the petrol station to stockpile fuel before prices jump up on Saturday, you might want to think twice. It can not only be dangerous, you could be breaking the law. The Government has been subsidising the cost of fuel by 25 cents a litre since March last year, but it all comes to an end this weekend. Simon Douglas, Chief Policy & Advocacy Officer for the AA, spoke to Perlina Lau.
The Ministry for Primary Industries says its well placed to fight multiple biosecurity incursions testing the country. Sally Murphy has the rural news.
All Blacks hooker Dane Coles has labelled those abusing leading referee Ben O'Keeffe on social media as "muppets". Barry Guy has sports.
The big property investor Kiwi Property believes the downward revision of its credit outlook will be short-lived. Anan Zaki has the business news.
A house in West Auckland that's on the verge of collapsing will be pulled down in a controlled demolition. The red-stickered house started slipping towards Scenic Drive last night amid heavy rain. The house is one of several on a particular stretch in Swanson condemned after flooding in late January. Reporter Lucy Xia spoke to Perlina Lau.
A Ministry of Justice survey has found fraud and deception crimes almost doubled in the year to November. The annual Crime and Victims Survey has just been released, and shows nearly a third of New Zealanders were victims of crime during the 12 month period. Deception crimes and credit card fraud have seen a marked increase, with 10 percent of those surveyed falling victim, compared with six percent the previous year. Victim Support spokesperson Petrina Hargrave spoke to Perlina Lau.
The university sector has welcomed the announcement of a $128 million dollar package from the Government. Most New Zealand universities are in deficit, and some including Otago and Victoria, have planned redundancies. Chief executive of Universities New Zealand Chris Whelan spoke to Perlina Lau.
The Government has announced a $128 million rescue package for universities over the next two years. Most New Zealand universities are in deficit, and some including Otago and Victoria, have planned redundancies. Education correspondent, John Gerritsen spoke to Perlina Lau.
Food and fibre companies are hoping to build stronger relationships in China this week. Susan Murray has the rural news.
All Blacks and Chiefs midfielder Anton Lienert-Brown could miss the entire Rugby Championship after being suspended for a dangerous tackle in the Chiefs Super Rugby final loss to the Crusaders. Stephen Hewson has sports.
Higher unemployment is likely on the way amid lower employment confidence as perceptions about job opportunities worsen. Anan Zaki has the business news.
Vapers looking to quit are struggling to find the help they need. Te Whatu Ora is directing increasing numbers of people who have never smoked cigarettes but are addicted to vaping, to stop smoking programmes. But agencies are often limited to helping those who use tobacco. Director of Action for Smokefree 2025 Ben Youdan spoke with Perlina Lau.
NZ Post is cutting at least 750 jobs over the next five years. That's about one fifth of its workforce and the cuts will affect staff across the board including posties. The state owned enterprise says it's responding to the decline in mail and people no longer using the post like they once did. Perlina Lau spoke to CEO David Walsh.
Final submissions in the coroners court case into the disappearance of John Beckenridge and his step-son are being heard. The coronial hearing which aims to establish whether the pair are dead or alive, resumed in the Christchurch coroners court this morning. Our reporter, Adam Burns, is following proceedings and spoke to Perlina Lau.
A direct challenge from Russia's Wagner fighters to Vladimir Putin is showing the cracks in the President's authority. An extraordinary escalation saw mercenaries seize two major Russian cities and they were preparing to march on Moscow before an amnesty deal, which has meant Wagner fighters and its leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, must move to neighbouring Belarus. Stephen Hoadley from Auckland University spoke to Perlina Lau.
The wet weather is having an impact on Gisborne vegetable producers. Susan Murray has the rural news.
The Crusaders chief executive Colin Mansbridge says a statue immortalising club legends Sam Whitelock and Richie Mo'unga is not out of the question. Bridget Tunnicliffe has sport.
Consumer NZ is making moves to get action on supermarkets. Gyles Beckford has the business news.
As part of its law and order policy, the National Party wants to cut the funding of cultural reports used for sentencing in criminal trials. Paul Goldsmith says from eight cultural reports being written in 2017 - to 2,500 last year, at a cost of $6 million. Māmari Stephens, is an associate law professor at Victoria University of Wellington. Māmari Stephens spoke to Perlina Lau.
Te Tai Rāwhiti has once again found itself partially cut off, following days of torrential rain. Waka Kotahi says the region has taken a major hit, and many roads have flooding, slips and dropouts. Importantly, the vital link of State Highway 2 from Gisborne to Opotiki won't be able to open until at least Friday. Civil Defence Manager Ben Green spoke to Perlina Lau.
There are more claims New Zealand isn't meeting its human rights obligations because of the excessive number of Māori and Pacific people in prisons, and the way those in custody are being treated. Amnesty New Zealand and transformational justice group JustSpeak say fresh data released by the The Human Rights Measurement Initiative show minimum entitlements aren't being met. JustSpeak executive director Aphiphany Forward-Toua spoke to Gyles Beckford.
More human remains have been found inside Pike River Mine during the ongoing invesigation into the 2010 explosion, which killed 29 men. Police have just announced the development, saying recent imaging from borehole drilling shows the remains of two -- and possibly three -- miners in the crib room area, although police aren't able to identify them. Anna Osborne, who's husband Milton died in the Pike River Mine explosion, spoke to Midday Report.
Midday sports News for 23 June 2023 New Zealand golfer Lydia Ko has had her struggles in the first round of the PGA Championship in New Jersey.
The red heavy rain warning for Tai Rawhiti is expected to remain in force until Sunday morning. But it's not the only region experiencing a bout of severe weather - there are orange rain warnings in place for Hawke's Bay, Taihape, Manawatu, Nelson and Marlborough too. Metservice meteorologist Andrew James spoke with Gyles Beckford.
Tai Rawhiti is preparing to face another deluge this afternoon, after heavy rain yesterday caused severe flooding and slips, cutting off the small town of Te Karaka and forcing some people into evacuations centres. The region is under a state of emergency. Heavy rain has just set in again, and to continue right through until Sunday. Gisborne mayor, Rehette Stoltz, spoke to Gyles Beckford.
A New Zealand-founded company that's started a worldwide push for a shorter working week has been named one of Time Magazines 100 most influential companes. 4 Day Week Global hits the list alongside corporate glitterati like Tiktok, Space X - and Kim Kardashian's Skims brand. It was co-founded by New Zealander Andrew Barnes in 2018 after he introduced the four day week - with five day pay rates - at his estate management firm. He spoke to Rowan Quinn.
Metservice has extended its orange weather warning for Tairawhiti until midday on Sunday, with heavy rain expected to batter the region right through until the end of the weekend. A warning was already in place until six o'clock tonight, but the region's now being warned to expect heavy rain to fall right through until the end of the weekend. Metservice meterologist, Andrew James, spoke to Rowan Quinn
New Zealand golfer Lydia Ko is hoping her game will come together in time for tomorrow morning's tee off in the $15 million PGA Championship in New Jersey. Jonty Dine has sport.
A near 150-million dollar takeover offer has been made for local transport software firm ERoad. Kim Moodie has the business news.
Time is ticking for the rescue of five people trapped 4 kilometers underwater in a missing submersible, with oxygen estimated to run out at around midnight tonight. Search efforts for the craft Titan have dragged on since Monday, and concentrated on a remote area of the ocean where a series of undersea noises have been detected. Rowan Quinn got the latest from RNZ's US correspondent, Benji Hyer
A major computer outage at Wellington and Wairarapa hospitals since four o'clock this morning has forced the cancellation and delay of many appointments and procedures. Te Whatu Ora says outpatient clinics and non-urgent treatment is being disrupted, and says those affected will have their appointments rescheduled. RNZ's Ruth Hill has been following this and spoke to Rowan Quinn.
Victoria University staff say planned cuts to staffing will bring an end to programmes including secondary school teaching. They made the revelation at a rally for students and staff this morning. Meanwhile, secondary school students are gathering now at Parliament in support of their teachers, who are calling for fair pay and better working conditions. NZ's Education correspondent, John Gerritsen spoke to Rowan Quinn.
The government has announced changes to immigration settings to help streamline the path for skilled workers to residency. The changes include a removal of the cap on skilled migrants, a simplified points system to straighten out eligibility, and an extension to the Accredited Employer Work Visa from three years to five years. Alan McDonald is the head of advocacy and strategy at the Employers and Manufacturers Association and spoke to Rowan Quinn.
A number of New Zealand sawmills producing housing timber are temporarily halting work as the construction sector retracts. Andrew McRae has the rural news.
England cricket captain Ben Stokes maintains losing the first Ashes test isn't a major psychological blow. Jonty Dine has sport.
Fletcher Building has cut its earnings guidance because of a slowing economy, a fall in house building, and wet weather. Kim Moodie has the business news.
The company that runs commercial skiing on Mt Ruapehu has been put into liquidation. Creditors yesterday rejected proposals to either keep the current structure of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, or hand it over to two private companies - setting off the liquidation process. RNZ's Checkpoint reporter Jimmy Ellingham is in Ohakune and spoke to Rowan Quinn.
The former Police Commissioner, Mike Bush, will this week take over leadership of all Youth Justice and Care and Protection residences, following two serious allegations of Oranga Tamariki staff acting inappropriately towards young people. The chief executive of Oranga Tamariki, Chappie Te Kani, made the announcement to media this morning. RNZ's reporter Ruth Hill attended that media conference and spoke to Rowan Quinn.
New Zealand Football is backing the All Whites' decision not to take the field in the second half of their international against Qatar in Austria, after a player was racially abused. The slur was directed at defender Michael Boxall by an opposition player - and heard by several All Whites players - shortly before halftime. The New Zealand captain Joe Bell spent several minutes remonstrating with the referee over the matter, but no action was taken. New Zealand Football chief executive Andrew Pragnell told Rowan Quinn he's proud of the players' actions, which he says were fully justified given the nature of the slur.
The Government has just announced the Comerce Commission will investigate whether New Zealanders are getting a fair deal from the banking sector. The regulator will do a market study into competition in the banking industry, following similar studies into construction, groceries and fuel. RNZ's Deputy Political Editor, Craig McCulloch, spoke to Rowan Quinn.
Rural insurer FMG has paid out more than $120 million in claims relating to Cyclone Gabrielle. Susan Murray has the Rural News.
New Zealand Football says several All Whites players heard defender Michael Boxall get racially abused during the match against Qatar in Austria this morning. Stephen Hewson has sport.
Consumer confidence remains deeply pessimistic as financial pressures weigh on consumers of all ages, income brackets and in every region. Kim Moodie has business.
There's hope for parents and students who have faced weeks of industrial action by secondary school teachers. Their union says it is prepared to go into arbitration with the Ministry of Education over its pay dispute, if the ministry agrees to accept the outcome of that process. As part of the industrial action, two year groups at a time stays home, rather than whole schools. Education correspondent John Gerritsen spoke to Rowan Quinn about the latest developments.
Police say they don't believe an axe attack on people in three North Shore Chinese restaurants last night was racially motivated. Two people remain in hospital following the attack, one with serious injuries. A 24-year-old man, who police have identified as a Chinese national, was arrested at the scene. RNZ reporter Chen Liu spoke to Rowan Quinn.
The Tairawhiti region is just trying to wait out a heavy rain system that's been battering the East Coast since midnight last night. The Metservice has issued an orange rain warning for the region until 6 o'clock tonight - but rain is forecast to continue for much of the week. The Gisborne mayor, Rehette Stoltz, spoke to Rowan Quinn.
Firefighters in Auckland say delays caused by the rapidly growing city could be the difference between life and death. Documents obtained by RNZ have shown crews are sometimes struggling to reach burning houses in high density areas, and that access to water can be a problem. Auckland fire fighter Martin Campbell is the Auckland secretary of the Professional Firefighters Union. He told Rowan Quinn the situation is incredibly frustrating because every second counts.
Meng Foon is yet to formally resign from his role as Race Relations Commissioner. The government announced on Friday Mr Foon had tendered his resignation, after failing to disclose a conflict of interest. Mr Foon says he told the Prime Minister that morning of his plans to resign, but he has yet to put it in writing. RNZ Political Reporter, Katie Scotcher, spoke to Rowan Quinn.
The country's most important tool for combatting climate change could be in line for a major overhaul, amid concerns the Emissions Trading Scheme is not doing enough to stop businesses polluting. The Government is seeking public feedback on four options to better incentivise them to reduce emissions, rather than simply offsetting them by funding tree-planting. The most radical change - and the one ranked as most effective - is establishing a whole new ETS market. The Climate Change Minister, James Shaw, spoke to Rowan Quinn.
Coronet Peak ski area near Queenstown is opening today for winter skiing and snowboarding. The snow's still a bit scarce, meaning it will be a limited opening at this stage. Coronet Peak ski area manager, Nigel Kerr, is not expecting that to damper enthusism, and he says more snow is coming. He spoke to Gyles Beckford.
Fifty extra aspiring doctors a year will be able to enrol at medical schools in New Zealand, thanks to extra funding from the government. From next year, the number of first-year medical school enrolments increase to 589 places annually, allocated across the University of Auckland and University of Otago. The medical faculty deputy dean at the University of Auckland, Warwick Bagg, spoke to Gyles Beckford.
The national polytech, Te Pūkenga, is facing a backlash for its plan to cut four hundred jobs. The mega-polytech has 10,000 employees, and will cut 950 jobs in a major overhaul - but 550 staff members will be re-employed. The New Zealand Union of Students Associations says tauira have been anxious at the prospect of lecturers leaving part-way through their courses. The union's president, Ellen Dixon, spoke to Gyles Beckford.
An investigation into the conduct of disgraced Labour MP Stuart Nash has cleared his name of more confidentiality breaches. Mr Nash was sacked from Cabinet in March for an email he sent to political donors, but a number of other breaches were subsequently found. One more conflict of interest has been uncovered in Cabinet's review, with another donor and close associate of his being appointed to a government board. RNZ's deputy political editor, Craig McCulloch, spoke to Gyles Beckford.
The fight to win the farmer vote is well underway, with the ACT Party releasing its primary industries policy at the Fieldays today. ACT wants to see methane treated differently to carbon dioxide when reporting emissions. It's policy reiterates the party's promise to scrap the Zero Carbon Act. And it also ties any emissions price to that of New Zealand's five main trading partners. Jimmy Ellingham spoke with ACT's primary industries spokesman, Mark Cameron.
The police have seized three guns and six weapons in Ōpōtiki. Guns, ammunition and weapons were found in five vehicles, and two people have been charged with a raft of offences. It follows the death of Mongrel Mob Barbarian leader Steven Taiatini. Finn Blackwell spoke with Jimmy Ellingham spoke from Ōpōtiki.
New Zealand has officially dipped into a recession according to GDP figures released this morning. The GDP fell by 0.1 percent in the last quarter according to Stats NZ, in line with expectations. It's the second consecutive negative quarter after the GDP fell by 0.7 at the end of last year. RNZ's deputy political editor, Craig McCulloch, spoke with Jimmy Ellingham.
Local authorities are being handed back the power to decide what farmland is suitable for conversion to carbon-sink forests. Forestry Minister Peeni Henare has today announced changes to the National Environmental Standards for Plantation Forestry. He says these mean fewer pine forests will be planted on farmland. Former National MP Lawrence Yule spoke to Jimmy Ellingham.
Councils are scrambling to switch over to new age-based discounted fares. The new ticket prices are set to kick in in two weeks, with most adults back to paying full price. But children will ride free, and people under twenty-five will keep the current half-price discount permanently. Councils and transport operators say they haven't been given any help by the government to include the new age-verification requirements in their ticketing systems. Auckland's Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson spoke to Jimmy Ellingham.
Three experts have been appointed to carry out a sweeping review into RNZ's editorial processes and policy following pro-Russia edits being made to wire stories sourced from Reuters and the BBC. RNZ board chair Jim Mather announced this morning the investigation will also cover the circumstances surrounding the edits, and the handling of a complaint made by the Ukrainian community about the stories. All this has been given a timeline of four weeks. Media commentator Andrew Holden spoke to Jimmy Ellingham.
Hundreds of gang members on motorbikes have travelled from Ōpōtiki to Whakatāne for the cremation of a prominent gang leader. Steven Taiatini died on Friday in Ōpōtiki, and his death is being investigated as a homocide. A hundred additional police have been deployed in the Eastern Bay of Plenty. RNZ reporter Finn Blackwell spoke to Jimmy Ellingham from Whakatāne.
The latest immigration figures reveal a big lift in migrant arrivals. The numbers to the end of April show arrivals reached almost 171,800 people, compared to departures of 99,500 people. That leaves a net gain of 72,300 people. Gyles Beckford spoke with Arunima Dhingra, vice chair of the New Zealand Association of Migration and Investment
A new report from the corrections watchdog has found 29 percent of prisoners spent time in complete isolation in 2020 and 2021. Prisoners were left in restrictive spaces with little to do, and the report suggests for many of them it was for months or years. It says the psychological effects on those in isolation, such as depression and paranoia, can be irreversible. Tracey McIntosh is a professor of Indigenous Studies at Auckland University, who's spent time working with prisoners. She spoke to Gyles Beckford.
The community of Ōpōtiki is grieving the loss of a well-known gang leader, with neighbouring schools shut for the week. People having been lining up to attend the tangi of Steven Taiatini, the president of the Mongrel Mob Barbarians. The 45-year-old was killed on Friday night on St John Street and there is now a heavy gang presence in the town. Te Owai Gemmell is a Māori Warden in Ōpōtiki, and she spoke to Gyles Beckford.
Around 400 residents of flood-hit Auckland properties remain in the dark about who will qualify for a voluntary payout and they are demanding answers from the Council. Many of the residents of homes deemed too dangerous to live in following the devastating Auckland Anniversary Weekend floods had expected information yesterday but were left with what they described as "radio silence". They say the situation is financially dire for some of them and are demanding better Council communication. Auckland Council group recovery manager, Mat Tucker, spoke to Gyles Beckford.
A migration agent is pleading with Australia's government to refund the permanent resident visa costs paid by some of her New Zealand clients. The visas were approved just months before Australia revealed it would scrap the need for them. Erina Morunga, director of Morunga Migration, says it's like buying a product, without being told it's about to become obsolete. She spoke to Gyles Beckford.
Two boys are in a critical condition in Starship Hospital after bring trapped under a collapsed sand dune on Great Barrier Island. The boys, one a teenager and the other a younger child, were airlifted to Starship late yesterday afternoon. Both are in a critical condition. Westpac helicopter paramedic Ross Aitken spoke to Gyles Beckford.
Midday sports News for 12 June 2023 Norwegian tennis player Casper Ruud isn't planning any major changes despite suffering a third Grand Slam final loss.
The National Māori Organics Authority says the National Party's plan to remove effective bans on genetic modification is a blatant dismissal of the need to consult with Māori. The National Party says New Zealand is stuck in a time warp and risks falling behind global development if it doesn't change the regulations. But the group says genetic modifications are a quick fix which have failed overseas, and shouldn't be imported here. Jessica Hutchings, a spokesperson for Te Waka Kai Ora, spoke to Gyles Beckford.
Grocery prices may finally be reaching a turning point according to the latest numbers from Infometrics. The New Zealand Grocery Supplier Cost Index, commissioned by Foodstuffs, shows an increase of 8.8 percent in the price that suppliers are charging supermarkets for goods. It's the first time in several months the increase has fallen below ten percent. Infometrics chief executive and principal economist Brad Olsen spoke to Gyles Beckford.
A far right expert says it would be complex for Aotearoa to follow in Australia's footsteps to ban the public display and sale of Nazi symbols and paraphernalia.
Some properties in New Plymouth could face rates rises of over 100 percent next year, under a proposal being voted on next week. Most residential properties would see rates increases up to a maximum of 30 percent but others, along with farms and commercial and industrial properties, would face even steeper rates rises.
Auckland councillors are back in a second day of meetings to sign off the city's budget, after a major concession from the mayor over the sale of airport shares.
Secondary teachers have voted overwhelmingly to reject the Education Ministry's latest pay offer, which brings more disruption to students with strikes from next week. The Post Primary Teachers Association says its members voted against the offer of three pay rises over two years plus a $4,500 payment.
Forest and Bird is calling for a moratorium on new mines on public conservation land. The Government has not supported the Green Party member's bill - the Crown Minerals Prohibition of Mining Amendment Bill, which had its first reading yesterday. Forest and Bird says the government has failed on its promise to end new mines on conservation land.
The Insurance council is defending against claims companies are lowballing flood-affected clients. Builders say they are starting to see some homeowners struggling with the cash offers that won't cover their repairs And some Aucklanders say they have been offered tens of thousands of dollars less than what their own tradies have quoted for the work. Charlotte Cook put those claims to the Insurance Council's Consumer Affairs Manager Sarah Knox.
Auckland councillors are meeting right now to make their final votes on the Mayor's divisive annual budget proposal. Mayor Wayne Brown is promising to roll back funding cuts for arts, culture, and local boards, but only if the $2.3 billion worth of Auckland airport shares are sold.
A formal Parliamentary inquiry has been launched into whether Minister Michael Wood complied with his obligations to declare certain interests under Parliament's Standing Orders. It follows a fresh allegation Mr Wood provided a false response to a media inquiry about conflicts of interest.
The vicious power struggle between Sudan's rival military leaders continues to rage on - now in it's 8th week. The latest conflict has only made an existing humanitarian crisis worse - displacing nearly 1 million people. Former journalist Phil Johnstone has been working with World Vision and has returned after three-and-a-half weeks in South Sudan. He spoke to Worldwatch's Perlina Lau about visiting transit camps for refugees and returnees.
At 240 kilometres long and up to 23 kilometres wide - this dam is of the main geographic features of southern Ukraine. The Nova Kak-hov-ka dam supplies water to the Crimean peninsula and it cools the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant. After being blown up - water is surging down the Dnipro river - flooding dozens of towns. Russia controls the dam and has denied destorying it - instead blaming Ukrainian shelling. Around 40 thousand people need to be evacuated and 80 towns and villages are at risk of flooding.
Fiji's prime minister has been welcomed to parliament in Wellington this morning. Sitiveni Rabuka is on his first official trip to Aotearoa since being elected prime minister in December last year. Mr Rabuka met with prime minister Chris Hipkins and members of his cabinet; as well as Opposition representatives Nicola Willis and Gerry Brownlee. RNZ Pacific editor Koroi Hawkins has been at Parliament this morning and speaks with Charlotte Cook.
The primary teachers' union says today's pay offer is a huge win for teachers whose workloads have increased dramatically in recent decades. Today, primary school teachers accepted the latest Ministry of Education collective agreement offer, putting an end to a lengthy negotiation campaign, including the largest education strike in the country's history. The settlement includes a six percent pay increase in July, with two further increases next year, and has more than doubled classroom release time. NZEI President Mark Potter speaks with Charlotte Cook
A man has appeared in the Kaikohe District court this morning over the killing of Linda Woods in her home last Thursday. The who is facing charges of manslaughter, burglary and aggravated assault is appealing the publication of his name. Meanwhile at least one hundred friends, family and community members have gathered for the funeral of 71-year-old Linda Woods this morning. RNZ reporter Emma Stanford is in Kaikohe, and speaks with Charlotte Cook.
A Phase One clinical trial has provided promising results for an HIV vaccine.International researchers say the vaccine, which is being tested in humans, helps create antibodies which can recognise the globally diverse strains of HIV, and could protect against infection.Victoria University faculty of health associate professor Clive Aspin spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Women's groups are calling on the organisers of the Rhythm and Vines music festival to drop UK artist Dizzee Rascal over a domestic violence conviction.The rapper, whose real name is Dylan Mills, received a 12-month restraining order and a curfew this year for assaulting his ex-partner.An open letter by advocacy group Beneath the Glass Ceiling, which was signed by other groups, said the festival was sending a message that intimate partner violence was not a big deal.Women's Refuge was one of the groups which signed the letter.Its chief executive Dr Ang Jury spoke to Māni Dunlop.
It's been a rollercoaster ride for the final round of Group E at the football world cup in Qatar. Japan and Spain have qualified but Germany have failed to get past the group stage for the second straight tournament Japan beat Spain 2-1 to finish top, while Spain held onto second spot via goal difference from Gemany, who beat Costa Rica 4-2. Having now beaten both Germany and Spain in the tournament, Japan's Ritsu Doan believes they can go all the way.
Police are looking for four people responsible for a ram-raid at a Gun City store in Christchurch.Police say they used a vehicle to break into the Cranford Street shop at 3.20am.RNZ reporter Anna Sargent spoke to Māni Dunlop from outside the shop
A child advocacy group is underwhelmed by an independent report into the death of Malachi Subecz, saying it is not aspirational and minimises the urgent call to action.Dame Karen Poutasi released her findings yesterday on the failings of six agencies that made Malachi invisible - which led to his murder in November 2021.There were 14 recommendations - the government has not taken up the key ones including - mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse for anyone tasked with their protection; and vetting proposed carers when a sole parent goes into prison.Voyce - Whakarongo Mai advocates for children in care; its chief executive Tracie Shipton spoke to Māni Dunlop about the report and the way forward.
The government is revisiting how and if rongoā Māori - or traditional Māori medicine - is being incorporated and protected in legislation which aims to regulate natural medicine. The Therapeutic Products Bill will regulate how pharmaceutical and natural health products are manufactured, tested, imported, promoted, supplied, and exported - including anything created from native plants. But rongoā practitioners are frustrated it's an over-reach, which will limit how they do their work and protect the knowledge of these practices. I asked Associate Health Minister, Peeni Henare - who introduced the bill - about what the Act aims to do and why he has established a workstream - or essentially a review - of how and if rongoā Māori is protected.
Aftershocks are rocking Taupo, after a shallow magnitude 5.6 quake struck nearby just before midnight last night. It's the largest shake to hit the area since Geonet reported minor unrest at the volcano marked by an increasing number of earthquakes since May this year. Taupō's mayor David Trewavas spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Midday sports News for 1 December 2022 New Zealand referee Matthew Conger has become embroiled in football World Cup controversy after disallowing France a last gasp equaliser in their World Cup match against Tunisia.
The government is likely to shelve its work on co-governance. It's part of this country's response on how to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples or UNDRIP. The issue has been intensely politicised, particularly by the National and ACT parties, despite the fact they were in power when New Zealand signed the UNDRIP in 2010 and committing to a declaration plan in 2014. The Māori development minister Willie Jackson told Newsroom the earlier drafts of the declaration plan would not have got through cabinet, and while work's being done on a new draft -- it could all be put off for the election year. Auckland University political scientist Dr Lara Greaves - Ngāti Kuri, Ngāpuhi - spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The first person convicted of sabotage in New Zealand will spend the next three years behind bars. Some of the suppression orders preventing the publication of details about Graham Philip's actions lapsed at the High Court in Hamilton this morning. RNZ reporter Andrew McRae spoke to Māni Dunlop about the case.
The baby in urgent need of a heart operation is still waiting for a resolution on his parents' request that only blood from unvaccinated people can be used if he needs a transfusion. A hearing at the High Court over Te Whatu Ora's application for the Court to let doctors make decisions on the baby's healthcare is set down for next week, but both sides are prepared to try and talk it out before then. RNZ health correspondent Rowan Quinn spoke to Māni Dunlop about the latest developments.
Countries throughout the Pacific are in Vietnam discussing the future of the world's largest tuna fishery this week. The 26 members range from small island climate vulnerable states, such as Tuvalu and Kiribati; to the superpowers China and the United States, their vessels traverse huge spans of ocean to get to the fishing grounds. RNZ Pacific's Koroi Hawkins is at the conference in Vietnam and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
A petition to lower the age for bowel cancer screening to 45 years old is being handed over to parliament this lunchhour. The national screening programme is free for people aged 60 to 74 years old. Earlier this year it was announced the screening age for Māori and Pacific people would be lowered from 60 to 50, starting with trials in Waikato and Tairawhiti, then nationwide by July next year. Petitioner Peter Marra says screening people younger will catch more cancers early when they are most easily treated. He spoke to Māni Dunlop about his own experience with bowel cancer, and how New Zealand's screening compares to other countries.
Midday sports News for [Date Month Year] ( copy first sentence from News-->Sport-->Bulletin-->DATE Midday Sport )
The international rules based order and human rights issues were top of the agenda in a bilateral meeting between Finland's prime minister Sanna Marin and our head of government, Jacinda Ardern in Auckland this morning. Finland is in the process of joining Nato and shares a border with Russia stretching from the Baltic Sea into the Arctic Circle. Māni Dunlop reports.
A 42-year-old woman has appeared in the Manukau District Court after being extradited from South Korea in connection to the discovery of two dead children in suitcases in South Auckland. She arrived in the country yesterday, and was held in Police custody overnight. RNZ reporter Gill Bonnett spoke to Māni Dunlop from the Manukau District Court where the short hearing had just taken place.
A full hearing is expected next week regarding the rights of a baby's parents to refuse health treatment. The baby urgently needs heart surgery, but the parents are insisting that any blood he might need must come from an unvaccinated person. Te Whatu Ora is seeking the High Court's intervention in the issue so the baby will get the operation. RNZ's health correspondent Rowan Quinn spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The World of Wearable Arts has been sold to new owners - under the company name STILL. The festival was created by Dame Suzie Moncrieff in Nelson in 1987. RNZ Nelson reporter Samantha Gee spoke to Māni Dunlop.
27,000 cases of Covid-19 were reported in the last week or so and 6000 have been reported today. Epidemiologists warn the real infection rate could be at least twice as high. Omicron - and all its subvariants - have been sloshing amongst us for nearly a year now, and we're still using vaccines primarily targeted at the original strain of Covid-19. While they still work, pharmaceutical giant Pfizer is seeking Medsafe's approval to licence bi-valent vaccines - containing both the original strain and Omicron. Pfizer's New Zealand Medical Director Dr Krishan Thiru joined Māni Dunlop on Midday Report to discuss the situation.
Portugal and Brazil have confirmed their places in the knockout stage of the World Cup.
Politicians are jostling to dominate the "tough on crime" narrative, and some business leaders are demanding tougher punishments. Yet numerous reports - from government agencies, academics, civil society groups, inmates, police, and even from the Judges sending people to prison - have warned that prison sentences lead to crime, and longer sentences lead to even more. So while retribution might feel good - for a time - it could create even more victims in the long-term; especially if rehabilitation efforts are ineffective. University of Auckland professor Tracey McIntosh's recent research focused on incarceration and issues pertaining to poverty, inequality and social justice. Professor McIntosh spoke to Māni Dunlop about the risks of reactionary policy and tough on crime rhetoric.
Politicians are jostling to dominate the narrative on policing, crime and punishment. Police are planning more patrols in hard-hit business areas, and a change to pursuits. Yesterday, the government announced more money to protect small businesses by installing fog cannons, roller doors and bollards. There's also money to help local councils with security cameras, and street design, as well. But opposition parties say it is not enough, and not going to solve the problem. RNZ political reporter Giles Dexter spoke to Māni Dunlop.
You might be getting more than the usual number of "automatic out of office replies today" - that's because it's part of a campaign highlighting the gender pay gap - which stands at 9.2 percent between all men and all women. That means from today women in New zealand are effectively working for free. And for wāhine Māori and Pasifika - it's even worse, they've been unpaid since November the 4th. Global Women Aotearoa's chair Theresa Gattung spoke with Charlotte Cook.
Many dairy and convenience store owners have shut their doors this afternoon, to take part in protests against violent robberies. 34-year-old Janak Patel was fatally stabbed outside an Auckland dairy last Wednesday after confronting offenders trying to steal the cash register. Three men are now before the court in relation to the incident - one of them is charged with murder. But the retailers claim the government is too soft on crime, and they need urgent action. Cabinet is currently discussing the issue. Charlotte Cook was joined by RNZ reporters covering protests in Auckland Finn Blackwell was outside the prime minister's electorate office in Mt Albert; and Lucy Xia was in Sandringham.
Midday sports News for 28 November 2022 Germany have given themselves hope of avoiding a second straight early exit from the football World Cup, snatching a 1-all draw with Spain.
Early voting in the Hamilton West by-election begins today. It follows Dr Gaurav Sharma's resignation, after he made allegations against Labour's political leadership for which he was kicked out of the caucus and then out of the party. So, when it comes to its constituents, what's going on in the area? Hamilton Budgeting Advisory trust manager Tony Agar spoke to Charlotte Cook about the growth in demand for help which was now coming from working people.
Dairies and retailers around the country are about to shut up shop, protesting against crime and violence affecting front line workers. 34-year-old Janak Patel was fatally stabbed outside an Auckland dairy last Wednesday after confronting offenders trying to steal the cash register. Three men have now been charged in relation to the robbery - but the community is still reeling, and many are outraged. Sandringham Business Association Chairperson Jithin Chittibomma spoke to Charlotte Cook.
At Midday Report we start the show with the date and also the day of the Maramataka or the Māori Lunar Calendar. Today for example today is Tirea - a low energy day but a good one to make progress; on a practical level it's also promising for crayfishing some areas would say. And in the Far North council - they will be taking the maramataka to another level, aligning its formal meeting schedule with the calendar, after a presentation by tohunga, Rereata Makiha, earlier this week who is an expert in Maramataka. The council's mayor Moko Tepania spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Dairy owners fed up with empty words from the government, say they need immediate action taken to protect workers. They're planning a nationwide protest following the fatal stabbing of a worker during a robbery in Auckland. The Rose Cottage Superette was turned down twice for a fog cannon despite a 15-year history of violence and theft. The National Party's police spokesperson Mark Mitchell spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Now to Gore, where further controversy is surrounding the district's new mayor. 23 year old Ben Bell became mayor after beating six-term incumbent Tracy Hicks by only eight votes. Mr Hicks' sought a recount, but a judge dismissed his bid. The new mayor's term has been tumultuous with issues over expenses and his desire for his own executive assistant. A majority of councillors also dispute Mr Bell's choice of deputy mayor, Stewart MacDonell, and are seeking to overturn it. Mr Bell is currently taking a break and can't be reached for comment. But Mr MacDonell says he's concerned it all makes the council appear dysfunctional
Stressed and overworked - senior and hospital doctors frustrations bubbled to the surface during a heated exchange with the Health Minister at their annual conference this morning. Andrew Little is refusing to say the healthcare system is in a crisis. That's despite weeks-long waits to see a GP forcing more people to go to Emergency Departments, where the queue can be several hours long. Members of the Association of Medical Specialists asked Mr Little when he's going to admit the healthcare system is in crisis, he responded that he is aware of the health system's -- quote -- challenging working conditions.
The national median weekly rent was back at its all-time high of $580/week in October, according to TradeMe's listings. The company's property sales director Gavin Lloyd spoke to Charlotte Cook about which regions had the highest rents, and when the official cash rate hike would flow onto rental prices.
An inequality researcher is pushing for free GP visits in a bid to reduce pressure on hospital staff who are currently overwhelmed by demand. Max Rashbrooke wrote the report - commissioned by the Association of Senior Medical Specialists - arguing the substantial benefits of making doctors visits free would well outweigh the costs. He told Charlotte Cook hospital doctors have an interest because they are seeing patients who are in a much worse state, because they can't afford to go to their GP before their illness progresses.
The Privacy Commissioner's Office is worried about the expanding use of Facial Recognition Technology in supermarkets. Foodstuffs is using the technology in more than 30 stores across the North Island. Retail NZ has been backing the move, saying it should be a tool used to stop crime. But there are also long held concerns about privacy and what happens to the biometric data. Deputy Privacy Commissioner Liz MacPherson spoke to Charlotte Cook.
The police are appealing for the public's help to identify the suspect who killed a 34-year-old dairy worker in Auckland. A robber entered the Rose Cottage Dairy in Sandringham just after eight o'clock last night, stabbing the man, who died later in hospital. Detective Inspector Scott Beard said police believed the offender was alone and described them as wearing a dark clothing with a black and white bandana on their face. Earlier this morning, members of the Sandringham community met to pay their respects. RNZ reporter Jonty Dine spoke to Charlotte Cook.
There's been a flurry of large earthquakes along the Pacific ring of fire in the last couple of days. Magnitude 7 yesterday in the Solomons, a 6.2 off Mexico this morning, and a deadly 5.6 in Indonesia. There've also been quakes registering above magnitude 5 in the Kermadecs, Fiji, and Vanuatu. GNS duty seismologist Dr Jonathan Hanson spoke to Charlotte Cook.
The High Court has dismissed a case against the Climate Change Commission which argued their plan would prevent the country keeping warming to 1.5 degrees celsius or less. The case, taken by hundreds of lawyers for climate action, believed the Commission had used the wrong maths to make recommendations to the government. This was found not to be true. The lead for Lawyers for Climate Action Jenny Cooper KC spoke to Charlotte Cook.
The College of Clinical Psychologists says the country needs another 1-thousand people filling the critical roles. The health Minister Andrew Little told Morning Report there was a specific shortage of Clinical Psychologists, and they were trying to to train more, but the sector was competing internationally.
The High Court has ruled agaisnt a group of climate lawyers who were arguing the country's emissions reductions wouldn't meet our international promises to keep WARM-ING to 1-point-5-degrees or less. The Lawyers for Climate Action NZ - made up of 350 people - alleged the climate change commission's recommendations to government violated this country's climate laws and the Paris Agreement.
Signing up for a free trial for the likes of streaming apps or maybe astronomy apps, Fitness Apps and many more might seem harmless but according to recent research they are leaving many customers out of pocket. A third of people are paying more than 100 dollars a month on subscriptions - many of which they don't even use - according to an ASB survey of 1000 of its customers. ASB's Micheal Maclean told Māni Dunlop many people have no idea what they are paying for.
Severe thunderstorms - and even some small tornadoes - are in the forecast for the top half of the North Island this afternoon through 'til tonight. Intense downpours are also expected from Waikato and Bay of Plenty southwards. Metservice meteorologist Lewis Ferris spoke to Māni Dunlop about the forecast, and the risks.
Renters' advocates are warning the government's healthy homes deadlines deferrals will mean more people are hospitalised with preventable illnesses, while landlords will get wealthier.
Lowering the voting age boosts turnout and life-long political participation - that's the key finding of international research published by Oxford University on those countries that have made the change.
Super Rugby Aupiki squad namings have been rolling out today with some surprises but some glaring omissions due to a sevens scheduling clash. The Aupiki competition, which consists of the Blues, Chiefs Manawa, Hurricanes Poua and Christchurch-based Matatu - will be played over five weekends early next year. Māni Dunlop spoke to RNZ rugby reporter Joe Porter just as we heard this morning's squad announcements.
COP is copping flak for a lack of meaningful reductions in climate warming emissions. After going into overtime, the two-week climate summit wrapped up last night, with countries agreeing to set up a "loss and damage" framework to help poor nations badly affected by climate-related disasters. But decisions on how much money is needed, where it will come from, and where it will go won't be made until at least next year. Kaeden Watts, an indigenous climate activist, was at COP27 as an independent delegate. He told Māni Dunlop about the decision and the prominence - or lack of - of indigenous voices at the table.
Midday sports News for 21 November 2022. Lydia Ko has claimed the biggest cheque in women's golf with victory at the LPGA Tour Championship in Florida - the victory also confirming her as Player of the Year.
Doctors are telling the government general practices are stretched and under threat due to workforce shortages and underfunding. The General Practice Owners Association has sent an open letter to the Health Minister, Andrew Little, highlighting its concerns for the profession, and launching a "Save your Family Doctor Service" campaign. Health Minister, Andrew Little spoke to Mani Dunlop.
The Supreme Court has declared the minimum voting age of 18-years-old is inconsistent with the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act, and has not been justified. The advocacy group, "Make it 16 Inc" sought judicial declarations that local and national voting age restrictions were inconsistent with the right to be free from age discrimination, as affirmed in the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act. Despite the verdict - only Parliament can lower the voting age... and the declaration must go to the House within a week. Make it 16 Campaign co-director Caeden Tipler joined Mani Dunlop.
Women's sport is looking to build on its strengths. Wellington Phoenix women's team will play its first game in New Zealand this weekend. Also coming up is the Women's Rugby league World Cup final. All of that on the back of the Rugby (union) World Cup last weekend, and the World Conference on Women in Sport held in Auckland. Women in Sport Aotearoa chief executive Rachel Froggatt spoke to Max Towle.
The FIFA World Cup kicks off in Qatar in a few days; a tournament plagued by controversy due to the country's poor human rights record and restrictions. Qatar has strict laws on alcohol, swearing, homosexuality and sex outside of marriage. Journalist Coen Lammers is one of more than 1 million people heading to the World Cup. He spoke to Max Towle before boarding his flight this morning.
News from the rural farming sector Yes as of yesterday the Ministry for the Enviroment had recieved about 11 and a half thousand submissions on the plan to price agricultural emissions from 2025. The court battle between the Gisborne District Council and gold kiwifruit growers over including kiwifruit licenses in rateable values looks set to continue.
Midday sports News for 18 November 2022 New Zealand triathlete Hayden Wilde has had his appeal against a time penalty dismissed by World Triathlon, meaning he'll have to be content with his Commonwealth Games silver medal. New Zealand golfer Lydia Ko has a one shot lead after the opening round of the LPGA Tour Championship in Florida and remains in contention for the Player of the Year award.
News from the business sector Fonterra has sold its business in Chile for just over a billion dollars. Retirement village operator Ryman Healthcare's bottom line profit is down nearly a third reflecting a smaller gain on the value of its portfolio. The speciality milk company, A2 Milk has revised up its revenue guidance, with underlying profit expected to be little changed from last year.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern will be meeting with the Chinese President Xi Jinping in Bangkok this afternoon, ahead of the APEC summit. She says it will be an upfront and frank conversation, and on the agenda are global security issues, climate change, and economic trade. Xi Jinping has recently been re-annointed as head of the authoritarian country for an unprecedented third term. Auckland University China Studies Centre senior lecturer and director Dr Stephen Noakes spoke to Max Towle.
In Egypt at the COP27 climate summit, talks on loss and damage have reached a key milestone. That would mean vulnerable countries are a step closer to compensation for climate change-fuelled disasters essentially caused by developed nations. This morning the European Union shifted its position, and diplomats finalised key parts of a negotiating text that politicians will now consider. The general counsel of Camco clean energy Karl Upston-Hooper spoke to Max Towle before the news came through.
MetService is warning of heavy localised downpours in thunderstorms across parts of the North Island this afternoon. Max Towle got the forecast from meteorologist Lewis Ferris.
Groundswell has delivered a petition to stop the government's proposed agricultural emissions framework to MPs and ministers at parliament today. Organiser Bryce McKenzie spoke to Max Towle.
Golfer Ryan Fox says "he doesn't know" how it would feel to be crowned the European Tour's top player for 2022.
The government is spending a further half a billion dollars on roads and pipes, and upgrading transport and wastewater infrastructure - which it says will lay the groundwork for the development of thousands more homes. Speaking in Hamilton, the Housing Minister Megan Woods says the city will benefit the most from the announcement - with $150 million to support 4000 new homes close to the CBD. She told Max Towle more about the new spend.
Military academies and ankle bracelets on children as young as 10 are among the proposals National's touting today to crack down on serious young offenders. It's pointing to the rise in ram raids, suggesting that some young people are getting off lightly, and on a National government's watch - there would be more serious consequences. The party leader Chris Luxon spoke to Max Towle.
Two people in Poland - near the border with Ukraine - have been killed when missiles hit a farm. It's not entirely clear where the missiles came from - but there is serious speculation they were strays fired from Russia as part of a devastating barrage of attacks across Ukraine overnight. International relations professor Robert Patman spoke to Max Towle.
More than 50 kegs of beer were stolen from Wellington craft beer company Abandoned Brewery on Monday. It's unlikely the now-unrefrigerated, unlabelled mystery beer will get the thieves much money, but it's a loss of about fourteen thousand dollars for the local business. The owner Tim Ward spoke to Charlotte Cook.
Right now your email inbox might be brimming with promises of cheap goods tomorrow, at unrivalled prices. But Consumer NZ is warning shoppers not to be gullible and get lulled into thinking they're getting a bargain at tomorrow's so-called Black Friday sales. Consumer's spokesperson Jessica Walker spoke to Charlotte Cook.
Midday sports News for Tuesday 16 November 2022 The All Blacks lock Brodie Retallick returns from suspension this week and is in line to play his 100th test in Sunday morning's match against England at Twickenham. He was banned for two games for a dangerous clearout in last month's win over Japan.
A Russian-made rocket landed in Poland this morning, killing two. Poland is now considering invoking Article Four of the North Atlantic Treaty, meaning NATO members would be consulting on a threat to one of its members. Terry Johanson from the Centre for Defence and Security Studies spoke to Charlotte Cook about the ramifications.
Western allies are investigating who fired a missile which killed two people when it landed in Poland this morning. Poland's foreign ministry has just said it was a Russian-produced rocket. Russia has denied responsibility, but it fired 90 missiles into Ukraine overnight, targeting power plants, transport networks, and civilian infrastructure. Charlotte Cook reports.
An investigation continues into what could be one of the year's more mysterious disappearances. Four northern royal albatross eggs from a colony near Dunedin have gone missing without trace. There are no obvious signs of predators at work - and nobody can get in without a permit. The Department of Conservation's Coastal Otago operations manager Annie Wallace spoke to Charlotte Cook.
The Health Star Rating system on food packaging is going to more accurately reflect sugar and salt content. The system - which is designed to give people nutritional information at a glance - is cutting down in a new upgrade. New Zealand Food Safety deputy director-general Vincent Arbuckle spoke to Charlotte Cook.
An investigation continues into what could be one of the year's more mysterious disappearances. Four northern royal albatross eggs from a colony near Dunedin have gone missing without trace. But also without any obvious sign of predators at work - and Nobody can get in without a permit.
Midday sports News for Tuesday 15 November 2022 The Kiwi Ferns will play defending champions Australia for the Rugby League World Cup title after edging hosts England 20-6 in this morning's semi-final in York.
Midday sports News for [Date Month Year] The Kiwi Ferns will play defending champions Australia for the Rugby League World Cup title after edging hosts England 20-6 in this morning's semi-final in York.
The country's so-called Road to Zero strategy is yet to to bring down transport deaths. Waka Kotahi is proposing slower state highway speed limits, saying it's the best short-term solution to fatal road crashes. Over the next four weeks, the transport agency will ask the public about a plan to reduce some 100 kilometre-an-hour zones to 80, or even 60. Green Party transport spokesperson Julie Anne Genter told Charlotte Cook that even more roads needed slower speeds.
The police watchdog has found significant failings in the way officers deal with and investigate fraud complaints - leaving the public with little confidence they'll be taken seriously. The Independent police conduct authority's chair Judge Colin Doherty told Charlotte Cook fraud cases were handled differently by individual officers in a single district; and many complaints were dismissed as 'civil' matters despite fraud being a criminal offence.
Frustrations are flaring one week into this year's U.N. climate summit in Egypt, over a lack of progress on climate goals. Past pledges that have not been honoured include making steep cuts to emissions this decade and contributing hundreds-of-billions of dollars needed by developing nations already struggling to cope with climate disasters. RNZ Pacific reporter Rachael Nath is following the summit from Auckland and spoke to Charlotte Cook about the pressure on government ministers to make meaningful progress this week, after last week's flaccid negotiations.
Women's refuge says the number of family harm incidents is increasing every year - with police being called out to one every three minutes. The Police's annual report showed more than 175,000 family harm investigations over the past year, making up a considerable amount of the total work officers do. The Chief Executive of Women's refuge Dr Ang Jury spoke with Charlotte Cook.
New Zealand golfer Ryan Fox has closed the gap on Rory McIlroy ahead of this week's season-ending DP World Tour Championship in Dubai.
Electricity companies need to focus on their customers, not just their shareholders, says the newly established consumer advocacy council. This morning, unions and a climate group released a report showing power generators have been paying significant dividends to shareholders, instead of investing in renewable energy. The consumer advocacy council chair Deborah Hart told Charlotte Cook that more oil and gas was being burned as a result, which was contributing to the rise in power prices and the companies' profits.
Senior doctors are disturbed half of the country has unmet dental needs - demonstrating the extreme demand for free oral healthcare. A new report has found publicly funded dental hospitalisations rose by a third in the last decade and some places in Aotearoa don't even have a dentist available. The Association of Salaried Medical Specialists executive director Sarah Dalton spoke to Charlotte Cook.
A full house at Auckland's Eden Park - and fans throughout the country - will be cheering on the Black Ferns during tomorrow's women's Rugby World Cup final against England. The world cup's been an unprecedented celebration of women's sport, and the Black Ferns' style and substance has them one win away from successive titles. Rugby commentator and former Wellington player Alice Soper spoke to Jimmy Ellingham.
Wellington police have busted a major burglary ring and are now trying to reunite owners with over 3000 stolen items, including: 950 power tools, 285 bikes and two baths. The officer in charge of Operation Trump Card, Detective Inspector John van den Heuvel, spoke to Jimmy Ellingham about the haul.
Tomorrow's match against England is expected to be close - and the Black Ferns are prepared to settle the outcome with a drop goal.
To housing, where prices went up 45 percent in the 18 months from the middle of 2020. The Reserve Bank has admitted its pandemic-related monetary stimulus - money printing and cheap loans for banks - was likely to have played a key role. And in a speech earlier this year, its chief economist Paul Conway said the tax system favours investing in housing, contributing to higher house prices over recent decades, with recent low interest rates making matters worse. Associate professor of economics Susan St John spoke to Jimmy Ellingham about the need to introduce a fair tax on housing before the next speculation-driven boom and bust cycle.
Increasingly ferocious storms, and severe droughts are among the effects of climate change. In the Caribbean, a hurricane can wipe out a third of a country's GDP overnight. At the climate conference in Egypt, the Alliance of Small Island States is trying to convince big polluters and the richest countries to cough up the billions of dollars they've already promised - and to commit trillions more as the onslaught worsens. The Alliance's lead negotiator Ambassador Conrod Hunte from Antigua and Barbuda spoke to Jimmy Ellingham about the need for swift and meaningful resolution on talks of finance for loss and damage.
Torrential rain and severe wind gusts are sweeping across the upper North Island causing slips, fallen trees and power outages. Early this morning parts of Northland had surface flooding and the sub-tropic burst of activity led to outside lanes on Auckland's harbour bridge closing. RNZ reporter Sally Wenley spoke to Jimmy Ellingham.
A world leading expert on climate refugees says the world needs to come to grips with the issue to avoid chaos at countries' borders. The Bahamas' Prime Minister Philip Davis told the COP27 UN climate conference in Egypt overnight that rich countries must slash climate emissions, or face dealing with tens to hundreds of millions of climate refugees. Currently, there's no definition for such thing as a climate refugee in international law. As a result there are no reliable data on how many people are already needing to leave their homes. But it's a scenario New Zealand may have to grapple with, with Pacific nations particularly susceptible to sea-level rise and inundation from increasingly ferocious storms. University of New South Wales Professor Jane McAdam told RNZ climate reporter Hamish Cardwell people are already on the move.
It's cost more than half-a-billion dollars to keep New Zealanders in emergency housing since April last year. And the number of people spending at least six months in such accommodation is growing. Housing researcher Dr Bev James spoke to Jimmy Ellingham there was no quick fix, but more could be done to increase housing supply.
News from the rural farming sector Despite a cold and wet spring in Canterbury, NIWA is now warning the region has become a hotspot on moisture deficit readings and that's likely to get worse over the next week. PlantTech Reasearch Institute Limited; a company which wanted to develop artificial intelligence for the horticulture sector has been put into liquidation. Processors have decreased slaughter prices for mutton and lamb and a market expert is warning prices will continue to fall in the months ahead.
Midday sports News for 10 November 2022 The Black Ferns have made just one injury-enforced change to the team for Saturday's Rugby World Cup final against England at Eden Park. Black Caps captain Kane Williamson will take some time to contemplate his future in all three formats of the game.
News from the business sector A review of the Reserve Bank's monetary policy decisions over the past five years indicates inflation would not be as high now, if it had acted sooner. Global logistics business Mainfreight's first half profit is up two-thirds on the year earlier, with all three divisions and five regions contributing significantly. Diversified property developer, Goodman Property Trust, has delivered a strong underlying performance with surging demand for Auckland industrial property.
Just 40 percent of children went to school regularly in term two this year, a new low. Meanwhile, chronic absence, meaning children missed a third or more of their classes, nearly doubled to reach 14 percent. An Education Ministry report says there was a substantial rise in absences due to illness including COVID-19 in term two. The children's commissioner judge Frances Eivers spoke to Jimmy Ellingham
The Reserve Bank thinks it's made pretty good decisions on monetary policy over the past five years, given the information it had to hand at the time. It says its support for banks and financial markets kept money flowing. But it says in hindsight, some of its pandemic-related measures should have eased or ended earlier including its government bond-buying programme; the Funding for Lenders Programme; and raising interest rates earlier after the economy picked up. A former Reserve Bank economist Michael Reddell spoke with Jimmy Ellingham
Low-lying island states know first-hand the effects of climate change, and the consequences of wooly language in agreed climate texts. At COP27, developing countries managed to get discussions about "loss and damage" onto the agenda. But that's just a start, really they need immediate emissions reductions, and a transparent and accountable mechanism for trillions-of-dollars worth of climate grants. Sivendra Michael is a Fijian climate negotiator who knows what it's like to grapple with rising seas, more severe storms, and entire populations having to move. He spoke to Jimmy Ellingham about how he brings that personal experience into the negotiations; and the new Kioa Declaration
It's "kid's day" at the Agricultural Show in Christchurch. Rural reporter Sally Murphy spoke to Jimmy Ellingham from the dog trials.
After two years of cancellations the country has finally come back to town. More than 120,000 people are expected to attend the show in Christchurch through 'til Friday. Fonterra has appointed Neil Beaumont to the role of chief financial officer, effective early February 2023. China is buying cheaper proteins from countries like Brazil - and that means the amount of sheep-meat we send there is dropping.
Midday sports News for 9 November 2022 Pakistan cricket coach Matthew Hayden is playing down his side's recent series win over the Black Caps, believing tonight's World Cup semi-final will probably come down to a single stand out performance. Kiwis prop Jesse Bromwich has labelled World Cup organisers as disrespectful for having already booked their passage home ahead of this weekend's semi-final against Australia in Leeds.
BNZ has reported record profits of $1.4 billion for the year ended September, up 7 percent on a year ago. Power generator Manawa Energy has reported a strong first half profit boosted by the sale of TrustPower's retail business, amid an otherwise challenging year. Takeover target Pushpay Holdings has announced its profits have more than halved with slower than expected customer growth despite a lift in revenue.
The Pacific Islands are crying out for meaningful action and lots of money at the climate change conference in Egypt. Developing countries have finally managed to get "loss and damage" onto the agenda at the talks it's long been opposed by the few that got rich off fossil fuels. But the real outcome will be agreement on a framework for developed countries to commit to trillions of dollars of climate funding and transparency to make sure those countries actually give as much as they promise. Fiji special advisor on Climate Change and Loss and Damage Daniel Lund spoke to Jimmy Ellingham from the conference in Sharm-El-Sheikh in Egypt
The Commerce Commission is getting the power to step in to stop petrol companies price gouging. And, as low-lying island states demand forceful immediate action at the COP27 climate change conference, the government shifts the goalposts on introducing a biofuel mandate for fuel companies. The energy and resources minister Megan Woods says that's because of worries extra costs would be passed to consumers. Z Energy's chief executive Mike Bennetts spoke with Jimmy Ellingham
NIWA air quality researchers this morning launched a research project to track ventilation and assess how our most vulnerable communities could be better protected from Covid-19. Improving air flow in indoor spaces is a key strategy to prevent transmission - but it's unclear if extensive messaging is changing behaviour. The chief executive of Hāpai Te Hau-ora - Māori Public Health - Selah Hart, told me how important the project is to help keep communities together.
Midday sports News for Tuesday 8 November 2022 The Black Caps adapability is paying dividends at the T20 cricket world cup in Australia according to allround Mitchell Santner. New Zealand play Pakistan in their semi-final in Sydney tomorrow night, with India playing England in the other.
People in the middle of mental health crises are spending longer than they should in hospitals because they have nowhere else to go. North Shore Hospital says some of its emergency department patients are being stranded for days at a time. The Health Minister Andrew Little says investments are being made into community care, and better health workforce planning. Te Hiringa Mahara, the Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission, monitors and assesses the sector. Its director of mental health and addiction leadership Tanya Maloney told Jimmy Ellingham the staffing shortages puts backlogs on the services able to be provided.
The National and ACT parties are unimpressed the Reserve Bank Governor Adrian Orr has been reappointed for a second term. Opposition parties want an independent review of the central bank's performance and decisions during the pandemic. The finance minister Grant Robertson is defending the decision, saying the economy needs "Continuity and stability". RNZ's political editor Jane Patterson spoke to Jimmy Ellingham.
A new political poll shows National and ACT would have enough support to govern together. According to a Newshub Reid Research poll, Labour has dropped to 32.3 percent support, well below National on 40.7 percent. But the Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says Labour's internal polling puts the two blocks neck and neck. Right-wing political commentator Liam Hehir spoke to Jimmy Ellingham.
Pre-schools are hoping parents won't have to limit the number of hours their children are in care, when the subsidies increase next year. The childcare subsidy is a payment to help families with the cost of pre-school childcare. Labour leader Jacinda Ardern unveiled the policy's expansion at the party's annual conference at the weekend. The MARC Early Learning Centre is a not-for-profit early childhood centre in Mt Albert in Auckland. Its head teacher and manager Meg Moss told Jimmy Ellingham the current subsidy did not stretch far for some families.
Midday sports News for Monday 7 November 2022 Kiwis Ferns half back Raecene McGregor is promising more to come from her side after they scored a 34-4 win over the Cooks Islands in York for their second win at the Rugby League World Cup.
Nearly 200 countries have agreed to talk about compensating poor nations for the mounting damage linked to global warming. For more than a decade, wealthy nations have rejected official discussions on what is referred to as loss and damage, the term used to describe rich nations paying out funds to help poor countries cope with the consequences of global warming for which they bear little blame. University of Otago professor Ivan Diaz-Rainey spoke to Jimmy Ellingham.
Auckland Council's budget is blowing out as inflation runs hot and interest rates continue to rise. Staff are warning the funding gap is estimated to be $180m higher than the anticipated shortfall of $90m. And the mayor Wayne Brown is blaming his predecessor. RNZ Auckland reporter Amy Williams spoke to Jimmy Ellingham.
New Zealand's Pakistani community is still trying to come to grips with the news of the assassination attempt on former prime minister, Imran Khan, overnight. Mr Khan was shot in the shin when his anti-government protest convoy came under attack in the east of the country. The President of the Pakistan Association of New Zealand Naved Hamed spoke to Michael Cropp on Midday Report.
The Black Ferns will need to break a four-match losing streak against France in tomorrow's Rugby World Cup semi-final, to have a chance at defending their title. New Zealand are the official favourites heading into tomorrow night's game, but history suggests France has the upper hand heading into the must-win match. The director of Alliance Française in Auckland Yves-Louis Dorsemaine told Michael Cropp he would be cheering for the French side, Les Bleues, at tomorrow's game at Eden Park.
Midday sports News for 4 November 2022 Black Caps skipper Kane Williamson is remaining patient about his below par batting efforts at the T20 cricket world cup in Australia.
Fireworks sparked a massive blaze north of Christchurch, forcing more than 100 people to be evacuated from their homes this week. Michael Cropp asked some central Wellington workers whether fireworks should be available for the public to buy.
Firefighters have called off today's strike action after the Government stepped in with an offer to help settle the long-running industrial dispute. Fire and Emergency's chief executive Kerry Gregory says it's a very positive development. It comes as firefighters are today dousing hot-spots after a massive scrub fire in the dune grasses and pine forest at Pegasus Bay north of Christchurch. That blaze was sparked by fireworks, which are currently on sale. The Professional Firefighters' Union says the risk of more fires was worrying members and the government. But the Union's national secretary Wattie Watson says there's not enough money in the offer to fix systemic problems, including understaffing, low wages and failing equipment. The internal affairs minister Jan Tinetti spoke to Michael Cropp on Midday Report.
The Starship Foundation missed out on a $500,000 donation at the weekend, when the 4-year-old horse "I Wish I Win" won the Golden Eagle race at Rosehill in Sydney. 10-percent of the winnings was destined for charity... and when just days before the race the New Zealand majority owner of the young thoroughbred asked if the money could come back home, he was told 'yes'... and given just 24 hours to get Starship's approval. But Starship declined the offer - saying it didn't have enough time to clear the donation before the close of business Instead, the winnings went to Muscular Dystrophy New South Wales. The owner, Mark Chittick spoke to Michael Cropp.
Bonjela will remain available for sale in supermarkets for use in older children and adults and will be reclassified in pharmacies from the first of May. A mum who nearly lost her daughter after an excess of bonjela spoke to Midday Report about the new restrictions.
Fire and emergency updated the local community on Thursday morning, and our reporter Niva Chittock was there, She spoke to Michael Cropp
Travel's being disrupted by flooding on the West Coast; Waka Kotahi said motorists travelling along state highway six between Hokitika and Haast should take extra care and be prepared for unexpected hazards.
Ben Bell will become the country's youngest mayor. The 23-year-old has ousted six-term mayor Tracy Hicks by just eight votes, after a judge dismissed his bid for a recount. He spoke to Michael Cropp.
Unemployment is still near record lows, and more financial pressure lies ahead for homeowners.
A new government report confirms poorer, coastal and low-lying riverside communities will not be able to pay to protect themselves from the effects of climate change. It identifies 44 lower-income communities as vulnerable, without clear plans to deal with sea level rise, and extreme rain events. The associate local government minister Kieran McAnulty said the government was considering all options, including abandoning the areas. Climate scientist and flood modeller Dr Judy Lawrence spoke Michael Cropp.
The Reserve Bank says the country's financial system remains sound, but the tight labour market has economists worried. The central bank warned some households and businesses will come under pressure, especially recent homebuyers facing large falls in their property value... pushing some into negative equity. And it says a significant jump in the unemployment rate -- today confirmed at 3.3 percent for the September 2022 quarter -- is the biggest risk to the country's financial stability. The Council of Trade Union's economist Craig Renney spoke to Michael Cropp.
The Law Society here in Aotearoa has expressed concern about the way the Kiribati government is treating its judiciary. On Friday, it appointed a non-judge, Attorney General, Tetiro Semilota, as the acting Chief Justice. RNZ Pacific's Don Wiseman spoke to Max Towel.
Mis and disinformation are among the country's top security threats; and it's pulling communities and families apart. One in four respondents to this year's National Security Public Survey said the spread of lies was their top concern. The Prime Minister spoke to a counter-terrorism conference about the survey results - RNZ's reporter, Jonty Dine, was there. He spoke to Michael Cropp.
The National Party says more meaningful consequences are needed to prevent young people from serious offending. Yesterday a 14-year-old was arrested on 81 charges, following a string of serious incidents in Christchurch over recent weeks. National says the Government is taking a soft approach towards young offenders, but the outgoing principal youth court judge, John Walker, says the law demands a focus on rehabilitating, empowering and upskilling young people and their families. Matt Doocey is the National party's youth and mental health spokesperson. He spoke to Michael Cropp.
Hundreds of farmers are turning out to meetings about paying for on-farm emissions. Kim Moodie has the rural news.
Smoke from the fire meant almost half the New Zealand women's Rugby league players lost personal belongings and training gear just 48 hours from their opening World Cup match against France in York. Stephen Hewson has sport.
The chair of mobile donations company Pushpay hopes its shareholders can see value, as its board recommends a takeover deal seen as cheap by some analysts. Anan Zaki has business.
The office for the Minister for Children says it is up to Oranga Tamariki to release a review into the Ministry's actions in the lead up to the murder of 5-year-old Malachi Subecz. Malachi was killed 11 months ago by his caregiver Michaela Barriball, a death which the chief ombudsman said was preventable. Peter Boshier described Oranga Tamariki's inaction in the leadup to the death as a litany of failures. Children's Minister Kelvin Davis initially told RNZ he understood the review into the boy's death would be released before the end of the month. His office said Oranga Tamariki were ensuring all relevant whānau members have had the chance to engage before it's released. Today, a spokesperson for Oranga Tamariki reiterated it was committed to releasing the report, but that would not happen until the Ministry has completed engaging with Malachi's whanau.
The lawyer for Grace Millane's killer has told the Court of Appeal in Auckland that two other women felt driven to be her voice in separate trials which resulted in further convictions. Jesse Kempson is appearing via video link in court today in a bid to appeal his convictions and sentences relating to two women he attacked and violated. RNZ's reporter, Amy Williams is in court and spoke to Michael Cropp
A large police cordon is still in place in Riccarton, Christchurch, after a person died shortly before 4 o'clock this morning on Matipo Street. The police are treating it as an unexplained death. RNZ's Christchurch reporter, Niva Chittock, spoke to Michael Cropp from the scene.
How long is too long to wait to talk to a company's customer service centre? Consumer NZ recently found wait times for 21 companies across internet, banks, post, and transport sectors ranged from a 15 seconds, to about an hour. Consumer NZ's head of content, Caitlin Cherry, spoke to Michael Cropp.
Seven Christchurch vape stores have been caught selling their products to 16-year-olds. They were caught during a controlled purchase operation on 39 retailers in August and October. Vapes can only be sold to those aged over 18, but seven stores did not check for ID, and have been fined. Michael Cropp spoke to Waitaha Canterbury Medical Officer of Health Dr Cheryl Brunton.
Weeks of record-breaking rainfall in Hawke's Bay is causing havoc for farmers. Kim Moodie has the rural news.
Red Bull's Max Verstappen has broken the record for wins in a Formula One season with a comfortable victory in the Mexico City Grand Prix. Stephen Hewson has sport.
An investment analyst says rival bidders may emerge for mobile donations company Pushpay, after two big shareholders made a billion dollar offer on Friday. Anan Zaki has the business news.
A Rotorua motel owner says the emergency housing system is set up for failure. Alpin Motel's Joanne McCracken is just one of several people to speak at a hearing on emergency housing in the city, organised by Rotorua Lakes Council. The hearing is set down for two days with local businesses, housing advocates, clubs and associations all set to have their say. RNZ reporter Rayssa Almeida is in Rotorua and spoke to Michael Cropp.
There's some disappointment that the Government's planned alcohol law reforms don't go further. The government wants to change the rules to stop liquor stores and supermarkets tying up councils in expensive legal battles, by removing the ability to appeal liquor decisions. But critics say the announcement, made yesterday by Justice Minister Kiri Allan, doesn't go far enough, with no mention of looking at the drinking age, nor restricting alcohol marketing and sponsorship. Ms Allan says a second phase of alcohol law reforms will be made in March next year, Communities Against Alcohol Harm spokesperson, Dr Grant Hewison, spoke to Michael Cropp.
A group of protesters are picketing outside the Iranian embassy in Wellington, condemning the country's brutal crackdown of demonstrations against the regime. The protesters say more than 240 people, including 32 children, have been killed in Iran in the past six weeks since unrest erupted after the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian Kurd who was detained by the Islamic Republic's morality police for flouting restrictions on women's dress. RNZ political reporter Anneke Smith spoke to Charlotte Cook from the protest.
Te Whatu Ora, Health NZ has released its plans for the next two years as it figures out how to replace 20 individual district ones that existed under the previous structure. The interim plan has a strong focus on improving the numbers and the wellbeing of the country's 240,000 health professionals RNZ reporter Tom Kitchin was at the report's launch in Taupō and spoke to Charlotte Cook.
Midday sports News for 28 October 2022 The T20 World Cup could lose one of the pre tournament favourites after tonight's game between Australia and England at the MCG.
Soldiers on the front line in Ukraine say they have no idea why only the body of the American man killed alongside Dominic Abelen is being repatriated but not the New Zealander. Joshua Jones was killed alongside New Zealand soldier Dominic Abelen in August when they tried to take over a Russian trenchline. On Wednesday his body was handed back to Ukrainian forces during an agreed cease-fire. A friend and fellow soldier of Joshua Jones spoke to Charlotte Cook.
An independent panel on local government thinks councils are losing the trust of their communities, and their consultation processes are excluding many people from participating. It comes amid three waters reforms, low voter turnout, and concerns about the amount of work needed to tackle climate change. Among the 29 proposals: it recommends lowering the voting age to 16, increasing term limits to 4 years, and have mana whenua appointees alongside elected Maori ward councillors. The chair of the panel Jim Palmer spoke to Charlotte Cook about how those ideas might get more people involved in local government.
A contingent of 10 police officers has arrived on a remote Island in Papua New Guinea - the scene of intense violence this week. Clashes happened Monday after a dispute over a football match a month ago. A police spokesperson says the number of dead has been revised and now stands at 22. RNZ Pacific's Lydia Lewis reports.
Cruise ships are back, visiting ports around the country bringing with them more covid. Health NZ is refusing to say if there are Covid-19 cases on the cruise ship Celebrity Eclipse currently docked in Lyttelton. More than 130 people onboard the Ovation of the Seas have tested positive for Covid-19, and the ship had not been following current Covid isolation guidelines. Aerosol chemist Dr Joel Rindelaub told Charlotte Cook he was definitely not surprised.
National population growth is predicted to slow to less than 1 percent each year for the next decade. But what growth remains will be highest in Northland, Auckland, Waikato, and Bay of Plenty. And it will also continue to climb in the 65-plus age range, growing by 3.2 percent each year between 2021 and 2031. Infometrics' chief forecaster Gareth Kiernan spoke to Charlotte Cook about the projections.
Midday sports News for 27 October 2022. Black Ferns co-captain Kennedy Simon will finally get some World Cup action after being named on the bench for Saturday's quarter-final against Wales in Whangarei.
Metservice has issued several severe weather warnings the first of which comes into force this evening. Metservice says Aotearoa is heading into an unsettled period of weather with heavy rain kicking in on the West Coast of the South Island later today. It says the severe weather works its way up the country through the end of the week and while temperatures look beach appropriate the wind and rain may say otherwise.
Thousands of community nurses are striking again over their employers' inability to deliver pay parity after a year of failed negotiations. Primary Health Care and Plunket nurses have the same responsibilities and qualifications as their Te Whatu Ora counterparts but are paid significantly less. New Zealand College of Primary Health Care Nurses Chair Tracey Morgan says in some cases they are paid up to 20 percent less than hospital nurses, while Maori and iwi provider nurses are worse off with 25 percent less. She spoke to Charlotte Cook from the picket line in Rotorua.
A New Zealand couple who were held in Iran for four months are extremely relieved to be free. Iranian authorities stopped Topher Richwhite and Bridget Thackwray from leaving the country for four months. The New Zealand government used diplomatic channels to secure their release, with the Foreign Affairs Minister Nanaia Mahuta making a direct appeal to her Iranian counterpart.
The Prime Minister's electorate office in Morningside was attacked overnight. Police are still at the scene investigating what happened, and say a 57-year-old woman has been arrested in relation to the incident. RNZ reporter Finn Blackwell updates Midday Report's Charlotte Cook.
The PNG Government has confirmed that at least 29 people have died after clashes on the Island of Kiriwina in the Trobriand archipelago. Reports suggest it was a conflict between two groups after a football match. RNZ Pacific journalist Lydia Lewis reports.
On the 9th of December almost three years ago, seven pilots took matters into their own hands to rescue people from the erupting Whakaari Island. 47 people were on the island that day, 22 of them died. But without the actions of those seven pilots, that number would have been much higher. Tom Storey was among those men and is getting a New Zealand Bravery Decoration for those actions. He spoke to Charlotte Cook.
A new survey of students at the co-located Shirley Boys' and Avonside Girls' schools show many are being sexually harassed and assaulted. Fewer than half the boys took part in the survey, but of those who did: a fifth reported harassment - dominated by physical assaults including touching, groping, and even sex without consent. The incidents happened at school and the victims were most likely homo- or bisexual. Meanwhile, in the girls' survey, a total of 21 instances of rape or near-rape are described amid widespread reported sexual harassment. The head students of the Avonside Girls' Olivia Kingi and Shirley Boys' Kururangi Wetini spoke to Charlotte Cook.
Midday sports News for Wednesday 26 October 2022 New ball-bowler Trent Boult says their focus has moved on to tonight's game against Afghanistan in Melbourne - which comes after New Zealand thrashed hosts and defending champs Australia in their tournament opener.
Green Party human rights and foreign affairs spokesperson Golriz Ghahraman is questioning whether Iran used a New Zealand couple as a pawn to stop the government speaking out on its human rights abuses. She spoke to Charlotte Cook on Midday Report.
A New Zealand couple held in Iran have escaped the country safe and well after being stuck there for months. Topher Richwhite and his wife Bridget Thackwray had been unable to leave the Middle Eastern country, which has been experiencing weeks of unrest. The couple were on a world trip in a Jeep. Iran says they were never arrested. RNZ's political editor Jane Patterson spoke to Charlotte Cook.
They say victory tastes sweet and that's especially true for a young chocolate maker from rural Wairarapa. Johnty Tatham and his company Lucid Chocolatier have been named the supreme winner of this year's Chocolate Awards. On top of that he's won two categories and 14 other medals in the competition, half of them Gold. Johnty Tathim spoke to Charlotte Cook.
Rishi Sunak will be the UK's next Prime Minister, and the first one of Hindu descent. The former treasurer took out the Conservative Party leadership after his would-be rival, Penny Mordaunt, dropped out of the race just minutes before nominations closed. The 42 year old was vocal about his Indian heritage throughout the campaign. Sandeep Singh a journalist for the New Zealand paper - The Indian Weekender - says Mr Sunak's representation in such a powerful office is causing an ecstatic reaction among the community.
Midday sports News for 25 October 2022 Crusaders back Leicester Fainga'anuku returned to New Zealand yesterday due to family reasons - and will be replaced for the rest of the end-of-year tour.
A new campaign's being launched to encourage families to anonymously dob in young people who they think are involved in crime. It comes after an uptick in some youth crimes this year. Business associations say retailers are increasingly worried they could be hit by a ram raid, or a smash and grab, and that more should be done. Crime Stoppers' chief executive Hadyn Smith spoke to Charlotte Cook.
Patients in need of urgent care are waiting longer than they have in years to be seen in hospital emergency departments. The latest figures, to June this year, show the falling numbers of people being seen within six hours of arriving at an ED. Nationally, just three-quarters were seen within six hours; but in MidCentral it's dropped to 55 percent. The National Party's health spokesperson Dr Shane Reti spoke to Charlotte Cook.
The country's teenagers have again recorded poor results in a trial-run of new NCEA literacy and numeracy tests. Just 34 percent of students who attempted the writing test passed - similar to last year's results. The tests become a compulsory part of the NCEA assessment in 2024. RNZ education correspondent John Gerritsen spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The books have been opened on the parlous financial state of Ruapehu Alpine Lifts Limited at a meeting of creditors this morning. Voluntary Administrators were appointed recently, and the company's future is still uncertain. RNZ reporter Jimmy Ellingham spoke to Māni Dunlop from outside the meeting being held at the Whakapapa skifield.
Kiwis rugby league coach Michael Maguire wants to see a much more settled performance from key combinations in their second World Cup game against Jamaica on Sunday morning.
There are calls for tougher penalties on young people who commit criminal offending. But who are they, and why are they breaking the law? Police say more than 2000 charges have been filed in the Youth Court this year relating to ram raid and smash and grab style offending in Tāmaki Makaurau and Waikato. The outgoing Principal Youth Court Judge John Walker says the Youth Court Act states unequivocally that criminal proceedings are to be a matter of last resort, and should not be instituted where there are alternative means of dealing with the matter. Judge Walker told Māni Dunlop about the backgrounds of our young offenders.
The internal review into Oranga Tamariki's 'litany of failures' is overdue. The agency received multiple warnings, reports of concern, and whānau pleas for intervention in the lead up to the murder of 5 year old Malachi Subecz. The Children's minister Kelvin Davis and Oranga Tamariki chief executive Chappie Te Kani are waiting for the review's findings before acting. Te Pāti Māori co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The internal report examining Oranga Tamariki's litany of failures which led to a 5-year-old being murdered is overdue. The report follows an investigation by the Ombudsman which found Oranga Tamariki failed to do the bare minimum before Malachi Subecz was killed by a caregiver last year, despite whānau pleas for intervention, and multiple reports of concern to the agency. Māni Dunlop reports.
Rangatahi Māori are still being excluded and disadvantaged at a much higher rate than Pākehā youth. The latest Taiohi Insights report from Te Rourou, Vodafone Aotearoa Foundation, shows in 2021, 38% of rangatahi Māori experienced exclusion and disadvantage compared with 14% of Pākehā. The vodafone foundation's Rangatahi Insights spokesperson Ta'ase Vaoga spoke to Māni Dunlop.
About 80 elective procedures at three private hospitals in Wellington and Hawke's Bay have been rescheduled, as nurses strike until tomorrow morning after a breakdown in talks with their employer, Evolution Healthcare. The Acting chief executive officer, Matthew Clarke, says median pay rises of 15 percent were offered, and that the offer is in line with others accepted by the union. But nurses say that does not keep up with the cost of living or offer parity with other private hospital counterparts. Matthew Clarke spoke to Māni Dunlop
Midday sports News for 20 October 2022 The Black Ferns will have a different captain - and a star player returning - in Saturday's game against Scotland in Whangarei.
Jacinda Ardern met with Auckland's mayor-elect Wayne Brown for the first time this morning. Ms Ardern spoke to media after her meeting with the mayor outlining their main points of discussion, such as transport, and Mr Brown's call to scrap Three Waters reforms - the latter of which was rejected. Ms Ardern also met with the Auckland business chamber chief executive Simon Bridges. Mr Bridges spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Farmers have driven their tractors into towns and cities protesting against proposed new agricultural emissions rules. They argue new rules are being imposed too quickly, and are too expensive. Māni Dunlop spoke to RNZ's reporters who are following the action in several centres.
A potential restructure at Stuff could see the number of journalists in regional newsrooms halved, Mediawatch understands. The media company proposes to counterbalance job losses by establishing a new regional team made up of a group regional editor, four news directors and nine breaking news reporters. Mediawatch's Hayden Donnell spoke with Mani Dunlop.
People in the Hamilton West electorate are set for a by-election The former Labour MP Gaurav Sharma has resigned from Parliament, claiming without proof that he was about to be forced out. That means a new representative is needed for the area. Dr Sharma is planning on setting up his own party to contest the seat. Our reporter Tom Taylor is there.
News from the rural farming sector That's right the average price at the fortnightly sale fell 4-point-6 percent overnight to $3723 USdollars a tonne. The joint winners of The Great New Zealand Sausage Compeititon say they're shocked and stoaked with the win. Prices for well presented cross-bred wool clips are slowly edging up - but poorer quality fleeces are still struggling to gain momentum.
Midday sports News for 19 October 2022 Blues midfielder Rieko Ioane has extended his contract with New Zealand Rugby until the end of next year, as he chases selection for his second World Cup. The Black Ferns assistant coach Wes Clarke says while England can be beaten, he still believes they're the form team of the World Cup.
News from the business sector The Financial Markets Authority has given another online investment platform a formal warning for not complying with anti-money laundering requirements. As the dust starts to settle on yesterday's outsized and surprise rise in consumer prices, the head of one of the country's big accounting groups is suggesting the country should be reporting inflation numbers every month and not every three months. Rising commercial rents reflect a thriving prime office rental market in our major cities with interest from offshore investors further boosting demand.
Climate protesters who were arrested for blocking State Highway One Transmission Gully north of Wellington this morning will appear in Court this afternoon. Restore Passenger Rail says it could keep disrupting traffic for years because our emissions are leading us to climate disaster. They've been charged with tresspass and criminal nuisance. They want widespread and subsidised passenger rail services restore to help keep vehicles off the road. Mike Smith is co-chair of the iwi leaders forum climate change directorate and a well seasoned activist. Mani Dunlop spoke to him earlier about his thoughts on the protest.
Frustrated dairy and business owners have met with the police minister Chris Hipkins this morning, demanding more be done to stop ramraids and smash and grabs. There's been an increase in those crimes this year, after decades of falling youth offending rates. The businesses say it's costing them tens-of-thousands of dollars in security and repairs, and not enough is being done to protect them. Dairy owners representative Sunny Kaushal spoke with Mani Dunlop.
As we've been reporting, inflation has remained largely flat, the annual rate easing marginally to 7.2 percent from 7.3 percent, which was a 32 year high. One of the main drivers of inflation is fuel prices, and in an unusual set of circumstances, diesel now costs more than petrol in some regions. AA principal policy adviser Terry Collins spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The Local Government Minister is pushing to find common ground with new Auckland mayor Wayne Brown over the controversial three waters policy. Nanaia Mahuta has been at the Water NZ Conference in Otautahi this this morning. New Auckland Mayor, Wayne Brown has asked the city's water management company and council boss to stop work on the controversial reform proposals.
A public health expert says the damning report into Middlemore Hospital's Emergency department is a failure of primary care in South Auckland. The independent review of Middlemore was carried out after the death of a woman who left the hospital's overcrowded emergency department without being seen and later died of a brain haemorrage. The department has been described as "dysfunctional, overcrowded and unsafe". Sir Collin Tukuitonga said it was surprising there had not been more deaths, but credits the staff who have worked under immense pressure. He spoke with Māni Dunlop
In what is being described as a big surprise, the annual inflation rate has barely changed from a 32 year high. Consumer prices rose 2.2 percent in the three months ended September, driven by higher food and housing costs, taking annual inflation to 7.2 percent. I t was widely speculated the number would drop below 7 percent, but instead, the figure moved down by just 0.1 percent. Stats NZ says that despite a fall in global fuel prices, rises in the price of housing construction, airfares and veggies had largely offset the relief. It's Senior Manager for Pricing, Accommodation and Construction, Nicola Growden spoke with Māni Dunlop
Illegal tree planting has caused permanent damage to a sacred historic pa settlement on Ōwairaka Mount Albert in Tāmaki Makaurau. Auckland Council's Tupuna Maunga Authority says 27 trees have been planted in the settlement without authorisation. The maunga is of huge significance to Nga Mana Whenua o Tamaki Makaurau - and has been a source of some controversy, with protesters against the felling of non-native trees starting in 2020. The argument later ended up in the Court of Appeal. Kaiwhakahaere, Nicholas Turoa spoke to Māni Dunlop.
China's continuing zero-Covid policy is still tough for New Zealand exporters. Sally Murphy has the rural news.
The rape trial of a 25-year-old man in Wellington has entered its second week. The man, who has name suppression, is charged with several sexual offences against six women.
Kiwis coach Michael Maguire says his side lacked intensity at the start of their opening Rugby League World Cup game against Lebanon. Stephen Hewson has sport.
NZ First Leader, Winston Peters, denies he is stirring up fear in order to get his party back in to the halls of power, after describing the Government's agenda as "malignant paternalism" and "inverse racism" At the party's annual conference in Christchurch yesterday, Mr Peters attacked the Government on immigration, crime, climate change and co-governance. He accused it of ramming a separatist agenda down voters' throats and scattering the seeds of apartheid. The Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, says Mr Peters is trying to get headlines and doesn't want to give them gravitas by responding. Māni Dunlop spoke to University of Auckland politics lecturer Dr Lara Greaves
Vero Insurance is the latest life insurance company to be taken to court by the Financial Markets Authority. Business Editor Gyles Beckford has te pūrongo pakihi.
KidsCan has launched an urgent appeal for donations to help the record number of children it says need support, with the charity saying whanau are at breaking point. It's now helping to feed more than 49,000 children every day, as the cost of living reaches record levels. The appeal comes a day after a south Auckland foodbank was robbed of about $10,000 worth of food on Sunday afternoon. Hurimoana Dennis is the chair of Te Puea Memorial Marae, which supports whanau in Tamaki Makaurau with food parcels and other social services.
Harakeke or flax fibres are being used to create a new low-carbon composite material which is lighter and stronger than fibreglass. The company behind the invention, KiwiFibre, says the harakeke fibres are combined with resins to create a versatile product that can be used nearly anywhere very strong plastics are needed: boats, aerospace, and motorsport. Unlike fibreglass, this is recyclable. And the company says it wants to develop bio-resins using harakeke oil. Co-founder of KiwiFibre William Murrell spoke to Māni Dunlop about the product.
There's been a 9.6 percent rise in home building costs over the past year, a record according to the Construction Cost Index. For homeowners, that could mean their home insurance wouldn't be enough to replace their home in case of disaster. The Insurance Council's chief executive Tim Grafton spoke to Māni Dunlop.
News from the rural farming sector It's peak season for many contractors at the moment, as arable farmers prepare the ground for planting. But wet weather across the Waikato, Manawatu and Wairarapa means many are unable to work. Australia has signalled it might join the global effort to cut methane emissions by 30 per cent before the turn of the decade, but has ruled out following New Zealand's lead of taxing on farm emissions. And just lastly if you have the skills and knowhow to run a 17th century Dutch-style windmill to grind wheat for bread, then Foxton needs you!
Midday sports News for 14 October 2022 The Black Ferns have made wholesale changes to their lineup for their second Rugby World Cup match against Wales in Auckland on Sunday. The Black Caps play Pakistan in the final of the T20 tournament in Christchurch this afternoon.
News from the business sector Manufacturing sector activity eased back to its slowest pace in three months in September. The outgoing boss of Genesis Energy has called out "populist media" for focusing on its bottom line profit. Export incomes are under pressure from weaker global demand, with the regions set for leaner times over the next couple of years.
Climate scientists warned the ski industry two decades that climate change could threaten the viability of some skifields. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts is in voluntary administration after a string of poor seasons. Climate professor James Renwick told newsroom his report two decades ago suggested North Island skifields would be marginal by 2050. But the reality of ever-increasing carbon emissions means not enough snow is falling and settling on the slopes of the maunga to keep it open today. The Tourism minister Stuart Nash says he has no regrets about giving the skifield money while the borders were shut, but, for now, no more public money would go towards the skifield. Spokesperson for the Ruapehu shareholders and Life Pass Holders group Sam Clarkson spoke to Māni Dunlop.
An east coast community provider's painted a picture of poverty as families continue to grapple with the rising cost of living. Food prices aren't showing any sign of dropping, as the country heads towards what are normally the cheaper summer months for buying fruit and vegetables. The 8.3 percen annual rise in food prices for the year to September is the highest since 2009. Fruit and vegetables are up 16 percent. ANZ economist Finn Robinson says one of the factors is the recent cold weather, making growing conditions challenging. Whakaatu Whanaunga Trust delivers a range of social services to whānau in and around Ōpōtiki. Its chief executive Steven Walker spoke to Māni Dunlop about the impacts of the rise in food prices.
To Taiwan, where officials are this week showcasing the nation's independence, democracy, military, and globally critical semiconductor factories. The country of about 24 million people seeks international recognition, so it can participate in multilateral talks on trade, climate, and health. But there's a major issue standing in the way: China, which says Taiwan is Chinese, and it would use force to ensure its reunification. RNZ weekend editor Kaye Albyt is in Taiwan and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Ngāti Rangi, mana whenua at Ruapehu, says its dignity and rangatiratanga has been affronted because the mountain's skifield operator's didn't warn them the business could close. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts has gone into voluntary administration, with the future unclear. Te Tōtarahoe o Paerangi chair Whetu Moataane told Māni Dunlop there wasn't even a phone call despite the two having a formalised relationship.
Midday sports News for 13 October 2022 Australia netball captain Liz Watson believes a lack of recent play against New Zealand certainly played a part in their loss in the opening Constellation Cup game in Auckland. The defending champion Silver Ferns rode an 11-goal streak in the first quarter to score a 56-48 win.
Māori advocates are outraged the Police Minister's suggesting law changes to allow officers to keep taking photos of people they deem suspicious, and it has set back promises of any transformational change in the justice system. Chris Hipkins says the pendulum has swung too far in favour of privacy over surveillance and the police association has said that among "those who are found in 'suspicious circumstances', Māori are over-represented". A leading advocate for prison and justice reform, University of Auckland Professor Tracy McIntosh, told Māni Dunlop it sets back positive changes.
An alarming new report on the state of the marine environment shows the oceans are rising faster, becoming hotter, more acidic, dirtier, and that is all making it harder for taonga creatures to survive. Māni Dunlop asked the oceans, fisheries, and environment minister David Parker whether we were doing enough to prevent the irreversible loss of marine ecosystems.
The Electricity Authority says New Zealand needs to increase generation capacity by 400-500 megawatts each year 'til 2050. The Electricity Authority has released a consultation paper, laying out proposals to aid investment in renewable generation and to promote competition in the wholesale electricity market. Power systems consultant Bryan Leyland spoke to Michael Cropp.
The decline in the housing market is continuing with no sign of the traditional Spring uptick. September's Real Estate Institute's house price index, which measures the changing value of properties, shows a fall of 0.7 percent on August, with the annual decline steepening to 8.1 percent. The Institute's chief executive Jen Baird spoke to Michael Cropp.
Midday sports News for 12 October 2022 Danny Hay is stepping down as All Whites coach, opting not to try and renew his contract which expires at the end of the month.
Kiwirail has geotechnical engineers on-site today to investigate subsidence on a section of the Western rail line near New Lynn station in Auckland. Passenger trains are running at a reduced timetable, and only a single track will be operational as a precaution from today, and there's no time frame for a fix yet. Passengers heading West, towards Swanson, will have to transfer at New Lynn Auckland Transport says it is working closely with KiwiRail to minimise disruption. Kiwirail's Chief Operating Officer - Capital Projects & Asset Development - David Gordon spoke to Michael Cropp.
Climate activists who caused significant delays during Wellington's morning rush hour today plan to continue their disruptive protests, until the Government responds to their call to restore passenger rail. Traffic was backed up as far as Tawa - about 15km away - on the southbound lane of the capital's motorway, after six protestors stepped onto the road near the Terrace Tunnel and unfurled a banner around 0730. They also passed out flyers to the stuck motorists, saying the protesters were "sincerely sorry" for the disruption, but climate change cannot be ignored. The police removed the protestors and traffic was flowing freely again by 9 o'clock. It's the third day of protest action by the Restore Passenger Rail campaigners, and its spokesperson Michael Apathy told Michael Cropp the campaigners feel like they have no choice but to take such drastic action.
Hackers have posted stolen patient information on the dark web. The names, addresses and other personal information of up to 450,000 people was stolen in the cyber-attack on Pinnacle Midlands Health about a fortnight ago. It's believed the hack was a ransom attack, with data only released when the victims refused to pay. Computer security consultant Adam Boileau joins Charlotte Cook on Midday Report to explain.
The Government's proposed a farm-level emissions pricing scheme to be introduced from 2025, which will have farmers paying for methane and carbon dioxide emissions. Professor of physics at Canterbury University David Frame told Charlotte Cook he welcomed the recognition that there is a real difference between the two gasses and that methane doesn't belong in the ETS.
Midday Sports News for Tuesday 11 October 2022. Veteran Black Caps opener Martin Guptill has fallen out of favour with the selectors with Finn Allen their preferred opener ahead of this month's T20 World Cup.
Vladimir Putin has confirmed that Russia's barrage of missile attacks across Ukraine was in retaliation for Saturday's destructive explosion on the only bridge to Russian-occupied Crimea. President Putin says the strikes targeted energy, military and communications facilities. But the missiles actually took out children's playgrounds and civilian areas during rush hour. Associate professor of Russian and history at the University of Canterbury, Evgeny Pavlov, spoke to Charlotte Cook.
The government wants farmers to pay for agricultural emissions for carbon dioxide and methane from 2025. It will be a farm-level split gas approach, but the industry is not happy with the proposal. Federated Farmers says it will rip the guts out of small-town New Zealand. The agriculture minister Damien O'Connor refuted that, saying the scheme was close to what the farmers' group He Waka Eke Noa had proposed and the government was now asking for feedback. He spoke to Charlotte Cook.
Some of the players taking to the field at Rugby World Cup are equipped with smart mouthguards - measuring the force of each hit they take. It's part of a study by World Rugby and of Univetrsity of Otago - which has so far measured over 38-thousand head impacts from over 700 people. It's being lead by Professor Melanie Bussey who joined Māni Dunlop.
A prison advocacy group says an indefinite ban on face-to-face visits in some prisons is unconscionable and will have catastrophic impacts on inmates and their whanau. Seven jails have banned visitors with no clear end date - citing safety - as Corrections scrambles to fill nearly 500 job vacancies. Pillars supports children and whanau of prisoners - Māni Dunlop spoke to the General manager Maxine Gay
At least 40 percent of the elected mayors are new, after the elections reveal a lean to the centre right candidates. University of Auckland politics professor Lara Greaves told Morning Report it follows the polling trends where labour and independent candidates aren't pulling in the support. And the Far North Mayoralty is proving to be one of those really close races. Former deputy mayor Ann Court was initially announced winner from preliminary results. But after special votes were counted 31-year-old former councillor Moko Tepania took the lead. Sam Olley is in Te Tai Tokerau and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Sensitive patient data that was stolen in a cyber attack has been published on the internet by what the company is calling "malicious actors". Data from Pinnacle Midlands Health Network was hacked on the 28th of September and has over the weekend been released publicly online. The stolen records cover more than 450,000 patients from Waikato, Lakes, Taranaki and Tairawhiti districts. Chief executive Justin Butcher spoke to Māni Dunlop.
A recent shooting in Gisborne that injured three people - including a 12 year old - has shaken the community. Community leader Tuta Ngarimu is rallying for people to come together in a Hui and find solutions to the escalating crime. Māni Dunlop spoke to him about the rally.
The US President Joe Biden has initiated a dramatic change to his country's policy on marijuana, pardoning all federal offences for possession. He said no-one should be in jail solely due to the possession of marijuana. It has reignited the debate here back home - in Aotearoa figures continue to fall for cannabis related offences - more than halving since 2010. Green Party spokesperon for drug law reform is Chloe Swarbrick spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Despite a threat of potential power outages, the national grid operator says the power system worked as expected, but analysts argue the whole market is not fit for purpose. A fault with equipment on the cable system that takes power from the South to North Island lead to an emergency situation where Transpower was forced to ask consumers to reduce power use amid increased pressure from cold weather. Power systems consultant Bryan Leyland owns a small hydro power station - and he said the current system works in an ideal world but it was not that simple. He spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The government says child poverty is declining in spite of Covid - but kids in single parent households are still struggling. The annual Child Poverty Report shows hardship rates are declining and credits the success to rising employment and wages, and increases to income support for families. The government acknowledges there's still more to do with one in ten children aged 17 and under are growing up in material hardship. In single-parent households, it's nearly one in three. Crucially the report doesn't include the ongoing impacts of Covid, and the cost of living crisis. Professor Mike O'Brien from Child Poverty Action Group spoke to Māni Dunlop.
To local government elections, and you've got until Saturday to pop your vote in one of the many ballot boxes which can be found at some supermarkets, libraries, and council buildings. You can still enrol until midnight tomorrow. Midday Report, te pūrongo o te Poutūtanga, has been touching base with several regions across the motu this week, and today we're heading to Manawatu. RNZ Manawatu reporter Jimmy Ellingham spoke to Māni Dunlop.
India's Foreign Minister, Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar has been welcomed to New Zealand with a powhiri in Auckland this morning, and is meeting with his counterpart, Nanaia Mahuta. It is the first time in 20 years that a Foreign Minister of India has visited Aotearoa, and comes as the countries celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations. Māni Dunlop spoke with Sandeep Singh, senior journalist for the Indian Weekender.
Many farmers have escaped the worst of the snow. Rurals reporter Kim Moodie has te pūrongo taiwhenua.
The Black Ferns coach Wayne Smith is still searching for his top team ahead of their Rugby World Cup title defence. Sports editor Stephen Hewson has te pūrongo hakinakina.
The Minister for Children admits his agency failed 5 year old Malachi Subecz who was murdered by his carer - but is not yet taking any action, instead awaiting an internal investgation. Yesterday the Chief Ombudsman released a scathing report into the agency, saying it failed to take the bare minimum action when concerns were raised about the safety of Malachi, who was murdered almost a year ago by Michaela Barriball. Peter Boshier said the death was preventable had the agency done their job and described it as a litany of failures. Oranga Tamariki has accepted all the recommendations but is also ruling out further action until an internal review is completed. Mani Dunlop spoke to the Minister, Kelvin Davis.
The polar blast has hit the South Island and the lower North Island, bringing sub zero temperatures, snow, hail and strong winds. The unseasonal cold snap has closed roads and caused disruption across the motu, with several roads still closed in Otago and Southland because of snow and ice. State Highway 1 between Dunedin and Palmerston remains closed - motorists are being urged to watch for black ice. The Southland District mayor, Gary Tong, spoke to Mani Dunlop from a snow-covered Manapouri.
Voting for your local council and ward candidates closes at midday on Saturday. You can drop your vote in one of the many ballot boxes dotted throughout supermarkets, libraries, and council buildings. Councils are responsible for rates, rubbish management, local roads, animal policies such as whether you can keep hens in your backyard, how much it costs to swim at your local pool, and, for decades, they've been responsible for the provision of drinking, waste and storm water services although that looks set to change. RNZ Nelson-based reporter Samantha Gee spoke to Māni Dunlop about the issues across the top of the South Island.
People have until Saturday to pop their local government vote in one of the many ballot boxes dotted throughout supermarkets, libraries, and council buildings. Councils are responsible for local roads, whether you can keep chickens in your backyard, how much it costs to swim at your local pool - and whether you even have one - and, for decades, they've been responsible for the provision of drinking, waste and storm water services, although that looks set to change. It's not too late to enrol at www.vote.nz (but get in ASAP!). RNZ Waikato reporter Andrew McRae spoke to Māni Dunlop about the region's issues and contests.
The women's Rugby World Cup has never been held in New Zealand before and Black Ferns co-captain Kennedy Simon concedes there is immense pressure to perform.
The Chief Ombudsman says the death of a 5 year old, Malachi Subecz, could have been prevented had Oranga Tamariki done its job properly. In a rare move, Peter Boshier has publicly released his findings into the complaints he received from Malachi's family. The five-year-old died in hospital of injuries caused by his carer in November 2021. They were convicted earlier this year. The chief ombudsman Peter Boshier and the acting chief executive of Oranga Tamariki Chappie Te Kani spoke to Māni Dunlop about the agency's failure to ensure the welfare and best-interests of the child.
Voting for local and regional council candidates closes on Saturday at midday. RNZ's Hawke's Bay reporter Tom Kitchin.spoke to Māni Dunlop about the issues facing councils throughout the region.
Today is the last day to get your vote in the post in the elections for local councils, but you've still got time to deliver it into the ballot boxes dotted throughout the country at council service centres, libraries, and supermarkets. It's not too late to enrol at www.vote.nz RNZ reporter Rachel Graham spoke to Māni Dunlop about the candidates and issues at the bottom of the South Island.
Midday sports News for 4 October 2022 The fullback come midfielder Jordie Barrett has a signed a new contract keeping him with the Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby through till the end of 2025.
A pōwhiri has been taking place at Parliament to welcome the Solomon Islands' foreign minister on his first official visit to Aotearoa today. New Zealand has long-standing ties with the Solomons, but China's influence is growing after it signed a security agreement earlier in the year. The Solomons' foreign minister Jeremiah Manele and his counterpart Nanaia Mahuta conducted a bilateral meeting this morning. RNZ political reporter Giles Dexter spoke to Māni Dunlop about the meeting.
The government has revealed details of a package to get more medical graduates training to be General Practitioners. And a large North Island health provider's patient details have been accessed and compromised by cyber hackers. The Health Minister Andrew Little speaks to Māni Dunlop about the hack, GP training, and the wider pressures facing the workforce.
To Tāmaki Makaurau, where a welcoming ceremony for the Rugby World Cup has just wrapped up. The Women's tournament starts on Saturday with a triple-header (that's three games in a row) at Eden park. The last match of the day is the Black Ferns against Australia. Sports reporter Clay Wilson spoke to Māni Dunlop.
There's a cold blast coming this week with a chunk of the tropospheric polar vortex about to whip our way. Temperatures are set to drop around mid-week, and there might even be snow. In Te Waipounamu - the South Island - snow will be heaviest in Southland and Otago but it could fall to sea level in Ōtautahi Christchurch on Wednesday night, and even on the hills around Wellington. Metservice meteorologist Lewis Ferris spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Midday sports News for 3 October 2022 Ryan Fox's one shot win at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship this morning moves him into a position to challenge to be the number one golfer on the European Tour.
People evicted from emergency housing have given horrendous accounts which could be in breach of human rights according to the commission. 33 people have come forward who have come forward to the Human Rights Commission, after it put out a call last month for the experiences of emergency housing users around the country. The commission says the system has potentially breached human rights, because there is no obvious recourse to justice for anyone poorly treated. The National Party's housing spokesperson Chris Bishop spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The length of time people are waiting to see a health professional is blowing out. It could take up to six weeks to get an appointment at some GP clinics. Taranaki and Canterbury hospitals last week warned they were operating well above capacity. The Taranaki emergency department was 30 patients above its 23 bed capacity last Tuesday. Te Whatu Ora, Health NZ, says "across the motu, emergency department attendances and hospital admissions from ED have risen in recent weeks" and hospital occupancy has remained high. The public is being reminded to only go to the ED for emergencies such as accidents, serious pain and trauma. The Royal NZ College of GPs president Dr Samantha Murton spoke to Māni Dunlop.
It's Tuvalu language week - Vaiaso o te Gana Tuvalu! There are nearly 5000 Tuvaluans living in Aotearoa. Te Gana Tuvalu speaker and RNZ newsreader Malama T-Pole spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Voting closes in just over one week in the local body elections for councillors, mayors, and local boards. Most people who are enrolled should have received their voting papers but what if you're not enrolled, or your papers haven't arrived? Wellington City Council's deputy electoral officer Jennifer Parker joined Māni Dunlop in the studio to explain how easy it is to vote.
A move to drop controversial changes to fisheries legislation is being described as a win by environmentalists and recreational fishing sector - but is being heavily criticised by the commercial sector. This week, Oceans and Fisheries Minister, David Parker, dropped the preset decision-making parts of the Fisheries Amendment Bill which would have created a formula to decide on the commercial catch limits. Mani Dunlop asked him why he took them out before the third and final reading.
Midday sports News for 30 September 2022 New Zealand golfer Ryan Fox still hasn't got his clubs that were lost by an airline in France but it didn't stop him from making a strong start to the World Tour's Alfred Dunhill Links Championship at St Andrews.
High schoolers who don't look white are experiencing racism at higher rates than others according to new research, and it's coming from teachers, police, healthcare providers, and their classmates. The research published in The Lancet today provides the data and context in a detail that backs up the lived experiences and shared anecdotes of many people of colour. University of Auckland associate professors Rachel Simon-Kumar and Roshini Peiris-John, of Waipapa Taumata Rau spoke to Mani Dunlop.
The police are going to return to Pike River mine to drill 10 new boreholes which they hope will help them figure out what caused the fatal first explosion more than a decade ago. The November 2010 disaster resulted in the deaths of 29 miners. Detective Superintendent Peter Read says the criminal investigation team needs more evidence to find out what happened. Māni Dunlop reports.
The Children's Minister has backtracked and apologised to an ACT MP after accusations of nastiness and race-based attacks went flying at Parliament yesterday, in a clash between ACT and Labour over the Children's Ministry. Kelvin Davis told ACT's Karen Chhour to enter the Māori world and stop looking through a vanilla lens. The Minister today said "I absolutely acknowledge Karen's whakapapa and hope my comments did not cause her personal offence, I probably could have made my point better and I have apologised for that." Karen Chhour spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Midday sports News for 29 September 2022 The White Ferns came up just short in the opening T20 against the West Indies in Antigua, falling to a one run loss as they failed to chase down the hosts' modest total.
Nelson councillors have held a meeting with local government and emergency management minister Kieran McAnulty today. Many residents still haven't been able to return home after heavy rain last month led to widespread flooding and numerous slips and landslides. Nelson mayor Rachel Reese says the city has made some good progress but it's been incredibly difficult. RNZ's Nelson reporter Samantha Gee is covering the meeting and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Health ministers wanted nurses and dentists included in the "straight to residence" immigration pathway which was unveiled last month - and nurses believe they should revisit the decision. The Health Minister Andrew Little says the "decisions about immigration green lists were made collectively by Cabinet. The New Zealand Nurses Organisation president Anne Daniels spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Advocates for seasonal workers want to see the horticulture and viticulture industries held to account for any mistreatment of workers. The government has increased the quota of workers allowed under the RSE scheme by 3000 from next month. In July this year, an investigation by the Equal Employment Opportunity commissioner found RSE workers were exploited, bonded to unreasonable debts, living in slum-like conditions and denied religious and cultural freedoms. It found fundamental human rights were being breached and some of it warrants criminal investigation. The commissioner Saunoamaali'i Karanina Sumeo spoke with Māni Dunlop.
News from the rural farming sector New Zealand King Salmon has reported a net loss of $24.5 million dollars for the six months to July, with increasing fish deaths, a lower harvest and a decline in biomass at sea. And worker advocates warn that employers must not be allowed to exploit the next wave of seasonal workers from the Pacific.
Midday sports news for 28 September 2022 Crystal Kaua and Victoria Grant will make history history as the first female head coaches of a Super Rugby side and Grant hopes having women in the top jobs will inspire others.
News from the business sector A recovery in households' confidence in the labour market suggests the Reserve Bank has more work to do to stamp out inflation. The Warehouse's full year profit has fallen after a squeeze on its margins, reduced sales, and significant disruption caused by the pandemic. New Zealand King Salmon has deepened its interim loss as it faced increased fish deaths, a lower harvest and a fall in biomass at sea.
IHC is calling for investment and rapid changes in order to stop students with disabilities facing discrimination and consistent disadvantages in the education sector. An Education Review Office report into schools' support for disabled learners, shows nearly half do not understand their legal obligations. It says families need an independent complaints system. The report says one in five disabled learners has been discouraged from enrolling in a local school and about half are not allowed to fully participate in school events like camps and field trips. IHC's Inclusive Education Consultant Trish Grant spoke with Māni Dunlop.
Rents around the country remained at an all-time high for the second month in a row according to figures from Trade Me. Trade Me property says the national median weekly rent stayed at $580 in August. Its sales director Gavin Lloyd spoke with Māni Dunlop.
NASA's DART spacecraft has successfully collided with a far-off asteroid. The editor of Space.Com Tariq Malik joins Māni Dunlop live from the DART mission headquarters to explain its significance.
NASA's DART spacecraft has successfully collided with a far-off asteroid. The editor of Space.Com Tariq Malik joins Māni Dunlop live from the DART mission headquarters to explain its significance.
Unions are calling for a fresh economic strategy, saying the neoliberal free-market approach has increased homelessness, inequality, and economic insecurity. The CTU's economist Craig Renney spoke to RNZ's business editor Gyles Beckford about their proposals which are up for consultation.
Last year's US Open runner up - Canadian Leylah Fernandez - has confirmed she will compete at Auckland's ASB Tennis Classic in January.
Some property investors are cautiously optimistic the sector's on the right track after a Consumer New Zealand investigation found some rental managers are collecting unnecessary, and in some cases possibly illegal information, from prospective tenants. Agents asked for bank statements, age, gender, relationship status, religion, ethnicity and more - in breach of the Privacy Commission's landlord guidance and a likely breach of the Privacy Act. Auckland Property Investors Association general manager Sarina Gibbon spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Economists are predicting a price shock as the value of the dollar falls. The NZ dollar has fallen 3.5 percent over the past three days to 56.3 US cents. That would push up the price of some imports, but will also make exports more valuable. Sense partners economist Shamubeel Eaqub spoke to Māni Dunlop about what that meant for New Zealanders, and also whether the Reserve Bank was making decisions in everyone's interests.
It's being described as a bittersweet day as Oranga Tamariki and Te Whānau O Waipareira sign a ground breaking agreement that is a crucial step in devolving power back to Māori to look after whānau. Waipareira says it is writing a full manual of what care processes look like and what will be achieved. It'll be trialled in partnership with Manurewa Marae and the wider Tāmaki collective. Whānau o Waipareira chief executive John Tamihere spoke to Māni Dunlop.
As many as 400 patients have had to have their operations called off because of Monday's holiday to mark the Queen's death. The impact varies across the country - with some hospitals only doing a quarter of their planned surgeries. RNZ's health correspondent Rowan Quinn spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Midday sports News for 23 September 2022 National road cycling champion Olivia Ray has been banned from the sport for two and a half years for doping.
School students have abandoned their books, teachers, and classrooms today - instead taking to the streets for the School Strike for Climate. The first major event has just kicked off outside Parliament. RNZ reporter Krystal Gibbens, and a year 12 Hutt Valley High School student Charlotte Hoffman, spoke to Māni Dunlop from the forecourt.
The United Nations' Security Council appears unable to fulfil its mandate and deal with one of the greatest security challenges of our time: Russia's illegal war in Ukraine. The prime minister Jacinda Ardern says the council's permanent members have been protecting their own interests by preserving their veto powers - and reform is urgently needed. A former New Zealand ambassador to the United Nations Colin Keating spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Ngāti Maniapoto members have been at Parliament this morning to witness the successful passage of a Treaty Settlement Bill more than 30 years in the making. The King Country iwi has settled with the Crown for $170 million and a range of cultural redress. Te manu korihi reporter Ashleigh McCaull spoke to Charlotte Cook from Pipitea marae.
Rising grocery prices mean it's more important than ever for shoppers to know they're getting their money's worth, but Consumer New Zealand says retailers use confusing promotional strategies that make it difficult for customers. It wants New Zealanders to send in examples of unclear or misleading pricing and promotions, so it can name and shame supermarkets. Head of communications at Consumer NZ Gemma Rasmussen spoke to Charlotte Cook.
News from the rural farming sector As you may have heard in the business news, Fonterra will pay farmers 9-dollars-30 a kilogram of milk solids for the 2021-22 season. The Ministry of Primary Industries has announced it will begin culling cows on a huge feedlot near Ashburton, which is infected with M-bovis.
Midday sports News for 22 September 2022 Sam Whitelock will captain the All Blacks against the Wallabies in Auckland on Saturday after Sam Cane was ruled out through injury. Meanwhile Sevens stars Sarah Hirini and Portia Woodman will start in the Black Ferns first ever test against Japan in Auckland this weekend.
News from the business sector Fonterra says its full year profit is a good one, considering increased milk costs and ongoing supply chain disruptions. The Westpac McDermott Miller Consumer Confidence index for the September quarter rose nearly 9-points, to 87-point-6, where it was during the global financial crisis. The Federal Reserve stuck to the script and expectations with a 75 basis point rise in its benchmark rate to 3.25 percent with a promise of more to come.
Russia's President Vladimir Putin has ordered the mobilisation of hundreds-of-thousands more troops to bolster his failing illegal invasion of Ukraine. And he's renewed his threats of nuclear war, saying it's not a bluff. Former Russian diplomat and Massey University's director of the centre for defence and security studies Rouben Azizian spoke to Charlotte Cook.
The United Nations' leaders week in New York has turned its attention to Russia's failing illegal invasion of Ukraine. In recent weeks, Ukraine has taken back territory liberating towns in its Southern and Eastern regions near the Russian border. Now, President Putin has ordered the mobilisation of hundreds-of-thousands more troops, and renewed his threats of nuclear war, saying it's not a bluff. RNZ's deputy political editor Craig McCulloch spoke to Charlotte Cook from New York.
Environmental and seafood lobbyists say proposed changes to the laws governing fisheries will remove protections for fish sustainability and affect fishing rights for more than 600,000 people. The Fisheries Amendment Bill is due to go into its second reading by the Oceans Minister David Parker. Legasea says the bill will weaken Ministerial discretion to make precautionary decisions and instead, changes would enable officials to undermine the sustainability of popular fish species such as blue cod, crayfish and snapper. Legasea spokesperson Sam Woolford told Māni Dunlop he hopes it's not too late for the Minister to make a better discretionary decision.
The National Party leader says there were differing accounts of allegations against Sam Uffindell. The Tauranga MP has returned to the party's caucus after a King's Counsel's investigation didn't substantiate bullying claims made against him. A former flatmate of Mr Uffindell says she provided a written statement to the KC, Maria Dew. The woman stands firmly by her account of what happened at the flat, and is deeply unhappy Mr Uffindell's word was taken over hers. University of Auckland lecturer in New Zealand politics and public policy Dr Lara Greaves spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The Prime Minister has announced a new initiative to research social media algorithms, but does not yet appear to have buy-in from some key tech players. Jacinda Ardern made the announcement in New York this morning, after co-hosting a summit with the French president Emmanuel Macron. The initiative is backed by New Zealand, the United States, Twitter and Microsoft, but is notably missing the giants Facebook and Google. Internet NZ's interim chief executive Andrew Cushen spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Many world leaders are now heading to New York for the United Nations' general assembly, including New Zealand's prime minister Jacinda Ardern. The meeting will be the first in-person General Assembly in three years, after the pandemic restricted movements. And their agenda is full with talk of war, famine, plague and climate catastrophe. RNZ's deputy political editor Craig McCulloch spoke to Māni Dunlop from New York.
Artist Tāme Iti has taken it upon himself to correct his name used in an art piece on display at a Wellington hotel. The painting depicts Mr Iti holding a gun and a skull in front of an Australian flag on the ground by Dean Proudfoot is named 'Tama Performs in a New Zealand Landscape'. In a video - Tāme Iti - goes into the hotel, crosses out Tama in red paint and rewrites his name correctly... 'T-ā-m-e' in white paint just above. Māni Dunlop has more.
An international business expert is warning the risk of a trade war over climate change is very real. A climate and business conference in Auckland heard some countries are itching to slap tariffs on products with the excuse that producers are not doing enough to cut their emissions. NZ International Business Forum executive director Stephen Jacobi spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Parliamentarians are poring over each other's foibles for evidence of bullying, while applying a non-stick coating to themselves. Yesterday, National Party leader Christopher Luxon said an investigation found Tauranga MP Sam Uffindell "did not substantiate any allegations of bullying outside of [his] time at King's College". But, National did not release the final report. Meanwhile, Labour MP Anna Lorck says she's doing her best to be a better manager of staff, following bullying allegations. RNZ political reporter Giles Dexter spoke to Māni Dunlop from Parliament.
The Queen of New Zealand has been laid to rest following a funeral, committal service, and private family gathering.
The queue to view the Queen lying in state is now closed to newcomers, as attention turns to the funeral of Queen Elizabeth the Second. Hundreds-of-thousands of people have filed past the coffin in silence and world leaders have joined the public to pay their respects to the late monarch. Tonight, Westminster Abbey will be the setting for the historic event which will be on a scale not seen in Britain since the death of the Queen's father King George VI, 70 years ago in 1952. In attendence will be members of a New Zealand delegation chosen by the government who are among 500 other heads of state and government, and foreign dignitaries. The funeral starts at 10 o'clock our time tonight. Crowds are already packed along the funeral procession route hoping to see the casket. Among many who waited to see the queen lying in state - were Kaiora and Francis Tipene, directors of Tipene Funerals who are also known for their show, The Casketeers. Māni Dunlop caught up with them at the end of a very long day where they had just been with the Aotearoa delegation.
Midday sports News for 19 September 2022 Half the Jamaican netball team has finally arrived in New Zealand for the test series against the Silver Ferns, three days late.
Fifty paintings from BNZ's art collection were sold at auction in Auckland yesterday, bringing in more than $13.5 million. Five Colin McCahon paintings alone fetched a combined $3.7 million. Te Papa Tongarewa bought some paintings, but many will go into private collections and overtime their values will continue to appreciate. Tax consultant Terry Baucher told Māni Dunlop why art was not taxed.
Climate leaders and businesses are being warned they need to do more - at home and abroad to help reduce planet-warming emissions. At a climate and business conference in Auckland this morning, the Prime Minister told businesses that if they do not start cutting emissions they face being left behind in the global marketplace. And New Zealand's UN climate ambassador Kay Harrison says Aotearoa has a moral duty to give money to help poorer countries adapt to the warming globe. RNZ's climate reporter Hamish Cardwell spoke to Māni Dunlop from the event.
Air New Zealand's inaugural flight from New York to Auckland arrived this morning, minus many of the passengers' bags. Conducting the nearly 17 hour flight, covering more than 14,000 km, and spanning the Pacific Ocean meant a tradeoff had to be made between reaching the destination and carrying everyone's items. The airline's chief operating officer Alex Marren said extra fuel had to be loaded onboard due to "adverse weather" conditions they needed to fly around; and so some customers' bags were unable to make the journey. RNZ reporter Lucy Xia spoke to Māni Dunlop from the airport.
China and Russia's presidents have met in person for the first time since Vladimir Putin launched his illegal invasion of Ukraine. Putin says he appreciates China has questions and concerns over Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The two leaders have been meeting face-to-face in Uzbekistan at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, a group which includes China, Russia, India, Pakistan and other Asian states. University of Canterbury Chinese politics expert Professor Anne-Marie Brady spoke to Perlina Lau.
Some large migratory whales might stop passing through New Zealand's warming coastal waters, because there'll be less food - like phytoplankton - available. But tropical and subtropical marine mammals might take their place -- increasing competition for the dwindling food supplies. Marine scientist Jim Roberts from Anemone consultants co-authored a report for the Department of Conservation on how climate change might affect our marine mammals. Dr Roberts spoke to Māni Dunlop about what the future might hold.
The parents of a Christchurch-born man shot dead by the police in the US state of Colorado have made an emotional plea for the officers involved to be charged. Christian Glass was shot five times after calling for help when his car got stuck in Silver Plume near Denver in June. RNZ reporter Jean Edwards spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Midday sports News for 16 September 2022 The All Blacks coach Ian Foster fears midfielder Quinn Tupaea has suffered a season ending knee injury, after being forced in last night's 39-37 win over the Wallabies in Melbourne.
There's a division among New Zealanders in London about the grandness of everything surrounding the Queen's death. While some are royalists - getting into the thick of things, others don't really care and it's all just existing around them as life goes on. RNZ reporter Jake McKee has the story.
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei is calling for Aucklanders to recognise the 18th of September 1840 as the city's true founding day. Chief Apihai Te Kawau allocated land to the Crown to establish the city 183 years ago. The iwi is holding public commemorations around the city this Sunday morning. Auckland's current anniversary date in January marks the day Governor Hobson dropped anchor in Kororareka-Russell. Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust chair Marama Royal told Māni Dunlop she thinks Aucklanders will be open to changing the day to a more fitting date for the city.
Students - some of them in tears of shock - fled their school bus after it crashed through a steel barrier on an overbridge, and was left dangling high above a motorway this morning. The incident happened around 8am on Eden Terrace in Auckland. One person was taken to hospital with minor injuries. RNZ reporter Mohammad Alafeshat spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The reo Māori force is strong this week, during te wiki o te reo Māori. Self-confessed nerd and sci-fi lover Green MP Te Anau Tuiono has been taking to social media to share some not so common translations.
The Independent Police Conduct Authority has found that an off-duty officer was not justified in punching a 14-year teenage boy for stealing cigarettes from his home. It says the officer then found the teenager in a park, punching him twice in the face, causing him to fall to the ground and possibly fracturing the boy's eye socket. The officer was charged with injuring with intent to injure, but juries at two trials in 2020 and 2021 could not reach a verdict and the charge was dismissed. The police say they accept the findings and the officer is no longer serving in the force. The Independent Police Conduct Authority's investigation manager Emma Bunny spoke to Māni Dunlop.
News from the rural farming sector Organisers of the New Zealand Agricultural Show say there's no need to ban animals over disease concerns. This comes as organisers of the Melbourne Royal Show announced they would ban pigs because they're considered to have a higher risk of harbouring and spreading exotic diseases like foot and mouth. Over a million hectares of wilding pine control work has been carried out over the last two years. Rabobank doesn't expect China's zero-Covid policy to be scrapped anytime soon, and says demand for New Zealand's milk is suffering as a result.
Midday sports News for 15 September 2022 The Wallabies first-five Bernard Foley has lost plenty of matches to the All Blacks, including a World Cup final, but is grateful to get another crack at New Zealand from out of the blue. Triathlon New Zealand is still hopeful it can turn Hayden Wilde's Commonwealth Games silver medal into gold.
Nurses held signs asking for pay equity but were left disappointed with the Health Minister's comments at the nurses' union annual conference. In his opening remarks, Andrew Little acknowledged the immense pressure nurses are under. As he spoke, five nurses stood at the back of the room with signs displaying the date they expected pay equity to be dealt with back in 2019. A nurse and union delegate Grant Cloughly has been at the conference this morning and spoke with Māni Dunlop.
A woman has been arrested in South Korea over the discovery of the remains of two children in suitcases in south Auckland. Efforts to extradite her to New Zealand are underway. To explain the extradition process, Canterbury University professor of law Neil Boister spoke with Māni Dunlop.
An arrest has been made in South Korea over the discovery of the remains of two children in suitcases in south Auckland. The bodies were discovered last month by a family in the suburb of Clendon Park who had bought the suitcases in an auction for goods abandoned in a storage unit. Efforts to extradite the woman to New Zealand are underway. RNZ reporter Lucy Xia spoke with Māni Dunlop
Midday sports News for 14 September 2022 The Jamaican side named to meet the Silver Ferns in a three Test series, will be missing several of its stars. The All Blacks are hoping for consistency just as much as their fans as they take on the Wallabies in the Bledisloe Cup opener in Melbourne tomorrow night.
News from the rural farming sector Beef and Lamb New Zealand and Dairy NZ have hit back at claims they don't listen to farmers or kaipamu. A seven year programme aimed at lifting profits for deer farmers has been deemed a success despite not meeting all of its targets. The Egg Producers Federation says the rising cost of energey, transport and labour has resulted in the price of eggs going up.
News from the business sector Homeware and sports goods retailer Briscoe Group first half profit has fallen because of supply chain disruptions and labour shortages. Greater government investment in alternative protein sources could boost economic growth.
Māni Dunlop presents live from parliament's forecourt in a special edition of Midday Report commemorating 50 years since the Māori language petition was delivered to Parliament. That petition - signed by 33,000 people - catalysed the revival of te reo Māori, kickstarting several movements in the 1970s and '80s, knocking New Zealand out of its stupor about the state of race relations. Māni Dunlop brings you the event - as well as interviews with: the Minister for Māori Development Willie Jackson who is also the nephew of Hana Te Hemara who led the petition on this day 50 years ago; the Māori language commissioner Professor Rawinia Higgins; the Reo Māori society president in 1972 Thomas Rangihuna no Te Tairāwhiti.
Ko te wiki o te reo Māori tenei - and it marks half a century since the Māori language petition was presented to parliament. It also marks 35 years since it was recognised as an official language of Aotearoa. Members of the Māori Language Society have gathered at Te Wānanga o Raukawa in Ōtaki today to celebrate and to reflect and to honour the reo Māori champions. One of those who delivered the petition, Whaimutu Dewes, spoke to Māni Dunlop about gathering there today.
Midday sports News for 13 September 2022 The All Whites coach Danny Hay is disappointed at New Zealand Football's plan to put the team on six-month hiatus and says while he understands the organisation is stretched financially, it's imperative the team plays regularly.
Masks are now only needed in health or aged care facilities, vaccine requirements for travellers have been dropped, and isolation for household contacts of Covid cases has been axed. Te Aka Whai Ora - the Māori Health Authority - chief medical officer Dr Rawiri Jansen spoke to Māni Dunlop about the changes.
Food prices have increased more than eight percent in the last year - the largest rise in 13 years. Stats NZ says grocery prices increased by 8.7 percent; and fruit and vegetable prices increased by 15 percent. Council of Trade Unions' economist Craig Renney spoke to Māni Dunlop.
It's Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori - Māori language week - and this year marks half a century since the Māori language petition was presented to parliament. There are special celebrations planned for the week, and on Wednesday, Midday Report will be covering the 50th anniversary event at Parliament. The Māori Language Commissioner Professor Rawinia Higgins spoke to Max Towle.
Families of the five people killed in the boating tragedy in Kaikoura are still coming to terms with what happened. An investigation into the capsizing of a charter vessel with 11 people on board is underway. 10 were members of the Nature Photography Society. They were on a field trip in apparently calm conditions. RNZ reporter Samantha Gee spoke to Max Towle from South Bay in Kaikōura.
In the United Kingdom, the late Queen's coffin has arrived in the Scottish capital Edinburgh, after travelling from Balmoral. Thousands of people lined the streets along the way to pay their respects, and witness part of the Queen's final journey. Worldwatch's Perlina Lau has a wrap up of the latest events.
Cabinet will decide today how New Zealand marks the Queen's death. A memorial service to "celebrate her life and reign" will take place in Wellington after the Queen's funeral in London next Monday. And Cabinet is weighing up whether there should also be a public holiday. The UK will have one, and other countries where the Queen was Head of State, such as Australia, are following suit. The chief executive of Business New Zealand, Kirk Hope, is not a fan of that happening here. And while Infometrics economist Brad Olsen says while public holidays are expensive - it's estimated Matariki cost more than $400-million - this would be a one-off. Political reporter Anneke Smith spoke to Max Towle.
Aotearoa, and the Commonwealth realms, are now in a period of mourning for Her Majesty. Robert Morris, a former UK civil servant, and an honorary member of the University College London's constitution unit has written extensively on the monarchy and what happens when the Queen dies. Dr Morris spoke to Midday Report producer Michael Cropp about the process of accession, mourning, and coronation.
Professor Tom Roa a Historian, iwi leader and academic professor Tom Roa reflects on the Queen's role as Head of State, and its impact on Treaty relations.
RNZ reporter Krystal Gibbens speaks with Māni Dunlop from Parliament where the Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro and Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern are signing a condolence book.
Queen Elizabeth the Second has died at the age of 96 at her estate in Balmoral, Scotland. The Crown has transferred to King Charles III who has automatically become New Zealand's Head of State. In the United Kingdom, crowds gathered outside royal residences - laying flowers, and keeping vigil. RNZ correspondent Olly Barratt is outside Windsor Castle and spoke to Māni Dunlop live.
RNZ reporter Tess Brunton spoke to Māni Dunlop about what she's been hearing from people in Dunedin.
The Māori King, Kiingi Tūheitia, has paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II who visited Turangawaewae marae many times and had a close relationship with the Kiingitanga. The Kiingitanga, one of the country's most enduring political institutions, was founded in 1858 with the aim of uniting Māori under a single sovereign. Queen Elizabeth II personally signed into law the Waikato Raupatu Settlement Act 1995 - the only New Zealand legislation given Royal Assent in person by the Queen. Kiingi Tūheitia says the act is significant in the life and history of our nation and is held in the highest regard by the Kiingitanga as honouring a Queen to Queen relationship. Kiingitanga chief of staff Te Ngira Simmonds spoke to Māni Dunlop about the relationship with the British Monarch.
RNZ reporter Rayssa Almeida spoke to Māni Dunlop about what people have been saying about the Queen's death in Ōtahuhu, South Auckland.
The Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro has honoured the passing of the Head of State. Dame Cindy asked the public to join together this evening to mark the Queen's lifetime of service. In Wellington there will be a 96 gun salute starting at 6pm on the waterfront in front of Te Papa.
Flags in New Zealand are at half-mast, and condolence books are being placed in public buildings throughout the country. New Zealanders have shared tributes after waking up to the news. Queen Elizabeth II is being remembered for her life of duty and service. Andrew McRae reports on today's developments.
The world is mourning the death of Queen Elizabeth the Second, who has died at the age of 96 at her estate in Balmoral, Scotland. The Crown has transferred to King Charles the third, who is now New Zealand's Head of State. Kua riro koe ki te pō, te kuini o Ingārangi, hoatu koe ki tō hoa pūmau, ki ō mātua tūpuna, ki ngā kāwai kīngi, kāwai kūini e rāhiri nei i a koe i te tatau o te pō E te tapairu ariki noho roa, e te māreikura kitekiteā, e te puni waahine kia rawakatia ki te pō, whoatu ki te urunga te taka, ki te moenga e whaka-arahia. Whakataka te hau ki te uru Whakataka te hau ki te tonga Kia mākinakina ki uta Kia mātaratara ki tai E hī ake ana te atakura He tio He huka He hau hu turuturu o whiti whakamaua kia tina, Haumi e hui e taiki e... Tihei Mauri Ora Ki te Kuini Irihapeti te tua rua - moe mai ra.
The police commissioner Andrew Coster has responded to findings of widespread and often illegal photographing of children and adults. He said such intelligence was useful for preventing crime.
The global food crisis exacerbated by Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine is long-standing says aid agency Oxfam. It says there are underlying failures in the unequal global food system, which must be resolved for people and planet. Oxfam Aotearoa Kaiwhakahaere or executive director Jason Myers spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Far North District Councillors want the government to write a cheque for hundreds of millions of dollars so they can get on with fixing their roading network. Council representatives have just met with the local government and emergency minister Kieran McAnulty. Far North District councillor Felicity Foy spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Illegal, widespread, and systemic - is how police conduct is being described after a scathing investigation into the routine and illegal photographing and filming of young people and adults by officers. The Police Conduct Authority and the Privacy Commission launched their investigation as a result of reporting by RNZ in 2020 that police in Wairarapa were unlawfully photographing young Māori. The report shows a "widespread practice" has developed of officers routinely taking photographs of young people and adults in public for later identification with little cause. Barrister Marie Taylor-Cyphers has been following this story from the beginning and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Illegal, widespread, and systemic - is how police conduct is being described after a scathing investigation into the routine and illegal photographing and filming of young people and adults by officers. RNZ Māori news director Jamie Tahana has been covering the story and spoke to Māni Dunlop in the studio.
A solitary tutumairekurai or Hector's dolphin has been seen swimming around Northland in the Mahurangi Harbour, and possibly near Whangarei's Onarahi Beach and in the Whangarei River. People in Northland and Auckland are being asked to keep a look out and report any sightings to the Department of Conservation. Department of Conservation marine technical advisor Kristina Hillock spoke to Māni Dunlop.
New research confirms insulating older homes reduces the risk of chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma. People living in homes that got insulated were 10 percent less likely to develop respiratory diseases, and that figure rose to 15 percent for children under 15 years old. The lead researcher Caroline Fyfe spoke to Māni Dunlop about the research.
Midday sports News for 7 September 2022 The Football Ferns have just kicked off against the Phillipines in California. Two changes have been made to the side that won their first game of the year against Mexico at the weekend with Erin Nayler coming in as goalkeeper and defender Liz Anton getting a start.
Cost of living increases are running high worldwide -- the latest figures show the consumer price index across developed countries in the OECD was at 10.2 percent in the year to the end of July, the tiniest fall from the prior month. Māni Dunlop asked University of Otago economist Dr Murat Ungor about the global picture.
The government is defending high failure rates in trial writing and maths tests - saying the tests are still under development. Associate Education Minister Jan Tinetti spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The Australian government's promised a referendum on enshrining an Indigenous voice to parliament by changing the constitution. It's being met with criticism from all sides. Greens Senator Lidia Thorpe is calling it a waste of money, saying a referendum isn't required to have a treaty. Others say Australia is not ready - given its horrendous history of how colonisers treated, and continue to negate the rights of, First Nations people. Linda Burney is the first ever female first nations Minister for Indigenous Australians. She spoke to Māni Dunlop on Midday Report to talk about the upcoming referendum.
The emergency housing sector is under fresh scrutiny after an expose on TVNZ's Sunday programme showed sub-standard accommodation, and tenants being placed at sexual, emotional and physical risk. The Māori Party says an inquiry is needed. Kahungunu Whānau Services provides emergency and transitional housing in Wellington. Its chief executive Ali Hamlin-Paenga - who's also standing for the city-wide Te Whanganui-a-Tara Māori Ward - spoke to Māni Dunlop on Midday Report.
American Frances Tiafoe played the match of his life to beat second seed Rafa Nadal in 4 sets in the fourth round of the U.S. Open.
It's been an icy morning in the South - after rain, hail, snow and frosty temperatures turned Southern roads into ice sheets this morning. Temperatures dropped rapidly yesterday as a blast of Antarctic air swept northwards. This morning, the Lake Tekapo weather station recorded minus 7.1 degrees celsius. And snow has even been falling in some of Wellington's hill suburbs this morning. RNZ's Dunedin reporter Tim Brown was on the scene and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Children under 14 years old caught doing ram raids will be given intensive support to steer them away from crime, and towards study and work. The move is part of a $53 million Government package extending education and and employment programmes to thousands of at-risk young people. National party leader Christopher Luxon says it's window-dressing, and the government should have focused more on penalties and punishment. The police minister Chris Hipkins spoke to Māni Dunlop about the package.
Criminal lawyers believe people with cognitive or mental difficulties are more vulnerable to the type of police investigation which has been implicated in a false confession. Last month, Crown Law and police lost their legal fight to keep top-secret the technique - called the Complex Investigation Phased Engagement Model - used in the Lois Tolley murder case, which collapsed late last year. The High Court Justice Simon France was scathing of the technique saying, "a man with an unusual and... confused way of thinking has been further confused by an unfair interview process". The Criminal Bar Association's immediate past-President Len Andersen QC spoke to Māni Dunlop.
There are calls for a meth programme in te tai tokerau to be rolled out nationwide to help address the growing and urgent problem of meth addiction in Aotearoa. New research by the Helen Clark Foundation and the Drug Foundation, says a tough on crime approach has failed and there needs to be a health-based approach instead. The report says Te Ara Oranga, a trial programme for meth addiction run in Northland, should be rolled out nationwide. Earlier this year it was launched in Murupara. The general manager of mental health and addiction services at Te Whatu Ora Northland Ian McKenzie told Māni Dunlop now was a good time to expand it to coincide with the national change to health services.
New Zealand driver Scott McLaughlin has claimed his third win of the IndyCars season to give himself an outside chance at the championship title with just one round remaining.
The problem gambling foundation says people facing tough financial times get sucked into the dream Lotto sells. An RNZ investigation into the state-owned gambling company shows its retail sales come disproportionately from areas of high deprivation: almost 70 percent of Lotto tickets are sold in the poorest communities. Lotto accepts it has too many stores in low income areas and is now closing some down. However Problem Gambling Foundation spokesperson Andree Froude told Māni Dunlop while that's a good start it isn't enough.
At least 10 people have been killed and 15 injured in a stabbing attack in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan. The province is in the middle of Canada and is home to just over one million people. Authorities are investigating more than a dozen crime scenes. The police are still searching for two male suspects. Worldwatch's Max Towle joined Māni Dunlop in the studio with the latest.
The 2017 world cup and leading the haka on her home turf are just some of the many highlights of the illustrious career of Kendra Cocksedge, the most capped Black Fern of all time, who has announced she is retiring after this year's World Cup. Māni Dunlop asked her earlier about some of her main highlights throughout her career.
Six former Gloriavale members have taken the Christian community to the Employment Court. The women are arguing the years of domestic work they did for the community equates to them being employees, not volunteers. RNZ reporter Niva Chittock was at court and spoke to Māni Dunlop about the issues raised during the first week.
The most-capped Black Fern of all time Kendra Cocksedge says she has had so many highlights in her career, and leading the haka recently is one she'll never forget; Dame Noeline Taurua would consider coaching an ANZ Premiership team after her Silver Ferns' coaching tenure ends.
Worksafe wants the construction sector to focus on improving health and safety - but a lawyer tracking the watchdog's work says Worksafe needs to turn the attention on itself. Health and safety lawyer and partner at Chapman Tripp Garth Gallaway spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Covid rules are under review, and the government is considering lifting some mask mandates. The Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says cabinet is waiting for the final public health advice. University of Auckland aerosol chemist Dr Joel Rindelaub speaks with Māni Dunlop.
The UN is accusing China of serious human rights violations and says it's reasonable to conclude a pattern of large-scale arbitrary detention occurred. The China Director at Human Rights Watch Sophie Richardson spoke to Worldwatch's Perlina Lau.
Marae and rural communities will be able to install solar panels to help save money and provide clean and locally generated power as part of small scale government funded projects. Ngātiwai trust board chief executive Huhana Lyndon spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Despite decades of warnings that we're heading for climate disaster, our emissions are still growing. The international State of the Climate Report for 2021 shows the world just broke several records for the highest levels of carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide -- the three largest contributors to the Earth's warming. Lecturer in climate science at Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington Dr Kyle Clem spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The All Blacks have named an unchanged starting lineup to try and turn around their historic loss to Argentina, for this weekend's second test against the Pumas in Hamilton, New Zealand tennis players Erin Routliffe and Michael Venus have won their respective opening doubles matches at the US Open.
A former New Zealand soldier on the front line in Ukraine says it's heartbreaking to watch children hide as bombs drop around them. The man, who RNZ has agreed not to name, was a close friend of Corporal Dominic Abelen who was killed alongside an American, Joshua Jones in the east of the country. He spoke to our reporter Charlotte Cook.
The United Nations has accused China of "serious human rights violations" which could constitute crimes against humanity in a long-awaited report into allegations of abuse in Xinjiang province. National's foreign affairs spokesperson Gerry Brownlee spoke with Māni Dunlop.
The final leader of the Soviet Union, Mikhail Gorbachev - a pivotal figure in ending the Cold War - has died aged 91 after a long illness. Otago University associate professor Jim Headley joins Midday Report.
The wild weather and flooding across Nelson and Marlborough has not only hurt the residents, but the businesses around the area. Aqua-Taxi's Brendan Alborn is feeling some of that pressure and joins me now.
The government plans to charge GST on fees paid on KiwiSaver accounts from April 2026, potentially netting it hundreds of millions more in taxes. University of Canterbury Professor Adrian Sawyer explains what that means for savers.
Midwives are taking legal action against the government over fair pay and conditions again. 1300 midwives are taking a claim against the Ministry of Health for breaching a 2018 contract, which was supposed to resolve long-standing issues such as pay rates, working hours, and resources. A Bay of Plenty midwife Kelly Pidgeon spoke to Charlotte Cook.
Two far-right activists had to be dragged to the dock in front of the judge before being removed from a Christchurch courtroom this morning. Kelvyn Alp and Hannah Spierer, presenters on the far-right platform Counterspin, were making their first appearance on charges of distributing objectionable material and failing to comply with police orders. Protesters had also gathered outside the courthouse. RNZ Ōtautahi reporter Niva Chittock has been covering the proceedings and spoke to Charlotte Cook.
Authorities in Pakistan are racing to prevent further catastrophe and loss of life, with about a third of the country already under water - that's roughly the size of Aotearoa. Nearly 1200 people have been killed - the death toll includes almost 400 children. Pakistan's High Commissioner to New Zealand Murad Ashraf Janjua spoke to Charlotte Cook.
Seasonal allergy sufferers should brace for a bad spring and summer, with lots of pollen expected. Those with asthma should keep their medication with them at all times. NIWA meteorologist Ben Noll has the forecast and joins us.
Midday sports News for 30 August 2022 Ukrainian qualifier Daria Snigur has produced the performance of her career to upset two-time Grand Slam winner Simona Halep in the first round of the U.S. Open in New York.
Ukrainian troops have launched a counter-offensive to retake southern territory illegally and forcefully captured by Russia during its invasion. This morning, the New Zealand Defence Force sent another 120 soldiers over to the United Kingdom to help train Ukrainian recruits. The defence minister Peeni Henare spoke to Charlotte Cook.
145 toilet paper factory workers who haven't been paid for weeks are now facing a pricey legal threat. Manufacturing company Essity has locked workers out at its Kawerau mill, and is now suing them and their union - for $500,000 dollars in damages. The company says it has no comment to make. The workplace relations minister Michael Wood told RNZ's Political editor Jane Patterson he hoped the matter could be resolved. One of the locked-out workers Bill George spoke to Charlotte Cook.
Six former Gloriavale women are trying to prove they were employees not volunteers when they lived in the Christian community on the South Island's West Coast. Gloriavale's leaders deny that the women were ever employees. The Employment Court hearing is set to run for five weeks. Charlotte Cook spoke with RNZ's Christchurch reporter, Tessa Guest, who was following the proceedings.
Primary health nurses are rallying on the streets today, asking to be paid the same as their counterparts in hospitals. Primary healthcare nurses work at General Practices, after-hours emergency centres, Plunket, Māori and iwi health providers, Urgent Care and Family Planning. They said they were being treated as second class, they're paid up to 25-percent less despite having the same qualifications, training and responsibilities. Auckland youth health nurse Mikey Brenndorfer spoke to Charlotte Cook.
Midday sports News for 29 August 2022 The All Black Sevens are about to play Fiji in the final of the Los Angeles tournament...
A former soldier is worried that the fight to get Dominic Abelen's body repatriated could create complex diplomatic problems. Lieutenant Colonel and lecturer at Massey University's Centre for Defence and Security Studies Terry Johanson told Charlotte Cook getting the body returned would not be easy.
More than 1000 people have died as a result of the intense monsoon rains hitting Pakistan... including nearly 350 children. In the past 24 hours alone - a further 119 people have died. Charlottes Cook spoke with the president of the Pakistan Association of New Zealand, Naveed Hamid
The government has announced just over 500 courses of a monkeypox medicine will arrive in the country late next month. No vaccine has yet been secured. The World Health Organisation says there have been more than 41,000 cases of monkeypox and 12 deaths reported from 96 countries. The associate minister of health Dr Ayesha Verrall spoke to Charlotte Cook.
The Toilet paper giant Essity has blocked its locked-out workers from making hardship withdrawals from their own retirement savings. Pulp and Paper Workers Union Kawerau secretary Tane Phillips says staff have now been told they can't access their superannuation savings to cover the losses of three weeks of no income. He spoke to Charlotte Cook.
Firefighters have gone on a one-hour strike again today -- in an ongoing dispute over working conditions including hours, staffing levels, and equipment. A short time ago, the professional firefighters union's secretary Wattie Watson told RNZ Fire and Emergency was refusing to engage in mediation. Fire and Emergency's national commander Russell Wood spoke to Charlotte Cook.
Worksafe says it's investigating after a gas explosion at a busy Auckland building site early this morning left five people in hospital. The incident was reported around 0630 on Halsey Street in the Wynyard quarter. RNZ reporter Felix Walton spoke to Charlotte Cook from a nearby vantage spot.
Businesses near Mt Ruapehu are having to adapt to a warming climate, after one of the warmest, wettest winters on record for the region left the mountain's two skifields almost bare of snow. Ruapehu Alpine Lifts has laid off a third of its staff, and the Tūroa ski area is now closed until it receives a significant snow dump. National Park Village Business Association president Andrea Messenger spoke to Māni Dunlop.
New Zealanders lost almost four million dollars to cyber scammers between April and June this year. The government agency that supports those affected by cyber security incidents, New Zealand's Computer Emergency Response Team, received about 2000 incident reports in the second quarter. New Zealand's Computer Emergency Response Team Director Rob Pope spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Midday sports News for 25 August 2022 The All Blacks coach Ian Foster has made just one injury enforced change to the team for this weekend's test against Argentina, with Beauden Barrett ruled out and replaced by the uncapped Stephen Perofeta.
The emergency management minister Kieran McAnulty is back in Marlborough today, and will soon head off in a convoy along broken roads to visit communities cut off by last week's horrendous rainfall. He's set to visit sites along Queen Charlotte Drive before visiting Rai Valley. Marlborough district council mayor John Leggett spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Tributes have been pouring in for the off-duty New Zealand soldier killed in eastern Ukraine while fighting on the frontline. Te Herenga Waka, Victoria University Wellington, Dr Marnie Lloydd researches foreign fighters and international law and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
A Northland woman is offering up a secluded getaway free-of-charge for Nelson residents whose homes have been badly hit by flooding or landslides. Kristan Lopes told Māni Dunlop why she was offering up her place in Kerikeri. If you are in Nelson and want to get in contact with Kristan about her offer - please email us at middayreport@rnz.co.nz with a bit of blurb about your circumstances and how the recent severe weather has affected you and your family. We will share those with Kristan as we receive them.
In housing news, KiwiBank believes the country's housing shortage has more than halved in the last year falling from an estimated 57,000 homes to 23,000. That's in part due to the country building 41,000 homes over the last year - the most since 1991. KiwiBank's senior economist Jeremy Couchman spoke to Māni Dunlop.
News from the rural farming sector: Sheep are traced by mobs through a paper-based system, but that needs to be moved online to better protect against diseases. There's been talk in New Zealand about sharpening up our systems following the foot and mouth outbreak in Indonesia. Fruit grower Scales Corporation has reported a positive half year result despite a smaller apple crop. Hay and silage wrap company ProAg is the latest to join a scheme which collects and recycles plastic waste from farms.
Midday sports News for 24 August 2022: Former captain Ameliaranne Ekenasio and defender Jane Watson return to the Silver Ferns squad for upcoming internationals against Jamaica and Australia. The Black Ferns back Ruby Tui believes they've improved dramatically since last year's end of year tour, where they suffered four heavy defeats to England and France.
News from the business sector: Spark's shareholders are in line for a big payday, following the partial sale of its cell towers and an improved full year result. Meridian Energy has posted a steady full year underlying profit although its headline number was swelled by the gains from an asset sale. The healthcare and animal care products company EBOS has posted double-digit profit growth, with annual revenue topping Australian $10 billion for the first time.
Opposition MPs are labelling a restructure of the Ministry for Children as disappointing for our most vulnerable children. Controversial legislation to restructure how Oranga Tamariki is monitored has passed its final vote in Parliament. The Oranga Tamariki Oversight Bill has been met with fierce opposition from political parties and youth advocates. It gets rid of the country's top watchdog for young people, the Children's Commissioner, in favour of a new system Labour says will be better. ACT's Karen Chhour, who grew up in state care, told Māni Dunlop the Government had not listened to the very children it's trying to protect.
Parliament's changing its speaker after Trevor Mallard yesterday formally resigned. A pōwhiri has just taken place for his replacement Adrian Rurawhe who will be formally sworn into the role at Government House this afternoon. RNZ's political reporter Katie Scotcher spoke with Māni Dunlop.
The latest data from TradeMe show house prices have fallen six percent since peaking earlier this year. Auckland has had the biggest fall dropping $102,000 since March this year. TradeMe's property sales director Gavin Lloyd spoke to Māni Dunlop.
A so called anti-government protest has reached parliament in a scene reminiscent of the occupation earlier this year. However, today there's also an anti-fascist protest nearby. The lead for the Disinformation Project at Te Pūnaha Matatini Kate Hannah spoke to Māni Dunlop to help contextualise what was going on.
News from the rural farming sector Gisborne kiwifruit growers are considering their legal options - after the High Court ruled Sungold Kiwifruit licenses worth hundreds of thousands of dollars a hectare, can be included in the rateable value of their property. Southland Federated Farmers is offering to source feed and grazing for flood-hit Tasman and Marlborough farmers. Plans are underway to transform New Zealand's forestry sector so more trees are processed here and investment in wood-based biomass fuel is increased.
Midday sports News for 23 August 2022 Manchester United's Dutch manager Erik ten Hag has earned his first win in football's English Premier League - a 2-1 derby win over Liverpool at Old Trafford turning fan protests against the club's owners into a night of celebration. With his job now secure, the All Blacks coach Ian Foster insists it's business as usual and says he doesn't view this week as a 'fresh start'.
News from the business sector for 23 August 2022. The retirement village operator Summerset's headline profits have fallen on reduced property value gains, however, stripping out the one-offs its underlying profit increased on the back of strong development margins and new sales demand. Media company NZME's profit is up by more than a third with strong revenue growth. Financial services company Heartland Group has posted a record full year profit on improved lending and constrained costs, as it eyes further expansion in Australia.
Mana whenua have been urging visitors to respect tikanga and maintain a peaceful protest. At the last parliamentary occupation Taranaki Whānui laid down Te Kahu o Te Raukura - a cloak of aroha and peace - over the grounds and their ancestral whenua, to bring calm to the situation. They are hoping Wellingtonians face minimal disruption to the city. Taranaki Whānui chair Kara Puketapu-Dentice spoke to Māni Dunlop.
An anti-fascist protest is calling for peace in Wellington, as a so-called freedom protest marches through the city to Parliament. RNZ reporter Charlotte Cook was with the anti-fascist protesters and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
On the grounds outside Parliament, a so-called freedom protest is underway. It's being opposed by the counter-protest of an anti fascist movement. RNZ Wellington reporter Hamish Cardwell spoke to Māni Dunlop from outside Parliament.
The Labour Party caucus has expelled Dr Gaurav Sharma. He calls himself a whistleblower; but the party's leaders paint him as a rogue. RNZ political reporter Katie Scotcher spoke to Māni Dunlop about the decision.
A majority of New Zealanders believe cats should be more tightly controlled. New research commissioned by the Predator Free NZ Trust found most of us think they should be microchipped, desexed, and the total number allowed per household should be limited. The Trust's chief executive Jessi Morgan spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Just 40-percent of children regularly attend school, and it turns out most of us don't rate the issue as important. "Regular attendance" means missing one or fewer days of school each fortnight. And the government cites recent polling showing only five per cent of New Zealanders considered attendance a top-of-mind issue. A nationwide school attendance campaign was launched today, called Every School Day is a Big Day. The President of Secondary Principals' Association and Papatoetoe High School principal Vaughan Couillaut spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Midday sports News for 22 August 2022 Jack Goodhue's horror run with injury has continued, with the midfielder needing surgery again.
Oranga Tamariki has acknowledged its failings for the abuse and harm caused to children in its care, saying it did not always protect them. However the evidence was met with disappointment by a survivor in the public gallery. The agency's chief executive, Chappie Te Kani, fronted the Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry this morning. Oranga Tamariki's response to the abuse and neglect of children, young people and vulnerable adults is being examined over the next three days. The inquiry has heard from survivors who have detailed the abuse and harm experienced while in the care and protection system. Māni Dunlop reports.
The pricetag for cleaning up and repairing damage from flooding and slips across Te Tauihu o Te Waka-a-Māui - the top of the South Island - is yet to be known, but the government will discuss additional support through mayoral and rural relief funds at today's cabinet meeting. The prime minister Jacinda Ardern was in Nelson overnight visiting affected areas. Officials say some damage assessments of homes and roads still have not taken place - the ground is too wet, and in some places slopes are still moving. Ms Ardern says Aotearoa needs to focus on making sure communities are safe as the likelihood of extreme weather events grows. RNZ's reporter in Nelson, Adam Burns, spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Vanuatu's president has taken the extraordinary step of dissolving the country's parliament - on the advice of a prime minister who was almost certain to lose a no confidence vote today. It's only halfway through the parliament's four-year term but 17 government MPs have crossed the floor, together filing a motion of no confidence in Bob Loughman's leadership. Legal challenges are now being prepared to question whether the President should have accepted the Prime Minister's advice to dissolve parliament and call elections. Worldwatch's Max Towle was joined by RNZ Pacific's Lydia Lewis, who has been covering Vanuatu political developments this week.
After two years of being online the annual celebration of Kiingi Tūheiteia Potatau Te Wherowhero te tuawhitu's coronation is back at Turangawaewae marae with thousands excited to return to commemorate the movement. The Koroneihana, or coronation, brings together iwi from across the motu who support the Kiingitanga, one of the most enduring Māori institutions that emerged in colonial times, and one of the longest-running political institutions in New Zealand There'll be karakia, kapa haka, political debates, government representatives and the Māori King's formal address RNZ's Māori News Editor Jamie Tahana is there.
Paid firefighters took to the streets this morning demanding safer working conditions, better staffing and resources to protect their crews and the community after they hit an impasse in negotiations. Māni Dunlop heard from some of the officers on the picket line outside Fire and Emergency's Wellington headquarters.
Midday sports News for 19 August 2022 The British boxing star Anthony Joshua says it would mean "nothing" to him to regain his heavyweight titles this weekend.
A red severe rain warning is still in force for Nelson; and there are several other rain warnings throughout the country. Niwa meteorologist Chris Brandolino spoke to Māni Dunlop about the forecast and how much rain had already fallen.
The Nelson-Tasman region has a huge clean-up job ahead - there are countless slips, more than 400 homes have been evacuated, and some areas are still flooded. Nelson's mayor Rachel Reese spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Nelson residents are pitching in - helping neighbours, digging mud and silt, and checking the land for instability. The council has a huge job on its hands -- more than 400 homes have been evacuated -- and there are countless slips. Throughout the Nelson-Tasman region - bridges are busted, paddocks are ponds, roads are ripped up. And there's more heavy rain coming again this evening. RNZ's reporter in Nelson Kirsty Frame spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Iwi leader and climate change iwi chairs forum co chair, Mike Smith, has faced off against some of New Zealand's biggest climate polluters in the Supreme Court this week. Mr Smith is suing fossil fuel and dairy companies, including Genesis Energy, Fonterra, and Z Energy for public nuisance and negligence for their contributions to climate change. After the Court of Appeal threw the case out, the Supreme Court granted leave for the judgement to be challenged and to determine if it can have a full trial. Mike Smith spoke to Māni Dunlop about the case.
Potentially toxic smoke is still billowing from a fire at a scrap metal yard in the Christchurch suburb of Woolston. Professional Firefighters Union says two trucks failing on site caused delays and put firefighters in danger. The union's vice president Joe Stanley told Māni Dunlop the problems meant the fire grew.
Midday sports News for 18 August 2022 The West Indies are in control of the opening one-dayer against the Black Caps in Barbados.
There's flooding in Northland which is getting drenched by the heavy rain. The main road through Kaeo is flooded, and emergency services are being hampered by the rain. Northland Civil Defence spokesperson Zach Woods provided an update for RNZ.
In the Richmond Ranges which run between Nelson and Marlborough, locals say rivers and creeks are running higher than they've ever seen them. The worst affected areas are Canvastown, Rai Valley, Pelorus, and Okiwi Bay Marlborough emergency management officer Gary Spence spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Nelson residents are starting to get a clearer picture of the damage to homes today after hundreds had to be evacuated due to rising floodwaters, and increasing risks of land slides. On Devinish Place on Tāhunanui Hill, the road has been scoured out by floodwater. A state of emergency is still in force -- and more rain is on the way. RNZ reporter Kirsty Frame spoke to Māni Dunlop from Nelson
The president of Vanuatu has announced he will not be dissolving parliament. It follows a shift in the balance of power, after 17 government MPs crossed the floor to join 10 opposition counterparts in filing a motion of no confidence in the leadership of Prime Minister, Bob Loughman. RNZ Pacific's Lydia Lewis reports.
Te Arawa leader and longtime Maori education advocate, Sir Toby Curtis, has died aged 83. The Ngati Pikiao and Ngati Rongomai kaumatua died at his home at Lake Rotoiti early this morning, surrounded by whanau. Former MP and Te Arawa Lakes Trustee, Te Ururoa Flavell who has worked and known Ta Toby for many years pays tribute to him and touches on just some of his legacy
The under-fire national polytechnic Te Pukenga has announced the resignation of its chief executive Stephen Town. The institute was facing a $100 million deficit. RNZ's education correspondent John Gerritsen spoke to Māni Dunlop.
News from the rural farming sector The log-jam was predicted months ago with labour shortages affecting meat plants and the lamb kill running months late, so co-inciding with the bobby calf peak. Farmers in Tasman and The West Coast are being warned to move stock to higher ground immediately as heavy rain lashes the regions. Global dairy prices have fallen for the fifth consecutive time in the global dairy auction overnight.
Midday sports News for 22 August 2022 The Wellington Phoenix men's footballers are very serious about their Australia Cup campaign - which continues with tonight's round of 16 game against Melbourne City. England captain Ben Stokes says South Africa "seem to be doing a lot of talking" before the start of the first cricket Test at Lord's tonight. Australian rugby league player Corey Norman has been handed an eight-match suspension for sticking his fingers up the backside of an opponent while playing for Toulouse in an English Super League match last week.
News from the business sector Fletcher Building has delivered a strong full year result on the back of a strong construction market and demand for products ..with an outlook for further growth. NZ Automotive Investment's annual meeting next month is shaping up to be more contentious, after it's been hit by another setback. Tighter bank lending and a downturn in the housing market has seen growing demand for non-bank mortgages in the regions.
The West Coast Te Wai Poutini is in a state of emergency and a red rain warning is still in place. Residents and contractors are hustling to protect their properties as rivers keep rising. RNZ reporter Niva Chittock spoke to Māni Dunlop from Westport
Creeks and rivers are at risk of bursting their banks in Golden Bay as heavy rain continues to fall. Paddocks are underwater, and some roads are closed. Severe weather warnings are still in place. Roads are affected throughout Marlborough, Nelson, Tasman and the West Coast. The Nelson-Tasman civil defence emergency management group controller Alec Louverdi spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The prime minister of Vanuatu Bob Loughman has seemingly held off a challenge to his leadership today. A group of 27 MPs led by Opposition leader Ralph Regenvanu had signed a motion of no confidence in Mr Loughman. He believed more supported his boycott of the Loughman government. But after MPs met this morning - the two-thirds of parliament needed to oust Mr Loughman didn't materialise. RNZ Pacific's Koroi Hawkins joined Worldwatch's Max Towle in the studio to break down what's happening in the Pacific nation.
A Maori Boarding School is grateful for an extra investment of almost 3 million dollars but says it is long overdue. The Minister for Maori Development announced the final allocation of the 20 million dollar investment into the schools from last year's Budget. That is compared to 855 million dollars of capital expenditure for schools in this years budget. St Joseph's Maori Girls College, Hato Paora, Te Aute College and Hukarere Girls College will use the money to fix critical infrastructure issues Mani Dunlop to Dr Nathan Matthews, Tumuaki or Principal of Hato Paora, about where the money will go.
A new National Māori Sport Authority has been created with Sport NZ committing more than one million dollars to the new entity. Sport NZ and Te Huinga Tākaro Aotearoa formalised their partnership this morning the first of its kind. Te Huinga Tākaro brings together Māori National Sport Organisations to increase their capacity and capability to advance Māori wellbeing through sport. Māni Dunlop asked Sport NZ chief executive Raelene Castle about the new body and why it had taken so long to form a genuine partnership with Māori.
News from the rural farming sector: The Ministry for Primary Industries has quashed reports China is set to ban imports of New Zealand meat. The golden glow is falling off kiwifruit returns this year. Fruit is being thrown out in export markets because the quality is too poor. With calving underway, dairy farmers are being urged to plan ahead to combat feed shortages.
Midday sports News for 16 August 2022 New Zealand may not get to play in the under-17 women's football World Cup later this year after FIFA suspended hosts India. Black Caps batter Glenn Phillips says the different conditions and experiences they've had on their tour of Europe and the Caribbean is only going to help them at the T20 World Cup in Australia later this year. A tennis fan with a Ukraine flag draped around her shoulders was asked to leave the Cincinnati Open - but organisers say the size of the flag was the reason they asked for it to be removed.
News from the business sector The electricity company Mercury Energy has posted a bumper profit boosted by a $367 million net gain on the sale of Tilt Renewables, as well as investment in new wind generation. Rural services company PGG Wrightson has an upbeat view of its business and the broad farming sector after it posted an improved full year profit. The Reserve Bank may have to get into a fight with financial markets as it tries to bring inflation back within its target range.
The Human Rights Commission wants an immediate freeze on rent increases, as more people have to choose between adequate food and a decent home. The Commission launched a housing inquiry last year finding rents are rising faster than income and inflation; and about half of tenants spend 30 percent or more of their take-home income on housing. The Commission's housing inquiry manager Vee Blackwood spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Who should be allowed to get involved in the governance of their local school? That question is swirling in Ōtautahi after it was revealed the white supremacist Philip Arps, who was jailed for sharing footage of the March 15th terror attacks, is standing for a school board position at Te Aratai College in Christchurch. Arps is eligible for the role, and the school principal Richard Edmundson says Te Aratai is known for its inclusivity and diversity. Canterbury Westland secondary principals' association president and principal at Burnside High, Phil Holstein, spoke to Māni Dunlop.
A two week hearing into what the state knew about the extent of child abuse in its care has begun in Auckland. 14 government agencies will front the Abuse in Care Royal Commission, starting with the Ministry of Social Development this afternoon. RNZ's Māori news director Jamie Tahana spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The Privacy Commissioner wants to know what the public thinks about how their biometric information is collected and used. Biometrics - involving the use of computers to identify people's faces, irises or fingerprints - can make life easier (think about unlocking your phone with a glance or a thumbprint) but also raise issues about data security and discrimination. The new commissioner Michael Webster spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Midday sports News for 15 August 2022 The Blacks Caps captain Kane Williamson concedes they were off their game as they suffered an eight wicket loss to the West Indies in the third and final T20 international in Jamaica.
China's claiming the United States is sparing no effort to stir up confrontation after a delegation of five congress members arrived in Taiwan at the weekend. It follows a recent visit from US House speaker Nancy Pelosi when China responded with military drills to simulate an invasion and blockade of Taiwan. University of Canterbury professor of political science and international relations Alex Tan told Māni Dunlop while such visits were not uncommon, how they were being spoken about had changed.
The Government's hoping public transport changes will resolve driver shortages, reduce emissions, and improve timetables. The new model, called the Sustainable Public Transport Framework, announced by the Government today will give councils the option of owning and operating public transport. It replaces the Public Transport Operating Model, introduced by National in 2013. The Transport Minister Michael Wood told Māni Dunlop what he thought was wrong with that scheme.
The Tertiary Education Union is calling on Massey University to front up over a proposed restructure which it says could affect as many as 150 jobs. Massey University provided a statement to RNZ, confirming it has released a "Proposal for Change" for general administration and finance roles across the university. It said it would be speculative and unfair to outline how many staff could be affected. Palmerston North union organiser Ben Schmidt spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The Prime Minister is disputing claims raised by Labour MP Gaurav Sharma that bullying is rampant within Parliament. Dr Sharma says that bullying is promoted by the party's whips and parliamentary service staff. Jacinda Ardern explained why the whips and parliamentary service took action, saying she is confident the issues are confined to Dr Sharma and do not reflect a wider problem across parliament.
Midday sports News for 12 August 2022 - the beleaguered All Blacks coach Ian Foster remains buoyant despite facing the prospect of a sixth loss in seven games and could end his tenure in the job.
Helicopter operators are worried the Civil Aviation Authority's safety inspection systems are still not up to scratch, despite the problems being pointed out for decades.
Helicopter operators are worried the Civil Aviation Authority's safety inspection systems are still not up to scratch, despite the problems being pointed out for decades. The Coroner's report on the deaths of seven people in a helicopter crash on Fox Glacier in 2015 discusses issues with the Authority's inadequate safety inspections saying the same problems had been identified following other fatal crashes. The Authority told the inquest it had made changes to its organisational structure, surveillance and the training of regulatory staff. But the Coroner Marcus Elliott said the Authority had cited the same sorts of changes in the past but the problems remained, and there was not enough evidence for him to determine whether its latest assertions had made a difference. The New Zealand Helicopter Association's chair Scott McKenzie spoke to Māni Dunlop about whether the problems were being fixed.
The Labour Party whips have responded to MP Gaurav Sharma's claims of bullying in parliament as it works to resolve issues between him and his staff. Backbencher Dr Sharma has blasted his party, the Prime Minister's office and the Parliamentary Service saying MP-on-MP bullying is rampant, and even promoted and facilitated by party whips. Māni Dunlop got the latest on the developing story from political reporter Anneke Smith.
Waikato District Council wants more people to enter this year's local body election. Nominations in the region are low - only three of the district's 10 wards have enough candidates to hold an election. With the deadline for all election nominations coming up at midday tomorrow, Waikato District Mayor Allan Sanson joins Māni Dunlop on Midday Report.
The Defence Minister is home after a trip to Solomon Islands amid heightened tensions around the Pacific. The government's trying to bolster relationships throughout the region after Solomon Islands signed a wide-reaching security agreement with China earlier in the year. Māni Dunlop asked the minister Peeni Henare what progress had been made on Aotearoa's 'maritime security' work plan with the Solomons.
A government task force is ready to act if a case of foot and mouth disease is confirmed here.
The annual median property price across the country has fallen for the first time in more than a decade.
The first bunch of Commonwealth Games athletes are arriving at Auckland Airport today, after their record-breaking successes in Birmingham. Fans and whānau are gathering to welcome them home. Māni Dunlop got the latest from RNZ Auckland reporter Finn Blackwell who was joined by pole vaulter Imogen Ayris.
The police are investigating allegations a man worked as a fake doctor and saw patients at Middlemore Hospital in Auckland. He was employed for about six months. RNZ's health correspondent Rowan Quinn spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Police investigate allegations a man used fake documents to work as a doctor; and our Commonwealth Games athletes return from Birmingham.
New Zealand and the United States have signed an agreement that will provide new opportunities for our space sector. The Framework Agreement will also ensure a closer collaboration with NASA. Economic and Regional Development Minister Stuart Nash joins us now.
Midday sports News for 10 August 2022 New Zealand Cricket boss David White is indicating fans haven't quite seen the last of Trent Boult in a Black Caps jersey. The All Blacks captain Sam Cane says there's "as much on the line as there's ever been" as the team prepares for this weekend's second test against South Africa at Ellis Park.
High Schoolers will again get help passing NCEAwith extra, learning recognition credits available, to make up for the disruption caused by Covid-19.
A former National party MP believes the membership - and voters - should have been told about Sam Uffindell's past before the Tauranga by-election. He's been stood down down from the party's caucus while an investigation is carried out into further allegations of bullying and aggression raised by RNZ. Mr Uffindell denies the allegations. Māni Dunlop spoke to former National MP Sarah Dowie, who experienced controversy while in Parliament, about the party's culture and what needed to change.
Geotechnical engineers will today assess the slip on The Terrace in central Wellington to determine if evacuated residents can return home. Our reporter Kirsty Frame has the story from the site.
New Zealand's Commonwealth Games athletes will have some more items to declare at their airport, thanks to a record-setting haul of 20 gold medals. But is it our greatest ever performance at the Games? Sportswriter and broadcaster Phil Gifford spoke to Guyon Espiner.
Midday sports News for 9 August 2022 Tom Walsh and Jacko Gill have created their slice of history in a world-class demonstration of throwing in Birmingham. New Zealand has won gold and silver in the same athletics event at a Commonwealth Games for the first time in more than half a century.
Rate payers will have to fork out more money to repeat council elections if the large number of vacancies in key roles around Aotearoa can't be filled. Local Government has issued an SOS to get more nominations, as most councils don't have enough to fill their exisiting vacancies.
The leader of the National Party is backing his newest MP, Sam Uffindell, after it was revealed he violently assaulted a 13 year old schoolmate when at King's College.
A Japanese sailor has been stabbed at Bloody Ridge in Solomon Islands during a World War Two remembrance ceremony. The stabbing has marred what has been a peaceful ceremony to remember those who lost their lives during the battle 80 years ago. RNZ pacific reporter Koroi Hawkins spoke to Charlotte Cook.
Heavy snow has caused disruption for travellers across the South Island today, closing roads, delaying deliveries and also creating a bit of fun. Martin Grundy from Four Square Maniototo - in Central Otago - spoke to me about how the dumping has impacted his community.
Midday sports News for 8 August 2022 Time for sport now, with Stephen Hewson. New Zealanders have taken out the two top spots in the IndyCars race
The Birmingham -im commonwealth games will go down in history as the most golden yet. The medal tally -- 18 golds -- pushes New Zealand past the 1990 record. Someone who has seen a lot of medals come home in previous games is former chef de mission Dave Currie who joins us now.
Youth advocates are warning the National Party's welfare plan risks worsening the stress and mental health challenges young people face... while pushing them deeper into poverty.
Kia orana, it's Epetoma o te reo Maori Kuki 'Airani - Cook Islands Language Week. Pacific Media Network presenter and the Cook Island Development Agency's, Tau-raki Raea, spoke to me about the importance of the week
With more jobs than people to fill them, many employers are spreading the net in their search for talent. The jobless rate has edged up slightly, to 3.3 percent, but there are also many jobs that employers can't fill. Some are turning to the firm Workbridge, and connecting with disabled people looking for opportunities. Workbridge chief executive Jonathan Mosen spoke to Guyon Espiner.
Midday sports News for 5 August 2022 The Commonwealth Games gold medal is not out of the question as far as Silver Ferns coach Dame Noeline Taurua is concerned.
Fog in Auckland is disrupting flights in and out of the city again today. Air New Zealand says 23 regional, turboprop, flights have been canceled so far today... but its domestic and international jet services have not been affected. It was also causing trouble for ferry services. Lewis Ferris from MetService told Charlotte Cook about how long it was sticking around.
About 80 people in Levin are still out of their homes today, as the police continue to negotiate with a man involved in a self-harm-related incident. Bledisloe Street residents have told RNZ there may have been a bomb threat but this has not been confirmed by police. The mayor Bernie Wanden declined to talk until police can de-escalate the situation. RNZ reporter Jimmy Ellingham was at the scene and spoke to Charlotte Cook.
NASA has just released spectacular new images taken from the James Webb telescope of a "cartwheel galaxy" which is almost 500-millon-light-years away.
New Zealand is disappointed powerful countries are spending hundreds-of-billions of dollars on nuclear new-clear weapons ... saying they're ignoring key international treaties to get rid of their stockpiles.
Midday sports News for 4 August 2022. Paul Coll struggled to articulate what it means to capture Commonwealth Games gold - but the Greymouth squash star says it's probably his biggest career achievement.
A golden jump ... New Zealand's Hamish Kerr secured the top spot in the High Jump at his first Commonwealth Games on Thursday morning. The 25-year-old athlete, described himself as the kid that never grew up and just loves jumping. Hamish Kerr won the gold after a tight finish with Australian rival Brandon Starc. Charlotte Cook spoke to him before he went to celebrate.
Builders broadly agree with the Commerce Commission's findings that law changes are needed to fix a lack of competition. In the past year, StatsNZ said the cost of construction materials have gone up by nearly one-fifth The Commission looked at three key building supplies - concrete, plasterboard and structural timber. The draft findings published today said supply was too concentrated, and was too hard to introduce new or alternative products to the market. The Registered Master Builders Association chief executive David Kelly spoke to Charlotte Cook.
Sea level rise and coastal erosion are threatening homes and infrastructure around the country, and councils have warned for years they could not afford to deal with those issues without Government support. The Tasman District has experienced all of these effects, and they will get worse. The mayor Tim King spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Midday sports News for 3 August Pole-vaulter Imogen Ayris says a change in approach after a disappointing World Champs paid off off as she claimed a bronze medal at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games.
The government has just released the country's first National Adaptation Plan -- and it's focused on getting communities talking about how climate change will affect them and what they should do to prepare. For some along vulnerable coastlines, that will range from building protective seawalls, raising floor levels, to managed retreats. The plan also prompts discussion about who should pay for all of this, and how our laws need to change in order to make any of this possible. The Climate Change Minister James Shaw spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The unemployment rate has stayed around its record low - at 3.3 percent - for the June quarter, according to Stats NZ. Wages are rising, they're up 3.4 percent over the last year. But that's still behind inflation which is at 7.3 percent. The Council of Trade Unions' economist Craig Rennie spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Voting in the general election in Cook Islands is drawing to a close. The race involves the Democratic Party led by Tina Browne, the Cook Islands Party led by the current Prime Minister Mark Brown, and the One Cook Islands Movement, led by George Turia. Worldwatch reporter Max Towle spoke to correspondent Caleb Fotheringham of Cook Islands News.
New Zealand has reaffirmed its commitment to Samoa by giving 15 million dollars to the country's climate change response, and an additional 12 million towards rebuilding Apia's Savalalo Market. The historic market was destroyed by a fire in 2016. The announcement follows a meeting between the prime ministers of the two countries after they marked the 60-year anniversary of the treaty of friendship last night. RNZ Pacific reporter Susana Susuiki spoke to Māni Dunlop from Apia.
Andrew Jeffcoat won in the Men's 50 metre backstroke final this morning, adding to Lewis Clareburt's two golds, as well as those of paraswimmers Sophie Pascoe and Joshua Willmer. Former commonwealth gold medalist, and long time swimming coach, Gary Hurring spoke to Māni Dunlop about what's going well behind the scenes.
A health workforce expert says the government's newly announced staffing strategy will do little to ease New Zealand's reliance on foreign trained and born medical staff. The new plan - announced yesterday - does increase the domestic supply of doctors and nurses with more training positions for GPs, nurse practitioners, and radiology registrars but there's a continued focus on securing staff from overseas. The latest international figures - from 2019 - show Aotearoa is the second-most dependent on international medical graduates of the developed countries in the OECD. Otago University professor Robin Gauld spoke to Māni Dunlop about the plan.
Five youth inmates remain on the roof of Hawke's Bay Regional Prison where there is considerable damage to the facility. Projectiles were thrown at staff when the standoff began yesterday afternoon. Corrections' chief custodial officer Neil Beales told Mani Dunlop the situation was contained, and negotiations continue.
Five youth inmates remain on the roof of Hawke's Bay Regional Prison where there is considerable damage to the facility. Projectiles were thrown at staff when the standoff began yesterday afternoon. Hawke's Bay reporter Tom Kitchin spoke to Māni Dunlop about the latest developments.
Two homes and two families in Wellington are teetering on the edge, after a slip last week left their houses unsafe to enter. They are facing an uncertain future after the council 'Red Stickered' their homes indefinitely on Friday. The Philips family has spent the weekend in limbo unsure about what to do or what options they have. Jaime Philips told Māni Dunlop they would be out of their house for at least three months.
The Māori Language Commission, Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori, says te reo Māori has united people since it became an official language of New Zealand 35 years ago today. The commission says some people warned the Māori Language Act passed on August the first 1987 would divide New Zealanders. 40 percent of New Zealanders aged 15 to 34 can now speak more than a few words or phrases. Māni Dunlop spoke to Taura Whiri chief executive Ngahiwi Apanui who said although many gains have been made - there was still a long way to go.
Midday sports News for 1 August 2022 Lewis Clareburt says it's special to join Dame Sophie Pascoe as the only New Zealand swimmers to win two gold medals at a Commonwealth Games.
More than two-million New Zealanders will receive their first cost of living payment today, including some who live overseas. All up they'll get three payments totalling $350, which are supposed to be for New Zealanders earning less than $70,000 who live, and pay tax, in this country. People who get the Winter Energy Payment are not eligible. The Prime Minister admits the automatic system for making the payment means some people overseas will also receive it. And the Inland Revenue Department (which is distributing the payments) says it will only look into, and possibly recover, payments if it believes it's been given "fraudulent or willfully misleading information". University of Canterbury business school professor Adrian Sawyer spoke to Māni Dunlop.
It was another incredible day for Aotearoa taking medals at the Commonwealth Games, putting New Zealand at number 3 on the table. Swimming sensation Lewis Clareburt (Tainui) claimed gold in the men's 200 metre butterfly final in a thrilling come-from-behind victory. It was Clareburt's second gold medal after winning the 400 metre individual medley yesterday. Māni Dunlop spoke to his Mum, Robyn Clareburt, about how the whānau were feeling.
News from the rural farming sector for 29 July 2022 Two Auckland butcheries have taken out the top spots in this year's 100% New Zealand Bacon and Ham Awards. New Zealand needs to diversify its export market for avocados if growers want to get decent returns, a new report has found. Kiwifruit growers are being urged to get out and vote on a proposal which would increase plantings of the SunGold variety in overseas production sites.
Midday sports News for 29 July 2022 The New Zealand triathlete Hayden Wilde is optimistic about his chances of backing up his Olympic bronze medal at the Commonwealth Games. Meanwhile The All Blacks Sevens say they've left no stone unturned in trying to defend Commonwealth Games gold.
News from the business sector for 29 July 2022 Consumers are slightly less gloomy and their inflation expectations have fallen to their lowest level in a year. The race is on at Auckland International Airport to scale up its operations in time for peak the summer season. The small New Zealand based and listed exploration company, Chatham Rock Phosphate, continues to hold out hope, it will get a consent to be able to mine phosphate rock from the sea floor in the Chatham Rise region.
News from the rural farming sector for 28 July 2022 Farmers on the Chatham Islands might not be able to ship stock off the island for four months during the busy Autumn period next year. Kiwifruit growers can now have their say on if they think Zespri should expand the amount of Sungold kiwifruit it grows overseas. Farmers could soon have new solutions to mitigate nitrate leaching on-farm.
Midday sports News for 28 July 2022 Tom Walsh concedes he's in unknown territory after being named as joint flagbearer for New Zealand at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games - and he's hoping he doesn't "stuff it up". Meanwhile Paul Coll's rise to the top of the squash world rankings adds a different dimension to his second Commonwealth Games appearance.
News from the business sector An investment analyst sees virtually no chance of the Tiwai Point Aluminium Smelter will get another cut price power deal. An ethical investing interest group is backing the tougher stance on greenwashing. The Stock Exchange is looking at improving the treatment and protection of small shareholders when listed companies raise new capital.
News from the rural farming sector Red meat farmers are set to get good returns this year - as beef and lamb markets remain strong amid global uncertainty. High inflation has put pressure on log prices and forest owners have seen significantly increasing harvesting costs. New Zealand's free trade deal with the United Kingdom is one step closer, after having its first reading in Parliament yesterday.
Midday sports News for 27 July 2022 The Crusaders coach Scott Robertson has revealed he wants to win two World Cups - one with the All Blacks and one with another country. Meanwhile the All Blacks and Crusaders first-five Richie Mo'unga says Ian Foster is the right coach to lead them to next year's World Cup in France. The audition to be the White Ferns' new first choice wicketkeeper is going to down to the wire.
News from the business sector with Nicholas Pointon Inflation and Covid absenteeism are expected to more than half Restaruant Brands' half year result. The consultancy firm EY will grow its online security footprint by launching new cyber security centres in our main cities. Real estate agents and banks will feel the pinch of the declining property market.
Midday sports News for 26 July 2022 New All Blacks forward coach Jason Ryan made sure Cruaders coach Scott Roberton was on board before taking on the new role. New Zealand swimmer Lewis Clareburt has come through Covid and food poisoning to find great form ahead of the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.
Midday sports News for 25 July 2022 Former All Black Ian Jones says its important that new assistant coach Jason Ryan is allowed to take full control of the forward pack.
The two men charged over the handling of donations to the New Zealand First Foundation have been found not guilty. the National Party says the government's spending too much on advertising.
A five member committee will oversee Cycling New Zealand to ensure its implementing its ten point plan around athlete welfare.
News from the rural farming sector for 20 July 2022 Global dairy prices have fallen to a nine-month low. Farmers in Canterbury and Otago are still waiting for flood waters to recede so they can assess the damage to their land. Farmgate returns for venison farmers continue to grow.
Midday sports News for 20 July 2022 The former NZ Rugby chief executive David Moffett says the national body and not just All Blacks coach Ian Foster deserve criticism for the situation the game finds itself in.
News from the business sector Green shoots are emerging in the hotel industry, following an influx of overseas visitors and corporate travellers. A property sector expert believes the share price slide for retirement village and aged care operators is part of the wider market downturn. 2 Degrees appears to be in no rush to join its competitors and sell off its cell towers.
Midday sports News for 19 July 2022 Black Caps fast bowler Lochie Ferguson kept the Irish batsmen guessing as he played a big part in the tourists 31-run win in the opening T20 international in Belfast. Silver Ferns coach Dame Noeline Taurua is happy with where her team is at as they prepare to depart for the Birmingham Commonwealth Games.
New Zealand's Scott Dixon has joined Mario Andretti for second most wins in Indcar history.
The Silver Ferns coach Dame Noeline Taurua hasn't joined the team in camp after testing positive for Covid-19. Nick Kyrgios admits it felt "ridiculous" for a basketball-mad guy from Canberra to be playing a Wimbledon final but after losing to Novak Djokovic he feels like he belongs.
The All Black selectors have made four changes and a couple of positional switches as they look to bounce back from their historic second test loss against Ireland.
The Maori All Blacks outside back Shaun Stevenson says it will be tough to beat Ireland in wet weather in tonight's match in Wellington.
Midday sports News for 12 July 2022 The Maori All Blacks outside back Shaun Stevenson says it will be tough to beat Ireland in wet weather in tonight's match in Wellington.
The Silver Ferns coach Dame Noeline Taurua hasn't joined the team in camp after testing positive for Covid-19.
The Climate Change Commission is backing the pricing of agricultural emissions at the farm-level and outside the Emissions Trading Scheme.
Climate action groups issue a challenge to local body candidates in council elections around the country, and British Prime Minsiter Boris Johnson faces a wave of resignations from top cabinet ministers.
Midday sports News for 5 July 2022 The White Ferns will soon be paid the same amount as the Black Caps
Defending champion Novak Djokovic continued his pursuit of a seventh Wimbledon title as he reached the quarter-finals with a four-set win over Dutch wildcard Tim van Rijthoven.
The All Blacks coach Ian Foster says they're welcoming the pressure that comes with their 3-test series against Ireland, which starts tomorrow night at Eden Park
Ireland have named their team and coach Andy Farrell insists he doesn't view this weekend's test as a head to head with his former boss Joe Schmidt. New Zealand rower Lucy Spoors is very appreciative of the support the national body is giving women with families and so she hopes that will mean she'll be able to return to the sport after the birth of her first child.
Midday News for 30 June 2022 The police in Wellington have arrested six people during an operation on the Miramar Peninsula to remove occupiers who have been camping there for months. The Prime Minister is in Brussels, attempting to close a trade deal with the European Union. The far right American group the Proud Boys are declared a terrorist entity in New Zealand.
Midday sports News for 29 June 2022 Seven-time champion Serena Williams suffered a second straight Wimbledon first-round exit upset French debutant Harmony Tan in a late-night Centre Court epic.
A man has appeared in court charged with stabbing a Christchurch woman. And wider access for Covid-19 for boosters and flu vaccines. The latest news on RNZ with Nicola Wright.
Transpower says no power supply was disconnected during this morning's grid emergency, Dunedin Airport has plunged to its lowest June temperature in fifty years.
The scientist behind a successful low-methane sheep breeding programme says the modified animals have an added benefit for farmers in being lean meat producers as well.
The Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns have both included four debutants in their respective teams for Saturday's rugby league double header against Mate Ma'a Tonga at Mt Smart Stadium.
Otago leg-spinning all-rounder Michael Rippon is the only newcomer in the Black Caps white-ball squads to tour Ireland and Scotland next month, and the Netherlands in early August. Rippon, who played for the Netherlands against the Black Caps earlier this year, is a rarity on the the New Zealand professional cricket scene.
The Health Minister denies there's a health system crisis, and The Government won't appeal the Grounded Kiwis High Court case finding
The youngest ever National Assembly member has just been elected in French Polynesia. A 21-year-old, standing for the pro-independence party, won a run-off against a well-established former government minister. With more on how the French Pacific territories voted for their six seats in Paris, Max Towle spoke to Walter Zweifel of RNZ Pacific.
The Trade Minister says the recently completed round of the World Trade Organsiation talks were a win for the world's fisheries. The latest rural news with Susan Murray.
Englishman Matt Fitzpatrick has won the U.S. Open golf tournament. The latest sports news with Barry Guy.
The service sector is at its best level in nearly a year. The latest business news with Nicholas Pointon.
In today's news, a devastating weekend on the roads, Kidscan says record numbers of children need extra support this winter, and less than 40 percent of the staff at Nelson-Marlborough DHB have had a flu vaccination.
Black Ferns director of rugby Wayne Smith has made good on his promise to give every squad member an opportunity in the Pacific Four Series. Former Wallaby Tim Horan has urged Rugby Australia to be careful with any moves to walk away from the Super Rugby competition and run its own Australian-based tournament. The former New Zealand Cricket president and selector, and cricket historian, Don Neely has died, aged 86.
The New Zealand sharemarket has plunged. GP's are warning increasing hospital pressure is pushing down on strained community services. And the manufacturing sector perks up and looks for a rebound
United States Golf Association chief executive Mike Whan can foresee a day when it will be harder for golfers who joined LIV Golf to gain entry into the U.S. Open.
Pre-departure testing requirements for incoming visitors will be scrapped from next week. Reports of a gang truce have not alleviated Aucklanders' concerns. Australia's Foreign Minister is officially welcomed in Wellington.
Protestors have descended on a Christchurch school where the Prime Minister is visiting. And Pharmac is widening access to a safe sex drug common to gay men.
The Black Caps spinning all rounder Michael Bracewell believes the Trent Bridge pitch should give him something to work with as they chase victory on the final day of the second test against England.
Food prices jump again. The building industry and MBIE meet to discuss the Gib shortage.
The All Blacks coach Ian Foster has picked six debutants and omitted a veteran in his first All Blacks squad of the year.
The storm rages on around the country with high winds, snow, and thunder. The Prime Minister announces a cabinet reshuffle. The inquiry into abuse in foster care has begun.
The Black Caps have suffered a major blow ahead of the must win second cricket test against England in Nottingham tonight, with skipper Kane Williamson forced out with Covid.
Fletcher Building is under fire for it's tight control over plasterboard. Teams are assessing the damage after storm in Kapiti overnight. Formal talks beween the Prime Minister and her Australian counterpart begin.
The tournament which has divided the golfing world tees off on the outskirst of London tonight. The Saudi backed LIV series will be initially be made up of eight events, the first at the Centurion Club.
It is uncertain whether investigations will continue into the wrongful conviction of Alan Hall. And an expert says the court has limited power to help a woman retrieve her husband's stolen body.
The New Zealand women's cricket captain Sophie Devine wants her side to move on saying she's excited about the 15-strong T20 squad that's been selected for the Birmingham Commonwealth Games.
Beef and Lamb backs the climate emissions plan for farmers. A Supreme Court hearing over Alan Hall's murder conviction is underway.
The Warriors coach Nathan Brown has resigned having told club management he doesn't want to return to Auckland. The latest sports news with Stephen Hewson.
The National Party has floated the prospect of introducing tough anti-gang laws like that seen in Australia. Auckland is in the grips of a weeks-long turf war between the Tribesmen and Killer Beez gangs resulting in a spate of shootings.
The first cricket Test between England and New Zealand seems unlikely to last five days, after 17 wickets fell on the opening day at Lord's. Sports reporter Stephen Hewson has more.
Midday News for 3 June 2022 111 calls exceed expectations as winter illnesses hit their peak. Hospitals around the country are also under huge strain and the Queen celebrates her Platinum Jubilee.
Despite having won just one of their past 17 tests new England cricket captain Ben Stokes is predicting a closely fought series against New Zealand.
Rafael Nadal demonstrated once again why he is the greatest player in French Open history by beating long-time rival Novak Djokovic in a four hour thriller to reach the men's singles semi-finals.
Jacinda Ardern and Joe Biden promise their two countries will work more closely together. A report into Pharmac reveals it's contributing to inequitable health outcomes.
The Argentinian football superstar - Lionel Messi - has revealed the difficulties he faced after contracting Covid-19 in January.
A critical report into sexual misconduct and gender discrimination in the Canadian military has recommended that cases be dealt with by the civilian authorities.
Eden Park is officially sold out for the All Blacks' first Test against Ireland in July.
The Police Minister says more needs to be done to rein in gang violence. Hospital Emergency Departments around the country struggle to cope with patient numbers.
International basketball players have intensified their calls for Brittney Griner's release from Russian prison, on the 100th day of her detention. Griner was in Russia to play during the off-season when she was arrested on drug charges at an airport near Moscow. Players say the Phoenix Mercury player has been wrongfully detained. Worldwatch reports.
New research has found there is not enough rain and river water in Canterbury to dilute nitrate pollution to acceptable drinking water standards. Environment Canterbury's science director Dr Tim Davie spoke to Max Towle.
The heavy rain Aucklanders experienced this morning is moving on, now heading east to some of the already waterlogged parts of the country. There are Severe Weather Warnings in place for, Northland, Coromandel and the Bay of Plenty. Metservice says those areas could get between 60 and 150 millimeters of rain. Metservice Meteorologist Lewis Ferris spoke to Max Towle.
New Zealand golfer Steven Alker has continued his great form on the Champions Tour, winning the PGA Championship, one of the majors on the senior tour.
China is trying to woo Pacific Island countries into signing a new multilateral deal that would have massive consequences for the region. Foreign minister Wang Yi has been island-hopping, meeting with national leaders to talk bi-lateral agreements. But China is casting its net even wider than that - trying to get some nations signed onto the draft China-Pacific Island Countries Common Development Vision. Max Towle spoke to RNZ Pacific's Kelvin Anthony in Suva.
After being confronted with chants of 'Do Something' on a visit to a grieving city in Texas, the US president Joe Biden has vowed he will. He's been in Uvalde to grieve with some of the families of the 19 children and two teachers killed in a mass shooting at a primary school last week. President Biden wants to confront the incredibly wealthy and influential American gun lobby - but that may be easier said than done. US correspondent Kate Fisher spoke to Max Towle.
US President Joe Biden is confronted by grieving crowds in Texas. China ramps up its Pacific presence
Hapū in Kaikohe have come together to lead a hikoi through the town centre calling for peace amid rising gang violence. Tensions between the Killer Bees and Tribesmen have spilled to the Far North. In response to the spate of shootings there and in Auckland, a collective of hapū have placed a rāhui prohibiting gun violence in the town. Te Tiahotanga makes up a number of the hapū around kaikohekohe. RNZ reporter Nick Truebridge spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has secured a meeting with US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris in Washington next week. The meeting will be the pinnacle of her trip to the US, which is primarily a trade and tourism mission. Former National MP and ambassador to the US Tim Groser said the trip had actually been unexpectedly timely.
The cull has continued in the White Ferns with two more players from the World Cup squad left off the New Zealand Cricket's national contract list. Barry Guy reports.
The Cook Islands prime minister Mark Brown will take part in scheduled talks with China's foreign minister Wang Yi this week. China's foreign minister is currently touring the Pacific as Beijing seeks a region-wide deal with nearly a dozen nations. The Cook Islands are a self-governing entity within, and part of, the realm of New Zealand. New Zealand's prime minister says the Pacific Islands Forum will be "critical" to confronting the latest developments in the region. RNZ Pacific's Moera Tuilaepa-Taylor spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Second booster doses of the Covid-19 vaccine will soon be available for those most at risk of getting very sick from an infection. The Response Minister Chris Hipkins says several hundred thousand people will be eligible for the extra vaccination, including: older people, those living in aged and disabled care facilities, and the severely immunocompromised. Mr Hipkins says the rollout will begin in mid June, after the Medicines Act is amended. Vaccinologist associate professor Helen Petousis-Harris, who's a member of the Ministry of Health's COVID-19 Vaccine Technical Advisory Group spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Christchurch City councillors will soon vote on how to compensate people in Bromley worst-affected by the overwhelming stench coming from the city's wastewater treatment plant. Thousands of households have had to deal with a pungent smell since the plant was damaged by fire in November. RNZ reporter Niva Chittock spoke to Max Towle about what councillors were hearing from the community and its staff.
The government wants to delay the introduction of new insulation standards for homes by another six months, due to concerns raised by the construction sector. The improved standards were meant to be compulsory by November, but the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment says the construction sector has said it won't be ready by then. The Green Building Council isn't happy about the delay. Its chief executive Andrew Eagles spoke to Max Towle.
The clean out of the White Ferns old guard in the wake of a disappointing World Cup earlier this year is building momentum.
With leaked documents showing China is seeking a region-wide policing and security deal with 10 Pacific countries, the prime minister Jacinda Ardern is urging a unified response. The issue of Chinese aggression in the Pacific was on the agenda when the prime minister met with American politicians in Washington this morning. Professor Anne-Marie Brady, an expert on the China and the Chinese Communist Party at Canterbury University, spoke to Max Towle.
Small businesses should be able to tap into a government fund to help them put up bollards or other measures to protect their stores from ram-raids. There's been a spike reaching about 40 a month of generally young people, sometimes children, driving cars into shop-fronts. The government this morning announced $6 million from the 'proceeds of crime fund' would be available for police to work with vulnerable small retailers. The police minister Poto Williams spoke to Max Towle.
Hundreds continue to flow through Ōrākei marae in Tāmaki Makaurau to pay tribute to the late Joe Hawke. He led the 506 day Takaparawhau Bastion Point occupation in the late '70s. On this day 44 years ago protesters were forcibly evicted by the police and army, resulting in 222 arrests. Joe Hawke died at the age of 82 on Sunday. RNZ Māori news director, Māni Dunlop spoke to Max Towle from Ōrākei marae.
The cost of renting keeps surging, with median rents for April hitting a record-breaking $580 a week. The latest figures from TradeMe shows tenants are now paying, on average, $40 a week more than they were this time last year. And - the supply of rental properties continues to decline. Renters United spokesperson Ashok Jacob spoke to Max Towle.
40 year old triathlete Andrea Hansen will compete at her fourth Commonwealth Games - and will do so for the first time as a mum.
In Tāmaki Makaurau, the police responded to seven firearms incidents overnight. No injuries have been reported, but the message RNZ is hearing from people in Ōtara, Papatoetoe, Flat Bush, Papakura, Te Atatū, Henderson and Mt Albert is that they feel shaken and scared. Police Superintendent Jill Rogers is speaking to media at the moment, and says two of the addresses have no known links to gangs, and there have been 12 known firearms incidents across Counties Manukau since the weekend - but police are certain there were actually more. Earlier, police said they were disgusted by the callous behaviour - that the offenders showed a blatant disregard for the safety of others by this indiscriminate and reckless use of firearms in public. Max Towle spoke to RNZ reporter Rayssa Almeida who has been talking with neighbours at the different locations.
In the US at least 18 children and three adults have been killed in a school shooting this morning in South Texas. Robb Elementary School is in the city of Uvalde, about 130 kilometres west of San Antonio. The gunman, identified as 18-year-old Salvador Ramos, is believed to have been killed by police. US correspondent Kate Fisher spoke to Max Towle.
Another school shooting in the US, and seven drive by shootings in Auckland overnight leave neighbours in fear.
New Zealanders interest in online shopping continues to grow, with spending in the first three months of this year a third higher than last year, according to NZ Post. It says we spent more than $2.2 billion online for physical goods - 77% of which went to local businesses. NZ Post's general manager of business marketing Chris Wong spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The Government's putting extra money into Māori education to improve teaching spaces and increase staffing levels. The funding comes from this year's Budget, and includes nearly $50 million for Māori immersion, $30 million for workforce development; and more than $100 million to spend on properties. The associate minister of education Kelvin Davis spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The Black Caps' stand-in captain Tom Latham believes the squad still got plenty out of their four day game against Sussex- despite losing days one and four to rain. The match ended in a draw - with consistent drizzle washing out the final day's play in Hove. New Zealand finished on 40 without loss in their second innings - with a lead 135 runs.
US President Joe Biden has put an end to his country's strategic ambiguity, saying it would come to Taiwan's military defence if China invaded. Taiwan is home to the world's most advanced semiconductor and microchip manufacturer, TSMC. Taiwan is a self-governed democracy, but China still claims the territory as its own. University of Canterbury professor Alex Tan spoke to Māni Dunlop about the geopolitical power struggles taking place. He also said President Biden's comments on military defence do not mark a major change in policy.
The world has passed a grim milestone, marking a whole new threshold of suffering, with the number of people forced from their homes exceeding 100 million for the first time. The figure includes refugees as well as those who are internally displaced within their home countries. Ukraine and other conflicts have pushed the number higher than ever before - over 1% of the global population is now forcibly displaced. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees' regional representative Adrian Edwards told Māni Dunlop every country should consider what it could do to help.
The covid traffic light flashes orange. A grim milestone of human suffering with more than 100 million people homeless due to conflicts.
The Solomon Islands government is expecting official confirmation the Chinese foreign minister Wang Li will visit the Pacific Island this week, to formally sign a controversial security pact. It comes as the leaders of QUAD countries - the USA, Japan, Australia and India - prepare to meet. Geoffrey Miller, an international analyst with the Democracy Project, spoke to Māni Dunlop.
In Wellington, Moa Point road has re-opened - it was closed as surging seas swept over the street last night. Rocks and debris were dumped by massive waves on the city's South Coast. MetService issued a heavy swell warning for Wellington and Wairarapa, and it expects big waves again around the middle of the week. Wellington City Council spokesperson Richard MacLean spoke to Māni Dunlop.
New Zealand driver Scott Dixon has claimed pole position for next week's Indianapolis 500.
Care and support workers are holding rallies today to draw attention to their low wages and workforce shortages. Their pay rates, which are set by law, will soon expire. Their unions say the government is offering a 70 cent an hour pay rise. But workers say that won't be enough to attract good workers to fill staff shortages; and it won't be enough to stop staff taking on extra hours to help meet the rising cost of living. PSA delegate and worker Michelle Troup spoke to Māni Dunlop about how poor pay was exacerbating problems.
Labor leader Anthony Albanese has been sworn in as Australia's 31st Prime Minister. He, and a group of his top ministers, were sworn in by the Governor-General David Hurley this morning. The results from Australia's federal election have shown a shift away from the country's two main parties - with the rise of independents, such as the so-called TEALs, as well as more seats for the Greens. The election also brings in more indigenous to parliament in the House of Representatives and the Senate. SBS political reporter Sarah Collard spoke to Māni Dunlop.
In Australia, Anthony Albanese has been sworn in as its new Prime Minister. Care and support workers are rallying around the motu today, calling for an urgent pay increase.
A new report by Shark Guardian reveals fishery observer reports of shark finning and other malpractices on Marine Stewardship Council certified vessels are being routinely ignored. The MSC is an international non-profit organisation which rewards sustainable fishing practices. Shark Guardian identified a total of 24 incidents of shark finning taking place in the Western Central Pacific Ocean. Spokesperson Alex Hofford spoke to Worlwatch's Perlina Lau about the deep crisis sharks are facing.
The International Committee of Museums - or ICOM - has been forced to apologise for saying "historic garments should not be worn by anybody, public or private figures." It was called out by renowned Maori curator and Te Papa executive member, Puawai Cairns, who called the statements "Eurocentric". On Twitter, the ICOM Costume Committee said its statement overlooked the importance of Indigenous communities being able to connect with and wear museum objects from their community. Puawai Cairns spoke to Māni Dunlop.
There's just one more day to go until the Australian federal election. Both major party leaders, Scott Morrison and Labour's Anthony Albanese, have been doing a last minute campaign blitz - travelling all over the country in hopes of winning over undecided voters and marginal seats. Polls have tightened this week and more than 4.5 million people have already cast their vote. Worldwatch's Perlina Lau spoke to the ABC's Gavin Coote.
Election fever in Australia - both political leaders - Scott Morrison and Labour's Anthony Albanese have been doing a last minute campaign blitz. Mani Dunlop spoke to Gavin Coote.
The budget is delivering more money for Pasifika health and education but leaders of Pacific communities say it doesn't go far enough. Despite $196 million of Pacific investment they're wanting to see more go towards addressing poverty, the pay-gap and amnesty to overstayers. RNZ Pacific's Eleisha Foon reports.
Throwers dominate the 18-strong New Zealand athletics team named for the 2022 Commonwealth Games. For the first time New Zealand will have three women's throwers in the same event at the same Games.
Dozens of buildings have been damaged by wild weather in Levin this morning. Local tradie Ethan Yeow has been chipping in with emergency repairs this morning. He spoke to Midday Report's Māni Dunlop.
Houses and businesses in Levin have been damaged by wild weather this morning. Crops are shredded, trees are uprooted, powerlines are down, and trampolines have been sent tumbling. Horowhenua District Council mayor Bernie Wanden spoke to Midday Report's Māni Dunlop.
In Levin, residents were woken by torrential hail nearly the size of golf balls, and what they are describing as a tornado. MetService says it recorded a wind gust of 140 kilometres per hour in Levin, and it's asking for any footage or pictures of this morning's storm so it can definitively say whether it was indeed a tornado or a thunderstorm collapsing in on itself. The forecaster also detected nearly 11,000 lightning strikes between midnight and 7-o'clock. Further north, Waikato and Auckland were whipped by strong winds and thunderstorms, temporarily closing the Harbour Bridge. RNZ senior reporter Ruth Hill spoke to Māni Dunlop from Levin's main street.
This afternoon, New Zealanders will learn what the government's dishing out in this year's budget. Health is expected to be the big-ticket item today with the reforms taking up a decent chunk of the $6 billion package of new spending. RNZ reporter Jean Edwards told Charlotte Cook what she was hearing from people in Ōtautahi, Christchurch.
In other news, Antarctica New Zealand wants your input on the Scott Base redevelopment by choosing the building's colour. Designers are offering the options of kākāriki green, karaka orange and kikorangi blue. At the moment kākāriki has more than half of all the votes in the online poll. The Scott Base redevelopment project director Jon Ager told Charlotte Cook how they whittled the colours down to three.
30-year-old Misha Koudinov will head a seven-strong New Zealand contingent at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games.
The first hint of winter has arrived, and a series of storm fronts will sweep the country over the coming days. Parts of Bay of Plenty, Westland and Fiordland are under a heavy rain warning, with up to 90 millimetres of rain expected to fall today. And some frosty temperatures are expected to follow, as a cold southerly moves in with snow expected to settle on some of the alpine passes and the Desert Road from tomorrow. MetService forecaster Lewis Ferris spoke to Charlotte Cook.
It's Budget Day - the big day for the Finance Minister Grant Robertson who makes the calls on where the money goes. We already have some idea of what's in the budget, with about 10 early announcements on new spending in mental health, transport and climate change. But the bulk of the detail will be released at 2-o'clock this afternoon. Charlotte Cook spoke to University of Auckland senior political lecturer Dr Lara Greaves.
The majority of automakers are undermining efforts to reduce pollution, and keep global warming under the 1.5 degrees celsius limit. European research group, InfluenceMap, looked at a dozen car makers and found just two of them - Tesla and Mercedes Benz - are on track to build enough zero-emissions vehicles to keep emissions down. But eight of the 12 companies are holding up progress - and the worst laggards are based in Japan. Researcher Ben Youriev spoke to Māni Dunlop.
A mental health service says the government's pre-budget announcement doesn't go far enough to reach those who experience the worst inequality in New Zealand. Thursday's Budget will include $100 million in new spending on specialist mental health and addiction services. Health Minister Andrew Little says the funding means that young people will be better supported. However, Lifewise Youth Housing's Aaron Hendry told Māni Dunlop the funding would not reach many of the rangatahi he works with.
The White Ferns and Otago wicketkeeper Katey Martin has retired after 21 years of top class cricket.
Nurses want staff wellbeing to be woven into any decision to move treatment out of Hutt Hospital's earthquake-prone block. The DHB has confirmed the hospital's main block falls below the new building standard, at just 15 per cent. The building, built in the 1970s, houses 70 percent of beds at the hospital, including the maternity and children's wards. The New Zealand Nurses Organisation president Anne Daniels spoke to Māni Dunlop.
MPs have taken up the chance to scrutinise the government's Covid-19 response, including contact tracing, testing, and vaccination. The Covid-19 response minister Chris Hipkins and health officials spoke to the Health Select Committee this morning. It comes as Aotearoa creeps closer to 1000 deaths related to the virus. RNZ's health correspondent Rowan Quinn is covering the briefing and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
MPs scrutinise the Covid-19 response as deaths creep close to 1,000, and Hutt Hospital bosses are still figuring out when to close earthquake-prone wards.
"Are we Abel to be called Aotearoa now?" Is the catch cry for renowned Aotearoa artist Hori's mission touring the country to confront the resistance but also promoting the country's name change from New Zealand. The tour labelled "Horis Pledge" as a play on Hobson's Pledge - is about acknowledging the history of Aotearoa, matauranga Māori and giving people more insight into te ao Māori. The tour started this morning at parliament at 7am with MPs Rawiri Waititi, Peeni Henare, Chloe Swarbrick and Marama Davidson sending them off - with a karakia by Maori Party co-leader Waititi. Māni Dunlop spoke to Hori on his way out of Bulls about what's planned for the haerenga.
Food waste collection services could soon be coming to your neighbourhood. The government plans to roll out kerbside collection of food scraps for most urban households by 2030, as part of its Emissions Reduction Plan. Also on the table - more investment in waste infrastructure like composting, and a requirement for all municipal landfills to have gas capture systems by 2026. Dr Jeff Seadon is a senior lecturer at AUT's School of Future Environments.
Former BMX world junior champ, Jessie Smith struggles to understand how Cycling NZ can be shocked by the findings of the latest independent review into the sport.
The professional fire fighters union are pushing for industrial action as it says staffing in Auckland has reached crisis point. The union said over the weekend there were 23 gaps in firefighter coverage, including 5 fire trucks out of commission due to no staff and several more short-staffed. It said Fire and Emergency have failed to hire enough career firefighters, which leaves no room for leave or sickness - meaning some people have to work 80 to 100 hour weeks. That's something Fire and Emergency denied. Māni Dunlop spoke to Martin Campbell, the Union's Auckland Local Secretary.
The government has made more pre-budget promises - this time committing $100m to specialist mental health and addiction services. The money will cover community based crisis services, enhance existing specialist child and adolescent mental health and a $10-million dollar boost to workforce development. Māni Dunlop spoke to the Health Minister Andrew Little, who announced the spend this morning.
Pharmac is making it easier for vulnerable babies, to receive a preventative treatment for respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, this winter. Last year, a surge in cases of the potentially fatal virus affected babies and infants, leaving children's wards full, while Pharmac struggled to secure supplies of a steroid based treatment. Now, it's arranged for young children at risk of severe illness from RSV to get monthly injections of Palivizumab. Pharmac's director of operations Lisa Williams spoke to Māni Dunlop about the decision.
New Zealand's first Emissions Reduction Plan to drive the economy in a cleaner direction has been unveiled. The scheme comes with nearly $3 billion for climate initiatives over four years - most of the money is going towards agriculture and transport. While there are no moves to extend half-price public transport, $500 million will go towards helping low and middle income families make the switch to cleaner cars. Professor Sally Brooker from the University of Otago, who co-leads the German-New Zealand Green Hydrogen networking alliance, spoke to Māni Dunlop.
News from the rural and farming sector, including Agriculture Minister Damien O'Connor on the just-released Emissions Reduction Plan.
The report into the culture at Cycling NZ is expected to be critical of their high performance environment.
Thousands of health professionals are on strike today, demanding better pay and conditions for their work. The 10,000 allied, public health, scientific and technical workers are members of the public service association. RNZ's health correspondent Rowan Quinn is in Wellington where she's followed a picket line from Civic Square to Parliament. Māni Dunlop got the latest from Rowan who was joined by dental therapist Michelle Lauder.
The government has finally unveiled Aotearoa's plan to tackle emissions - with a large price tag attached. Transport and energy feature heavily, including a large investment into helping low and middle income families scrap their old cars and get into low emissions vehicles. Congestion charging is also firmly on the table, with possible plans for legislation later in the year. Māni Dunlop was joined by RNZ's political editor Jane Patterson and Climate Change Minister James Shaw.
Aotearoa's long-awaited, first nation-wide strategy to slash emissions has been released. The government will decide later this year if it will make legislative changes to enable congestion charging.
Mozambique is facing an "invisible crisis". The UN Refugee Agency is raising the alarm over the desperate situation in the southern African nation. Fighting in the north against an Islamist insurgence has affected more than 780,000 people. It's been made worse with extreme weather events - most recently a cyclone in March which displaced more than 700,000 people. Damien McSweeney from the UN Refugee Agency in Mozambique spoke to Worldwatch's Perlina Lau.
Frustrated Bromley residents will today get the chance to take councillors and council staff to task over the putrid stench emanating from the damaged Christchurch wastewater treatment plant. The smell is so bad, children cannot play outside. Māni Dunlop heard from Don Gould, a leading local voice who will be at tonight's public meeting. He said the council had dropped the ball.
Highlanders assistant coach Clarke Dermody is confident they can knock over any team in Super Rugby and he's bullish about their chances in the playoffs, if they make it.
Covid cases in Auckland have jumped by 50 per cent in just a few weeks - something which experts say could be a warning to the rest of the country. On Thursday 3888 were reported in Auckland alone. Many experts are concerned this rise in infections could continue into winter and collide with the flu. Professor Michael Baker told Māni Dunlop the numbers could be fickle, but there was no denying this upward trend.
Te Pāti Māori won't be standing a candidate in the Tauranga by-election because of the threat from white supremacists. Next month's election is to fill the seat left by National's former leader Simon Bridges who is leaving politics. The Maori Party's president Che Wilson says its co-leaders have received threats and been the target of hate speech from Tauranga residents. He spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Te Pati Maori won't stand in Tauranga - calling it a hot spot of white supremacy. And Covid-19 infections climb in Auckland.
Anti-waste organisation Takeaway Throwaways will deliver a petition to Parliament today asking for a ban on single-use containers for takeaways and to invest in reusable containers, cups and cutlery. Takeaway Throwaways policy spokesperson Hannah Blumhardt spoke to Māni Dunlop about why a reuseable container system was needed.
The government has backed down on plans to stop primary schools enrolling foreign students. The announcement in Auckland today is part of plans to rebuild the $5 billion/year international education industry which has been all but wiped out by border restrictions in the past two years. RNZ's education correspondent John Gerritsen spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Brendon McCullum will take his own style into the England coaching job at a time when they need to have things changed.
The solution to stop young people creating headlines with so-called ram raids is not tougher punishment, according to the office of the children's commissioner. It says that risks perpetuating the status quo, which puts rangatahi into the criminal justice system often trapping them there for the long term. Youth justice statistics show crime rates have been steadily falling, except for a recent increase in ram raids. The Assistant Maori Children's Commissioner Glenis Philip-Barbara spoke to Mani Dunlop about what influenced young people to commit crimes and how to address that.
Nurses are flabbergasted they are excluded from a new fast track pathway for residency. Highly skilled workers including doctors, scientists and engineers will be able to apply for residency within months of moving here. But those in other critical roles - including nurses and teachers - will have to work for two years first. The New Zealand Nurses' Organisation says staffing is already at crisis point. The Health Minister spoke to Māni Dunlop about the decision.
Both the major political parties have committed to the country's first three emissions budgets. A special Parliamentary debate on the budgets - which set a lid on the amount of greenhouse gases New Zealand can release in the coming decades - was held this morning.
A gondola has been proposed as a solution for the second Waitematā Harbour crossing in Auckland. Engineering company Doppelmayr has a vision for "ropeways" to play a role in New Zealand's multi-modal public transport networks. The company expects it would cost about $200 million; significantly cheaper - and faster to build - than the now discarded $785 million bike bridge proposal. The chair of Bike Auckland Tony Mitchell spoke to Mani Dunlop
Māori landowners are mulling legal action in an effort to stop proposed changes to the emissions trading scheme, which would see plantation forests no longer eligible for carbon credits. That's due to concerns significant tracts of land are being converted to pine, a fast-growing tree, to take advantage of soaring prices under the ETS. But this comes at the expense of planting natives, which are more expensive and take longer to grow but are better for biodiversity. The climate change minister James Shaw spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Crusaders coach Scott Robertson says a Nations Championship is essential. Rugby bosses are meeting in Dublin to discuss an alignment between the northern and southern hemispheres again after the idea didn't get off the ground in 2019.
The names, addresses, contact details and expired credit card numbers of thousands of AA customers have been taken by hackers. The details were taken from the AA traveller website in August, impacting customers between 2003 and 2018. Acting privacy commissioner Liz MacPherson spoke to Māni Dunlop.
RNZ understands the full border re-opening could be as soon as late July. The government will be announcing the official date in about an hour - and it's expected to be months earlier than the original October timeline. But immigration specialists say while that is a good thing, the people who will come need visas, and there are huge problems with processing. Immigration lawyer Alistair McClymont spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The full border is reopening - but expect visa delays. The AA says sorry after thousands implicated by an information breach.
The government is extending its support for 38,000 apprentices in jobs and training, and the construction sector appears to be pretty pleased. It's one of the big-ticket items in Budget 2022 - costing $230 million. The executive director of the Construction Industry Council Graham Burke spoke to Māni Dunlop
There could be big changes to the grocery sector with the Consumer Affairs Minister not ruling out going further than the Commerce Commission's recommendations. National Party MP Andrew Bayly spoke to Māni Dunlop
The government has promised to pour more than $100 million into boosting support services for family and sexual violence over the next four years. The Minister for the prevention of family and sexual violence Marama Davidson spoke to Māni Dunlop
Auckland drivers could be paying to travel in the inner city at the peak times with the government expected to announce a congestion charge next week as part of its Emissions Reduction Plan. RNZ reporter Amy Williams spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Driving at peak times could soon cost motorists. And regulation changes are on the way for supermarkets.
The Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) wants Pacific Island nations to respond urgently to China's assertive interest in the Pacific. To explain the international group's concerns, IPAC Co-Chair and National MP Simon O'Connor spoke to Māni Dunlop.
More than 10-thousand health workers are working to rule for two weeks from today, meaning they won't do any overtime and will take all scheduled breaks. The workers include anaesthetic technicians, oral health therapists and alcohol and drug clinicians. A 24-hour strike is also planned for next Monday. The Public Service Association organiser Will Matthews spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Red Bull's Max Verstappen survived a late-race assault from title rival Charles Leclerc's Ferrari to win the inaugural Miami Grand Prix.
The government has announced the first three carbon budgets, setting out the maximum volume of climate warming gasses the country can release. The first budget - to 2025, allows for 72.4 megatonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent greenhouse gasses each year. The co-chair of the climate change iwi leaders group Mike Smith spoke to Māni Dunlop.
A multi-million dollar policing boost will not deal with the drivers of youth crime, the Green Party says. The police force is getting a $560 million budget boost, with a focus on preventing gang violence and organised crime. The Green Party's justice spokesperson Golriz Ghahraman spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Petrol prices could hit $4/litre this year. And the Greens say more police will not address the drivers of youth crime.
Early on Sunday morning a meteor shower will be visible, along with the glow of four distant planets which will be in alignment. Mani Dunlop got the details on where and when to view the Eta Aquariids meteor shower from Auckland Stardome astronomer Josh Aoraki.
A Bay of Plenty regional councillor says he is being racially abused relentlessly for wearing moko mataora - a Māori facial tattoo. Stacey Te Pohue Rose, who received the ta moko in January, spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Nearly 15 million people around the world are believed to have died either directly, or indirectly, from Covid-19 - an estimate that's nearly triple the official death toll. That figure from the World Health Organisation has been described as "sobering" by the agency's chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. It includes deaths from Covid-19 as well as those caused indirectly because people were unable to access treatment for other illnesses, such as cancer. 5.4 million Covid-19 deaths were reported to WHO between 2020 and 2021 - meaning there is an excess of 9.5 million more estimated deaths on top of what has been reported. University of Washington professor of biostatistics Jonathan Wakefield spoke to Māni Dunlop.
A construction worker was seriously injured by an electrical shock on George Street in central Dunedin this morning. The street is currently undergoing upgrades with contractors carrying out work in the area. A nearby shop assistant said the explosion happened just before 9-o'clock. Māni Dunlop got the latest from RNZ Dunedin reporter Tim Brown.
The government is shifting its support for people dealing with covid in the community, as the overall demand for such help drops. It's funding nearly 60-million dollars to support social service providers and food banks as New Zealand exits the Omicron peak. 500 community care workers will provide broader support to people with high and complex needs. And 5-million dollars to support people with disabilities will be ring-fenced. and will be administered by the Ministry of Social Development in consultation with disabled communities. The support will remain in place until the legal requirement to self-isolate is lifted.
The New Zealand Orthopaedic Association says we can't blame the pandemic for increasingly long waits for surgery. It says the problem has existed for a long time due to a lack of resources and Covid-19 has simply made the situation worse. The government yesterday announced a new group to help hospitals reduce surgery wait times.
A one-shot attempt to eradicate the cattle disease Mycoplasma bovis appears to have worked -- there's just one property left with active infections. The disease was discovered here in 2017; and a total of 271 confirmed properties have been cleared and more than 175-thousand 176,325 cattle culled. The government's just announced 68-million dollars to continue the eradication effort over the coming year.
The Independent Police Conduct Authority has found an officer used excess force during at least two arrests. He's since left the police force. In one case, in September 2018, the officer pushed a man back onto the bonnet of the car, took him to the ground, and kneeled on his head until his partner was able to handcuff him. And in another, in March 2019, while arresting a 14-year-old boy - the officer suddenly lunged at the boy from close range, put both his hands around their neck and slammed him into the window behind.
The last remaining member of the 28th Maori Battalion Sir Robert Gillies has just been knighted by the Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro. Sir Robert or Bom as he is more widely known, is 97 years old, and served in B Company during World War 2 from 1942 to 1945. Members of his whānau, dignitaries and other New Zealand Defence Force personnel were at the ceremony this morning at Government House. Māni Dunlop reports.
Many pro athletes are openly talking about their periods - including golfer Lydia Ko who said her menstrual cycle causes back pain. Her casual comment made headlines, but one expert says discussing periods should be normal. Female athlete performance physiologist Stacy Sims says all women could be using their hormones to increase their performance. Dr Sims spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The government is increasing support for people who struggle to access drivers license testing and training. With an $86.5 million investment in Budget 2022, the government estimates 64,000 more people will be able to get a licence. Social Development Minister Carmel Sepuloni says having a drivers licence is necessary for about two-thirds of jobs, but a big proportion of the community can't access training or tests due to the cost and other barriers. The Minister spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The former Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters is planning to seek a judicial review of the decision to trespass him from Parliament. The New Zealand First leader is among several high-profile people who have been issued with trespass notices after attending February's anti-mandate protest. Mr Peters says he wants to seek a precedent on behalf others who were trespassed from Parliament's grounds for peacefully protesting. Meanwhile, the ACT party is the sole party in Parliament that thinks former MPs should be exempt from attempts to trespass. The party's leader David Seymour spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Work has started on building the country's first green hydrogen refuelling site in Palmerston North. It'll be run by Hiringa Energy and Waitomo group. It's supported by a $16 million loan from the Covid-19 Response and Recovery fund; with a further $6 million grant from the EECA dollar for new heavy vehicles. Hiringa Energy's chief executive Andrew Clennett spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The Green Party has amended its constitution to no longer require a male co-leader. The two co-leaders must now include one woman, and one person of any gender. One leader also must be Māori. University of Auckland lecturer in New Zealand politics and public policy Lara Greaves (Ngāti Kuri, Ngāpuhi) spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The Finance Minister has announced a new rule requiring governments to attempt to maintain a small surplus. Grant Robertson says it's based on Treasury advice and means current spending is covered by current revenues. He's also changing how Crown assets and debts are counted -- adding the previously-excluded balance sheets of the Super Fund, Kainga Ora, and Waka Kotahi. Infometrics economist Brad Olsen spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The former Deputy Prime Minister and New Zealand First Leader Winston Peters says he has been trespassed from Parliament for two years. Mr Peters is among several people who have now being issued with trespass notices for attending the occupation outside Parliament for one day two months ago. Mr Peters spoke to Māni Dunlop.
To Southland, where a group of activists have stopped operations at the Takitimu coal mine in Nightcaps. Activists say the mine's main customer is Fonterra and the coal mined during the last financial year was equivalent to driving a new car the length of Aotearoa 1.5-million times. A spokesperson for the protest Adam Currie spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The first ever 30-year strategic infrastructure plan paints a pricey picture of the spending needed to cope with climate change, sea level rise, improving housing, and providing safe and effective water networks. It comes as construction costs keep increasing more rapidly than inflation. Te Waihanga the Infrastructure Commission's chief executive Ross Copland joined Māni Dunlop.
Property investors want harsher penalties for problem tenants and to return the bright-line test to two years. They want tax cuts on rental property mortgages reinstated and to once again be able to give 90 days notice to end a tenancy for any reason. The ideas are part of a five-point plan the Property Investors Federation says will fix the rental property crisis. Renters' United spokesperson Geordie Rogers spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Alarming new data shows sea levels are rising twice as fast as expected in some parts of Aotearoa. In those regions levels previously thought likely for 2060 are now forecast to happen in just 18 years. Lower Hutt is in a vulnerable position with predictions of 30 centimetres of sea level rise by 2040 -- which will affect the waterfront road connecting Petone and Eastbourne. In the Nelson-Tasman District the local airport is very exposed to sea-level rise. Tasman District Council mayor Tim King and Lower Hutt mayor Campbell Barry joined Māni Dunlop.
Revelations that sea-level rise is happening faster than previously thought are being seen as an urgent wake-up call for coastal communities.
Rocket Lab will attempt a mid-air capture of one of its Electron rockets for the first time during its next mission tomorrow. After launching from the Mahia peninsula, the rocket will deposit a payload of 34 commerical satellites, and then the company will aim to pluck the 12-metre-tall rocket booster from the air using ropes, parachutes, and a helicopter. Rocket Lab's Morgan Bailey spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei vows their battle with the crown to be recognised as sole mana whenua in parts of Tamaki Makaurau will continue. The High Court has declined to recognise that Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei have exclusive mana whenua rights in Auckland region. Justice Palmer ruled Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei has mana whenua in accordance with their own tikanga - but their tikanga did not extend to other iwi in the region seeking rights of recognition. Deputy Chairperson - Ngarimu Blair spoke to Māni Dunlop
A public health expert says the elimination strategy and lockdowns can't be ruled out when it comes to the resurgence of infectious and severe diseases. Health authorities are working on how to systematically assess the threat a new variant poses and what the response should be. They would be looking at what threshold would trigger the return of things like vaccine passes and QR code scanning. Professor of Public Health, Michael Baker spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The Government has accepted almost all of the recommendations from a working group on the Three Waters reforms. Cabinet has agreed to 45 of the working group's 47 recommendations. Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta said they had strengthened protections for communities around the management of their water. RNZ political reporter Anneke Smith had been at the announcement and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Olympic gold medallist Dame Lisa Carrington will represent New Zealand at the canoeing world champs. She edged out her rival, defending world champ Aimee Fisher in the final race of their duel. The pair raced off in the third and deciding race on Lake Karapiro in breezy and choppy conditions this morning, with Carrington winning the decider by half a boat length. Māni Dunlop spoke to Canoeing New Zealand's Nathan Luce.
The fed-up Bromley ratepayers are kicking up a stink of their own as councillors are briefed on Christchurch's smelliest suburb and it's wastewater plant. People have been in tears and tensions are at breaking point over the situation. RNZ reporter Niva Chittock spoke to Māni Dunlop about the briefing.
Every year more than a thousand New Zealand cancer patients can't get drugs that are readily available across the Tasman. The report by the Cancer Control Agency, Te Aho o te Kahu, was aimed at measuring the gap that patient groups have been fighting to close for years. Heidi MacRae was diagnosed with an aggressive form of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer last September. Since then she's had to self-fund Keytruda - and while that's not a drug that's funded in Australia, she knows how it feels to not have the life-saving drugs you need available. She spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The government is to spend $1.4 billion on infrastructure in a bid to boost housing stock across five Auckland suburbs. Māni Dunlop spoke to Housing Minister Megan Woods who said the funding wouldl enable up to 16,000 homes to be built over the next five to 16 years.
Bayden Barber - a Hastings District Councillor - has unseated long time chair of iwi - Ngāti Kahungunu. Ngahiwi Tomoana has held the seat for 26 years - and after a campaign by opposition Barber. In a statement Mr Tomoana says e pari te tai, e timu te tai, e ngunguru nei te moana, kua huri te tai! - meaning The time and tide waits for no man, and the tide has turned. He said he would support the new chair. Māni Dunlop spoke to Bayden Barber.
A Havelock North mother who was told she should leave a local playground because her moko kauae was scaring children wants to meet again with the women who insulted her. Jay Scott was with her own four children last week when the two women approached her, asked where she was from and told her there were other parks she could use. It has sparked outrage and Jay Scott has been inundated with support. Māni Dunlop to the Assistant Children's Commissioner, and wāhine mau moko - Glenis Phillip-Barbara, who said she was surprised by the reaction to Ms Scott's moko kauae.
Can we expect a strong swimming contingent in Birmingham? - The latest in sport news with Leonard Powell.
The Government is throwing its backing behind a capital restructure for Fonterra. The latest business news with Nicholas Pointon.
After almost 9 months of misuse, the government has set up a new system for people that need a mask exemption. Initially mask exemptions required no proof, but these were widely used by people who were anti-mask or without a legitimate reason. The Covid-19 response minister Chris Hipkins, and Minister for Disability Issues Carmel Sepuloni announced on Wednesday there would be an new process to issue cards to people who have genuine reasons for not being able to wear a mask. Disabled Persons Assembly's Prudence Walker spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Transpower is being blamed for the massive power cut which left 34,000 people without electricity on one of the coldest nights of the year. The Electricity Authority's delivered a final report on the cut in August last year putting responsibility on the national grid operator, saying households were unnecessarily cut off. Business reporter, Nona Pelletier, spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The government reveals a six-year plan to prep the motu for climate change, and Transpower is blamed for mid winter blackouts last year.
Elon Musk has clinched a deal to buy Twitter for 44 billion US dollars. The deal will shift control of the social media platform used by millions of users and global leaders to the world's richest person. It's understood the company will now move into private ownership by Mr Musk, who owns Tesla. To see how this might impact New Zealand users, Māni Dunlop spoke to social media commentator Vaughn Davis.
11 people died on the road over the long weekend. The road toll includes four teenagers in Invercargill. Police Assistant Commissioner Bruce O'Brien said it was frustrating to see speeding, drugs or alcohol, distracted by devices and not wearing seatbelts, continue as common causes. National Party's transport spokesperson, Simeon Brown, spoke to Māni Dunlop
All eyes will be on Lake Karapiro this Thursday when Dame Lisa Carrington and Aimee Fisher race for New Zealand's K1 500 spot at this year's Canoe Sprint World Championships. The latest sport news with Leonard Powell.
The brother-in-law of a man who was killed in a port accident in 2020 is angry more families are going through what his whanau has gone through after two more fatal port deaths. 26 year old father, Atiroa Tuaiti fell to his death at Ports of Auckland on Tuesday last week, and there was another death on Monday at Lyttleton Port. Gareth Fraser's brother-in-law Pala'amo Kalati died after being crushed when a container was dropped during a lifting operation at Ports of Auckland - he spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The Governement will consider a report saying a proposed law to intoduce Maori seats on the Rotorua council is discriminatory.
The Government will consider whether a bill on Maori seats is discriminatory and Port workers want an inquiry after two deaths in a week.
Another massive crawl out of the cities is expected again this ANZAC weekend. The newly minted Transmission Gully in Wellington will be tested, as the lucky ones make the most of the back-to-back long weekends. Kelly Fox who runs the Traffic Updates Horowhenua Kapiti Wellington Facebook page spoke to Max Towle.
Rising food prices are making life even tougher for some New Zealanders. The inflation rate on Thursday hit its highest mark in 30 years - a reflection of surging costs. Stats NZ said food is close to 8 percent more expensive than it was a year ago. So with the cost of fresh fruit and produce climbing - Max Towle spoke to Laura Vincent - a food blogger - under the name Hungry and Frozen - about how to keep healthy.
The honey sector wants to move away from volume and focus on value. A daily wrap of the rural news with Kim Moodie.
New Zealand and Japan are boosting their security ties, with the two countries set to share more classified information. The prime minister met with her Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida in Tokyo overnight. It's not yet clear what exactly might be exchanged as part of this new arrangement, but a spokesperson for Jacinda Ardern said it won't be intelligence. What it will do, according the PM, is promote peace and security in the region. Max Towle spoke to the director of the Centre for Strategic Studies at Victoria University, David Capie.
A firearms lawyer is not convinced there was an active threat when police shot dead Kaoss Price. After five days of silence, police have confirmed the 22-year-old was not armed when he was shot Saturday night on State Highway Three on the outskirts of New Plymouth. Police said he was trying to hijack vehicles from members of the public, after ramming a police car. Specialist firearms lawyer Nicholas Taylor spoke to Max Towle.
Growing anger over the fatal police shooting of an unarmed man, and New Zealand and Japan boost security ties.
Some residents across the Queenstown region have only just regained power after a violent thunderstorm early this morning. More than 12,000 customers in Queenstown, Frankton and Arrowtown woke up to darkness after lightning struck an Aurora Energy grid exit point. Queenstown's Lakes District Hospital was forced to use a backup generator, and the road to Glenorchy was closed for the day after the storm ripped through, covering it in debris from a slip. MetService said there were 286 lightning strikes over the South Island in a three hour period. One resident who was particularly rattled by the storm was Saxon the dog, who ran off. Max Towle spoke to his owner Athena Turner about how it unfolded.
The war in Ukraine could see us planting more sunflowers. All the latest rural news with Susan Murray.
There's about to be an update on the Black Ferns' coaching structure. All the latest sports news with Barry Guy
The cost of living has soared again, with inflation at its highest level since the mid-1990s.
The government has revealed more details on its major shake up of health services. Minister Andrew Little has announced plans to create up to 80 local offices - the first nine in Otara, Hauraki, Taupo, Wairoa, Whanganui, Porirua, the West Coast, eastern Bay of Plenty and Horowhenua - that will be the new regional bases for organising health services. These networks will give advice to the new Health New Zealand and Maori Health Authority. The Health Minister Andrew Little spoke to Max Towle.
Annual Inflation has hit a 30 year high. Consumer prices increased by 1.8 percent for the three months ended March, pushing the annual rate to 6.9 percent. That figure is the highest it's been in three decades, and reflects the rising cost of basic goods like food and fuel, and of building and rents. RNZ's Business Editor Gyles Beckford spoke to Max Towle.
A Wellington florist says the construction of a cycleway into the CBD will end her business. The plan to remove 150 car parks from Newtown to the Waterfront, 6 from outside the shops at the John St intersection in Newtown, was opposed by retailers, who wanted more consultation, but councillors voted against delaying works. Cyclists have already been seen zipping past cars this week as the first changes came into effect. Four Seasons Florist owner Laura Newcombe spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Unanswered questions remaing over the shooting of Kaoss Price by police as the whanau grieve his loss. 22-year-old Kaoss Price was shot on Saturday night after he rammed a police car on State Highway 3 between New Plymouth and Waitara. Police have been tight-lipped about whether Kaoss Price was armed. Māni Dunlop spoke to criminal justice advocate, Emilie Rakete who said Police had been able to get away with the way they behave against Māori.
The Black Ferns Sevens coaches have drawn on plenty of experience as the side prepares to return to the World Series after an absence of more than two years.
Solomon Islands has signed a controversial security agreement with China, despite major resistance from local political figures, as well as from Australia and New Zealand. There were no details released regarding whether China was allowed military access And this followed major concerns which were voiced when the potential deal was revealed. RNZ Pacific reporter Koroi Hawkins spoke to Māni Dunlop about the latest.
Thousands of health workers will strike next month following lengthy pay negotiations. The Public Services Association union confirmed that DHB health workers will hold a 24-hour strike on the 16th of May. PSA organiser Will Matthews said not enough progress had been made in negotiations with DHB employers. He spoke to Māni Dunlop.
10,000 allied health workers will strike next month following lengthy pay negotiations with district health boards. Russia has taken a small city north of Luhansk, as part of its offensive in eastern Ukraine.
Hot cross buns have become the saving grace for an Auckland Mediterranean restaurant this Easter, as queues of people waited to get their hands on one. Ima Cuisine has been hit hard by Omicron, but the eatery has found hope in the cult following it's gained for its hot cross buns. Yael Shochat, the owner of Ima Cuisine spoke to Māni Dunlop about her massive weekend.
Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelenskiy said the Battle of the Donbas had begun. His statement was made after Ukraine officials confirmed Russian forces have launched a new offensive along most of the country's eastern flank. Ukraine's army has been bracing for a new Russian assault since Moscow retreated from earlier attempts to take the capital Kyiv - and shifted forces to the east. Waikato University's Faculty of Law, Professor Al Gillespie spoke to Māni Dunlop about the developments.
The newly crowned Manchester Open champion will skip some upcoming events as she prepares for next month's Squash World Champs.
Police are remaining tight-lipped over the fatal shooting of a Taranaki man over the weekend, as investigations continue. 22-year-old Kaoss Price was shot by officers after he rammed a police car during a routine traffic stop between New Plymouth and Waitara. 40 people have now been killed by police since 1990. Former police negotiator Lance Burdett spoke to Māni Dunlop.
A person died at Ports of Auckland this on Tuesday morning after a fall from a height. The stevedore company Wallace Investments confirmed it was one of their staff members. RNZ reporter in Auckland Jordan Bond spoke to Midday Report's Māni Dunlop.
A person's died during the loading and unloading of freight at the Ports of Auckland this morning and Russia begins it's assault on the East.
The first New Zealander has been appointed to United Nations Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, advocating and championing iwi taketake globally. Dr Valmaine Toki no Ngāti Rehua, Ngātiwai and Ngāpuhi, has been appointed by the Human Rights Council President to the role and says she will continue advocating for the meaningful recognition of rights for indigenous peoples. Dr Toki spoke to Māni Dunlop about what the position entails.
More than 2,300 homes across Tairawhiti have been without power, in the aftermath of the former Cyclone Fili. Overnight wind gusts were measured at 100 kilometres per hour at Poua, between Gisborne and Tologa Bay. The clean-up in the region is well underway, with more than 200 contractors working to clean up the roading network. Gisborne Civil Defence Manager Ben Green spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The soaring cost of living is pushing people in precarious financial circumstances over the edge. Fruit and veggie prices went up 18 percent in the last year; fuel costs are high; and inflation is running hot. Te Herenga Waka,Victoria University of Wellington's institute for governance and policy studies' senior associate Max Rashbrooke spoke to Māni Dunlop about why so many New Zealanders were feeling the squeeze.
There's been a major setback in the fight for nurses to fix the gender pay gap. The Health Minister Andrew Little says the New Zealand Nurses Organisation has decided not to put a pay equity settlement to its members for a vote. Some nurses were upset their pay rise would not be backdated to 2019. The Union's now received legal advice on the deal saying the proposed settlement is unlawful. RNZ health correspondent Rowan Quinn spoke to Māni Dunlop.
There's hesitation from nurses to accept a pay equity offer, and the cost of living is tipping more New Zealanders over the edge
The government is funding 16 new projects focussing on mātauranga Māori scientific research. Each project is receiving about a $250,00, including horticultural and food enterprises, a study into intergenerational iwi knowledge, and ways of bringing traditional and modern engineering streams together. One of the projects will look at designing next generation health technology through a Māori lens. University of Auckland is partnering with Kiwa Digital on the research. Māni Dunlop spoke to Kiwa chief executive Steven Renata about the project.
Asbestos fibres are leaching into Christchurch's drinking water from ageing underground pipes. Ōtautahi has nearly 800 kilometres of asbestos-cement piping; and nationwide, that figure is around 9,000 kilometres. When laid, the pipes were expected to last about a century, but they're deteriorating more quickly than expected. For more on this, Māni Dunlop spoke to Water New Zealand's chief executive Gillian Blythe.
Football Ferns coach Jitka Klimková believes the team can take plenty of positives from their two losses to Australia as they build towards the next World Cup.
Food banks are seeing high demand for their services, as the cost of living continues to rise. The latest figures from Stats NZ which came out this morning show food prices went up 7.6 percent in the year to the end of March. It's the largest increase in more than a decade. Prices for fruit and veggies went up 18%. Taumata Kōrero chair Hurimoana Dennis spoke to Māni Dunlop about how the increasing prices had pushed more people into hardship.
Heavy rain brought by former cyclone Fili is causing damage as it falls on already sodden ground around Tairāwhiti and Wairoa. A red rain warning is in place for those regions, where steady rain has been falling since the early hours, and the wet weather is expected to get much worse this afternoon. Strong wind warnings are also in place for Gisborne, Northern Hawke's Bay, Bay of Plenty and Rotorua. Tairāwhiti and Wairoa were badly hit by a storm just three weeks ago, which led to widespread flooding, slips, and damaged roads. Māni Dunlop gets the latest from RNZ reporter Jimmy Ellingham who is in Te Akau o Tokomaru - Tokomaru Bay.
Heavy rain's causing damage in already-drenched Tairawhiti and Wairoa, and Australians fly in without isolating.
In Ukraine, authorities say 120,000 children have been forcibly taken to Russia since the invasion began. Two-thirds of all Ukrainian children have been forced from their homes. President Volodomyr Zelensky says tens-of-thousands of civilians have been killed in Mariupol. Many humanitarian corridors are still impassible Mariupol's city administration says 33,000 residents had been deported to Russia or territories held by Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine. Russia says it's "evacuated" 723,000 people from Ukraine since the start of what it called its "special operation." A former legal adviser to the International Committee of the Red Cross, and now a law faculty member at Te Herenga Waka, Victoria University of Wellington, Dr Marnie Lloydd, told Māni Dunlop those reports are of grave concern, and show a lack of respect for the rules of warfare.
MetService has issued severe weather warnings for large parts of the North Island, with red warnings for Gisborne and the Wairoa District. Between 200 and 350 millimetres of rain is expected to fall over about 24 hours in those two regions, beginning tonight. There are also strong wind warnings in place across the top half of the motu. MetService meteorologist Lewis Ferris spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The Rugby Players Association says its been battling for years to have concerns about the Black Ferns taken seriously.
The man who killed a rising MMA star in a late night Auckland attack last year has been sentenced to just under three years in jail. 25 year old Liufau Vake died in hospital nine days after being punched multiple times in the head by a group of four men outside a bar on Symonds Street. Today Daniel Havili was sentenced in court for his manslaughter. RNZ reporter Jordan Bond has been following the proceedings and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Metservice has issued severe weather warnings for large parts of Te-Ika-a-Māui - the North Island - with red warnings for Gisborne and the Wairoa District. The bad weather, brought by former cyclone Fili, comes as a blow to Tairāwhiti and Wairoa in particular, which were hardest hit by the latest storm three weeks ago. Wairoa's mayor Craig Little spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Weather warnings are upgraded to red for Gisborne and Wairoa and two thirds of Ukrainian children have been forced from their homes.
The independent review into the culture in the Black Ferns' rugby team will be released this afternoon. The review was sparked when hooker Te Kura Ngata-Aerengamate shared a social media post saying the Black Ferns coach Glenn Moore had told her she didn't deserve to be on the team, and was "picked only to play the guitar". The Black Ferns lost all four games to England and France on their end-of-year-tour The chair of Women in Rugby Aotearoa Traci Houpapa spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Southland firefighters are warning the fire burning in peat under an internationally significant wetland could keep smouldering for weeks if not months. The fire at Awarua now covers more than 1300 hectares. Māni Dunlop spoke to RNZ reporter Tess Brunton.
American Scottie Scheffler has claimed his first major golf title, winning the Masters at Augusta National by three shots.
The police are trying to find the people who smashed stolen cars into two luxury retail stores, presumably to steal expensive items. Gucci and Louis Vuitton on Auckland's Queen Street were ram raided about midnight. This morning the large glass shop fronts were seen smashed with glass scattered inside, and two stolen cars abandoned nearby. Auckland city mayoral candidate, and Heart of the City chief executive, Viv Beck spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Parliament's foreign select committee is considering hauling the Russian Ambassador to appear before them. He's rejected the committee's invitations twice already and MPs are wondering whether to formally summons him. However, as an ambassador, he's eligible for diplomatic immunity. Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington Public international law specialist, Professor Alberto Costi, spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The Russian Ambassador's reluctant to front up to parliament, and luxury stores on Queen Street are hit by ram raids overnight.
Manawatia a Matariki Matariki is now officially a public holiday after it passed through its final reading in parliament yesterday... This year the day will fall on Friday 24 June. Māni Dunlop spoke to the chair of the Advisory board and tohunga in this space, Professor Rangiānehu Matamua.
Almost 18 hours down, with just over six hours to go, for Dan Carter to kick almost 16-hundred goals non-stop at Eden Park. The All Black great started his "Kickathon" at 7 o'clock last night, and has been going ever since - all as a way of raising money for vulnerable children in the Pacific. Clay Wilson has been watching Carter kick goals throughout the morning and spoke to Māni Dunlop about his glorious golden boots.
Tiger Woods starts well but South Korean Sungjae Im has a one shot lead after firing a five under par 67. The world number 26, who finished tied for second last year, is just ahead of Australian Cameron Smith, with another shot back to a group of players that includes defending champion Dustin Johnson and world number one Scottie Scheffler.
New research has shone a severe light on poor employment conditions for hospitality workers in Aotearoa. An Auckland University of Technology report labelled "Voices from the Front Line" surveyed nearly 400 workers. Among a raft of critical findings, half of those surveyed said they had experienced or witnessed harassment in the workplace. Of that group, 40 percent alleged the harassment came from owners, managers or supervisors. The study's co-author Professor Erling Rasmussen, from the University's New Zealand Work Research Institute, spoke to Māni Dunlop about the unsurprising results.
Efforts to tackle modern slavery in supply chains take another step forward today - as consultation opens up to the public. The organisation Walk Free estimates about 40 million people are subject to modern slavery - that term covers exploitative practices such as forced and child labour, human trafficking, and sexual exploitation. The 2018 Global Slavery Index identified the riskiest products were consumer electronics, such as laptops, computers and cellphones; garments; fish; cocoa and sugarcane. The government's advisory group is chaired by Rob Fyfe who spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Russia is accusing New Zealand of Russophobia and servility towards the collective West, for introducing unprecedented sanctions against the country for invading Ukraine. Today it published a list of New Zealanders banned from entering the Russian Federation. RNZ's deputy political editor Craig McCulloch spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Russia black lists New Zealanders Tackling modern slavery in our supply chains And Dan Carter keeps kicking
Whether it's the pandemic, a bloody war in Ukraine or the cost of living - sometimes it seems there isn't a lot to be cheerful about. So how are we all coping? And how can we stay positive? Māni Dunlop asks for tips we all can use from clinical psychologist Sarb Johaal.
Tertiary students are more than twice as likely to be living in damp, mouldy homes, according to new research. Low incomes mean they face energy poverty, hampering their physical and mental health - they're struggling to afford food and pay their bills. The survey of 522 students found 35 per cent had mould, larger than an A4 sheet of paper growing in their houses at least some of the time. Otago University's He Kāinga Oranga housing and health research programme researcher Dr Kimberley O'Sullivan spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The fallout from the rash of red cards in Super Rugby's latest round has continued with Blues winger Caleb Clarke banned for three weeks.
The Cancer Society along with more than a dozen health non-governmental organisations have penned an open letter urging National and Act leaders to rethink their plans to scrap the Māori Health Authority. Christopher Luxon and David Seymour have said they do not support the Authority and would get rid of it if they won next year's election - saying it's another layer of bureaucracy and won't deliver results. The open letter states the Authority's establishment is central to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and will help ensure everyone has the same access to good health outcomes. Dr George Laking told Māni Dunlop the Authority would be a positive development for Māori health.
There are fresh allegations of war crimes being committed by Russian forces. As their military leaves the towns and cities around Kyiv that were held under siege, their citizens are starting to share stories of being held captive; footage shows apartment blocks and homes blown up. In one town - Borodianka - Russian forces went door-to-door and at gunpoint marched up to 150 people of all ages into a freezing school gymnasium where they held them as human shields. Ukraine's president Volodomyr Zelensky has accused the United Nations Security Council of doing little more than talk. New Zealand's former Security Council ambassador, and a leading campaigner for its reform, Colin Keating, told Māni Dunlop the Council's failings have been apparent for decades.
There are fresh allegations of Russian war crimes, And Act says the cancer society has been hijacked by political activists for backing the Maori Health Authority
Strong winds are hampering efforts to fight a large fire burning through internationally significant conservation wetlands south of Invercargill. The fire at Awarua has burnt through more than 1300 hectares. Fire and Emergency's incident controller Mark Mawhinney spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The Director-General of health Dr Ashley Bloomfield will step down from his role at the end of July - a year prior to his term being up. It comes amid a pandemic, major reforms of the sector, and workforce exhaustion. The National Party's health spokesperson Dr Shane Reti spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Tiger Woods is confident his game will be fine at this week's Masters, he's more concerned about walking 72 holes.
Te pūrongo o te poutūtanga has asked all five permanent Security Council members' embassies to New Zealand whether they support removing the veto right at that forum. The United States says: Russia alone bears responsibility for the ongoing violence, that "Russia cannot veto the UN Charter. Russia cannot, and will not, veto accountability". The US did not mention veto reforms. France says will never use its veto in cases of mass atrocities; and has the support of 105 countries to regulate its use. It says the council cannot be paralysed when mass atrocities are committed. In the Security Council's 76 year history; the veto has been deployed 263 times -- about 120 times by Russia or the USSR and about 80 times by the United States, the United Kingdom 29 times, France 16, and China 17. The United Kingdom, China and Russia are yet to respond to requests for comment. Former UN official, consultant to the security council, and former Green MP, Dr Kennedy Graham spoke to Māni Dunlop about the need for reform.
The Security Council overnight has heard from its top advisers about the state of the war in Ukraine and the conditions facing its civilians.
The Director General of health Dr Ashley Bloomfield will step down from his role at the end of July - a year prior to his term being up. He indicated to Public Service Commissioner Peter Hughes last year he would step down before 2023. The Commissioner says Dr Bloomfield had done an outstanding job leading the Government's health response to COVID-19 and the vaccination rollout.
The Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield announces his resignation. The Security Council stagnates while mass human suffering continues in Ukraine.
Russia is facing widespread condemnation as more evidence emerges of civilian killings in northern and eastern Ukraine, where a mass grave, and the bodies of people tied up and shot at close range were found in a town formerly occupied by Russian forces. New Zealand yesterday placed sanctions on a further 36 people connected to President Putin and his administration but for now, the Russian Ambassador is allowed to remain in Wellington. The Ambassador has rejected multiple requests for interviews with RNZ. The European Union's ambassador to New Zealand, Her Excellency Nina Obermaier spoke to Max Towle about the difficult choices Europe needs to make.
Job vacancies are soaring - a scenario the Employers and Manufacturers Association says has been coming for months. 60 percent of the more than 2000 people surveyed by Trade Me in the first three months of this year say they're looking for a new job, or would be open to a new role. The EMA's head of advocacy and strategy Alan McDonald spoke to Max Towle.
Do more, or face catastrophe - that's the message in the UN's latest climate report. Unprecedented heatwaves, terrifying storms, and widespread water shortages - we're already seeing the impact of not doing enough - and these are only going to get worse, if governments stick to their current policies. The climate change minister James Shaw says New Zealand isn't doing enough. Climate campaigner and the founder of the 1.5 Project Dr Paul Winton spoke to Max Towle
More than a year after it was supposed to happen, the Women's Cricket World Cup reached its climax on Sunday, with Australia powering to victory over England in front of a sizeable crowd in Christchurch. Australian opener Alyssa Healy whose innings of 170 was a record in any World Cup final - women or men. So how did Aotearoa go as hosts of a tournament constantly buffeted by the winds of Covid-19? The tournament's chief executive, Andrea Nelson, spoke to Max Towle.
There's an urgent appeal for people who are A-positive to donate blood due to a critical shortage. The Blood Service says there's been a major spike in demand lately, and staff are getting worried in the run-up to Easter. Just under a third of New Zealanders are A-positive. Blood Service spokesperson Asuka Burge spoke to Max Towle.
In housing news, research shows we're building up to a third fewer homes than we used to. Over the past 20 years, house prices have grown faster than in any other developed country. The Infrastructure Commission has looked at what's been happening in the sector since the 1930s, finding changes to planning rules are a big reason for under-supply and price growth. Its economic director Peter Nunns spoke to Max Towle.
Government ministers are today considering whether parts of the country can drop down to orange. Already, the government has raised gathering limits at red - and the requirement to use vaccine passes at either red or orange - is due to lift tomorrow. Max Towle spoke to Auckland University computational biologist Dr David Welch.
The interpretation and definition of partnership and co-governance under Te Tiriti o Waitangi has been back in the public eye generating claims of division and race baiting politicking. The ACT Party is campaigning for a referendum on co-governance, with leader David Seymour saying there has been a quiet 40-year shift in the way Te Tiriti o Waitangi is interpreted, and the government was seeking to create division. Maria Bargh is Associate Professor at Te Kawa a Maui at Victoria University and specialises in Maori and Environmental politics. She spoke to Māni Dunlop about co-governance.
Half-price public transport kicks off today -- it's part of a three month scheme to minimise the effects of high fuel costs, which have spiked since Russia invaded Ukraine. The Government's Clean Car Discount scheme (aka the ute tax) -- also begins its next phase today -- giving buyers of the lowest carbon dioxide emitting cars rebates of up to $8625 and stinging more polluting vehicles with fees of up to $5175. The transport minister Michael Wood spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Tourism operators say covid-related grants have helped keep them afloat through the pandemic. The Auditor-General John Ryan found ministers used unclear criteria when dishing out nearly $70 million in tourism grants in 2020. The Strategic Tourism Asset Protection Programme was formed to provide rapid support for the country's significant tourism assets. Tourism companies under the RealNZ group received 3.5 million dollars in grants, and more than $26m in loans under the programme. A separate company which benefitted from the scheme was Rotorua Canopy Tours, which got a grant of $500,000 and a loan of $400,000. Its general manager Paul Button spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Wastewater testing is being used to monitor the scale of the Omicron outbreak in Aotearoa. The virus now rears its head in every wastewater sample, revealing covid hotspots around the country. So which regions have peaked - and what do the trends tell us? ESR molecular biologist Dr Brent Gilpin told Mani Dunlop he'd seen a recent increase on the North Shore but levels were generally declining across the North Island.
Kua hinga he totara nui o te waonui a Tane. Tangi hotuhotu ana nga manu. Me to iwi Maori. The tributes have been flowing endlessly for one of Aotearoa's most leading legal minds and indigenous scholars. Moana Jackson has died. He was a tireless advocate for criminal justice reform and the dismantling of racist structures. He transformed the ways many view the criminal justice system - and has been described as a visionary and revolutionary leader. His close friend Jane Kelsey spoke to Mani Dunlop about his legacy.
News from the rural and farming sector: the agriculture minister Damien O'Connor tells Sally Murphy why he's declared a drought for the entire Southland region.
To Tāmaki Makaurau, where Councillors are considering whether to ask locals to have their say on a proposal to turn parking spaces on the roads into bus and carpool lanes, cycleways, and bigger footpaths. In simple terms, the idea is to make sure roads are used for transporting people and things -- rather than storing cars. But, some businesses fear losing customers. University of Auckland senior lecturer at the school of Architecture and Planning Dr Timothy Welch spoke to Māni Dunlop about the evidence for the changes.
Renting's become more expensive than ever - and rental properties are even harder to find. That's according to TradeMe's latest Rental Prince Index, which says the national median rent climbed $45 in February. The national median rent is now $575 - topped by Porirua with the highest rent at a whopping $700 per week. Trade Me Property Sales Director Gavin Lloyd spoke to Māni Dunlop
Predator Free 2050 will invest nearly $7 million on new projects to eradicate rats, stoats and possums from all of Aotearoa. Professor Neil Gemmell of University of Otago has just received $200,000 from Predator Free 2050 to finding ways to detect mammalian pests using DNA. He spoke to Māni Dunlop about his research and the Predator Free goals.
Kāpiti is about to get a little bit closer to Wellington when Transmission Gully opens to the public tomorrow. The new road will cut peak journey times by up to 15 minutes between Wellington and the Kāpiti Coast. The co-chair of the Kāpiti Chamber of Commerce Heather Hutchings spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Sailing commentator Peter Lester is unsurprised Team New Zealand have opted for an overseas venue for the next America's Cup.
The police are touting the success of a zero-tolerance approach they took to illegal street racing around Hamilton last weekend. Police deployed 50 staff before about 500 vehicles arrived. 200 infringement notices were issued and nine cars impounded. Hamilton's mayor Paula Southgate, told Māni Dunlop it was a reminder there were no safe places for young car enthusiasts to hang out together.
The next America's Cup regatta will take place in Barcelona. Team New Zealand's chief executive Grant Dalton says the decision came down to money; not enough was on offer to stay in Auckland and win. But Aucklanders down at the Viaduct, where last year's Cup was held, are mostly unhappy. AUT sailing professor Mark Orams told Māni Dunlop the move was disappointing, and New Zealand now had to try make the most of the decision.
Scallop fisheries in Northland and most of the Coromandel are going to be closed, to allow the shellfish beds to recover. The latest biomass surveys confirm the poor health of the scallop fisheries in those areas. The Oceans and Fisheries Minister David Parker spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Floodwaters in Tairāwhiti have closed multiple schools around the region, forcing students to stay home and learn online. Three schools, Makarika School, Hatea-A-Rangi School and Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Tokomaru, have shifted to remote lessons. But that's not possible for all students and schools will need a boost to get back on their feet. New Zealand Educational Institute president Liam Rutherford told Māni Dunlop resources need to be bolstered for the affected schools.
Our most experienced Black Cap is preparing to play his last series and Retiring Black Caps batsman Ross Taylor says he wants to make the most of his last couple of games with the side.
Almost 500 children in state care were harmed at least once in the year to mid-2021, and the rate of abuse appears to be increasing. It's risen from under six percent in 2018, to eight percent last year. Oranga Tamariki says such harms are unacceptable and agrees more needs to be done. Whānau Ora commissioning agency chair Merepeka Raukawa-Tait spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Anti-poverty groups say increases to benefit rates next month will still leave families trapped in poverty. The Fairer Future collaboration updated the Welfare Expert Advisory Group's modelling on whether benefits meet basic costs for families, finding some would face shortfalls of up to $300/week. Max Harris from Action Station spoke to Māni Dunlop about the groups' research.
Beneficiaries to remain trapped in poverty despite increasing payments and anw figures on abuse in state care.
In a Tik Tok video that has gone viral with 7 million views - a Ukrainian rock band appealed to Ed Sheeran to take part in a benefit concert this week in Birmingham in the UK. In what was a spontaneous video from Kyiv, the band, Antytila, asked to take part in the concert and broadcast live from the war-torn capital. Worldwatch's Perlina Lau spoke to frontman, Taras Topolya, about what happened.
While Tairāwhiti and Wairoa continue to clean up after last week's torrential downpours, MetService is already warning more heavy rain is possible in the area tonight. A medium-scale adverse event has been declared, unlocking extra help for the region's farmers and growers; and a local state of emergency is still in place. Metservice meteorologist Lewis Ferris spoke with Māni Dunlop.
Māori knowledge is critical to respond to climate change, that's one of the key findings in the latest IPCC report. The Deep South Science Challenge is commissioning fourteen projects for communities; they are by Māori, for Māori - focused on adaption to future environmental challenges. Māni Dunlop spoke to Deep South Challenge Kaitakawaenga Naomi Simmonds who said the projects are exciting, but overdue.
The All Whites are through to the final of the Oceania qualifying tournament in Qatar, thanks to a nervy 1-nil win over Tahiti in this morning's semi-final.
An expert on China's role in the Pacific says a draft agreement to station military forces on Solomon Islands could see the South Pacific cut off and encircled by Chinese forces. A draft agreement - leaked online - would allow Beijing to station military forces on Solomon Islands and make regular ship visits. The Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has described the developments as "gravely concerning". University of Canterbury Professor Anne-Marie Brady spoke to Māni Dunlop about the agreement, and how New Zealand and Australia ought to respond.
A video posted online shows a gun or imitation firearm being held to a student's head during a fight between Otahuhu school students. It shows multiple people fighting and a participant, who may not be a student, holding what looks to be a gun. Otahuhu College and its principal have not responded to RNZ's requests for comment. The police haven't responded to questions about the incident. Manukau Ward Councillor Alf Filipaina has been speaking to the community about the fight, he told Māni Dunlop there's disbelief that it's a real firearm.
A gun is pulled out during a school fight, And why a deal between Solomon Islands and China is alarming
As the Russian advance stalls and Ukraine holds firm, propaganda within Russia has gone into damage control mode. Independent news media in the country are being shut down, as the Kremlin desperately pushes the message that all is well. Russian propaganda expert Associate Professor Evgeny Pavlov, the head of Global, Cultural and Language Studies at Canterbury University, spoke to Worldwatch's Max Towle.
Wild weather has affected large swathes of the North Island this week, causing widespread damage around Tairāwhiti where a state of local emergency was declared. The Climate Change Minister James Shaw spoke to Māni Dunlop about how climate change could be connected to the wild weather, and how the country is planning to keep people safe as the climate worsens.
A hill country farm near Te Puia springs has recorded nearly 800-millimetres of rain this week. It's caused widespread damage to fencing and the land. Dan Russell who runs a hill country beef and sheep breeding station just north of Tokomaru Bay told Māni Dunlop he is luckier than many.
The Black Caps admit they're going a little into the unknown in the white ball matches against the Netherlands.
The government has unveiled its plan for tackling declining maths and literacy performance in schools. It is promising more support for teachers and a new system of tests to measure children's abilities. The associate education minister Jan Tinetti spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The heavy rain that hit the Tairawhiti region over the past two days has moved south towards Hawke's Bay and Wairarapa. Rain is still falling across the Gisborne region, but not as intensely. About 20 local roads are shut in central Hawke's Bay, as well as dozens around Wairoa and north of Tūranganui-a-kiwa Gisborne. State Highway 35 remains closed between Uawa Tolaga Bay and Potaka due to slips and other hazards, but Gisborne is no longer cut off. Firefighters and St John ambulance staff remain on standby in Tolaga Bay, in case locals need emergency medical care. Māni Dunlop checks in with RNZ's reporters - Jake Mckee in Waipukurau, Central Hawkes Bay; and Tom Kitchin in Gisborne, where Emergency Management Minister Kiri Allan has been visiting flood affected residents.
The rain that has flooded Tairawhiti is now heading for Hawkes Bay and Wairarapa. There are several road closures in place, including State Highway 2 and State Highway 38. Wairoa District Council's deputy mayor Hine Flood spoke to Māni Dunlop.
New Zealand and Fiji have made a pact to work together on new military efforts. The deal is focused on maritime security, humanitarian assistance, and defence force training. University of Canterbury Macmillan Brown Centre for Pacific Studies director professor Steven Ratuva spoke to Mani Dunlop about why the Government was trying to strengthen its relationship.
All Whites defender Tommy Smith says the current side is the most talented New Zealand side he's ever been involved in.
In Tāmaki Makaurau, a Glen Innes neighbourhood was woken by gunfire in the early hours of this morning. Six people were injured, two of them seriously, in the shooting. Neighbours have described hearing a woman screaming and swearing, and a car speeding away. The police are investigating, and cordons are in place. Glen Innes is part of the Maungakiekie-Tamaki ward, its councillor Josephine Bartley spoke to Māni Dunlop.
A state of local emergency is still in place for Tairāwhiti, after two days of torrential rainfall flooded large areas of the district. Families again had to evacuate in the middle of the night. Extensive road closures have effectively cut the region off from the rest of the country. Some rivers - full of debris - have burst their banks or are close to doing so. And communities are rallying to ensure neighbours and whanau are safe, fed, and cared for. RNZ reporter Andrew McRae spoke to the Emergency Management Minister Kiritapu Allan outside the emergency co-ordination centre in Gisborne.
East Coast river levels remain high after days of rain and the latest on gunfire in Glen Innes
Doctors Without Borders says Australia is stalling on New Zealand's offer to resettle up to 150 people per year who are kept in the Australian government's offshore detention centres. Last month, Australia accepted the offer in principle. Dozens of refugees and asylum seekers remain in Nauru, Papua New Guinea, and alternative detention in Australia. Médicins sans frontières head of programmes, Simon Eccleshall spoke to Worldwatch's Max Towle
A massive downpour hit Uawa, Tokomaru Bay and Te Puia overnight. A red warning is in place for the Gisborne district. Roads, bridges, homes and land are damaged and power is out for many. Orange heavy rain warnings are still in place for Bay of Plenty, Hawkes Bay and Taranaki. RNZ reporter Tom Kitchin is in Gisborne and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
A massive downpour of biblical proportions hit Tolaga and Tokomaru Bays and Te Puia overnight. Rivers burst their banks - washing out roads and bridges, spewing out piles of stones, trees and other muck. Families have been forced to evacuate, homes are damaged, power is out, and there are numerous slips. The group controller for Tairāwhiti Civil Defence Dave Wilson spoke to Māni Dunlop.
From Saturday there will be no limit on spectators at any New Zealand outdoor sporting events.
In Tairāwhiti, a red warning for heavy rain is in place. A massive downpour of biblical proportions hit Tolaga and Tokomaru Bays and Te Puia overnight. Rivers burst their banks - washing out roads and bridges, spewing out piles of stones, trees and other muck. Families have been forced to evacuate, homes are damaged, power is out, and there are numerous slips. Tokomaru Bay resident Te Aomihia Pewhairangi spoke to Māni Dunlop about what happened.
The future of Covid-19 management begins this weekend. The traffic light system remains, but some gathering limits will be raised at the RED setting - including letting hospitality venues serve up to 200 seated patrons and gathering limits scrapped for outdoor events Otago University epidemiologist professor Michael Baker spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The future of Covid management has just been revealed: the traffic light system will stay, with some changes, but vaccine passes and some mandates will soon be dropped. Māni Dunlop recaps Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's announcement.
A new beginning for Covid management and Tairawhiti communities are cut off by flooding.
A Moscow court has found Meta platforms Facebook and Instagram guilty of "extremist activity" -- they're now banned from operating in Russia. It comes amid a major crackdown on dissent by Russians online and in the streets. Meanwhile, Australian researchers have found Russia's government is further frustrating information flows by slowing Internet speeds. Associate Professor of Economics and the Director of the IP Observatory at Monash University Simon Angus spoke to Māni Dunlop about Russia's online slowdown.
A fifth of our drinking water is lost to leaks - that's just one of the grim findings in the latest National Performance Review from Water New Zealand. The report also found hundreds of sewage spills are going unmonitored, and thousands of kilometres of pipes are in poor condition. Taumata Arowai, the national water regulator, chief executive Bill Bayfield spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Chris Wood is now the All Whites leading goal scoring after bagging a brace against Fiji in their Oceania World Cup qualifer in Qatar this morning.
The Health Minister has presented a new plan today to bolster the mental health nursing workforce - by doubling the number of funded training spaces available. The $77 million initiative comes from a $2 billion funding package announced in 2019. But the Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission says the workforce is still under extreme pressure, and says the investment so far has done little to reduce how long people need to wait to see specialists. The Health Minister Andrew Little spoke to Māni Dunlop about the attempts to recruit and retain staff.
The search continues today for the last person still missing after the Enchanter fishing charter vessel sank off Otou North Cape on Sunday. Four died, and five were rescued. Far North Iwi have imposed a rahui - Te Aupouri and Ngati Kuri held a ceremony on the shores of Parengarenga last night to impose the restrictions, which extends from Maunga Tohoraha around North Cape to Te Rerenga Wairua. The Far North District Council mayor John Carter spoke to Māni Dunlop about the community's response.
The search continues for a man missing after a fishing tragedy and fixing the crisis in mental health care.
The Chiefs Manawa claimed the inaugural Aupiki title in Hamilton last night with a 35-to-nil win over the Blues. The tournament was the first semi-professional women's competition in New Zealand, but rising Covid cases and a condensed schedule meant it never quite lived up to its promise. Wellington rugby player Alice Soper spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Cabinet Ministers are discussing the future of vaccine mandates and vaccine passports today. The Prime Minister says Covid mandates and vaccine passes will not be as vital after the Omicron wave has peaked. Announcements on the decision won't be made until Wednesday. The Pasifika GP network chair Dr Apisalome Talemaitoga spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Three bodies have been recovered after a charter fishing vessel sank near Otou North Cape in poor weather. There were ten people onboard the boat which activated its emergency locator beacon around 8-o'clock last night. Five were rescued and taken to hospital; but two are yet to be found. The Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centre's Nick Burt said the search, which covers about 300 square nautical miles, involves fishing vessels, the Defence Force, Coastguard, and rescue helicopters. RNZ reporter Jake McKee spoke to Māni Dunlop.
A band of bad weather hit the top of the country hard this morning, creating widespread flooding. Two months worth of rain fell in two hours in Tamaki Makaurau this morning. Thousands of lightning strikes have been detected; and MetService has just lifted its thunderstorm watch for Auckland, but has put a new warning out for Waikato. Auckland reporter Katie Todd spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Over the past four weeks of Putin's campaign to steal Ukraine -- a sovereign country -- the world has seen his administration's contempt for international laws, norms and humanity. The shocking attacks have included: indiscriminately targeting civilians; using thermobaric weapons; reports of using cluster bombs; and even the threat of nuclear weapons. University of Queensland associate professor of international relations Marianne Hanson told Worldwatch's Max Towle such weapons must be eliminated.
The New Zealand government has unveiled its first round of sanctions targeting Vladimir Putin, and hundreds of individuals and entities. It comes after the Russia Sanctions Act was passed last week. The toughest measures are against Putin and 12 of his top security advisors - who are now banned from travelling to New Zealand, and owning assets in the country. The minister of foreign affairs Nanaia Mahuta spoke to Max Towle.
The head of Fiji's women crisis centre says it's shocking that two prominent Fijian men are advocating for a convicted rapist to be allowed to play rugby. Teivovo Rugby's publisher Culden Kamea and veteran TV sports commentator Satish Narain want former national sevens player Amenoni Nasilasila to be allowed play at local competitions. Nasilasila is serving an eight-year jail term for rape. RNZ Pacific's Kelvin Anthony has been covering the story in Suva and spoke to Worldwatch's Max Towle
The awards season is well underway in the US - the Oscars is in less than two weeks, and voting starts on Thursday. World Watch's Max Towle spoke to NZ film commentator - Dan Slevin
The WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has been denied permission to appeal against his extradition to the US by Britain's Supreme Court. Assange faces life in prison in the US, but he hasn't yet run out of possible legal avenues to avoid such a fate. Correspondent Kate Fisher spoke to Worldwatch's Max Towle.
As Russia's war in Ukraine continues to disrupt trade, commodity prices are spiking - notably for fossil fuels and grains. The UN says Russia is the world's largest wheat exporter; Ukraine is the fifth largest. Wheat is a food staple for more than 35 percent of the world's population. And about 50 mostly low-income countries in Northern Africa, Asia and the Near East depend on Russia and Ukraine for more than a third of their wheat supply. University of Otago senior lecturer Dr Murat Ungor, who focuses on international macroeconomics and trade, spoke to Worldwatch's Max Towle about how the war was exacerbating food shortages and inflation.
The Power of the Dog has won two of the biggest awards at the annual BAFTAs in London. Some of the stars on the red carpet of the film awards have been sporting the colours of the Ukrainian flag - in the form of badges or bows. The star of Jane Campion's highly regarded latest work - Benedict Cumberbatch - told reporters he wants to provide a home to Ukrainian refugees. The New Zealand Film Commission chief executive David Strong spoke to Max Towle.
Russian attacks in Ukraine are spreading west. Airstrikes have hit a large military base near the western city of Lviv and the Polish border, killing at least 35 and leaving more than 130 in hospital. The facility is used for training with NATO instructors, although none were there at the time. Worldwatch's Max Towle was joined by University of Canterbury professor of political communications Natalia Chaban - who is from Ukraine.
The Hurricanes says they will be able to play their Super Rugby Pacific game against the Chiefs this weekend, even though they could go into the game with limited preparation.
Now for something a little different - a New Zealander living in Europe has been caught up in a scam involving some of the highest profile medical professionals in the world. Last year, comedian Willy Kosovich was asked to MC a medical conference in the city he was living in - Berlin - hosted by the European Society of Medicine. Some of the top names in their fields were invited, some to speak at the event - all for several hundred dollars, of course. Some, including Willy, smelled a rat, and stayed away, others were less fortunate and turned up, only to discover there were no hotel bookings under their names at the Hilton, there was no technology provided to support the presentations, and lunch proved to be biscuits and coffee.
What has been clear during the first two weeks of the invasion - is that all has not gone to plan for Vladimir Putin. Ukraine has fought back, and nations have been almost completely united in condemning his actions, and sanctioning Russia and its most powerful individuals.
Covid has been in the community for about a week now in Vanuatu - spreading fear and paranoia in the country. A lockdown is in place.
Rain has abated in Sydney and floodwaters are slowly receding, but many residents are still struggling, as a giant cleanup begins. Emergency services are still needed to get supplies to stranded people in areas north of the city, while there's widespread damage to roads and infrastructure. Thousands aren't yet able to return to their homes, and it may be some time before normality returns for many workplaces and schools.
A few hundred New Zealanders have already volunteered to fight in Ukraine - that's according to Ukraine's honorary consul. That consul has warned them against making the trip - saying they wouldn't be provided with consular support. No foreign nation has so far officially sent troops to Ukraine, but - welcomed by Volodymyr Zelensky - tens of thousands have put their hands up. Max Towle is joined by Waikato University Law Professor Al Gillespie
Kura Kaupapa and Kohanga Reo have been struggling to get access to Rapid Antigen Tests as schools across the motu experience a growing number of Covid cases. There have been 25-thousand Covid cases in schools and early learning services in the past ten days - that does not include Kohanga Reo, where a large number have been closed. Some of those who are sick of waiting for the tests have bought their own, but not many can afford to do so. Māni Dunlop spoke to the Māori Party co-leader Debbie Ngarewa Packer.
Doctors are being forced to step into nursing roles to fill gaps as Omicron cases wipe out staffing capabilities at Middlemore Hospital. Doctors and medical technicians are helping with patient care in ED and on some of the wards. That is on top of their normal duties, with 195 people in the south Auckland hospital with Covid-19 yesterday. Māni Dunlop spoke with the Chief Medical Officer, Dr Andrew Connolly.
Woolworths New Zealand, which runs the Coutdown chain of supermarktes, says it welcomes the Commerce Commission's report and it will commit to the steps expected of it. Woolworths declined to be interviewed, but in a statement managing director Spencer Sonn says he supports the introduction of a mandatory grocery code of conduct, and agrees with the recommended law changes that could free up sites for more supermarkets to be built. Their competitor, Foodstuffs, also declined an interview, and did not respond to a request for a statement in time. Māni Dunlop spoke to the chief executive of the New Zealand Food and Grocery Council, Katherine Rich.
The Commerce Commission has stopped short of a radical shake up of the supermarket sector to improve competition for consumers. Its final report into the $22 billion sector says Foodstuffs and Countdown have been making large profits and exert too much control over the industry, at the expense of consumers and small food retailers and manufacturers. The Commission is recommending they be forced to make more land available for new grocery stores, but stopped short of recommending they sell some of their stores to enable a third major chain to be developed. Māni Dunlop spoke with the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, David Clark
A two-week hearing into the experiences of Māori survivors of abuse in state and faith-based care has opened in Auckland. The hearing is part of the long-running Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry. It was opened with a pōwhiri and karakia by hosts Ngati Whatua at Orakei Marae. RNZ's Māori News reporter Jamie Tahana is covering it, and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
A Hugarian neurosurgeon is taking the Medical Council to court, after they turned down his bid to work in a specialist role in New Zealand. Lucas Rakasz applied for specialist registration three years ago, but the Council rejected it after the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons found his qualifications, experience and training were not sufficient. Dr Rakasz has previously worked as a registrar under supervision for the Waikato DHB for two-and-a-half years. He spoke to Mani Dunlop. In a statement, the Chair of the Medical Council, Dr Curtis Walker, says a specialist panel from the College of Surgeons found Dr Rakasz' qualifications, training and experience were not comparable to a New Zealand-trained specialist neurosurgeon. The Council declined his application on those grounds. Dr Walker says Dr Rakasz is still registered as a doctor in New Zealand in a general scope of practice and can therefore practise here in neurosurgery and hospital-based practice.
Farmers in parts of Southland are selling off lambs and reducing milking schedules due to extremely dry conditions. Sally Murphy has the rural news.
Rain has meant the covers remain on the wicket at University Oval and no toss has been made for the game between New Zealand and Bangladesh. Barry Guy has the sports news.
The long running legal case that arose from the collapse of Mainzeal began in the Supreme Court this morning. Anan Zaki has the business news.
While the official Covid-19 case numbers have been falling in New Zealand, the number of people being hospitalised is increasing, with Emergency departments taking the biggest hit, The latest hospitalisation figure is 618 people. That has more than doubled in the space of a week, raising concern about whether our medical resources can cope. John Bonning chairs the Council of Medical Colleges which represents all medical specialties and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
As Russia's invasion of Ukraine continues, pressure is mounting on New Zealand to adopt harsher sanctions against President Putin's regime. Cabinet is this afternoon considering advice on a Russian Sanctions Bill. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says the proposed law would be specific to this invasion, rather than a general scope. Ukraine-born New Zealand lawyer Anastasiya Gutorova spoke to Mani Dunlop, ahead of the announcement this afternoon.
New figures show campgrounds have been keeping guest numbers up over the last two years, despite the closed borders. There were 1.7 million guest nights in January in 2019, and again in January 2022. Holiday Parks New Zealand Chief Executive Fergus Brown spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The voices of Maori survivors who were abused while they were in the care of State and faith-based institutions will be heard at the Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry Maori hearing from starting from next week. These morehu or survivors have waited years to tell their stories - and for two weeks online and at Orakei marae in Auckland the Commission will hear the brunt of the abuse many Maori experienced at the hands of the state. One of the independent counsel assisting the commission, Julia Spelman, told Mani Dunlop it's an important event for everyone in Aotearoa, and she hopes it would encourage others to come forward.
Communities around Wellington are on guard against protesters setting up camp in their neighbourhoods. While some of the protesters have gone home since they were cleared away from Parliament; some are still in the region -- and they say they're regrouping ahead of their next public demonstrations. RNZ reporter Jimmy Ellingham spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The Government has ringfenced nearly $600 million for redeveloping Whangarei Hospital. The current hospital is plagued with problems -- it does not meet building standards and the Northland District Health Board has been reporting "decay and dilapidation" for years. Whangārei District Council mayor Sheryl Mai spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Taranaki Whanui ki te Upoko o te Ika are relieved the protest is over but say now it is time for healing and restoration of parliament grounds - Kaiota and surrounding areas. There were violent clashes at Parliament yesterday and it's likely further arrests will be made, some of whom threw paving stones and other projectiles at police and torched their own tents. A recovery plan for the grounds has been developed which includes working with mana whenua and coordinating offers of assistance from volunteer groups. Taranaki Whanui laid te kahu o te raukura or a cloak of peace on Wellington earlier in the week to help it come to an end. The iwi chair, Kara Puketapu-Dentice, spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The protesters who were cleared off parliament grounds yesterday have been setting up camp elsewhere in Wellington. RNZ reporter Jake McKee spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Disinformation researchers say those creating and spreading harmful lies online mostly fled as the scene turned into a riot. But the people who'd consumed that disinformation -- those who had been rarked up -- remained for a fight. The government is concerned about foreign influences behind that disinformation. The Disinformation Project says some of it has been repackaged from the United States, such as the false blame assigned to antifa. And it says the second most-dominant type of disinformation being spread among the protester groups relates to Russia's war on the Ukraine -- and some of that appears to have been created by Putin's propaganda machine. Tina Ngata - an academic and activist who has worked on the disinformation project - spoke to Māni Dunlop.
We begin outside parliament, where the area is still cordoned off by the police today. Some officers are bandaged, bearing the scars of a battle against people radicalised by disinformation. Seven were in hospital overnight. Meanwhile, some of the 89 people who were arrested started appearing in court this morning. And the encampment at Auckland Domain / Pukekawa has also been removed. RNZ reporter Jimmy Ellingham spoke to Māni Dunlop from outside parliament.
Outside Parliament police are still clashing with protesters as they try to clear them off the surrounding streets. RNZ reporter Charlie Dreaver spoke to Max Towle.
As Omicron surges - the country's Covid Care Management system is down. The computer system is used by Covid-19 patients, general practices, and other healthcare providers. Te Whānau o Waipareira Trust says it has been inundated with calls for support from whānau for a week, who have been unable to get through to the Government support lines. Another Ministry of Health website - where people can request rapid testing kits - is also down. The Ministry has confirmed the difficulties. The trust's chief operating officer Awerangi Tamihere spoke to Max Towle about how it was affecting patient care.
To Russia's invasion of a sovereign country - European leaders say this is Ukraine's darkest hour. Russia continues to attack cities in Ukraine -- raining rockets on the city of Kharkiv -- and according to the government, killing 16 children. Max Towle reports on Ukraine's plea for more support and its bid to join the European Union.
There've been rough scenes outside parliament this morning, after the police began a concerted push to clear surrounding streets. Officers carried riot shields while protesters held sheets of plywood. The police reported protesters were also carrying a variety of weapons, including pitchforks. RNZ reporter Jake McKee spoke to Max Towle about the operation.
Talks were held between Ukrainian and Russian delegates overnight, but not much seems to have come from those - they will continue in a matter of days, though. But the most significant update is reports of Russian forces shelling residential blocks in the city of Kharkiv. Dozens of civilians are feared dead, and the president Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Moscow of war crimes. Kiwi-Ukrainian Yuriy Ackermann moved to New Zealand when he was 14 and until very recently spent two years living in Ukraine with his wife. He told Worldwatch reporter Max Towle hearing news of the Russian invasion was the most terrifying experience of his life.
Port workers are planning to deliver letters of protest to the captains of Russian flagged ships over that country's invasion of Ukraine. The International Transport Federation is calling on all of its members to do what they can to express their concern about the illegal war launched by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Maritime Union of New Zealand national secretary Craig Harrison spoke to Māni Dunlop.
A major report on climate change released overnight says Māori and Pacific knowledge and practices are critical in responding to climate change. The authors of the report say there's still a brief window of time to avoid the worst outcomes for the planet. University of Canterbury political sociologist Professor Steven Ratuva told Māni Dunlop the NZ Government was not doing enough to elevate Māori and Pacific voices.
A free-trade agreement signed overnight by the New Zealand and United Kingdom is being heralded as a game-changer. It's being widely welcomed by the business community and exporters, especially those in agriculture. The Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says it includes a chapter on Māori Trade and Economic Cooperation to create a platform for cooperation on issues important to Māori. The United Kingdom's high commissioner Laura Clarke talks to Māni Dunlop
Nurses say the earlier border might bring some relief, but it's not a silver bullet to the dual crises of Omicron and healthcare workforce shortages. From the end of the week, vaccinated New Zealanders will be allowed to return without needing to self-isolate. Government advisor epidemiologist Sir David Skegg told Morning Report the border would likely open to tourists and others much earlier than previously planned. The Nurses Organisation's associate professional services manager Kate Weston spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The global community is condemning Russian leader Vladimir Putin for ordering his country's nuclear arms to be placed on high alert. He says this is in response to NATO aggression. But, the US says Putin is manufacturing threats against Russia - and this is an unnecessary escalation that could lead to disastrous consequences. Meanwhile, a Ukrainian delegation will meet Russians on the border with Belarus for talks. It's unclear what Russia's intentions are, but the Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky, says seeking peace, while protecting every square inch of Ukraine, is his aim. Earlier, Waikato University law professor Al Gillespie told Max Towle Putin's nuclear threat significantly increases global tensions.
Is your car is a beaut, or is it a dunger? The Motor Trade Association says Waka Kotahi's "Road to Zero" campaign needs to address the poor state of New Zealand's vehicles. Vehicle-related factors contribute to around 10 percent of the road toll. Motor Trade Association sector manager repairers Graeme Swan spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Early this morning - mana whenua placed a cloak of peace on the occupation around Parliament - Te Kahu o te Raukura - to help facilitate a peaceful end to the protest. In the past three weeks, the formerly-lush grounds have transformed into a sea of tents, squalor, and lawlessness. Māni Dunlop spoke to Taranaki Whānui chair Kara Puketapu-Dentice and deputy police commissioner Wally Haumaha.
The Black Caps started day 4 of the second test at Hagley Oval 140 for five, with a lead of 211.
New Zealand's Covid-19 outbreak continues to grow -- nearly 15,000 cases were reported yesterday. The bulk of the infections are among younger people. But there are more than 300 people in hospital; including five in intensive care or high-dependency units. Covid-19 modeller Dr Rawiri Taonui spoke to Māni Dunlop about how the outbreak is spreading through communities.
Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine is now into its fourth day. The war has triggered a humanitarian crisis, with hundreds-of-thousands of people fleeing their homes - more than 150,000 have already made it across the border to Poland. Overnight, Russia put its nuclear forces on high alert.. as it continues its push into Ukraine. Globally, governments, businesses and banks are bracing for cyber warfare. But Ukrainians are fighting back -- the government's Defence of Ukraine account tweeted they had killed or wounded more than 4000 Russian soldiers. This week, the United Nations' general assembly of 193 countries will debate Russia's invasion. The director of Massey University's Centre for Defence and Security Studies, Professor Rouben Azizian, was in the Soviet and later Russian Foreign Service. Professor Azizian spoke to Māni Dunlop about what peace could cost Ukraine.
Four days into the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the country's second biggest city, Kharkiv, has come under heavy attack.
Russia's invasion of Ukraine has killed about 140 people so far, after it mounted an assault by land, sea and air. New Zealand has joined international partners in the condemnation of Russia's attack on Ukraine. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says in the past 24 hours there have been more than 80 strikes carried out on Ukrainian targets. Former prime minister and former United Nations Development Programme administrator, Helen Clark, spoke to Māni Dunlop about Russia's actions and Aotearoa's response.
School leaders are delighted the government will be supplying masks and rapid antigen tests, now the country is in Phase Three of the Omicron outbreak. There are nearly 700,000 rapid tests available to schools from today, but they can only be used as a last resort to supervise children who cannot stay at home. The president of the secondary principals' association of New Zealand Vaughan Couillault spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says New Zealand joins with international partners in the condemnation of Russia's actions. She says there have been more than 80 strikes carried out on Ukrainian targets. One conflict expert here believes the war in Ukraine won't end unless Russia gets its way. The director of the University of Otago's national centre for peace and conflict studies Professor Kevin Clements spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Russia has invaded Ukraine. Explosions and gunfire were heard throughout the morning in the capital Kyiv a city of 3 million people. Nearly 140 Ukrainians have been killed in the first day of fighting Ukrainian forces have been battling Russian invaders on three sides after Moscow mounted an assault by land, sea and air, prompting tens of thousands of people to flee their homes. Māni Dunlop reports.
The protest at Parliament has been added to the Health Ministry's list of Covid-19 locations of interest, with the dates covering most of the weekend. Hundreds of demonstrators are still camped on parliament grounds and surrounding streets though, 17 days after the protest began. Frustration over the occupation is growing, prompting the formation of a new group opposing the disruptive demonstration, Aotearoa Stronger Together. Māni Dunlop spoke to one of their spokespeople, Justine Sachs.
Aotearoa will move into Phase 3 of its Omicron response plan at 11.59 tonight. Otago University epidemiologist, Professor Michael Baker spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Aotearoa will move to Phase 3 of its Omicron response at 11.59 tonight. The Covid-19 Response Minister, Chris Hipkins, and Director-General of Health, Ashley Bloomfield, made the announcement just a few minutes ago. Joining us now to discuss what this means is our Health Correspondent, Rowan Quinn, who's been watching the media conference.
Two of the first doctors to be suspended for Covid-19 misinformation in New Zealand are appealing the Medical Council's decision. The court is hearing Wellington GP Dr Matthew Shelton's appeal on Moday. And on Tuesday it will hear the appeal of retired Taranaki radiologist Dr Peter Canaday. Sam Olley has been covering the online hearing and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
There are now more than 20,000 active cases of Covid-19 in the community, and health services are feeling the pressure. The Government set out a 3 phase response to the more infectious variant, Omicron. We are currently in phase 2. But some people in the health sector said it was already at capacity and the outbreak wasn't yet a the peak. The College of GP's Medical director Bryan Betty said the move to the next phase needs to happen within the next couple of days. He spoke to Māni Dunlop
Iwi Chairs are throwing their support behind mana whenua who have called out what they call unacceptable behaviour by protesters - and desecration of their whenua. Wellington iwi, Taranaki Whānui and Ngāti Toa, have spoken out against the behaviour, and iwi chairs met last night to discuss how they can help mana whenua in Te Whanganui a Tara Rahui Papa spoke to Mani Dunlop
After two weeks of protestors being illegally camped on Parliament's lawn and blocking Wellington streets, the Human Rights Commission has begun conciliatory talks with anti-mandate protestors. There's been relative calm in the capital today, after a day of heightened tensions which caused three police require medical treatment. Chief Commissioner Paul Hunt met with protestors yesterday afternoon, in a meeting also attended by the police, Voices for Freedom and the Freedom and Rights Coalition. He spoke to Midday Report.
A significant funding boost has been announced for Māori and Pacific health providers, as they step up their response to the Omicron outbreak. $140 million of new funding was announced by Government Ministers at Nga Whare Waatea in South Auckland this morning. It comes in addition to the support announced last week for those self-isolating with Covid, and their close contacts. Māni Dunlop spoke to Māori Development Minister, Willie Jackson.
A sushi shop just outside Wellington's train station is sick of being damaged and ransacked by demonstrators. The owners of Sushi Bi, which is just a short walk from Parliament's lawn, have turned up every morning for two weeks, to find their store vandalised, reeking of waste, and a target for thieves. Māni Dunlop spoke with the co-owner of the store, Long.
On Tuesday morning a man attempted to drive a car into a group of police officers, while at least three officers were taken to hospital after being sprayed with an unknown substance by protesters. This is just the second time since the protest began two weeks ago that Police have been injured in a confrontation with demonstrators. Māni Dunlop spoke with the President of the Police Association, Chris Cahill
Three police officers were taken to hospital after they were sprayed with an unknown substance during clashes with protestors at Parliament on Tuesday morning. It was a tense start to the day when police, some armed with riot shields, started moving barriers closer to the occupation, only to be confronted by demonstrators. A man who attempted to drive a car into a group of officers was arrested, while a further two were arrested for obstructing police. Māni Dunlop spoke with our reporter covering the protests.
The Māori News programme 'Te Karere' celebrates its 40th Anniversary on Monday. It started in 1982 as a four minute news programme in te reo Māori, fighting for air time and resource to bring Māori news to Aotearoa. It has become the forerunner for Māori language content on air and on line - with many of our most well-known Māori media personalities working at Te Karere at one point in time. Rereata Makiha worked at Te Karere for more than 20 years and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Otago Girls High School has apologised after three students ripped off the hijab of another pupil, and beat her. Seventeen-year-old Hoda Al-Jamaa was hospitalised with concussion after the attack. A petition calling for justice for Hoda has more than 72-thousand signatures, with support from supermodel Bella Hadid and former All Black Sonny Bill Williams. Otago Girls High School responded to our request for an interview with a statement, and said they were deeply saddened and sorry that the tragic event occurred at their school. They said they cannot share the outcomes of the disciplinary process, but can confirm strong steps have been taken, and support has been put in place for those impacted. The local Taieri MP, Ingrid Leary, whom has been working as a liason between the school and the local muslim community spoke to Māni Dunlop
People who turn up for a Covid-19 test in Auckland or Northland from Monday, might instead be given a Rapid Antigen Test - or RAT - to complete at home. In a bid to reduce pressure on stretched testing labs. people who meet a particular set of criteria could be given a RAT instead of the regular PCR nasal swab. The Director of Operations at Northern Region Health Co-ordination Centre - Matt Hannant spoke to Māni Dunlop.
There were tense scenes at Parliament on Monday morning, as large concrete blocks were lifted onto the road to block vehicle access to the occupation. More than 300 officers started at 3.30am, barricading eight different streets around the outskirts of the protest, preventing people from spilling further into the city centre. That prompted an emotional reaction, putting Police and protesters in a face-off for hours, RNZ reporter Kirsty Frame spoke to Māni Dunlop from Parliament.
Police move in on the protesters, and there's hope rapid antigen tests will reduce workloads.
A former racing driver is miffed that the speed limit on State Highway five, between Napier and Taupo has dropped from 100 to 80 kilometres-per-hour. Some locals and regional leaders are against the move. But Waka Kotahi says slowing vehicles down will keep people from dying. Former racer, and self-appointed road safety advocate, Greg Murphy spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The Government is providing additional support for people isolating with Covid-19. Minister for Social Development and Employment Carmel Sepuloni announced today an extra 197 'Community Connectors' and an $85 million funding boost for food banks. One of the organisations involved in the mahi is Te Puea Memorial Marae in South Auckland. The chair Hurimoana Dennis told Māni Dunlop about what this support meant.
Mana whenua in the Wellington region, Ngāti Toa is describing some of the protesters' actions as deplorable. But it says the depth of feelings of the protestors has surprised them. Te Runanga o Ngāti Toa Rangatira chief executive Helmut Modlik spoke to Māni Dunlop.
A controversial occupation of about one-thousand people is now into its 11th day on the grounds of Parliament. MPs have offered protesters an olive branch saying they'll meet with them, but only if the blocked streets are cleared of vehicles, tents are taken down, and behaviour improves. Māni Dunlop gets the latest on the situation from reporter Jake McKee.
Covid-19 is spreading through the Pacific, with fears that some health systems won't be able to cope if case numbers continue to surge. The Cook Islands, for instance, recorded its first positive case this week, while the pandemic death toll in Kiribati is climbing. Worldwatch's Max Towle spoke to Pacific correspondent Kelvin Anthony who's in the Solomon Islands
Pasifika health providers are dealing with a surge of Covid-19 numbers, while trying to help families through the changed contact tracing process. Pasifika people now make up around half of the cases in the current Omicron outbreak. Most of them are in the Auckland region. University of Auckland public health professor Dr Collin Tukuitonga spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The government is set to help more Māori get into work. This morning it launched Te Mahere Whai Mahi Māori - the Māori Employment Action Plan. Similar schemes have helped more than 10,000 Māori into employment, education or training so far. The Social Development and Employment minister Carmel Sepuloni spoke to Māni Dunlop.
To Australia now where their government is inching closer to settling a nine-year-old offer by New Zealand to accept 150 refugees each year from offshore detention centres. Australian Home Affairs secretary Mike Pezzullo says there's an "in principle" deal, but he's still worried it could provide a back door into Australia. New Zealand's government says it's been made clear to Australia any agreement would need Cabinet approval, and negotiations continue at "relevant officials levels", including the Foreign Ministry and Immigration. The Sydney Morning Herald's foreign affairs and national security correspondent Anthony Galloway spoke to Māni Dunlop.
It's taken a year and a half, but New Zealand Rugby has finally reached a commercial rights agreement with the US private equity firm, Silver Lake. Silver Lake will invest $200 million in a new commercial entity, which will control all of the revenue-generating assets of New Zealand Rugby. An additional $100 million will be offered to large New Zealand investment companies later this year. New Zealand Rugby had initially struggled to get the Silver Lake deal over the line due to opposition from the Rugby Players Association -- but they have now come on board. Māni Dunlop spoke to the Association's chief executive, Rob Nichol.
An Otago schoolgirl ended up in hospital with concussion after three other students ripped her hijab off and beat her. Seventeen-year-old Hoda Al-Jamaa was sitting with her friends at Otago Girls' High School when she was pinned down, had her hijab ripped off and was hit while others filmed her. Māni Dunlop spoke to Dr Anwar Ghani of the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand.
After nine days of occupation, the police have decided to start removing vehicles, warning protesters won't be getting them back in a hurry. Authorities have been delayed in their efforts to clear the roads because tow truck drivers have refused to help, forcing the Police to ask the Defence Force for assistance. Wellington City Council has now issued more than 500 parking tickets as a deterrant, but the Police Commissioner Andrew Coster says it's move it or lose it. Māni Dunlop spoke to Waikato University Law Professor Al Gillespie about the legalities of that plan.
New Zealand had a small reprieve as Monday's case numbers peaked just over 700, although that sort of drop is not expected to continue. The motu is now at phase two – which means cases are more likely in the community – and we will see that daily number rise, and rapidly. So when we will see a move to Phase 3 – if cases are ready to take off? Te Punaha Matatini Covid-19 modeller Dr Dion O'Neale spoke to Māni Dunlop.
There's no sign of tow trucks on the streets around Parliament yet, despite the Police Commissioner, Andrew Coster, giving protesters an ultimatum. Cars, Campervans and trucks continue to block the roads around Parliament's grounds, where protesters have been camped out since Tuesday last week. Māni Dunlop spoke to our reporter at Parliament, Kirsty Frame.
The police plan to pry proteters cars off the road, and we're in phase 2, but for how long...? Nicola Wright has the news.
The hospitality industry is facing an unprecedented crisis - as more than half of Hospitality New Zealand members are warning they'll be bankrupt within three months due to Omicron. A survey revealed more than 200 businesses are preparing to close their doors, while hundreds of others have lost close to half their turnover since the move to red. The country is on Tuesday night moving into the second phase of the red light setting, which the group's chief executive Julie White told Max Towle will further kill businesses.
The UN is urging countries to keep up the support to Tonga - which is still struggling following the volcanic eruption and tsunami a month ago. Two massive Chinese naval vessels will arrive in the country on Tuesday to deliver aid. An estimated 85,000 people in Tonga have been affected by this once-in-a-millennium disaster. The Speaker of the Tongan Legislative Assembly Lord Fakafanua spoke to Max Towle.
Protesters at parliament are heading into their second week of occupation. At the end of last week, Police arrested some of the group, but this didn't permanently clear the area - nor did ticketing, or offering a free carpark for vehicles and campervans. Protestors have since set up kitchen facilities, an area for women and children, and a tent for clothing donations ... they are - it seems - in it for the long haul. Professor Kevin Clements, an expert in conflict resolution spoke to Max Towle about how it might be resolved.
From midnight, the motu once again dives into a new Covid-19 setting. And despite nearly 5,000 active cases, under Phase 2 of the Omicron response, schools and businesses remain open. In phase two, the self-isolation period for positive cases reduces from 14 days to 10, and for contacts, from 10 to seven. Dr Siouxsie Wiles spoke to Max Towle about what that means for the country and cases.
Auckland Mayor Phil Goff is retiring from politics, on Monday announcing he would not be seeking re-election this year. Mr Goff, a former Cabinet Minister and leader of the Labour Party, has been the Mayor of Auckland since 2016 and has spent more than 40 years in politics. He spoke to Midday Report.
Cases of Omicron are expected to exceed 1,000 this week, after a rapid increase in infections over the weekend. Professor Michael Baker earlier told Morning Report, the announcement yesterday of 810 cases is not the true spread, and there is likely more going undetected in the community. As the daily numbers inch upward, the government is preparing to take the move to phase two. Immunologist Dr Dianne Sika-Paotonu spoke to Midday Report.
Snowboarder Zoi Sadowski-Synott is chasing gold again - and the latest in sports news with Leonard Powell.
Covid delivers a bad deal for Sky City profits - the latest in business news with Gyles Beckford.
Slips and debris on North Island roads will take days to fully clean up, and some households are still without power, after a weekend of wild weather. Huge swells, high winds and heavy rain lashed parts of the motu from Northland, to the top of the South Island including Taranaki, Waikato and Wairarapa. RNZ spoke to a Wellington resident who was woken up at 5am on Sunday when a slip came in through his bedroom wall. And in Auckland 6,000 households or businesses are still without power. Lines company Vector's chief operating officer Peter Ryan spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Police have offered anti-mandate protestors free parking in an effort to clear the blocked streets around Parliament. The occupation is in its 7th day, with more than 3000 demonstrators turning out at the weekend despite the capital's wild weather. The group has moved beyond Parliament's grounds, with protestors setting up camp throughout the central city. They've now been offered the ground floor of the Sky Stadium to park their cars, trucks and campervans in an attempt to open the city back up. Midday Report's Māni Dunlop, spoke to RNZ reporter, Hamish Cardwell.
New efforts are made to get protester's cars off the streets of Wellington, and wild weather causes havoc across the country.
58 Hawaiian remains - or iwi kupuna - are returning to their home lands to be laid to rest through a rapid repatriation from Europe. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs will repatriate the iwi kupuna from four institutions in Germany and one in Austria that were stolen over 100 years ago from Hawai i. The iwi were collected from Kaua'i, Moloka i, Maui and Hawai'i Island during a time of colonial violence and were horrendously dehumanized for study without the consent of their families. And as Kamakana Ferreira, from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs said the return of the iwi kupuna to their one hanau or land allows for healing and restoration of dignity, so they may finally rest peacefully. He spoke to Midday Report's Māni Dunlop.
Children from twenty seven Auckland schools will be be able to get vaccinated tomorrow. The event at Manuwera Marae is one of six being run by the Northern Region Health Coordination Centre in a push to increase Maori and Pasifika tamariki immunisation rates. Currently only Forty-three percent of those aged five to 11 have had their first dose. Twenty-four percent of tamariki Maori have had their first dose, while Pasifika are at 32 percent. Immunologist Dr Anthony Jordan, spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The latest deluge has subsided on the West Coast but residents tired of evacuating their homes can't rest easy. The MetService said a heavy rain warning issued for central New Zealand this weekend could impact on the Buller region. West Coast Civil Defence group controller Te Aroha Cook told Māni Dunlop emergency planning is in place for this weekend.
Protesters on Parliament's lawn have increased their presence four days into the occupation. Tents, gazebos and food stations have been set up as the contingent prepare to hold the line over the weekend - despite repeated requests to leave. The police on Wednesday backed off after a 12 hour standoff, leaving the group barricaded on the lawn for Thursday. RNZ Political Editor Jane Patterson spoke to Māni Dunlop.
One of the South Island organisers of the protest at parliament said he was disgusted with what he said is police violently arresting people. He's gone back to Invercargill to bring a second convoy up to parliament. More than 50 people have currently been arrested at the scene. Co-organiser Derek Broomhall said they are going to keep their presence at Parliament and keep demonstrating until the mandates are dropped. He spoke to Māni Dunlop.
A state of emergency was been declared in the Buller region following record rainfall over a 24 hours period. Westport was isolated by numerous road closures and parts of the town are braced for targeted evacuations, with a major concern that the Buller River could breach. West Coast Emergency Management recommends people self-evacuate to evacuation centres or to higher ground. Local Mayor, Jamie Cleine spoke to Midday Report.
Midday Sports News update for 10 February 2022 with Barry Guy. Plus the latest on a potential Covid-19 outbreak among some Super Rugby teams.
News from the business sector with Anan Zaki including a market report from Jarden Securities.
From Thursday, businesses could register as a "critical service", which would allow their workers to skip Covid-19 isolation requirements as long as they returned daily negative rapid antigen tests. The new close contact exemption scheme will begin when New Zealand moves into "Phase Two" of its Omicron response, when daily case numbers are approaching 1000. Companies and organisations can "self-assess" to participate in the scheme as long as they meet certain criteria. The Covid-19 Response Minister is Chris Hipkins spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Dozens of protesters were arrested as tensions reached tipping point and police advanced across Parliament grounds. The Speaker of the house this morning authorised the closure of the Parliamentary precinct. About 100 Police then formed a line and have been slowly pushing the protesters back clearing people and tents from the grounds. Our Political Editor Jane Patterson spoke to Māni Dunlop.
If you've ever delved into the world of online dating apps - or Tinder specifically, you'd be with familiar the "binging" sound that rings out when you get a match. But it turns out, the older singles might be paying more for that service in the quest for love. Research by Consumer NZ has revealed those over 30 are charged more than their younger counterparts for Tinder Plus - the paid version of the app. Consumer NZ's Dr Cherie Lacey spoke to Māni Dunlop about the disparities when swiping right.
New Zealand director, Dame Jane Campion's film "The Power of the Dog" has been nominated for 12 Oscars. It includes best picture, best director, best actor, best supporting actress, best supporting actor, best cinematography and best score. Among the nominees is fellow New Zealander Grant Major, who is up for best production design after transforming a small plot of South Island land into 1925 Montana. He spoke to Midday Report's Māni Dunlop.
Three weeks into the roll out of the paediatric covid-19 vaccine, 42 percent of those aged five to 11 have had their first dose. It's lower for tamariki Māori, where 24 percent have had their first dose, while Pasifika are at 32 percent. There are 476,000 tamariki eligible for the vaccine. Auckland and Capital and Coast district health boards, are above the national total at 56 percent for total population. Māori in those DHB's are at 38 percent. The lowest is Northland at 22 percent and Maori in that DHB are only at 13 percent. Dr Owen Sinclair is a Paediatrician at Waitakere Hospital and spoke to Midday Report's Māni Dunlop.
Tensions were rising at Parliament as anti-covid mandate protestors faced off against dozens of police officers. Metal barriers were been put up on the forecourt. Hundreds of protesters arrived in the capital yesterday, some stayed for the night camped on Parliament grounds. Those who pitched tents were since been warned that it was illegal and told they could be trespassed. Wellington City Council is also talking with police about what their options are today for cars illegally blocking the roads and footpaths near parliament. Political editor Jane Patterson was on the balcony at Parliament and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
To the Winter Olympics in Beijing, where New Zealand will tonight field an athlete in the biathlon for just the second time. Teenager Campbell Wright lines up in a unique sport which combines cross country skiing and rifle shooting. Biathlon New Zealand chairman Tim David spoke to Māni Dunlop about the history and skill set involved.
After a record number of Covid-19 cases were reported on Saturday, the prime minister believes the country's Omicron peak may be in late March. New Zealand recorded its largest ever one-day case number with 243 cases on Saturday. On Sunday the cases dropped to 208 and on Monday, there were 188 new cases. But with the long weekend came lower testing rates. Fewer than 13,000 people were swabbed for Covid-19 on Sunday, at least 5000 down on the most recent weekdays. The drive also continues to get children 5 - 11 years old to get vaccinated - with 41 percent vaccinated, and only Māori about half that at 23 percent, Pacific at 31 and pakeha at 46 percent. Professor Shaun Hendy from Te Punaha Matatini and now the newly formed Covid-19 Modelling Aotearoa spoke to Māni Dunlop.
News from the rural and farming sector. Plus the latest on the rain for farmers with Sally Murphy.
Midday sports update for 8 February 2022 with Leonard Powell covering the latest on the Black Cap's.
News from the business sector with Gyles Beckford, including a market report and the latest on Tiwai Point.
Following our RNZ exclusive story this morning, and a warning, this story contains references to suicide, sudden death and assault, and graphic details about human remains. A crime scene cleaning business used by government agencies and city councils has been posting graphic photos of death and violence on Facebook. RNZ counted photos linked to 15 deaths, two suspected suicides, five attempted suicides or instances of self-harm, five assaults and three other assaults explicitly listed as domestic violence, as well as two photos showing human remains being cleaned off trains. Some photos show identifying features of properties and there is also information about the method or cause of death or near-death. Victims advocate Ruth Money spoke to Māni Dunlop about the impact this could have on whānau.
Thousands of people protesting the vaccine mandate have descended on Wellington after travelling from all ends of the motu. The convoy of cars has caused traffic chaos through the country as the group gathers at the steps of Parliament. RNZ reporter Kirsty Frame has been watching the protesters roll in at Parliament all morning and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Iwi leaders have been meeting online to discuss a myriad of issues including the government response to the Covid pandemic for Maori. 'Te Poari o Ngatiwai are hosting the National Iwi Chairs forum online due to the growing number of Covid cases in Te Tai Tokerau and the imminent risk of Omicron. The hui's theme is Ngā Wai Whakaataata o Ngātiwai - the reflective waters of Ngātiwai. Te Poari o Ngatiwai's chief executive Huhana Lyndon talks to Māni Dunlop.
Despite being faced with abuse and attacks, a Whanganui iwi vaccination clinic is perservering with its mahi to keep its hapori safe. The Iwi collective Te Ranga Tupua says one of its mobile clinics was egged earlier this week. Te Ranga Tupua operations lead Elijah Pue told Māni Dunlop that there was an influx of people seeking boosters today, after the gap between the second dose and the booster reduced from four to three months.
Evacuations have been ordered for low-lying parts of Westport. The Buller District Council mayor Jamie Cleine talks to Māni Dunlop about the weather situation on the West Coast
Civil Defence has ordered an evacuation of low-lying parts of Westport, before the already heavy rainfall becomes more intense tonight. A red weather warning is still in place. Emergency personnel and an Air Force helicopter are on-hand to help with the evacuations. Forecasts show the situation could be more severe than last July, when hundreds of homes in Westport were damaged, and some left unliveable. Māni Dunlop gets the latest from RNZ reporter Samantha Gee who is in Westport.
Residents in the Grey District and Westland have experienced record-breaking rainfall. The wettest 24 hour period since 1944 was measured at Westport Airport yesterday until 9am today. Pictures from Westport show sodden streets and houses surrounded by sandbags. MetService meteorologist Lewis Ferris talks to Māni Dunlop.
As of tomorrow, the wait to get a Pfizer booster dose after a second jab will drop from four months to three. The change makes another million people aged 18 and over eligible for their third shot. More than 100,000 Māori will be eligible from tomorrow. The plan is to get more New Zealanders protected before the expected Omicron outbreak here. Māni Dunlop speaks to the Pou Ratonga - Chief Operations Officer - at Te Runanga O Toa Rangatira in Porirua, Jennie Smeaton.
The phased border reopening will begin at one-minute-to the 28th of February. Māni Dunlop gets expert analysis of the plan from Otago University professor of epidemiology Michael Baker.
The New Zealand border will creak open one minute before the 28th of February. The Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern made the announcement today. Māni Dunlop reports.
Midday news update for Thursday 3 February 2022 The border is set to begin reopening at the end of the month.
Roses are red Violets are blue Marlborough's hunting a thief Is it YOU!? Blenheim's rose garden at Pollard Park is being plundered with more than half of this summer's roses stolen. The Marlborough District Council's deputy mayor Nadine Taylor talks to Māni Dunlop about the problem.
Cannabis research using the Dunedin Study has found smoking weed is harmful to lung health. Prolonged cannabis use led to over-inflated lungs, and even increased the resistance to airflow to a greater extent than tobacco. That can affect our lungs' core function of getting oxygen into our blood. Although it's one of the world's most widely used drugs, there has been little research on how it affects the lungs. Study co-author Professor Bob Hancox of Otago University explains the findings to Māni Dunlop.
Workers who lose their jobs could get 80 percent of their usual salary for up to seven months, under a proposed new government scheme. The social unemployment insurance scheme has been designed in partnership with Business New Zealand and the Council of Trade Unions. Employers and employees would each be taxed at 1.39 percent. The scheme's already being criticised: the National Party says it'll worsen the cost of living; meanwhile the Green Party and anti-poverty campaigners say it entrenches a two-tier welfare system -- and shows that benefits need to be increased. The Council of Trade Unions' President Richard Wagstaff joins Māni Dunlop to discuss the scheme
A red weather warning is in place for the West Coast of the South Island, where heavy rain has been falling since early this morning. Māni Dunlop gets the latest update from Metservice meteorologist Lewis Ferris.
Emergency management operations are on watch on the West Coast, where heavy rain has been falling since early this morning. Some residents are being evacuated as a precaution. Waka Kotahi says there's surface flooding on the roads but no serious slips or highway delays. West Coast emergency management director Claire Brown talks to Māni Dunlop.
It was a beautiful day in Te Whanganui-a-Tara yesterday -- and the small city beach at Oriental Bay was crowded with people seeking relief from the heat. But masks and physical distancing were largely absent. There were similar scenes in Australia late last year and that country is now weeks ahead of New Zealand in its Omicron outbreak. Māni Dunlop asks Deakin University professor of epidemiology Catherine Bennett about what we could expect, what works, and what restrictions were worth perservering with.
St John Ambulance responded to 30 percent more mental health call outs for people under fourteen in 2021 than in 2020. More mental health call outs occured across all age groups, a 36 percent increase on the previous year. St John deputy chief executive of ambulance operations Dan Ohs told Māni Dunlop there had been a large increase in 111 calls.
Despite falling numbers of youth offenders, Māori are still disproportionately represented in the figures. It comes as a new report reveals the number of youth offenders has fallen by more than 60 percent in the last ten years. The number of Māori youth offenders halved between 2017 and 2021. However disparities remain, with offending rates for Māori being six times higher than non-Māori. Barrister Kingi Snelgar talks to Māni Dunlop.
Government ministers are expected to discuss the future of border controls and the managed isolation system at today's Cabinet meeting. While the settings have helped slow Covid-19 from entering the community; it has been heavily criticised for making it harder for New Zealanders to get home. At its caucus retreat in Queenstown the National Party this morning said it would scrap MIQ and reduce isolation to seven days for cases and close contacts. Meanwhile, Omicron is now spreading through the community -- with some models projecting half of us could contract the virus. Māni Dunlop asks Otago University law professor Andrew Geddis what the government needs to weigh up in its deliberations.
Midday news update for the February the first, 2022. New information on the scale of abuse in the Catholic church; Ministers contemplate the future of the border; and St John reports increased medical call outs in 2021.
Ice creams, swims and shade have been our saviours during this scorcher of a summer. Taumarunui is set to crack 32 degrees C today - a temperature reached several times this month. Māni Dunlop spoke to NIWA meteorologist Ben Noll.
Canterbury regional council staff are using booms and a sucker truck to try capture the toxic oil flushed into Kaiapoi's rivers following a major factory blaze. Sutton Tools went up in flames yesterday morning, sending toxic oil from the manufacturing plant through stormwater systems to rivers and the sea. Environment Canterbury's coastal response lead Emma Parr talks to Māni Dunlop about the clean up.
Lydia Ko has won on the LPGA Tour for the 17th time after scoring a one shot victory at the $3 million dollar Gainbridge tournament in Florida.
There are growing calls to prioritise MIQ spots and home isolation for pregnant New Zealanders wanting to come home. It comes as the lawyer for pregnant journalist Charlotte Bellis plans to take her case for an emergency MIQ spot to the High Court. Bellis says she and her partner submitted 59 documents in their application, but were told they hadn't provided enough evidence to meet the threshold. The New Zealand College of Midwives chief executive Alison Eddy spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The National Party's MPs are in Queenstown this morning for their annual caucus retreat. It kicked off with a speech from former British Finance Minister George Osborne this morning. RNZ political reporter Anneke Smith told Māni Dunlop about the MPs were up to.
A Covid-19 modeller thinks New Zealand could hit 1000 cases each day by the middle of next week, largely driven by the Omicron variant. Auckland University computational biologist David Welch told Māni Dunlop that despite the seemingly inevitable rise in cases, it was still worth taking public health precautions.
An Auckland University modeller thinks Covid cases could reach 1000 a day by the middle of next week. The Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro has returned a NEGATIVE test result for Covid-19 after potentially being exposed to the virus on a flight from Kerikeri to Auckland.
The government is touting its partly tunneled light rail project as a gamechanger for the city. The trains would run every five minutes from Wynyard Quarter all the way to the airport. The editor of the transport blog Greater Auckland Matt Lowrie spoke to Māni Dunlop about the proposal.
JetStar cabin crew members are concerned the company's not checking people's vaccine passes or evidence of negative tests. At the beginning of the week, the airline introduced a new policy requiring all passengers older than 12 years and three months to be fully vaccinated or have evidence of a negative covid test result from within 72 hours of departure. But there are numerous reports on social media that neither are being checked. A JetStar spokesperson said: "All Jetstar customers are required to complete a pre-flight health and vaccination declaration at the time of check-in, and spot checks of certificates or pre departure test results are taking place across all airports in New Zealand. "We also send all customers sms and email alerts prior to their trip to advise them of the vaccination and testing requirements to travel" . E Tu's head of aviation, Savage, spoke to Māni Dunlop about the difficulties of getting answers out of the airline.
New Zealand's most successful Olympian, kayaker Dame Lisa Carrington has continued on her winning way - being awarded the New Zealand Olympic committee's top award, the Lonsdale Cup for the third time.
Virologists aren't sounding the alarm bells just yet about a mutated version of Omicron that's been seeping into our borders. There's little currently known about the new strain, dubbed BA.2, besides the fact it's harder to differentiate it from Delta in some PCR tests. The Ministry of Health has confirmed BA.2 in a number of border workers and close contacts. Māni Dunlop speaks with University of Otago evolutionary virologist Dr Jemma Geoghegan.
An extended underground light rail route will be built in Auckland. The Government has announced the supercity's light rail project will run under the city from Wynyard Quarter to Mt Roskill, before surfacing and running alongside State Highway 20 to the airport. The selected 24km route will see trains running every five minutes from up to 18 stops and will be able to carry 15,000 passengers per hour at peak times. The Transport Minister Michael Wood spoke to Māni Dunlop.
A new way for Aucklanders to get to the airport, and an Omicron mutation is at the border.
The Drug Foundation wants adults to have open and honest conversations with young people about portrayals of drug use on social media. Australian researchers looked at TikTok where a third of the users are under 14-years-old. They found more than half of the cannabis-related content on the platform portrayed the drug in a positive light. The Drug Foundation's executive director Sarah Helm spoke to Māni Dunlop.
A person in Gisborne has tested positive for Covid-19. The local district health board Hauora Tairawhiti confirmed the news this morning. Local public health officials are following up with close contacts and there are no locations of interest at this stage. Hauora Tairawhiti chief executive Jim Green spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The three time Olympic rowing champion Hamish Bond has announced his retirement from the sport.
Thousands of festivalgoers in Hamilton over the weekend must monitor for Covid-19 symptoms, after attending a possible superspreader event. Reports of a suspected Covid case at Soundsplash Festival had been circulating since yesterday, but it wasn't confirmed by the Ministry of Health until mid-morning today. Attendees are advised to monitor for symptoms for 10 days after exposure and get tested if they develop symptoms. Māni Dunlop spoke to Michèle Ducray who performed on Saturday.
Inflation continues to run hot -- with the latest figures from Stats NZ putting the consumer price index at 5.9 percent in the year to December. To take a closer look at the effects of rising prices Māni Dunlop spoke to Auckland Action Against Poverty's co-ordinator Brooke Pao Stanley.
Inflation continues to run hot with the latest figures from Stats NZ putting the consumer price index at 5.9 percent in the year to December. The major drivers for annual inflation were housing related, including rents and construction prices, the latter went up 16 percent in the year. Petrol has gone up 30 percent. Council of Trade Union's economist Craig Rennie spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Inflation's hitting the pockets of low income families, and Soundsplash is named as a location of interest.
Auckland Transport is beefing up security on its public transport services, following a spate of attacks on bus drivers. It says Transport Officers will now be onboard buses on busy routes, and some will be patrolling inner city stops and stations. Auckland Transport says some passengers have been "bullying" their way onto buses without paying. Tramways Union president Gary Froggatt spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The government's touting the success of a families package scheme, saying it helped more than half of all families with children in its first year. Introduced in 2018, the Families Package boosted social assistance payments for low and middle income families. The Social Development Ministry says it has helped more than two thirds of all Maori and Pacific whānau with children. On average, families had an an extra $55 a week. A spokesperson for child poverty action group professor emeritus Dr Innes Asher told Māni Dunlop that Covid was disproportionately hitting the poorest.
French tennis player Alize Cornet is having second thoughts about hanging up her racquet.
The doctor accused of torturing children at Lake Alice psychiatric hospital in the 1970s has died. Selwyn Leeks was 92 years old. Dr Leeks was accused of using electric shocks and paralysing drugs to punish patients at the Lake Alice child and adolescent unit. Māni Dunlop spoke to Oliver Sutherland who helped investigate Leeks in the 1970s.
The government's newly tightened rules for mask use under the 'red' traffic light setting has advocates concerned it will put added pressure on those already struggling in Aotearoa. They say for those already unable to make ends meet, pushing households budgets to include surgical masks, or stock up on supplies, further underscores inequality. Hurimoana Dennis is the chair of Te Puea Memorial Marae, which along with other marae ran a network to get food parcels and services to people in need over the lockdown. He spoke to Māni Dunlop about the pressure some whānau face.
Destiny Church leader Brian Tamaki is appearing before the High Court in Auckland trying to get out of jail. Tamaki has been in remand at Mt Eden Prison in Auckland for breaching lockdown rules in relation to protests. RNZ reporter Katie Todd has been outside Mt Eden prison and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Brian Tamaki supporters gather outside prison while court hears his appeal, and advocates are concerned Omicron restrictions could push those in poverty to the brink.
Aid is arriving in Tonga following the volcanic eruption and tsunami more than a week ago. Meanwhile, Samoa is extending its Covid lockdown after border staff contracted the virus. RNZ Pacific reporter Lydia Lewis spoke to Māni Dunlop.
5000 portable air cleaners are on the way for schools - but they won't land in time for the start of the school year. Just 500 are expected to arrive by March, with the rest to be delivered three months later. Public health experts have been campaigning for improved ventilation inside classrooms, to prevent any build-up of Covid contaminated air. The New Zealand Principals' Federation president Cherie Taylor-Patel spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Nico Porteous defended his halfpipe gold at the X Games in Colorado, with commentators describing his routine as the most technical ever landed.
The red light setting has forced the cancellation of some of the biggest events on the Māori calendar. The Treaty Grounds will be closed on Waitangi Day, while Rātana commemorations kicked off this morning online. Māori news reporter Jamie Tahana spoke to Māni Dunlop about the latest developments.
House prices shot up 25 percent in the year to December, according to TradeMe's sales figures. That took the national average asking price to $956,000. Trade Me Property Sales Director Gavin Lloyd spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Health experts are grappling with questions about how Omicron will spread through New Zealand, and when the peak might arrive. There are predictions 15 percent of the workforce could be out of action at any one time. But it all depends on how people respond to the threat of the virus. RNZ reporter Katie Todd spoke to Māni Dunlop from Auckland Central
The World Bank has given about $12 million New Zealand dollars to Tonga, following the devastating volcanic eruption and tsunami nine days ago. About 85 percent of the population has been affected; and drinking water and food supplies are still badly needed. On Mango Island, the homes and all the belongings of the 62 people who live there have been washed away. Māni Dunlop spoke to the World Bank's Pacific director, Stephen Ndegwa.
Thousands of students will be returning to school from next week. But with the entire country now under the red traffic light setting; staff, teachers, and students from year four and up must wear face coverings indoors and when in close contact with others. And all staff members, except those who have an exemption, should be fully vaccinated. Schools will also need to maintain a COVID-19 vaccination register. The president of Auckland Primary Principals' Association Stephen Lethbridge talks to Māni Dunlop.
News from the rural and farming sector. Most of the 800 RSE workers from Tonga are still struggling to get in contact their families, following the eruption and tsunami which caused widespread damage more than a week ago.
Crusaders boss Colin Mansbridge says while there may only be limited fan access to Super Rugby Pacific games because of the move to the red traffic light setting, their main concern is that the games can still go ahead.
As well as vaccines, masks are another important item to help protect us from Covid. N95 masks have become the gold standard internationally in the fight against Omicron, and experts here say New Zealand should follow suit. The government's set to give updated advice on face coverings on Wednesday, which will likely focus on surgical masks. Dr Joel Rindelaub, an aerosol chemist from the University of Auckland, spoke to Māni Dunlop.
New Zealand's in the red light setting; with the highly infectious Covid variant Omicron circulating in Auckland, and possibly in the Nelson Marlborough region. Clinical Immunologist based in Auckland Dr Maia Brewerton (Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Kahungunu) and Māni Dunlop take a closer look at vaccinations, and the benefits of a booster dose.
New Zealand's in the red light setting; with the highly infectious Covid variant Omicron circulating in Auckland, and possibly in the Nelson-Marlborough region. The government is encouraging everyone to get their vaccine booster against Covid-19 as soon as possible. So far, only around half of those who are eligible have received a booster. Vaccinations started for 5-11 year olds one week ago; 74-thousand children had received their first dose by Saturday. RNZ Auckland reporter Katie Todd is at the Mount Wellington vaccination centre and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Boosting ahead in the race against Omicron, and how can certain masks slow the virus' spread?
New Zealand needs to start producing more spin friendly pitches says test hero Ajaz Patel.
A manhunt and a homicide investigation are underway in the Auckland suburb of Mt Roskill, after a man in his 20s was shot dead and two others were injured last night. One of the country's largest aged care providers has introduced its own vaccine pass for visitors - but will charge a fee.
The Black Caps coach Gary Stead concedes it was tough to leave Ajaz Patel out of the squad for the two test series against Bangladesh - but says New Zealand conditions don't suit spinners.
Plans for tailored vaccine messaging for rangatahi, and a significant new treaty settlement.
Batsman Devon Conway is set to make his Black Caps return after breaking his hand at the T20 World Cup in November.
Use the first two teasers from the introduction in iNews - 3.news/bulletins/air-long or 5.archive/bulletins/air-archive
Demand for organic fertiliser is growing due to farmers and growers becoming more aware of their environmental footprint and prices for synthetic fertilisers sky rocketing.
Putting down the shears and rolling up their sleeves was the goal for some shearing gangs on the east coast as they vyed for the top prize for most vaccinated gang. The initiative run by Turanga Health - put the message out to the shearing community - that those with the most vaxxed would receive almost $1,000 worth of vouchers and a new handpiece. Tairawhiti is 90 percent first dose and 83 percent fully vaccinated - they were at one point the least vaccinated DHB. GT Shearing based in Mangatu were the champions, with 87 percent of their crew vaccinated, the other two behind got to more than 70 percent. Trish Fleming from GT Shearers told Māni Dunlop about the initiative and their win.
Māori paediatricians want to ensure the rollout of Covid-19 vaccines for 5-to-11 year olds helps protect vulnerable whānau. Medsafe has granted provisional approval for the Pfizer vaccine to be given to children aged 5 to 11 years old. Dr Owen Sinclair, Te Rarawa, is a paediatrician at Waitakere Hospital and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Parker doesn't want to go the full twelve rounds against Dereck Chisora in their rematch, he wants a knockout.
The police were asked to intervene after an angry confrontation between masked and unmasked passengers at Wellington Airport this morning. All those flying domestically are required wear a face covering, and have either a negative covid test or a vaccine pass. A police spokesperson says officers spoke with those involved and determined the ten unmasked people all had exemptions not to wear masks. Daniel Neilsen was a passenger on the Jetstar flight and told Māni Dunlop what happened.
The Ministry of Health has confirmed at least one case of the Omicron variant in a managed isolation facility in Christchurch. The variant is spreading quickly overseas and scientists are racing to find out as much as possible. Māni Dunlop spoke to University of Otago virologist, Dr Jemma Geoghegan.
High Performance Sport says player wellbeing is top of mind with millions of dollars being invested into athlete welfare. It's part of a new investment package to maintain international success while increasing support for the wellbeing of those in the system. RNZ sports reporter Felicity Reid talks about the details with Māni Dunlop.
New Caledonia's political parties have been asked to draw up proposals for the territory's new statute within the French republic - following Sunday's referendum. More than 96 percent of people voted against independence. Pro-independence parties say the vote was bogus and they won't recognise its outcome. Worldwatch's Max Towle is joined by RNZ Pacific's Walter Zweifel with the details.
Researchers have made new discoveries about the Tohorā or Southern Right Whale's migration and feeding patterns. The whales were nearly hunted to extinction in the waters around Aotearoa a century ago and now face the challenges of a changing climate. Māni Dunlop spoke to Auckland University researcher Dr Emma Carroll about what her team was learning about the huge mammals.
The Government is pumping hundreds of millions of dollars into upgrading 24 hospitals throughout the country. The Health Minister Andrew Little says 30 intensive care beds will be added. But vice president of the College of Intensive Care Medicine Dr Rob Bevan said it would only add half that number. And Dr Bevan said creating a fit-for-purpose ICU was not a quick job, and training staff could take years. Māni Dunlop speaks to the National Party's health spokesperson Dr Shane Reti.
The produce company T&G Global has announced it will pour in millions of dollars developing robots to expand its apples business to meet growing consumer demand.
Protestors against the vaccine mandate are now en route to Parliament after gathering to hear speeches at Wellington's Civic Square. RNZ reporter Jake McKee updates Māni Dunlop on the protests.
Police officers failed in their duty of care to a man who died in their custody at the Hawera Police Station in 2019. The Independent Police Conduct Authority found Allen Ball's death in the cells could have been prevented, if the officers involved had sought medical help for him earlier. The Authority's chair Judge Colin Doherty joins Māni Dunlop on Midday Report.
Heavy rain and thunderstorms have been wreaking havoc - forcing homes to be evacuated, closing roads, causing slips and flash flooding. William Morrison's farm, Mangara Station near Marton, had extensive flash flooding in its streams. He spoke to Māni Dunlop about the "crazy spring weather"
Heavy rain and thunderstorms have been wreaking havoc - forcing homes to be evacuated, closing roads, causing slips and flash flooding. A cleanup is underway in Christchurch after the city had more rain in one day than it usually has in a month and in Manawatū, further heavy rain is forecast. Assessments are underway in Manawatū, to check up on communities isolated by flooding. RNZ reporter Jimmy Ellingham is in Feilding and joins Māni Dunlop.
Fisheries New Zealand is considering a ban on scallop harvesting in Northland and the Coromandel. It says scallop numbers in Coromandel are just a fifth of what they were in 2012. Consultation on the proposals close at 5pm on February 8, 2022. Not-for-profit LegaSea programme leader Sam Woolford told Māni Dunlop overharvesting and destructive fishing techniques were damaging the sea floor and the creatures that live in, on, and above it.
The Human Rights Commission has been looking at the right to a decent home - a right which it says successive governments have failed to uphold. It's now proposing new laws and accountability measures to house people properly. The chief commissioner Paul Hunt talks to Māni Dunlop.
Aucklanders are able to leave the supercity - by air and by road. While the southern road border was dismantled overnight, checkpoints remain in place at the Northern border. Deputy police commissioner Wally Haumaha talked to Māni Dunlop about how they were working.
Aucklanders have been set free to roam the rest of Aotearoa. Many have packed their cars and are off on a summer holiday. And some have flown out of the supercity. RNZ reporter Tim Brown is in Queenstown and talks to Māni Dunlop about the smattering of arrivals.
The Government will create a new, independent redress system for survivors of abuse in state care and faith-based institutions. It will be developed in collaboration with survivors, Maori, Pasifika and people with disabilities. It comes as the Government publicly releases the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Historic Abuse in Care's interim report into redress. RNZ political reporter Katie Scotcher talks to Māni Dunlop.
Midday News update for 15/12/2021 A new redress system for those abused in state care and those in Auckland can finally leave the city.
East Coast businesses are concerned checkpoints would hinder the flow of goods in and out of the region. Tairāwhiti leaders want to check vaccine passes, or negative test results, at the border to protect the health of residents. That's despite the government yesterday saying the region would soon turn orange. The chair of Gisborne's chamber of Commerce is Belinda MacKay and she talks to Māni Dunlop.
Several heavy rain warnings are in place as wild weather rolls across the country. The rain's already disrupting travel around the lower North Island, leading to surface flooding and slips. Some houses in Feilding have been flooded. Metservice meteorologist Lewis Ferris talks to Māni Dunlop.
Waka Kotahi is warning motorists they can expect roads out of the Auckland to be very busy tomorrow. The Auckland borders come down at 11.59 pm with Transport Agency staff helping police to dismantle the checkpoints overnight. The Agency is recommending motorists monitor traffic updates and use the Waka Kotahi Holiday journey tool to help plan the best time to travel. Regional operations manager Jacqui Hori-Holt talks to Māni Dunlop.
The Police Minister is doubling down and insisting she has not misled Parliament over rates of violence at emergency housing. The police had said they don't specifically collect such data. But RNZ has found the police do collect it. RNZ's political editor Jane Patterson tells Māni Dunlop what she's found.
Maori account for about 4500 cases in the Delta outbreak. For two days in a row, there have been no new cases among Pakeha. Associate Health Minister Peeni Henare says no case is acceptable, and the government was working to improve vaccine coverage. Covid-19 analyst Dr Rawiri Taonui has confirmed what's been said for months now: the Delta outbreak is a Māori and Pacific outbreak. Dr Taonui talks to Māni Dunlop about the inequities of the outbreak.
Maori make up about half of all delta community cases, and NZTA expects thousands of motorists will head out of Auckland tomorrow when the border opens.
Supporters of WikiLeaks co-founder Julian Assange say his health is deteriorating behind bars. This follows a London Court ruling the Australian journalist can be extradited to the United States where he faces spying charges. Tauranga-based lawyer Craig Tuck says Assange is being punished for speaking truth to power. Greg Barns is a senior counsel adviser of the Assange campaign and member of the New Zealand Bar, he talks to Māni Dunlop.
A new report shows Māori in Tāmaki Makaurau have been significantly and disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. The Independent Māori Statutory Board commissioned research shows Māori were hit hard in areas including financial hardship, social, and cultural disconnection and significant loss or reduction in employment. Māni Dunlop spoke to Tony Kake from Papakura marae.
The drama may be set to drag on in the wake of this morning's dramatic Formula One season finale.
Government Ministers are today considering the country's traffic light settings, and whether any of the regions in red can move to orange. The settings won't be reviewed again until the middle of next month, and the Prime Minister has previously said no region would go into green this year. Political commentator, former member of the Labour Party executive, and a co-host of RNZ's Party People, Shane Te Pou talks to Māni Dunlop.
Nationwide rental prices increased nearly 10 percent in the year to the end of June. But in some regions it's leapt even higher - prices in Hawke's Bay have gone up 20.4 percent; Bay of Plenty's up 16.4 percent; Manawatu-Whanganui's up 14.2 percent; and Northland's up 12.8 percent. Professor Graham Squires from Massey University's real estate analysis unit talks to Māni Dunlop about what's influencing the hikes.
Many of the country's district health boards have longer waitlists for youth and children seeking outpatient mental health services than adults. More than 2000 youth and children around the country are waiting for appointments, including 459 in Waikato and 463 in Canterbury. Senior doctor at, and founder of, Christchurch's 298 youth health service Dame Sue Bagshaw talks to Māni Dunlop about what's needed.
Thousands of young people waiting for mental health help. And red or orange - the government's deciding the summer settings.
The Auckland City Mission is working overtime to deliver Christmas spirit to those who need it most. It expects to provide about nine thousand parcels of food this year, and if all someone wants for Christmas is their vaccine pass printed, the Mission can do that too. Māni Dunlop spoke with Auckland's City Missioner, Helen Robinson.
A special Waitangi Tribunal hearing into the Government's response to Covid-19 is coming to an end - after a week of submitters saying Māori have been failed at nearly every stage of the pandemic. The case has been brought by the Māori Council, which argues the vaccine rollout and the rushed move to the traffic light system has left Māori vulnerable. They say that's a breach of the treaty. Yesterday, the Crown defended its response, saying equity has been a consideration at every step. Māni Dunlop spoke with a senior law lecturer at Victoria University, Dr Carwyn Jones.
Despite the proposals coming under criticism from environmental groups and the Climate Change Minister, the Agriculture Minister is describing them as a good first step.
After two High Court judicial reviews and a judge advising the Ministry of Health to review its decision - the details of unvaccinated Māori have been released to the Whānau Ora commissioning agency. In a letter from the Director General of Health, Dr Ashley Bloomfield said the Ministry will release the data over the next five to six days. The Whānau Ora commissioning agency for the North Island has been asking for the data to help with the vaccination drive for Māori. The agency's chief executive, John Tamihere spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The man who murdered police officer Matthew Hunt and tried to kill his colleague has been jailed for life - with a minimum non parole period of 27 years. Eli Epiha shot at the two officers in a West Auckland street in June last year, during a traffic stop. Māni Dunlop spoke to RNZ's Katie Todd, who was at the sentencing at the High Court in Auckland.
Emotions run high as constable Matthew Hunt's killer is sentenced to at least 27 years in jail. Karen McCarthy has the news.
The Director-General of Health is in front of the Waitangi Tribunal today - where the urgent hearing into the Government's Covid-19 response continues. Claimants so far have described the Government failing Māori at nearly every stage of the pandemic response, including the vaccine rollout. Te Manu Korihi reporter Jamie Tahana is following the proceedings and joins Max Towle with an update from today's evidence.
The government intends to ban cigarette sales as part of its Smokefree 2025 plan. It's hoped to become law by late next year -- with a transition period to make smoked tobacco products less appealing and addictive before they're outlawed completely. The associate minister of health Ayesha Verrall joins Max Towle on Midday Report.
Parliament's Primary Production Select Committee has been hearing submissions on the Government's plan to ban livestock exports by sea in 2023.
Sugar that was recalled from supermarkets in early November due to low levels of lead contamination, mistakenly made its way back onto shelves in the North Island. People who may have bought these bags of sugar at Countdown supermarkets are being told to take them back, but not to worry, there's no immediate health risk. Max Towle spoke to the deputy director general of New Zealand Food Safety Vincent Arbuckle.
The contact-tracing system missed most of its targets over the first two months of the Delta outbreak. That's according to an interim report released by the Ministry of Health. Ideally, at least 80 percent of the closest contacts of infected people should go into isolation within four days of being exposed to Covid; but in reality, only 50 percent did. University of Otago epidemiologist professor Michael Baker joins Max Towle.
Young New Zealanders will never be able to legally buy cigarettes. That is a cornerstone of the latest Smokefree Aotearoa 2025 action plan, launched by the government this morning. RNZ's deputy political editor Craig McCulloch was there and he joins Max Towle on Midday Report.
The next step towards a smokefree generation. A botch-up returned recalled sugar to supermarket shelves.
The race to become the next Tongan prime minister is down to two, after the caretaker prime minister pulled out of the race. Nominations close next Tuesday, before a vote happens at a special meeting at parliament. Those deciding are the 26 members, including the 17 people's representatives, and the 9 Noble representatives. That latter group will be significant, as the Nobles tend to vote as a block. Worldwatch's Max Towle spoke to RNZ correspondent Kalafi Moala.
A Covid-19 modeller believes cases will rise again when Auckland's border reopens. And he's recommending unvaccinated people get tested after they travel, as well as before as the law requires. Daily Covid-19 case numbers have dropped below 100 a handful of times in recent days, down from more than 200 a fortnight ago. 98 were announced yesterday across Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Taranaki, and Nelson. Modeller and principal investigator for Te Punaha Matatini, professor Michael Plank told Māni Dunlop that the case numbers had dropped more sharply than predicted.
Fake identity cards are being used by some people to claim diplomatic immunity from covid vaccination mandates. The Education Ministry has warned schools and early childhood centres not to accept the bogus IDs. RNZ education correspondent John Gerritsen talks to Māni Dunlop.
The England cricketers are going into the Ashes series with a nothing to lose attitude.
The average nationwide property price has tipped over $1 million dollars. Despite that, some property analysts say the latest house price figures and number of properties for sale suggest the market's reached a tipping point. First Home Buyers club spokesperson Lesley Harris told Māni Dunlop nothing has changed for those trying to get into the market.
The man who stabbed four people in a central Dunedin supermarket has entered guilty pleas for the frenzied attack. Facing four charges of attempted murder, Luke Lambert changed his pleas to guilty this morning - admitting he was responsible for seriously injuring four people in the Central Dunedin Countdown on May the 10th. RNZ reporter Timothy Brown told Māni Dunlop about the surprise plea in the High Court at Dunedin this morning.
The government took a harder line than health officials advised when entering the traffic light system, leaving Auckland locked up for an extra 12 days. The Ministry of Health said the border should fall away when the country entered the new regime. RNZ's deputy political editor Craig McCulloch joins Māni Dunlop with the details.
The government rejected health advice to drop Auckland's borders sooner and a person pleads guilty to attempted murder over a frenzied attack at a Dunedin Countdown.
Think of enduring New Zealand sporting success, and you might come up with rugby, sailing and rowing amongst others. But what about scrabble? Nigel Richards is a six-time world champion and regarded by many as the greatest player in the history of the word-based board game. He wasn't available to defend his title last week but up stepped Auckland doctor Alastair Richards - no relation - who toppled a succession of higher-ranked opponents to triumph at the Wespac English-speaking world championships. Max Towle asked Dr Richards about his moves on the board.
Thames Coromandel district councillors and staff are staying tight-lipped about the mayor's controversial take on the pandemic and Covid vaccines. A code of conduct complaint was laid about the mayor Sandra Goudie's views, but the council hasn't investigated, saying the matter has been resolved informally. RNZ reporter Jean Bell attended the council's meeting this morning and joins Max Towle from Thames.
Now, you can't beat Wellington on a good day, but what about a dreadful day? The region has been inundated by rain since yesterday, and 350 properties at the beachside community of Te Horo on the Kāpiti Coast has been cut off due to flooding. Max Towle spoke to the Kāpiti Coast District Council's emergency management spokesperson Paul Busing.
Anti-violence advocates say a new plan to end family and sexual violence within 25 years won't work without cross-party support. The strategy details 43 steps to eliminate household violence, which includes encouraging more people to report assaults. Max Towle speaks to the chief executive of Women's Refuge Dr Ang Jury.
Special government advisors have told the Waitangi Tribunal they don't know why ethnicity hasn't been a greater focus of the vaccine rollout. Covid-19 modeller Shaun Hendy says his advice showed a significant risk disparity - even when age was factored in. The government has said it went with a general age-based rollout because of the younger Māori demographic. Te Manu Korihi reporter Jamie Tahana is following the proceedings and joins Max Towle with the latest.
The Waitangi Tribunal drills into the Covid vaccine rollout, and a plan to end family and sexual violence in the next 25 years.
New Caledonia's referendum on independence from France is happening Sunday - but the campaign is likely to be one-sided and the outcome obvious. Because of the pandemic, the pro-independence parties say they will neither take part in the vote, nor recognise its result. Instead they've been calling for the vote to be postponed until September next year. Worldwatch's Max Towle speaks to RNZ Pacific's Walter Zweifel.
Northland iwi say setting up road blocks in partnership with police is crucial to help protect Māori communities in preparation for the Auckland borders opening up. Under the Covid-19 Public Health Response Act people, such as iwi representatives or community patrollers who are authorised by the Director-General of Health, are allowed to run checkpoints under the supervision of a police constable. The ACT party leader David Seymour however is criticising the amendments to the law. He told Māni Dunlop that authorised enforcement officers in these cases were thugs.
Northland iwi say setting up road blocks in partnership with police is crucial to help protect Māori communities in preparation for the Auckland borders opening up. Under the Covid-19 Public Health Response Act people, such as iwi representatives or community patrollers who are authorised by the director-general of health, are allowed to run checkpoints under the supervision of a police constable. During lockdowns - Māori leaders have been assisting police in checkpoints. Māni Dunlop spoke to the co-chair of the 12 confederation of Northland iwi, Harry Burkhardt, about the importance of the relationship with police.
Heavy rain has swamped dozens of roads throughout the Wellington region this morning. Metservice's orange warning remains in force from Marlborough through to Taranaki. RNZ Wellington reporter Soumya Bhamidipati joins Māni Dunlop with the latest.
The bitter rivalry between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen continued at a chaotic Saudi Arabian F1 grand prix which was eventually won by Hamilton.
Māori, Pacific and disabled children are two to three times more likely to go hungry than Pākehā children, but advocates say that doesn't have to be the case. The latest Child Poverty Monitor figures show around half of Pacific children, and one in three mokopuna Māori live in households which often run out of food. Children with disabilities are also twice as likely to experience material hardship than Pākehā. Māni Dunlop talks to Whanau Awhina Plunket's chief executive Amanda Malu.
The Waitangi Tribunal has heard the government's design of the Covid vaccine rollout left Māori on the back foot from the start. The Tribunal granted a special hearing into the Government's handling of the pandemic for Māori which started today. The claimants, the Māori Council and other leaders say the Covid response framework prejudices Māori. RNZ te manu korihi reporter, Jamie Tahana joins Māni Dunlop with the latest on the hearing.
A 16-year-old has been charged with the murder of a Christchurch teen who was assaulted in the early hours of Saturday morning. The police say the 18-year-old man was assaulted in the carpark of the Countdown supermarket on Moorhouse Ave in Christchurch. RNZ's Christchurch reporter Conan Young joins Māni Dunlop with the latest.
A 16-year-old has been charged with murdering another teenager in Christchurch. A change to a new bill which would lower the maximum height people can build on their boundary has bipartisan support.
An Auckland-based epidemiologist is urging New Zealanders to remain focused on ensuring they are fully vaccinated against Covid as the traffic lights loosen restrictions. As more mingling and mixing happens, will case numbers rise? and what does that mean for the rest of the country? Professor Rod Jackson spoke to Midday Report's Māni Dunlop
The Wellington Phoenix will make sporting history tonight when they play their inaugural women's A-league match. New Zealand's first professional women's football team will hope to open with victory against the Western Sydney Wanderers in Wollongong. But the fact they're finally taking to the field is a big win in the eyes of many. Former Football Ferns international Rebecca Rolls, who is also the Diversity and Inclusion Manager at Sport NZ spoke to Midday Report's Māni Dunlop.
Fonterra has revised its forecast milk price range for the current season, with a record breaking midpoint of eight-dollars-seventy a kilogram of milk solids.
The Black Caps are eyeing a first-ever series win in India. Friday's top sports stories with Glen Larmer.
Intensive care units and hospitals are getting a boost of hundreds of millions of dollars, to help cope with whatever the pandemic will bring next. 100 million dollars has been earmarked to upgrade buildings and equipment, and another 544 million for operating costs including staffing. The Health Minister, Andrew Little, said the first hospitals to see the cash is Auckland's North Shore, Tauranga and Christchurch with further announcement on the way. Midday Report's Māni Dunlop spoke to Wellington Hospital ICU clinical director Alex Psirides.
Vax passports are the ticket to freedom under the new traffic light system, but with all things tech there are teething problems. RNZ has had reports of people downloading the Malaysaian version of the passport scanning app, which comes up first when given the option to download. We have also had reports that some businesses are just trusting regulars and not checking vaccine passes as well as people still struggling to get their passes due to NHI and ID issues. Tech commentator and advertiser Vaughn Davis told Māni Dunlop it's a good system and the very few teething issues will no doubt be ironed out.
Aucklanders are finally out and about as the traffic light flashes red after 108 days of lockdown. Some are brandishing their newly laminated or digital vaccine passports to get to the front of the queues for brunch, booze or perhaps a bit of personal grooming. RNZ reporter Chen Liu was in Ponsonby and spoke to Midday Report's Māni Dunlop.
As Auckland opens up again for the first time in months, and a central Auckland business group says the weeks leading up to Christmas will be critical.
Health authorities in Fiji are urgently testing recent arrivals to see whether the new Covid variant Omicron is in the country. The country reopened its borders to tourists yesterday. Sources from within the Ministry of Health have told RNZ passengers and crew are isolating at a facility. RNZ correspondent in Fiji Lice Movono talks to Worldwatch's Max Towle.
15 Defence Force troops are today heading to the Solomon Islands, to help calm the growing unrest. A further 50, also including police officers, are due to depart at the weekend. RNZ Pacific's Johnny Blades talks to Māni Dunlop about what they would do there.
Councils throughout the country are split on the issue of allowing access to public facilities for unvaccinated people. On the whole, city councils will require vaccination passes to enter their pools, libraries and other venues, but many of the district and regional councils are adopting a less stringent approach. People won't need a pass at most Waitaki District Council facilities. Māni Dunlop asks Waitaki's mayor Gary Kircher about his council's approach.
Spinner Ajaz Patel is confident the Black Caps can pull off an upset win against hosts India in the second and final test in Mumbai to complete a historic series victory.
A cafe and a campsite in Gisborne are being criticised for not using vaccine passes, saying it will put the community - which has the lowest vaccination rates in the country - at risk. Far East Coffee and Tatapouri Bay Campsite are adapting their businesses so they are available to unvaccinated people. RNZ has contacted the two establishments for comment. The president of the Gisborne Chamber of Commerce Belinda MacKay told Māni Dunlop she was disappointed by the move.
Children aged 5 and older might be eligible for Covid-19 vaccinations from around the time school begins next year. Dr Ashley Bloomfield says if the vaccine is approved, officials would work to prioritise Māori and Pacific children. Dr Emma Best is a paediatric infectious disease specialist and a medical advisor at the immunisation advisory centre. Dr Best talks to Māni Dunlop.
One of Dilworth School's most prolific child sex offenders has been sentenced to six and a half years in jail. The former chaplain Ross Douglas Browne pleaded guilty to 16 charges in October. And this morning his victims told the High Court at Auckland they ended up in jail, abusing drugs, or self harming due to the repeated abuse. RNZ reporter Jordan Bond talks to Māni Dunlop from the High Court.
Jail-time for a former school chaplain for sexually abusing pupils. And health officials promise a different approach to vaccinating children
Housing analysts say there's been big fall away in first home buyers. Agents are reporting fewer people showing up to open homes and auctions. And investors are still backing off, too. Max Towle speaks with economist and housing analyst, Tony Alexander.
Auckland's mayor wants the council to adopt a $1 billion climate change package - largely paid for by a targeted levy. It comes as the council received a report saying it was not on track to halve carbon emissions by 2030. RNZ reporter Jordan Bond has just been hearing from Phil Goff, and talks to Max Towle.
The Black Caps coach Gary Stead has defended the performance of New Zealand's spinners, in the side's hard fought draw against India in Kanpur.
In Australia, Sydney and the Central Coast are on edge, waiting to discover just how far and wide the Omicron Covid variant has spread. Exposure sites are increasing, after at least five positive tests. Max Towle speaks to ABC reporter Mahnaz Angury in Sydney.
Te Tai Tokerau Border Control founder Hone Harawira is welcoming the high-powered call for unvaccinated people to be blocked from entering the north this summer. The Northern Region DHBs and Te Kahu o Taonui iwi have contacted the government, advocating that road checkpoints be in place until Northland's vaccination rate for Maori and non-Maori reaches 90 per cent. Mr Harawira talks to Max Towle.
The Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has announced a $37.5 million reactivation package for Auckland - it includes vouchers, discounts, and food parcels. She says it's to bring people back to businesses and events, and to acknowledge the hard yards of residents who've been locked down for more than 100 days. But Auckland Central MP Chlöe Swarbrick told Max Towle it will not make much of a difference for those who are living in poverty.
Auckland's mayor wants to charge households a climate levy, and a $37 million package has been announced by the Government with the aim of rebooting Auckland throughout the summer.
Summer is upon us - well officially from tomorrow - and it's not long until New Zealanders will be free to travel to their favourite holiday destinations under the traffic light system. Max Towle asks NIWA meteorologist Chris Brandolino whether the weather will come to the party.
In an unfortunate stroke of irony, international negotiations to waive the intellectual property, or IP, rights for Covid-19 vaccines and treatments have been suspended, due to concerns about the new Omicron variant. The waiver - proposed by South Africa and India - would make it easier for developing nations to boost their vaccine stocks. The World Trade Organisation talks were to take place in Geneva, but Switzerland has tightened its borders to slow the new variant's spread. Joanna Spratt from Oxfam Aotearoa talks to Max Towle.
Black Caps allrounder Rachin Ravindra says he was confident they could hold out for a draw in the first Test against India in Kanpu.
At 1-o'clock today, a new case in Nelson will be officially added to the tally. There are 13 published locations of interest for the area extending as far back as Friday November the 19th. It comes before the country moves to the traffic light system on Friday. Nelson's mayor Rachel Reese talks to Max Towle.
Three police officers shot yesterday in West Auckland and another hit by a fleeing car. Violence in parts of the city seems to be rising - the police union is raising concerns about gang violence, and the willingness of gang members to pull out their guns and use them. A lot of people no longer feel safe - and the police union is again calling for cops to be armed. Alf Filipaina is a Manukau ward councillor and talks to Max Towle.
National Party MPs will this afternoon seal the doors on a caucus meeting to select a new leader after Judith Collins was rolled last week. RNZ's political editor Jane Patterson talks to Max Towle.
National Party MPs gather to vote on the next leader And the police are worried about rising community violence
The government of Kiribati is planning to open up the Phoenix Island Protection Area to commercial fishing. The area, declared in 2008, is about 1.5 times the size of New Zealand. A no-take zone was declared in 2015 to protect the area but now, that decision is being reversed. Kiribati's government says it's lost around $150 million since 2015 and the compensation never eventuated. Fishing is the island nation's major source of wealth but how will this work with climate change goals? Hawaii Kewalo Marine Laboratory marine scientist Robert Richmond spoke to Worldwatch's Perlina Lau about what this decision could mean.
The rioting in Honiara has left more than 50 businesses torched and looted, and more than 1,000 workers jobless. The clean up is continuing with people cleaning up the streets and removing burnt vehicles. Australian and Papua New Guinea defence forces have been helping the local police after riots broke out last Thursday with people on the street calling for the Prime Minister to stand down. RNZ Pacific's Johnny Blades joins Worldwatch's Perlina Lau to report on the latest.
The push to get West Coast residents double-vaccinated against Covid-19 is revving up with every fully vaccinated person in the region eligible to win a brand new car. But there's a catch, the prize will only be drawn if 90 percent of eligible residents are fully vaccinated by Christmas Eve. The competition is being run by Development West Coast in partnership with Grey Ford. The development agency's chief executive Heath Milne talks to Māni Dunlop.
Health experts say it will be weeks until we know more about the severity of the new Covid-19 "variant of concern". The Omicron variant has more than 30 mutations on its spike protein, and early evidence suggests it poses an increased transmission risk. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of the vaccines we've been using to stave off Delta and other coronavirus strands. Māni Dunlop reports.
The New Zealand NBL basketball side will today put their case forward to the league to postpone their opening game of the season.
Government ministers are currently deciding which colours each part of the country will be placed in when the Covid-19 traffic light system begins on Friday. Auckland is to start off in red, the most restrictive setting. The rest of the motu will either be red or orange - but, for now, nowhere will be in green. RNZ's deputy political editor Craig McCulloch speaks to Māni Dunlop.
Two deaths of people isolating by themselves at home with Covid-19 in Auckland were potentially preventable. The Northern Region Health Co-ordination Centre has apologised to their whānau and unreservedly accepted the findings of a review it commissioned into the deaths in early November. The centre lead and Counties Manukau DHB chief executive Fepulea'i Margie Apa told Māni Dunlop a lack of cultural capacity and not referring the cases to a Māori public health provider contributed to the failings.
A man who injured three police officers when he opened fire during an incident in Glen Eden this morning has died after he was shot by police. Police were called to the address in Danube Lane shortly after eight o'clock this morning, after reports of gunshots and a house fire. RNZ reporter Chen Liu spoke to Māni Dunlop from the cordon on Danube Lane.
Police officers injured and an offender killed in West Auckland Two home isolation Covid-19 deaths were possibly preventable
Dozens of Australian police and Defence force personnel have begun arriving in the capital Honiara - amid major political unrest. A protest on Wednesday calling for the Prime Minister to stand down lapsed into looting and burning, which local police have since struggled to contain. Business owners - whose shops have been ransacked - say they despair at the violence. Worldwatch's Max Towle gets the latest from RNZ Pacific reporter Johnny Blades.
A small flight operator is winging its way to help Marlborough Sounds' residents still restricted by damaged roads. Isolated communities were cut off in July's storm. Now the local council is subsidising air travel for affected residents, visitors and business. Tickets cost $25 per person from Picton or Wellington. Pelorus Air chief executive Cliff Marchant talks to Māni Dunlop about the service.
A new Medical Journal paper shows New Zealand's health system is hostile and racist toward Maori, perpetuating existing barriers and inequities that have been faced over generations. The paper reviewed two-dozen articles on the barriers Maori face in the health system. It found Māori health inequities result from systematic failures in the public health system - where they frequently experience poor communication, racism and multiple road blocks in accessing care. One of the authors Dr Emma Espiner talks to Māni Dunlop about the findings.
National Party MPs are jostling and angling for who will take over the party leadership, after they rolled Judith Collins yesterday. They're due to regroup and decide on Tuesday. Until then, Shane Reti will take charge as the interim leader. RNZ political reporter Katie Scotcher tells Māni Dunlop the latest.
Government officials have released sector-specific guidance to help businesses understand how to operate under the traffic light system. It explains how the Covid Protection Framework will apply to staff and customers at red, orange or green for accommodation, hospitality, agriculture, events and more. The chief executive of Tourism Industry Aotearoa Chris Roberts tells Māni Dunlop the challenge was now ensuring the framework made sense to every operator.
All sworn and authorised police officers, as well as recruits, will need to get their first Covid-19 vaccinations by January the 17th next year. So will all Defence Force staff including civilians. The Police Union supports the move, saying it provides legal certainty. The Government says 86.5 percent of constabulary staff are now fully vaccinated. Workplace relations and safety minister Michael Wood spoke to Māni Dunlop after making the announcement about the vaccine mandate extension this morning.
The Government extends the vaccine mandate, and businesses finally get answers on the traffic light system.
Three men have been found guilty of murdering Ahmaud Arbery as he was jogging last year in Georgia. The case sparked outrage in America after a video of his shooting went public. Lawyers for the men argued they acted in self-defence while making a citizen's arrest. The white trio said they had suspected Mr Arbery - who is Black - of theft from a nearby construction site. Worldwatch's Max Towle spoke to US correspondent, Nick Harper.
Tauranga MP Simon Bridges' has been accused by the now-former National Party leader Judith Collins of "serious misconduct". Māni Dunlop is joined by RNZ reporter Leah Tebbutt from Tauranga, to hear what locals are saying today.
Judith Collins has been rolled as the National Party's leader after accusing former leader Simon Bridges of "serious misconduct". Dr Shane Reti is now the party's interim leader. Māni Dunlop is joined by Victoria University politics lecturer Bryce Edwards who has been watching the events unfold.
Judith Collins has confirmed she is no longer the leader of the National Party, and is just the MP for Papakura. RNZ reporter Chen Liu has been speaking with voters in the electorate and talks to Māni Dunlop.
Short-staffed farmers are relieved the border's reopening, but say they need workers sooner.
Black Caps pace bowler Kyle Jamieson isn't planning on changing his style too much for the Test series against India, which starts in Kanpur this afternoon.
The National Party is holding a crisis caucus meeting, after Judith Collins publicly demoted Simon Bridges and stripped him of his portfolios in a late night news release. So, how will this all go down with the public? Māni Dunlop talks to National's pollster David Farrar who owns and runs Curia.
National Party MPs are still locked away in a caucus meeting after internal issues erupted into the public arena around 9.30pm last night, while Parliament was sitting under urgency. Party leader Judith Collins' office released a statement saying former leader Simon Bridges had been demoted and stripped of his portfolios due to a five-year-old complaint relating to Waitaki MP, Jacqui Dean. Māni Dunlop is joined by RNZ's political editor Jane Patterson to discuss what's happening within parliament's second largest party.
In Papua New Guinea, violent clashes have taken place between members of the country's army and police on the streets of the capital, Port Moresby. It's prompted the Prime Minister James Marape to summon the heads of the disciplinary forces for an explanation. RNZ Pacific's Johnny Blades talks to Worldwatch's Max Towle about what's been going on.
The National Party wants unruly tenants kicked out of Kāinga Ora housing, provided they've been warned, to show bad behaviour is unacceptable. The state housing agency has a sustaining tenancies model, and has not booted anyone out in more than three years. University of Otago associate professor of public health Nevil Pierse told Māni Dunlop kicking such tenants out would make them homeless, which costs everyone more in the short and long term.
A strike by Countdown workers starting today will impact about thirty per cent of the supermarket chain's food supply. Around 700 essential workers at two Auckland Countdown distribution centres have walked off the job after the company rejected a pay increase in line with the rising cost of living. FIRST Union secretary for transport, logistics and manufacturing Jared Abbott tells Māni Dunlop the company's now walked out of negotiations.
The Breakers will go through another round of testing after several members tested positive for covid.
KiwiRail's chief executive Greg Miller has resigned following an investigation into alleged bullying at the state-owned company. Mr Miller rejects the allegations. But the head of the Rail and Maritime Transport Union Wayne Butson says under Mr Miller's leadership the high turnover of senior staff has been unprecedented. The acting chair of the KiwiRail board Sue McCormack spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Economists are tipping an interest rate rise at the Reserve Bank's monetary policy announcement this afternoon. Most say the official cash rate will be raised 25 basis points, to 0.75 percent, but a small group think it'll go up 50 basis points. Māni Dunlop talks to KiwiBank's chief economist Jarrod Kerr.
Parliament is urgently passing the laws to implement the new covid traffic light system and vaccine passes. But human rights groups and constitutional specialists are concerned the laws won't get much public scrutiny due to the rushed process. RNZ's political reporter Katie Scotcher is following the debate in the House and talks to Māni Dunlop.
Parliament is urgently passing the laws to implement the new covid traffic light system and vaccine passes.
The app to check whether people have a genuine vaccine pass launched this morning. It's called the 'NZ Pass Verifier', and it's what cafes, bars, and other businesses will use to scan customers' vaccine passes - whether they're printed out or stored securely on their phone. Dr Andrew Chen from Koi Tu, the centre for informed futures at the University of Auckland, explains to Māni Dunlop what it's all about.
The government will launch a new tool to help employers figure out which of their staff need to be vaccinated. The tool is still being refined but is likely to assess four factors - the environment an employee works in, if they work near others, if that is for long periods, and if they provide services to people who are vulnerable to Covid-19. Māni Dunlop asks BusinessNZ's chief executive Kirk Hope whether it will provide employers with the certainty they crave.
In 2019 the Government announced the sector would have to start paying for emissions from 2025, and the industry was given time to develop a way to measure and price them.
A social service provider wants Kāinga Ora to stay in its lane building houses, and leave tricky social work to the specialists. Kāinga Ora has not evicted any tenants in the last three years, and the government denies it has a 'no eviction' policy. But families have told RNZ they are at their wits' end after months of neighbourhood brawls, property damage, death threats and numerous police call outs. Māni Dunlop talks to Kahungūnu whānau services in Wellington's chief executive, Ali Hamlin-Paenga.
Police have arrested a 63-year-old man and a 60-year-old woman in Auckland this morning, after a protest was held in Auckland Domain on Saturday in breach of Auckland's Alert level restrictions. Māni Dunlop gets the latest from RNZ Auckland reporter Jordan Bond.
The Workplace Relations Minister has outlined a new assessment tool to help employers figure out which of their staff need to be vaccinated. Michael Wood says it will provide a clear framework when it comes into effect next month. The tool is still being refined but is likely to assess four factors - the environment an employee works in, if they work near others, if that is for long periods, and if they provide services to people who are vulnerable to Covid-19. Māni Dunlop gets the details from RNZ political reporter Katie Scotcher.
Misinformation about Covid-19 in Papua New Guinea is pushing some people from vaccine hesitancy to vaccine phobia, according to aid sector workers. Just 1.7 percent of eligible people in Papua New Guinea are vaccinated so far. Today, Australia's Lowy Institute released modelling showing it could take until 2026 for PNG to vaccinate just a third of its population. The chair of New Zealand's council for international development humanitarian network, Quenelda Clegg talks to RNZ's Māni Dunlop.
NCEA and scholarship exams start today. First up: level two Physics and te reo Rangatira - essentially advanced te reo Maori. Māni Dunlop speaks to RNZ's education correspondent John Gerritsen about the special measures in place for students affected by the pandemic.
Time for sport now, with Stephen Hewson. And NZ Rugby is standing by All Blacks coach Ian Foster despite back to back losses.
A 70-year old woman who was missing for nearly a fortnight was found on Saturday near her home in the Auckland suburb of Sandringham. Cindy Li was reported missing on November the 9th; and is now in Auckland Hospital in a critical but stable condition. Māni Dunlop speaks to RNZ Auckland reporter Katie Doyle who's been speaking with residents in the area Ms Li was found.
Ministers will today consider Auckland's Covid-19 restrictions, and whether they'll introduce any new freedoms before Tāmaki Makaurau moves to the Traffic Light system. At the current setting -- Alert Level 3, Step 2 -- retail, schools, and public venues are allowed to open with tight restrictions. But if the city were to shift to to Level 3, Step 3: indoor dining, events, and social gatherings could go ahead with a limit of 50 people and physical distancing, while hairdressers, barbers and beauty salons could also reopen. Māni Dunlop interviews Auckland University political scientist and political commentator, Lara Greaves.
Research out of the United Kingdom that pulse oximeters don't work so well for people with darker skin, is causing concern in Aotearoa where more than half of the Covid-19 cases in the current outbreak have been among Maori and Pasifika. Nearly everyone isolating at home with the virus is supposed to get an oximeter which measures blood oxygen levels by shining light through the skin. But the devices can overstate the amount of oxygen present in the blood of people with darker skin. That resulted in one family delaying calling an ambulance, because they were relying on falsely high oxygen readings. Māni Dunlop interviews Pasifika Medical Association chief executive Debbie Sorensen.
Concerns about oximeter use in home isolation and a warning about delta spreading over summer.
A climate change governance researcher says delegates who were financially linked to fossil fuel interests or sent directly by companies were behind the scenes at COP26, influencing the talks. The pledges that came out of COP26 fell short of keeping warming to 1.5 degrees celsius, the threshold which scientists urge we must not cross to avoid devastating climate outcomes. Dr Natalie Jones is a researcher at the University of Cambridge's Centre for the Study of Existential Risk. She outlines what happened.
Researchers say the recent loss of Antarctic ice is like a car going downhill, with no brakes. A new study adds to evidence of a substantial global sea level rise, suggesting parts of the frozen continent have reached a tipping point. Co-author of the study Professor Nicholas Golledge from the Antarctic Research Centre at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington talks to Max Towle.
HEB Construction has confirmed it was notified by Ministry of Health last night of a weak positive result in a worker in Wellington. It says he is not symptomatic but is double vaccinated.
Rents are soaring again - hitting record highs in Auckland and Wellington, and nationally as well. The country's median weekly rent was $560 in October, a staggering $620 in Wellington, and $650 in Porirua. TradeMe's latest numbers coincide with a survey by Sharesies finding more than a quarter of New Zealanders saying they don't plan on ever owning a property. Trade Me's Property Sales Director Gavin Lloyd talks to Max Towle.
The government's putting $10 million towards the development of a vaccine to help prevent strep throat, and in turn, rheumatic fever and subsequent heart disease. The University of Auckland will lead the work next year, in collaboration with researchers in Australia which also has high rates of the disease. The funding will go towards monitoring of the strep A bacteria that causes strep throat, lab testing infrastructure, and preparation for clinical trials. Porirua GP, and head of college of GPs, Dr Bryan Betty talks to RNZ's Max Towle - and explains what he knows of the suspected case in the region.
Health professionals have told RNZ a suspected case of Covid-19 is being investigated in the Wellington region. And as the virus creeps South, health officials throughout the country are urging people who feel unwell, or have been at a location of interest, to get tested as soon as possible. In the North Island, locations of interest are spread from the top of the country down to Horowhenua, Manawatu and Wairarapa. And in the South Island, Christchurch's airport and busses 3 and 5 - from the airport to the city centre and then on to Eastgate Mall on November the 13th - are also listed. Despite confirmation of cases in Tauranga, the council's commissioner Anne Tolley told RNZ that too few people there were getting tested. Max Towle speaks to Porirua's mayor, Anita Baker.
Covid creeps South and we take a closer look at the companies hiding within government delegations at climate talks.
It's election day in Tonga, with about 64,000 Tongans registered to vote. They will be electing 17 People's Representatives for the 26 member legislature. Tonga - a Pacific country of slightly more than 100,000 people - is a constitutional monarchy and this marks the fourth election since its political system underwent major reforms in 2010. RNZ Pacific's correspondent in Tonga, Kalafi Moala spoke to Max Towle.
A short circuit on a power pole sparked the devastating fire at Lake Ōhau last year. Fire and Emergency has just released its investigation and response reports into the fire that destroyed dozens of homes, 5000 hectares of land, and took nine days to put out. RNZ reporter Tim Brown has just been hearing from Fire and Emergency and talks to Max Towle.
News from the rural and farming sector. Fishing company Sanford's full year profit has taken another Covid related hit, falling 16 percent to just over $16 million. But it's being lifted by signs of recovery for its salmon and wildcatch divisions although its mussel farming operation is lagging behind.
The Black Caps' opening batsman Martin Guptil feels the team played well in the five wicket loss in the opening T20 international in Jaipur, India.
News from the business sector, including a market report. Auckland drug maker AFT Pharmaceuticals profits have jumped on the back of higher sales and licensing revenue.
In Wellington's Shelly Bay police have been speaking to a small group of protesters who've been served with eviction notices. The City Council last night said there were unsafe levels of asbestos contamination, and was closing the land. But a group of councillors - including the mayor - stopped council officers from taking that action. The occupiers - Mau Whenua - are refusing to budge. Meanwhile, the developer also wants them gone so construction can begin. RNZ reporter Kirsty Frame is there and talks to Max Towle about what's going on.
The spread of Covid-19 throughout the country continues - a new case has been detected in Palmerston North. This follows someone testing positive in Christchurch yesterday after attending a tangi in Auckland. Canterbury health officials are encouraging people to get tested. In Palmerston North, the positive case is a man who's a casual contact of one of the two Woodville cases from the weekend. He went to training at his cricket club on Tuesday which is closing up and having a deep clean. Max Towle spoke to the mayor of Palmerston North, Grant Smith.
The Nurses' Organisation says the nearly 500 unvaccinated nurses stood down across the country yesterday, will worsen the impact of the 3,500 nursing vacancies that already existed. 1309 DHB staff - including nurses - were stood down yesterday morning. The organisation's Kaiwhakahaere Kerri Nuku spoke to Max Towle.
Investigation reports released into the devastating Lake Ōhau fire and Covid-19 spreads to Palmerston North
Retirees say their rights are coming second to the interests of companies running retirement villages. Residents are today meeting at Parliament to petition the government for better rules governing the sector. The Retirement Village Residents' Association wants a clear timeframe for a full review of the Act. Max Towle spoke to the Association's president Peter Carr, who said it's time retirees' voices were heard and protected.
There are long lines for the barber, and baristas are flat out making flat whites, as Hamilton welcomes back customers. Today marks the first day that all of Waikato are back at level two after six weeks in level three restrictions. RNZ reporter Leah Tebbutt is in Hamilton and spoke to Max Towle.
The All Blacks are preparing to be without first-five Beauden Barrett for the test against France.
A Pacific climate leader is warning the region's lowest-lying island states will be under water before countries hit their carbon zero targets, because the world's biggest emitters don't keep their promises. New Zealand's Climate Change Commission chair, Dr Rod Carr, told Nine to Noon the science shows countries need to go beyond their pledges, and urgent action was needed. RNZ Pacific's Koroi Hawkins spoke to the Director-General of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme Kosi Latu who said the agreement at COP26 was alarming.
There's excitement, and a little bit of shellshock, among the thousands of children who today have returned to Auckland classrooms for the first time in three months. There are rules; that groups don't mingle, and face masks are worn for those in year four and up. At Te Hihi School south of Auckland, the 200-or-so students are split into groups - a few will be in the classroom every day, some for just two days each week, and about 70 will learn from home for the rest of the year. The principal Kevin Bush spoke to Max Towle.
Vaccine passes are now live and the government's website has this morning been swamped with requests. This signals, hopefully, a summer with greater freedoms for people who are vaccinated against Covid-19. You'll just need to scan your QR code to be able to go to the gym, sporting events and concerts, for example. While that's a pretty straight-forward process for most of us, there are many New Zealanders for whom ready Internet access is a problem. 10 percent don't have it according to the 2018 census. Max Towle spoke to the Auckland City Missioner Helen Robinson.
The government reinforces the importance of vaccination with the Auckland border rules set to ease. Vaccine passes go live. And Pacific leaders say their countries will still sink beneath the waves, following COP26.
There are calls for Fisheries New Zealand to change the recreational daily bag limits for finfish. Different species have different regulations - some, right now, aren't subject to any limits. Fisheries NZ is consulting on the matter until Thursday. The spokesperson for the recreational fishing group Legasea Sam Woolford speaks to Max Towle.
The Pfizer vaccine prevents 90 percent of vaccinated people from experiencing Covid-19 symptoms if they get infected. Dr Ashley Bloomfield says new research from the UK also shows the age-adjusted risk of death is 32 times higher for unvaccinated people compared to vaccinated. RNZ's political editor Jane Patterson joins Max Towle with an update on the vaccine rollout.
European champions Italy missed out on automatic qualification for next year's FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Transparency International has found a third of people in some Pacific Island countries are paying bribes to receive public services -- such as healthcare, police, or education. In a survey of 6000 people across 10 Pacific countries, the organisation found many believe corruption is a big problem for their governments and in the business sector. Transparency International Pacific advisor Mariam Mathew talks to Max Towle about the results.
Family doctors are still concerned about how Covid-19 cases are being cared for in the community. Thousands of people are currently self-isolating with the virus. South Auckland GP Dr Matire Harwood told Max Towle her clinic was caring for more than 30 patients, most of whom were at home. The pair discuss how home isolation was working, booster shots, and the incoming traffic light system.
The vaccine mandate for schools is now in force, and school leaders are trying to fill the gaps in their classrooms. Teachers must have had at least their first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine by today or they can't go to work. RNZ's education correspondent John Gerritsen updates Max Towle with what's happening at schools today.
The sale of a sculpture of a massive bull sitting on a grand piano has broken New Zealand art records. Michael Parekowhai's 'A Peak in Darien' fetched more than $2 million - making it the most expensive art work ever sold in Aotearoa, and the highest price paid for a New Zealand artist's work. Art+Object gallery in Auckland auctioned off 280 items over the weekend, with proceeds totalling more than $15 million. The gallery's auctioneer Ben Plumbly spoke to Max Towle.
As New Zealand tries to get closer to the 90 percent vaccination milestone, attention is also shifting to the need for booster shots. Cabinet is set to discuss Covid-19 vaccine boosters today. Max Towle asked the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research's director of research Professor Graham le Gros why they're needed.
The Australians are men's T20 world champions for the first time after beating New Zealand by eight wickets in the tournament decider in Dubai.
An expert panel has pointed out gaps in the Defence Force's organisational structure and the way it shares information. The panel, set up just over a year ago following the Operation Burnham inquiry, recommends strengthening the integration between the Defence Force and Minister of Defence - and between the Special Air Service with the wider organisation. Max Towle is joined by RNZ political reporter Anneke Smith who has just been looking at the report and hearing from the Minister.
Today is the deadline for teachers to get the Covid-19 vaccine. Anyone who has contact with children cannot go into schools or early learning centres tomorrow if they have not had at least their first shot. Max Towle is joined by RNZ's education correspondent John Gerritsen who has been talking to school principals.
There are new two cases of Covid-19 in Woodville near Palmerston North There are locations of interest in the Wairarapa as far south as Greytown. RNZ reporter Jimmy Ellingham is in Woodville and spoke to Max Towle.
Covid-19 is beginning to spread throughout the North Island. Over the weekend nearly 400 cases were reported, some in new places. Delta's now reached the Lakes District, with four cases in Taupō and two in Rotorua. Wastewater testing has also detected the virus in Tauranga and Mount Maunganui. Max Towle spoke to RNZ reporter Tom Kitchin in Taupō..
Delta makes its way down the country, and the deadline looms for teachers to get the Covid-19 vaccine.
In China, president Xi Jinping is cementing his hold on power and his place at the centre of the country's political history. The Chinese Communist Party has passed a resolution re-writing its 100-year history. Max Towle asked Canterbury University Professor Anne-Marie Brady about the significance of the occasion and what it meant for Aotearoa.
It's turning into a scorcher for Canterbury's anniversary holiday. Normally, thousands of people would be at the showgrounds checking out tractors, turning green on fairground rides, and patting some of the region's finest and fluffiest animals. But today, the crowds are absent, yet some of the competition is still on. RNZ reporter Rachel Graham talks to Max Towle about what's happening.
Coach Ian Foster insists Beauden Barrett hasn't replaced Richie Mo'unga as the All Blacks first choice first-five.
Napier is heading for a heatwave with five days of particularly warm weather on the horizon. Metservice is forecasting 29-degrees celsius on Sunday, preceded by 22-degrees overnight. Meanwhile, there's more bad weather coming for the East Coast. Metservice meteorologist Lewis Ferris told Max Towle what to expect in the forecast.
Local iwi want the Taranaki region put into Alert Level three. Te Pati Maori co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer was at a Taranaki DHB meeting with regional leaders this morning. She speaks with Max Towle.
Six positive cases of Covid-19 have been detected in Taranaki, nearly two weeks after the first positive wastewater detection of the virus. One person is in hospital. In Stratford, the iwi and DHB have opened pop up testing and vaccination centres. Meanwhile, local iwi have told RNZ they want the region put into Alert Level three and that the Health Board is testing its own staff. RNZ reporter Jimmy Ellingham talks to Max Towle from Stratford.
A survivor of state care who steered groundbreaking research says it has transformed the way the voices of survivors are heard and incorporated into the Royal Commission Inquiry. The report, by Ihi Research, shows institutionalised government racism has been responsible for the over-representation of Māori in state care. The independent report was commissioned by the Crown Response to the Abuse in Care inquiry. The work pulled together data from several sources about Māori in state care between 1950 and 1999. Paora Crawford-Moyle, a survivor and social worker, who led the research told Māni Dunlop about the significance of having a first of its kind report co-written by survivors.
The police have busted a major cocaine smuggling operation. Eight people have been arrested and cocaine with a street value in the millions of dollars has been seized. RNZ reporter Conan Young talks to Māni Dunlop from the police announcement.
One of Brian Tamaki's iwi is distancing itself from the Destiny Church leader saying he is putting his people at risk. Ngāti Hikairo say his focus on individual rights reminds them of colonisation, and that does not align with the iwi's values. Māni Dunlop spoke to Te Runanganui o Ngāti Hikairo chair, Susan Turner, who says he is not showing leadership.
Darryl Mitchell may have been the player of the match but England captain Eoin Morgan has lauded the batting of Jimmy Neesham as the difference between the two sides as the Black Caps advanced to the final of the T20 World Cup in the UAE.
A UN climate report author believes an agreement by the US and China to work together adds hope and a sense of urgency to the current climate talks. In a surprise announcement, the two major powers have agreed to work to try to achieve the goal of keeping warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, and to move to reduce emissions, including limiting methane. Canterbury University political scientist Bronwyn Hayward spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The Whānau Ora Commissioning Agency is going back to court to try to get the Health Ministry to share data about unvaccinated Māori. The Commissioning Agency has had its request for the information, which it wants to create a better vaccine rollout for Māori, rejected by the Health Ministry for privacy reasons. The latest rejection followed a High Court ruling that the Ministry must reconsider its refusal to release the data. Māni Dunlop spoke to the agency chair, Merepeka Raukawa-Tait.
The government will repeal the Three Strikes Law. The Justice Minister Kris Faafoi is tabling a repeal bill in Parliament saying the law has led to absurd outcomes, where judges have had to give sentences they did not agree with. "We have even seen the situation, recently, where the Supreme Court had to intervene in the case of an individual with long-standing and serious mental illness to correct what the Court said was so disproportionately severe that it breached the Bill of Rights," Mr Faafoi said. Lawyer Kevin Preston took that case to the Supreme Court, and speaks to Māni Dunlop about the reforms.
The government will reform the three strikes law and Goverment ministers want Maori vaccination data released.
The International Transport Workers Federation is calling on Fiji and the Philippines to uphold and protect the rights of seafarers. The move comes as a group of Filipino sailors stranded in Fiji - some for three years - have been allowed to leave the country. The plight of the 20 men was highlighted last year after allegations of fraud and human trafficking were made against their employer - Goundar Shipping Limited. RNZ Pacific's Christine Rovoi reports.
A working paper on mis-and disinformation says Covid-19 is being used as a Trojan Horse to normalise far right ideologies in Aotearoa. Another academic says some people who have suffered during covid lockdowns, such as losing their job or ending a relationship, will use those grievances to justify violence. Dr Chris Wilson is programme director of master of conflict and terrorism studies at the University of Auckland and speaks to Māni Dunlop about how we can mitigate against such risks.
The National Party has released its plan to get students back into school as quickly as possible - and to keep them there. Among its proposals, it wants children in years 1-to-10 to get an hour each of English and maths teaching each day. The government is making its own announcement on schools this afternoon. National's education spokesperson Paul Goldsmith spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The Black Caps captain Kane Williamson has hailed the influence of veteran bowlers Trent Boult and Tim Southee ahead of tomorrow morning's T20 World Cup semifinal against England in Abu Dhabi.
New Zealand's greenhouse gas emissions jumped almost five percent in the last quarter, according to Stats NZ. Behind the rise was a major increase in coal burning for electricity generation. New Zealand has promised to phase out coal burning in the next two decades, but experts say that timeline is far too slow. Māni Dunlop spoke to David Tong, senior campaigner at Oil Change International.
The prime minister Jacinda Ardern is visiting Auckland today after nearly three months away due to the Covid-19 restrictions. RNZ reporter Kate Gregan has been following along and talks to Māni Dunlop about the visit.
Many people in Auckland are making the most of their new-found freedoms today, now the city is at Alert Level 3, step 2. Shops have re-opened, and some outdoor gathering sizes have increased to 25. RNZ reporter Louise Ternouth talks to Māni Dunlop from the Sylvia Park shopping centre.
Yesterday's fatal crash in Horowhenua killed three staff from Devon Intermediate in New Plymouth. Four people died when a truck and another vehicle collided at Kuku on State Highway 1 just after 3 o'clock. RNZ's Taranaki reporter Robin Martin spoke to Māni Dunlop.
A school community reels after a fatal crash, Auckland shops re-open, and Aotearoa's emissions keep rising as the Climate Minister admits we should have done better.
The police have brought in extra reinforcements to deal with a large crowd of demonstrators who are trying to get over barricades outside Parliament. Māni Dunlop gets the latest from RNZ reporter Jake McKee.
In Ōtautahi, Christchurch, Cup Day is going ahead today without a crowd. As well as a bit of horse racing the event is usually a spectacle of flash frocks, fascinators, and suave suits. RNZ reporter Conan Young is at Aikmans Bar and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Auckland shops can open their doors to the public after the city moves to Alert Level 3, step 2, at 11.59pm tonight. But with daily case numbers on the rise, what can retailers do to prevent the spread of Covid-19? University of Auckland aerosol chemist Dr Joel Rindelaub spoke to Māni Dunlop.
New Zealand is pushing to make sure the COP26 climate talks in Glasgow aren't just hot air. The Climate Change Minister James Shaw is co-leading work to set rules to verify countries are making the cuts they have promised. But some countries are not keen on such transparency. The minister spoke to RNZ's Climate Reporter Hamish Cardwell.
Moana Pasifika's players will have less than seven weeks to prepare for their debut campaign in Super Rugby Pacific.
A researcher has found bad actors including racist and far right groups are behind some of the misinformation directed at Māori communities. Kate Hannah is a research fellow at Te Punaha Matatini, where she's leading a project investigating misinformation and Covid-19. She spoke to Māni Dunlop about her research.
Parliament's laying on extra security as thousands of people take part in protests against public health measures to prevent Covid-19 from spreading. It's causing some disruption in central Wellington where busses are being diverted. The group wants an end to lockdowns, and for all Covid-19 testing stations to be shut down. Māni Dunlop speaks to RNZ's reporter at Parliament, Jake McKee.
Demonstrators cause disruption in the capital city, and holding countries accountable for their climate promises.
Curling up with a book is many people's idea of "me time", and it seems more people have been doing it during lockdown, especially in Tāmaki Makaurau. Auckland Library has just loaned its three millionth e-book. Māni Dunlop spoke to Auckland Council's Head of Library and Learning Services Catherine Leonard who said it was an important milestone.
Three people charged in connection with the fatal shooting of Connor Whitehead in Christchurch on Friday night are appearing in court today. The police have arrested four people in their 30s and 40s so far, and are seeking one more person. Connor was just 16-years old, and his family says they are devastated by the death and the magnitude of the senseless loss hasn't begun to sink in. He was a year 11 pupil at Burnside High School. The school's Tumuaki - Principal - Phil Holstein spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Lydia Ko and Steven Alker have both won tournaments, while Danny Lee continues his good start to the new US PGA Championship season.
The Whānau Ora Commissioning Agency is considering further legal action against the Ministry of Health which has again declined to share individual Maori vaccination data with the Agency. The High Court had ordered the Ministry to make its decision again, which it has saying it wants to work in partnership with Whānau Ora and was open to sharing some data. But the Agency says without full access, finding unvaccinated Māori was akin to finding a needle in a haystack. On Saturday, Whānau Ora providers deployed 70 workers and four mobile units to Northland, in an effort to boost low Māori vaccination rates there. Māni Dunlop spoke to the agency's chair Merepeka Raukawa-Tait.
The Christchurch mosque terrorist says he pleaded guilty to the murder of 51 people last year, because of the inhumane and degrading treatment he experienced while awaiting his trial. Brenton Tarrant's new lawyer, Tony Ellis, has made the claim on his behalf in a memo to the Chief Coroner, Judge Deborah Marshall, ahead of the Coroner's Inquiry into the mass killing. The inmate was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole in August last year, but is now being represented by Dr Ellis ahead of a coroner's inquiry. Dr Ellis says he has advised his client to appeal his sentence on human rights grounds - something which the shooter is considering. RNZ reporter Charlotte Cook talks to Māni Dunlop about the story.
Accusations of cruel and degrading treatment in prison, and Whānau Ora providers weigh up further court action.
Pacific delegates at COP26 are united in their message - to keep global warming to 1.5 degrees. More than 20,000 people from across the world are attending the UN climate summit - world leaders have for the most part now left Glasgow - leaving behind the nitty gritty negotiations. Worldwatch reporter Max Towle asks RNZ Pacific's Moera Tuilaepa-Taylor about the key discussions taking place.
There's no shortage of criticism that the Climate Change Summit in Glasgow is too much hot air and not enough action. But some climate analysts are encouraged by what they see as a tangible push for change over the opening days of COP26. The devil, as always, will be in the detail. Māni Dunlop speaks to University of Canterbury political scientist and author on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, Professor Bronwyn Hayward.
A state of emergency is still in place in Gisborne today after intense rainfall led to flooding, downing trees, and even destabilising the land under some houses. RNZ reporter Tom Kitchin has been out with Civil Defence assessing homes, and updates Māni Dunlop with the latest.
The All Blacks coach Ian Foster says he's comfortable handing back the captaincy to Sam Cane despite the loose forward conceding he's not yet up to full match fitness or form.
An opening date for the long-awaited Transmission Gully is still unknown. So far, only a quarter of the safety and quality assurance tests required under the contract to build the highway have been signed off. There are also 47 consent tasks that need to be completed -- of which only three have been done so far. Waka Kotahi wants it open by Christmas, but can't promise it will be. The Wellington Regional Council is responsible for granting the environmental consents, such as those to do with planting, stormwater management and run-off from the construction site. Māni Dunlop talks to its chair, Daran Ponter.
The extraordinarily heavy rainfall has eased in Gisborne today, as locals begin cleaning up their homes and streets after flooding, slips, and downed trees. A local state of emergency is still in place. Midday Report is today coming to you from Sponge Bay, in Gisborne, where Māni Dunlop has been speaking with officials and residents. Some locals affected by the flooding say not enough was done to help them keep their properties safe.
Taranaki health officials and iwi have sprung into action setting up testing centres, after Covid-19 was detected in a wastewater sample taken in Stratford on Monday. It's not yet known whether the virus is being shed by undetected community cases, a short-term visitor, or someone who's recently returned from managed isolation. Taranaki DHB's medical officer of health Dr Jonathan Jarman talks to Māni Dunlop about what's happening to find the infected person or people.
Iwi health providers have swung into action in Stratford in response to a strong positive test for Covid 19 in the Taranaki town's wastewater system. The mayor of Stratford says he found out about the detection late last night, and he's anxious to know more.
Police officers in small communities aren't adequately prepared for the role and lack support. That's the finding of an Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA) review, which issued 41 recommendations to Police after interviewing officers and residents in 12 small communities. The Police have welcomed the findings and say they're already responding to many of the recommendations. Māni Dunlop talks to the IPCA's group operations manager Warren Young.
When is a special really a special? Consumer NZ is urging shoppers to pay attention to so-called special prices because (at risk of over-using the word here) some specials really are not that special. Māni Dunlop asked Consumer's head of content Caitlin Cherry for some examples of the 'specials' their team had spotted
An exhausted Black Caps opener Martin Guptill admits they've still got plenty of work to do to qualify for T20 World Cup semi-finals.
To Tairāwhiti, the East Coast now, where wild weather's downed trees, closed roads, and filled rivers right to the brim. Metservice has issued an orange warning for heavy rain in Gisborne and Hawke's Bay for the rest of the day. Civil Defence Emergency Manager Ben Green talks to Māni Dunlop from Tairāwhiti's operations centre.
A damning report has found punitive prison practices breach women's rights, and exacerbate cycles of violence, discrimination, and abuse. And that limits the possibility that a jail sentence can be rehabilitative. Māni Dunlop spoke to the Human Rights Commission's equal opportunities commissioner Saunoamaali'i Karanina Sumeo.
A Māngere family home was shot at 20 times overnight in an apparent gang shooting, and the police say the family inside were lucky to escape serious injury or death. There were children in the home and police believe they were wrongly targeted in the gang shooting. RNZ's Auckland reporter Jordan Bond updates Māni Dunlop with what he's found out so far.
A family with young children are lucky to be alive after 20 bullets were fired at their house last night in a case of mistaken identity. The offenders are still on the loose. Novavax has applied for provisional approval from Medsafe for the vaccine to be used here.
The unemployment rate has fallen further to 3-point-4 percent. That's contributing to a tight labour market, which in theory, would mean in-demand workers can demand higher rates of pay. And to an extent, they are but is it enough to keep up with the rising costs of rent, fuel, food? Council of Trade Unions economist Craig Rennie has been crunching the numbers and talks to Max Towle.
New Zealand has signed up to an international pledge to reduce global methane emissions by 30-percent by 2030, but won't sharpen Aotearoa's reduction plans. Methane has an intense warming effect on the climate. But the Climate Minister James Shaw says despite signing on, New Zealand will stick to a 10-percent reduction on 2017 levels by 2030. Max Towle speaks to a member of the climate action group Generation Zero, Juliette Hendry.
Former All Black prop Carl Hayman has been diagnosed with early onset dementia at the age of 41.
There are fears several thousand teachers are resisting the push for them to get vaccinated before November the 15th. At the same time, many schools are struggling to figure out which exemption certificates are authentic. The College of GPs is working with health officials to clarify and close a loophole in the rules which allows for a wide range of exemptions. As the president of the New Zealand Principals' Federation, Perry Rush has a bird's eye view of both situations -- not to mention an eye on the clock as that mid-November deadline looms. He talks to Max Towle.
A loose border is isolating the uppermost tip of the North Island, which is now in Alert Level 3. The government shifted part of the Far North into the tighter restrictions after two cases in the area couldn't be linked to others. Max Towle talks to RNZ reporter Nita Blake-Persen who had just passed through one of the checkpoints.
A miracle in Western Australia - four-year-old Cleo Smith has been found alive and as well as can be expected - two and a half weeks after going missing from the tent she was sleeping in - at a remote camp site. Max Towle gets the latest from ABC reporter James Carmody in Perth.
A missing four-year-old girl who disappeared from a remote Western Australia campsite almost three weeks ago has been found alive and well. Lines of cars are queuing at Kaitaia Hospital this morning, as people get Covid tests after two mystery cases were identified in the Far North.
Auckland scientists have had to throw out crucial cancer research samples due the length of the city's lockdown. Experts can't understand why labs aren't included in the Government's latest easing of restrictions - saying they need to reopen urgently to avoid more impact on their work. Max Towle speaks to Professor Andrew Shelling, who heads medical genetics research at Auckland University.
The US Supreme Court has today been hearing arguments relating to a controversial law - that imposes an all but total ban on abortion in the state. It's being challenged by the US justice department and abortion providers and advocacy groups. Max Towle speaks to RNZ correspondent Toni Waterman about the legal arguments.
A survey of dairy farmers has found nearly a third are feeling less positive than they were 12 months ago.
Christchurch's main wastewater treatment plant fire has just been put out, nearly a day after a blaze began. Up to 50 firefighters were fighting the blaze at its peak yesterday afternoon, when black plumes of smoke spewed across the city. Christchurch City Council's Head of Three Waters and Waste Helen Beaumont joins Max Towle on Midday Report.
The Minister for Māori Development is backing the 90 percent double vaccination DHB milestone, saying it could take until at least the middle of 2022 to get Māori up to that level. Willie Jackson talks to Max Towle about the $23 million dollars (the first tranche from a $120m fund) the government is putting into supporting the vaccine rollout.
The Southern District Health Board has been investigating just how big a risk Covid-19 is to the community. The latest outbreak hasn't yet spread to the south - touch wood - but worst-case modelling for the region shows about 900 people becoming infected every week - 40 hospitalised - and a handful in intensive care. Now, the DHB is today considering a resolution to make sure vulnerable groups - such as Māori, Pasifika, low socio-economic groups - also reach 90 percent doubled vaccinated. Max Towle spoke to local Māori health leader and DHB member Tuari Potiki,
Christchurch's wastewater treatment plant continues to burn. The Southern DHB prepares the worst case Covid scenario.
A record-breaking electric flight touched down in Wellington this morning. The 2-seater took the longest ever pure electric flight over water, flying from Omaka near Blenheim, across Cook Strait, to the Capital's airport. RNZ visual reporter Samuel Rillstone speaks to Max Towle about the achievement.
Doctors and advocacy groups are pushing for better podiatry services as more than 600 amputations every year are thought to be preventable. Major factors are - unsurprisingly - access to health services and education. Max Towle speaks to the chief executive of Diabetes New Zealand Heather Verry.
The Black Caps spinner Ish Sodhi says the players were "feeling the pressure" ahead of this morning's T20 World Cup clash against India, which New Zealand won by eight wickets to keep their semi-final hopes alive.
To New Zealand's covid outbreak now, where the number of mystery infections over the past fortnight has reached 384. Daily case numbers remain above 100: 143 were announced yesterday, and 160 on Saturday. Today, Cabinet ministers will discuss the current covid restrictions and announce any changes this afternoon. Max Towle speaks to Te Ropu Whakakaupapa Uruta / National Maori Pandemic Group co-leader, and clinic director for the national hauora coalition, Dr Rawiri McKree Jansen.
The group - Lawyers for Climate Action - says it has a major issue with how the Government calculates its emissions goals. Max Towle speaks to the group's spokesperson James Every-Palmer QC who describes the government's accounting trick.
Idyllic Pacific countries are at the forefront of catastrophic climate change yet their voices, like their low-lying islands, are at risk of being drowned out. Just four Pacific nations' leaders are attending the COP26 summit in Glasgow. The Cook Islands' Prime Minister Mark Brown is staying home due to Covid travel restrictions - he says it's verging on hypocrisy that Pacific countries are denied a voice unless they attend in person. RNZ Pacific reporter Koroi Hawkins tells Max Towle what he's hearing from the region's leaders.
A young Maori climate activist has told those at the opening of the massive UN summit that colonialism is to blame for much of the damage the changing climate will bring. Most Pacific leaders can't get to the Glasgow summit because of Covid travel restrictions.
It's Tokelau Language Week - a dialect spoken by fewer than five thousand people worldwide. This year's theme speaks to the importance of preserving Pacific languages and cultures. That theme is: Tapui tau gagana ma tau aganuku, i te manaola ma te lautupuola, meaning Tokelau! Preserve your language and culture, to enhance spiritual and physical wellbeing. Cultural Advisor, translator and leader in the Tokelau community Neta Peau joins Māni Dunlop on Midday Report.
This afternoon Te Matatini organising committee will make an announcement about the biggest event on the Māori calendar. The Kapa Haka national competition was due to be held in February next year in Tamaki Makaurau, after being postponed due to last year's covid-19 lockdowns. Māni Dunlop spoke to reporter Matai O'Connor about the contingency arrangements.
New Zealand fishers hauled up to seven tonnes of coral to the surface in a single year, according to new data. But recent science indicates what comes up in the net is not the whole scale of the damage. The seven tonnes figure indicates up to 2400 tonnes of coral were destroyed on the seabed. Greenpeace spokesperson Ellie Hooper talks to Māni Dunlop about the importance of preserving delicate ocean ecosystems.
Central Otago wine growers want the government to increase the number of RSE workers allowed into the country now border restrictions for Pacific nations are lifting.
A Christchurch landlord has been ordered to pay nearly $40,000 by the Tenancy Tribunal, due to multiple rule breaches, including substandard housing conditions which contributed to a child developing rheumatic heart disease. The landlords shifted to Australia without appointing a local agent to oversee the property which did not comply with insulation or smoke alarm requirements. Some rooms were so damp and mouldy, the tenants couldn't use them at all. The manager of the Tenants Protection Association Christchurch Penny Arthur talks to Māni Dunlop.
The Privacy Foundation wants evidence ACC is undertaking the two-yearly privacy audits it committed to in 2012, to help it stay on track with much-needed improvements to its operations. The Foundation says the last known audit was done in 2014 - RNZ has asked ACC for comment on that matter. ACC has stood down 14 staff this week for inappropriately sharing client information on social media groups. The chair of privacy foundation, and associate professor of commercial law at Auckland University Gehan Gunasekara talks to Māni Dunlop.
Ōtautahi locals remain in a state of flux, with many fearing the city could be put into a snap lockdown to contain any spread of Covid-19. Two positive cases of the virus were detected on Wednesday evening and there are several locations of interest, including takeaway joints and supermarkets. RNZ Christchurch reporter Kim Moodie talks to Māni Dunlop about the latest.
186 years ago today, on 28th October 1835, thirty-four northern chiefs signed He Whakaputanga o te Rangatiratanga o Nu Tireni, the Declaration of the Independence. Commemorations are underway in Waitangi to mark the historic day. Signed in the presence of James Busby and other British Settlers, the declaration asserted the independence of the 'new country' under the rule of the United Tribes, who would then meet every autumn to discuss and create the laws that would govern the country into the future. It was formally acknowledged by the British government in 1836, and by 1839 52 rangatira from around the country had signed the document. Māni Dunlop spoke to Ngati Hine leader Pita Tipene - about what Whakaputanga means today.
A group of the world's most influential scientific advisors have penned a joint letter saying the need for urgent climate action is unequivocal. This comes as government leaders head to Glasgow for the COP26 summit, while the United Nations says countries' proposed carbon-cutting plans need to be boosted by nearly 700-percent. Māni Dunlop speaks to the New Zealand Prime Minister's Chief Science Advisor Professor Dame Juliet Gerrard, who has also signed the letter.
Locals in the Bay of Plenty town of Kawerau are frustrated and angry that yet another shop was ram raided overnight. It is the fourth instance of a shop being smashed by a car at a time of increased burglaries in the town. Earlier this month, the Mayor Malcolm Campbell's butchery -- which had been there for almost 50 years - was not only ram raided but also set on fire. Mr Campbell speaks to Māni Dunlop.
Some rural communities are at boiling point over proposed changes to drinking water regulations.
Almost three hundred people with Covid-19 have been participating in a trial to isolate at home. But that model won't work for everyone - only people with a suitable house can effectively manage their isolation independently. It highlights a housing divide between those with adequate living conditions, and those who have larger families, or rent. Pasifika Futures chief executive Debbie Sorensen joins Māni Dunlop on Midday Report.
Health professionals remain concerned about the sector's capacity to deal with the growing Delta outbreak. Two cases of Covid-19 have been detected in Christchurch. Māni Dunlop speaks to the chair of the New Zealand Medical Association, Dr Alistair Humphrey. Dr Humphrey was the Canterbury medical officer of health for two decades up until a few months ago.
A covid modeller says it's possible dozens of people have already contracted Covid-19 in Christchurch, where queues to get tested are already backing up along streets. This morning, the Ministry of Health reported two cases have been detected in Ōtautahi. One of them flew out of Auckland more than a week ago and the other is a family member in the same household. Both are unvaccinated, and the Covid-19 response minister Chris Hipkins says they are poor users of the Covid tracer app. Nobody at the Canterbury DHB was available to talk to Te Poutūtanga. Māni Dunlop spoke to Canterbury University covid modeller Professor Michael Plank who was concerned about reports the case had been in the community for up to two weeks.
New Zealand's Covid response minister, Chris Hipkins signalled yesterday there'll soon be changes to MIQ including shorter stays and eventually the whole system will be replaced with home isolation. In Queensland, a home isolation trial is now underway with the state hoping to open the border to vaccinated travellers by Christmas and potentially scrapping isolation altogether. Jaime Lewis is one of the participants in the trial - she had been working in Melbourne and had been in lockdown since July. To take part in the trial, she had to be fully vaccinated, fly into Queensland instead of drive, and stay in a freestanding property. Worldwatch reporter Perlina Lau asked her about what the trial required and how it was going so far.
A new species of whale has been identified. It's called the 'Ramari's beaked whale', and it's named after tohunga tohora - or whale expert - Ramari Stewart who helped identify the mammal as a distinct species after one washed ashore on the west coast of Te Waipounamu nearly a decade ago. Before then, it was thought to be a "True's beaked whale". Māni Dunlop talks to the lead researcher from Auckland University biologist Dr Emma Carroll about the discovery.
Hunters want to help protect the country's conservation estate, but say they need to be included in conversations about culling deer, pigs and goats. Forest & Bird has created a series of maps from official data, showing virtually all conservation land on mainland New Zealand, and large areas of privately owned land, are under attack from herds of wild deer, pigs, or goats. It says the feral animals are affecting important carbon sinks and the ecological integrity of native forests. The Game Animal Council chair Grant Dodson told Māni Dunlop he agreed there were increasing numbers of these wild animals but says it's important that everyone - especially hunters - is part of the planning of a management plan.
The Black Caps skipper Kane Williamson has highlighted Pakistan's clinical efficiency in both their bowling and batting as the difference between the two sides in their T20 world cup match in Sharjah.
Consumers are paying up to $200 more for power each year, subsidising a deal for the Tiwai Point smelter to continue. An Electricity Authority review has focused on the smelter's role in electricity prices. So why are greater costs being passed down to customers? Consumer NZ's Chief Executive Jon Duffy told Māni Dunlop people had every right to feel frustrated.
The Government is pressing ahead with its nationwide three waters reforms, making them compulsory despite stiff opposition from local councils. The government will now set up working groups to guide the process and by mid-2024, four new publicly-owned entities will take day-to-day responsibility for drinking, storm, and waste water pipes. It comes after years of warnings from the Auditor-General's office that councils were not spending enough money to fix, maintain and replace their networks - a bill the government says is now an estimated $185 billion over the next 30 years. The Minister for Local Government Nanaia Mahuta told Māni Dunlop the case for change was too compelling to ignore.
The Government will force local councils to be part of its Three Waters reforms, as it pushes ahead with the major changes. The Christchurch Mayor says the Government's decision is robbing local communities of a voice.
New Zealand's Council for International Development's annual conference has kicked off. It's the umbrella organisation for the country's aid agencies. The virtual conference has been focusing on humanitarian aid and its relationship with the Pacific Islands. RNZ Pacific's Eleisha Foon has the details.
Today cabinet faces some tough calls when it comes to mandatory vaccinations, targets and requests for Northland to return to lockdown. The Government will hold a post-Cabinet press conference at 4pm today. Political commentator Lara Greaves spoke to Midday Report's Māni Dunlop about what the country's leaders have on their table for the coming week.
Farming towns are hoping to reap the rewards of one of Fonterra's biggest milk price payouts in the co-operative's history. The dairy giant expects to pay between $7.90-8.90 per kilogram of milk solids. Fonterra's chief executive Miles Hurrell said an $8.40 payout would pour almost $13 billion into regional Aotearoa. One region hoping to see that boost is the Hauraki District. The council's mayor Toby Adams spoke to Midday Report's Māni Dunlop.
Captain Kane Williamson says Pakistan's win over India will have them in a confident frame of mind going into their T20 cricket World Cup clash tomorrow morning.
The Whānau Ora Commissioning Agency is arguing that the health ministry's refusal to share Māori vaccine information is inconsistent and a breach of the Treaty of Waitangi. The agency is trying to get access to the personal vaccination information of Maori at a hearing that's underway at the High Court in Wellington. RNZ Te Manu Korihi reporter Jamie Tahana has been covering the case and talks to Māni Dunlop.
Many of Auckland's senior High School students returned to class this morning - now wearing masks - more than two months after the first community case of the Delta variant of Covid-19 was detected in the city. After 10 weeks of learning from home, years 11, 12 and 13 can return - with less than four weeks to go before end of year exams. The principal of Papatoetoe High School Vaughan Couillaut told Midday Report's Māni Dunlop more than half of students had showed up for the first day back.
Senior students are back at school today, but with case numbers rising, the race to vaccinate continues. The deputy prime minister Grant Robertson told Morning Report the Government expects to make announcement regarding "no jab, no job" this week. At the weekend an unvaccinated man tested positive for Covid-19 in the South Island. Otago University epidemiologist Professor Michael Baker spoke to Midday Report's Māni Dunlop.
Senior students returning to class in Auckland and much of Waikato this morning are relieved they can get on with their learning... but nervous about their safety.
It's Niuean language week in Aotearoa, and the theme is 'May the Niuean people thrive' - Kia Tupuolaola e Moui he Tagata Niue . The Auckland War Memorial Museum hosted an online showcase to celebrate the island nation's history, culture, and activism. Ioane Aleke Fa'avae is an expert in the Niuean language and he spoke with Māni Dunlop.
The Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says the government's new traffic light system may be rolled out in the South Island ahead of the rest of the country, if its DHBs reach the 90 percent vaccination target before the end of November. The traffic lights approach makes use of vaccine certificates and aims to reward New Zealanders who are double-dose vaccinated against Covid-19. Queenstown Lakes' mayor Jim Boult says he thinks the traffic light system will motivate more vaccine-hesitant young people to get the jab.
The All Blacks coach Ian Foster says Sam Cane is simply not up to resuming captaincy duties.
The government's reopening plan does not include a specific target for Māori vaccination rates. The new system will come in when 90 percent of the entire eligible population in each District Health Board area is fully vaccinated. The Māori vaccination rates lag significantly behind in every DHB. Independent Covid Analyst Dr Rawiri Taonui has written extensively on the data of low vaccination but high case numbers among Māori. He told Mani Dunlop the new system doesn't cater to Māori.
The prime minister Jacinda Ardern this morning set out how the new traffic light system will work. To discuss what the traffic light system will mean for Aucklanders - the city's mayor Phil Goff spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The future of Covid-19 restrictions is about to change to a new traffic light system, so long as at least 90-percent of eligible New Zealanders get two doses of the vaccine. Te Pūrongo o te Poutūtanga presenter Māni Dunlop explains how it will work, what support will be available for business, and what health experts and modellers think of the plan.
The president of the Federated States of Micronesia says geopolitical competition in the Pacific is not as fraught as often believed. David Panuelo also insists Australia's recent nuclear submarine deal with the US and the UK is not a seismic shift in the international order. RNZ Pacific's Johnny Blades talks to Max Towle about his interview with Mr Panuelo.
US regulators have approved booster shots for both the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson Covid-19 vaccines. Those, along with Pfizer, are the three approved boosters in the country. The Food and Drug Administration has also announced it's allowing people to receive a booster dose of a vaccine different to that of their first or second jab - which is being referred to as mixing and matching vaccines. Worldwatch's Max Towle speaks to correspondent Ira Spitzer.
To some news that will be be pretty obvious to most of us, but clearly some people need a reminder: please don't pat penguins or any other native wild animals. The Department of Conservation is investigating concerning reports kororā - little blue penguins - being handled by people at coastal sites near Napier. Māni Dunlop talks to DOC ecologist Bruce McKinlay.
A Hastings supermarket is selling avocados for 9 cents each. While that's great for those making guacamole - what does it mean for the growers? Alistair Nicholson is the vice chair of the Avocado Growers' Association and talks to Māni Dunlop about the perfect storm of export delays, a fruit glut and Covid-19 hindering hospitality demand.
What does the newly-announced free trade agreement with the UK mean for the primary industries?
New Zealand, after Australia, is the second country to secure a Free Trade Deal with the UK, post Brexit. British High Commissioner Laura Clarke spoke with Māni Dunlop.
New Zealand has very nearly secured an historic free trade deal with the United Kingdom, eliminating nearly all tariffs on New Zealand exports. Estimated to save exporters about $38 million a year, it's also this country's first bi-lateral deal to specifically include climate change provisions. RNZ's political editor Jane Patterson talks to Māni Dunlop.
Aotearoa secures a free trade deal with the UK, and Dame Cindy Kiro is sworn in as our new governor general.
An Auckland budgeting services trust says something needs to change - and fast - to help families struggling to feed themselves as food, fuel and housing prices increase faster than income. Mangere Budgeting Services Trust's research into families found an average family of four in Auckland has $39 to spend on food a week. Consumer NZ and The NZ Food & Grocery Council have joined forces asking parliament to shake-up the supermarket industry. The Trust's chief executive Darryl Evans talks to Māni Dunlop about the severity and precariousness of the situation.
A Pacific public health expert is warning it's absurd and unrealistic not to ensure all ethnicities reach vaccination milestones before opening up and easing restrictions. 94 community cases were announced yesterday; most of them in Auckland and there are now 183 mystery cases from the past fortnight. Auckland University associate professor Collin Tukuitonga told Māni Dunlop that shows the outbreak is out of control.
News from the rural and farming sector with food producers wanting more certainty from the government about vaccination requirements.
Sam Whitelock is back as All Blacks captain and will lead the side on their northern hemisphere tour despite the return of regular skipper Sam Cane.
The National Party has laid out its so-called Back in Business plan to support businesses, reduce restrictions, and reopen the country. It would let areas with 70 percent vaccination and no Covid-19 move to level 1, and fully vaccinated businesses return to normal operation. It would also bring in temporary tax cuts for small business and industry-specific support. The Party's finance spokesperson Michael Woodhouse spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The government this morning announced plans to change the way managed isolation is co-ordinated for health workers, guaranteeing 300 spots a month for the health and disability sector. Health Minister Andrew Little says Aotearoa needs to get health workers into the country, whether they are returning New Zealanders or doctors and nurses coming in from other countries. Māni Dunlop spoke to Sarah Dalton from the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists about the change.
Three COVID-19 positive community cases escaped from an MIQ facility near Auckland Airport yesterday evening. The first two men were caught by police around five minutes after they fled. But the third, who was being taken home to retrieve personal items and care for a pet, disappeared within 10 minutes despite being escorted by security. They are yet to be found. Te Pūrongo's request to interview the joint head of MIQ, Brigadier Rose King, was declined. RNZ reporter Katie Todd tells Māni Dunlop the latest.
Three covid positive cases escape quarantine - one's still at large, the government sets 300 places aside for healthcare workers to come into the country, and the National Party lays out its plan to get businesses back on their feet.
The former Australian prime minister Kevin Rudd, says people can expect China's aggressive and confrontational diplomacy to continue for the time being. Rudd who is a fluent Mandarin speaker says the posture is likely to remain at least until next November's 20th party congress where President Xi is expected to stay on for a third term in power.
Colin Powell, the first African American to hold the country's top cabinet position of secretary of state, has died at 84. In many ways he shaped American foreign policy for decades, and for a time was considered the leading contender to become the first Black president. He's died of Covid complications - he was suffering from a type of blood cancer that likely made him more susceptible to the virus. Worldwatch's Max Towle reports.
Tearfund's annual ethical fashion report out today shows some promising signs from New Zealand brands. Five New Zealand companies ranked in the top 20, and roughly 40 percent of the surveyed brands have improved their scores. Māni Dunlop spoke to sustainable fashion specialist Jacinta Fitzgerald who said people still needed to do their own research when trying to shop ethically.
Workers are feeling the pinch, with inflation running red hot while wages fail to keep up. Year on year, inflation is at 4.9 percent according to this week's figures from Stats NZ. That means some families are being forced to choose between essentials - such as groceries, fuel, power, and clothes. The Council of Trade Unions' economist Craig Rennie told Māni Dunlop that more than four out of five workers' pay packets are not keeping up with rising costs.
The Waitangi Tribunal says slow progress calculating compensation to Māori health providers risks further prejudice. It's also calling on the government to ensure the newly appointed Māori Health Authority - which it is cautiously welcoming - is given enough power to uphold tino rangatiratanga. It's the final chapter of the first stage of the Waitangi Tribunal Health Services and Outcomes Inquiry, known as Wai 2575 - which encompasses a number of claims. Lady Tureiti Moxon who is a member in steering the new Maori Health Authority and chair of the National Urban Māori Authority talks to Māni Dunlop.
A public health expert reviewing the government's contact tracing strategy says it's bizarre that system capacity hasn't been increased, given its cost-effectiveness compared to spiralling cases and continued restrictions. The Ministry of Health's update yesterday said 140 cases from the last fortnight remained unlinked. (After the interview, the latest 1pm update on 19/10/21 said there were now 183 unlinked cases) Otago University's Professor Philip Hill, who's part of Sir Brian Roche's continuous improvement ministerial advisory group, told Māni Dunlop he's not convinced there are enough contact tracers available to meet the ministry's stated aim of reaching the contacts of 1000 cases a day.
Labour and National are promising to make it easier to build more houses. The parties are launching joint housing reforms -- saying as many as 100,000 extra homes could go up within the next eight years. The cross party announcement came from government ministers for housing Megan Woods and the environment David Parker, as well as the National Party's leader Judith Collins and housing spokesperson Nicola Willis. RNZ's political editor Jane Patterson explains the reforms with Māni Dunlop.
Countries in the western Pacific have been hit hard by the pandemic, despite largely being able to keep widespread transmission at bay. Yet according to a report by World Vision, the economic impact is feared to be great - including for children. Experts say unless urgent action is taken, the development of countries like Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea risks being set back a decade. Worldwatch's Max Towle talks to RNZ Pacific reporter Walter Zweifel.
Voting for the Bird of the Year opens today -- but the competition's more controversial than usual. Feathers went flying a few weeks ago when it was suggested a bat (a mammal, not a bird) would be part of the lineup. Forest and Bird spokesperson Laura Keown tells Māni Dunlop why the country's only native land-mammal is part of this year's competition.
New Zealand is committing $1.3 billion over four years to support countries most vulnerable to climate change - at least half of that money will go to the Pacific. The announcement comes ahead of the UN's Climate Change Conference in Glasgow, which begins at the end of October. Dr Luke Harrington is a Senior Research Fellow at the New Zealand Climate Change Research Institute tells Māni Dunlop it's a good start, but not enough.
The Government's considering the next steps in its pandemic response, including replacing alert levels with a so-called traffic light system once vaccination rates a certain level. Ministers will also decide whether Auckland, parts of Waikato and Northland are safe to move out of level 3, or at least have some restrictions loosened. Māni Dunlop talks to immunologist and the Associate Dean Pacific for Otago University's Wellington campus Dr Dianne Sika-Paotonu about the current state of the outbreak.
The Government's considering the next steps in its pandemic response, including replacing alert levels with a so-called traffic light system once vaccination rates a certain level. But Māori leaders have joined a growing chorus of opposition to the government's proposed system. Ministers will also decide whether Auckland, parts of Waikato and Northland are safe to move out of level 3, or at least have some restrictions loosened. RNZ's te manu korihi reporter Jamie Tahana talks to Mani Dunlop about why those Māori leaders are urging for more caution.
The rising price of food, housing and construction are pushing up the rate of inflation, to 4.9 percent year on year. But there are concerns many people's wages are not keeping up with those rising costs. New research from Consumer NZ shows about 500,000 New Zealanders have no savings and are living pay cheque to pay cheque. Otago University researcher at He Kainga Oranga, Housing and Health Research Programme, Dr Kimberley O'Sullivan talks to Māni Dunlop.
Entertainment, games, music and kai are among the drawcards for thr Super Saturday vaccination drive. Max Towle talks to Catherine Campbell who runs a Mr Whippy ice cream truck which will be at Mount Maunganui tomorrow.
More celebrities, including director Taika Waititi and All Blacks and Silver Ferns are taking part in tomorrow's Vaxathon. This is part of Super Saturday - a public health drive to get as many people vaccinated against Covid-19 as possible. Max Towle speaks to medical education lecturer at Auckland University Dr Mataroria Lyndon of Ngāti Hine and Ngāti Whatua.
A rural health specialist is hoping Super Saturday drives up vaccine numbers in rural areas.
A Christchurch couple in a long running dispute over the insurance payout for their earthquake damaged home have reached an out-of-court settlement with Southern Response. The class action was brought on behalf of former AMI Insurance/Southern Response policyholders who believe the company misled them into settling their claims for less than their policies entitled them to. The lawyer for Brendan and Colleen Ross, Grant Cameron, talks to Max Towle about the settlement.
The health sector is preparing to change the way it deals with positive cases as numbers continue to grow, such as caring for more people in their homes. The director-general of health Dr Ashley Bloomfield says as cases rise more alerts will be sent via the covid tracer app or by businesses. Otago University professor Robin Gauld tells Max Towle the health sector is having to rapidly adapt to stay ahead of the outbreak.
People in Te Awamutu are being urged to get tested for Covid-19, after traces of the virus were detected in wastewater for the second time this week. Health officials have not identified anyone who's returned to the area from managed isolation and quarantine - and might be shedding the virus. The Waikato DHB says it's running a pop-up testing clinic in Te Awamutu today, from 10am until 3pm in the afternoon. 98 people were tested yesterday after the clinic opened mid-afternoon. Max Towle interviews Waipā District Council's Deputy Mayor Liz Stolwyk.
Covid detected in Te Awamutu's wastewater. The vaccination push continues ahead of Super Saturday.
A quick nasal swab is about to become standard for people entering the critical worksites of 25 big businesses. The government has given the consortium approval to import 300,000 rapid antigen tests so surveillance testing can begin. Mainfreight's managing director Don Braid tells Māni Dunlop while it will help businesses keep operating, vaccines are more important.
It's estimated 133 women have no idea they have breast cancer right now - with many missing their mammograms due to the recent covid lockdowns - and putting the systems back a decade. Analysis by the Breast Cancer Foundation shows the number of undetected cases is expected to grow as both BreastScreen Aotearoa and private clinics deal with the fallout of extended lockdowns. Ah-Leen Rayner, chief executive of Breast Cancer Foundation NZ, told Māni Dunlop urgent action was needed.
Star player Abby Erceg is missing from the Football ferns squad to play Olympic champions Canada.
The proposed home isolation system will require regular checks by primary care providers, which they say is an extra burden for an already stretched workforce. Māni Dunlop talks to Doctor Matire Harwood, a GP and member of the Māori Health Committee at the Health Research Council.
Some hospital doctors fear re-deploying nurses to deal with Covid-19 patients in ICU will come at the expense of other clinical services. The Association of Salaried Medical Specialists chief executive Sarah Dalton joins Māni Dunlop.
The Government has laid out its plans for how the hospital system will cope with a growing number of Covid-19 cases. The short answer is: the hospital system won't need to, because the vast majority of patients will be cared for at home and in the community. GP Dr Jeff Lowe says that's down to the effectiveness of the Covid vaccine. Māni Dunlop speaks with the Health Minister Māni Dunlop.
Severe gales are battering parts of the lower North Island and upper South Island. MetService is warning severe southerly winds are picking up in Wellington, Wairarapa and Marlborough. The storm's brewing large swells - forcing the cancellation of the Cook Strait ferries. Māni Dunlop gets the latest forecast from MetService meteorologist Dan Corrigan.
A Northland service provider says Māori have been sidelined in the covid response, and is being described as a breach of te Tiriti o Waitangi. Te Hau Ora o Ngāpuhi argues the vaccine rollout has created barriers instead of getting rid of them for Māori, which violates the right to equitable treatment. Its chief operating officer Tia Ashby talks to Māni Dunlop.
A document which aims to shape Aotearoa's Emission Reduction plan is being described as weak and disappointing. Ideas from government ministers and agencies on how the country can become carbon neutral by 2050 are part of the public consultation document released today. The Government is due to publish an emissions reduction plan in May next year as part of its climate change obligations. But Climate Change advocates say the document doesn't address any of its concerns. The Climate Change Minister James Shaw tells Māni Dunlop there is still time to improve the plan - and he wants the public's ideas.
The Covid response Minister Chris Hipkins says covid case numbers in Waikato were encouraging ahead of Cabinet considering today whether to drop that region and Northland back to alert level two. But in Auckland there are now signs that the R0 of the delta variant is around 1.3, meaning cases could double every fortnight. Māni Dunlop speaks to Te Pūnaha Matatini principal investigator and Auckland University physics lecturer Dion O'Neale
Frustrations grow over Auckland's borders, and we ask the Climate Change Minister why the government's emissions-slashing ideas aren't enough.
Pasifika women might as well be working for free from now until the rest of the year, given the chasm that is the gender and ethnic pay gap. Figures from the Council of Trade Unions show on average Pasifika women earn 27.4 percent less than Pakeha men - so for every $100 earned by a Pakeha man, on average a Pasifika woman only takes home $72.60. The equal employment opportunities commissioner Saunoamaali'i Karanina Sumeo spoke to Mani Dunlop.
Those vying for a house in the North Island are most at-risk in an economic downturn. CoreLogic's Property Vulnerability figures released just moments ago show the areas most prone to changes in the housing market, in the wake of record property prices. Auckland is the most vulnerable main centre, while in the regions, it's Ōtorohanga and Mackenzie. Māni Dunlop spoke to Corelogic's Chief Property Economist Kelvin Davidson.
News from the rural and farming sector, including how some stock losses are expected after a cold blast hit the South Island overnight.
New Zealand Olympic and Commonwealth Games boss Kereyn Smith doesn't expect a dramatic change to the Commonwealth Games programme despite a decision there will be just two compulsory sports in the future.
Covid vaccinations are doing a really good job at preventing infection, serious illness and keeping people out of hospital. That's the takeaway from the latest data from the Ministry of Health which shows just four of the 158 cases who've ended up in hospital during this outbreak had two doses of vaccine. And fewer than 6-percent of the 1622 cases up until 11 October during this outbreak were among doubly vaccinated people. Mani Dunlop spoke to Auckland University associate professor of vaccinology, Helen Petousis-Harris, about what the figures tell us about vaccinations and the severity of illness.
A worst case scenario model for the Covid-19 outbreak says there could be 5,200 cases per week in the Auckland and Northern region - and that's if 90 percent of people aged 12 and over are vaccinated. The modelling, put together for the Ministry of Health, is part of planning for how hospital and ICU systems would cope. For more on this, Māni Dunlop was joined by RNZ reporter, Ben Strang.
The travel companion of a woman who travelled through Northland has also been confirmed as a positive Covid-19 case. She was found by the police in West Auckland last night, and is in the process of being interviewed. To find out more Māni Dunlop spoke to RNZ reporter Katie Doyle.
A Northland traveller's companion tests positive for Covid-19, and hospitals prepare for a worst-case surge.
After nearly two years of closed borders, Fiji will be opening its doors to international travellers from the 11th of November. A list of countries will be on the "green list" and includes, New Zealand, Australia, the US, parts of Europe, the UK and most Pacific island countries and territories. Travellers will need to be fully vaccinated and test negative for the virus 72 hours before departure. Just over 80 percent of Fiji's population is now fully vaccinated. Worldwatch's Perlina Lau spoke to Fiji correspondent Lice Movono about how it would work.
First there were vaccine clinics, then buses. Now, Māori health providers in South Auckland are adding 44 vaccine campervans (campervaxxes?) to their covid-fighting fleet. Māni Dunlop talks to the chief executive of Manurewa Marae, Natasha Kemp. (file photo)
The National Iwi Chairs Pandemic Response Group wants everyone to stick to the travel restrictions and are pushing for all Maori to get vaccinated. Border control checkpoints went into full swing in Northland over the weekend - with local volunteers saying they'll do all they can to keep Delta out of the region. The latest data from last week show 58 percent of Maori have had their first dose and 35 percent are fully vaccinated. Co-chair of the iwi chair pandemic response group is Mike Smith talks to Māni Dunlop.
News from the rural and farming sector including a major farming company that says it may need to place restrictions on unvaccinated staff in the future.
The Aotearoa Men's netball team are expecting an improved performance in tonight's second game against the Silver Ferns in Wellington.
Medical professionals are warning the health system would be ill-equipped to deal with escalating Delta cases outside of Auckland. Dr Michael Howard, an emergency consultant at Whangarei Hospital, told Nine to Noon intensive care capacity is already stretched in New Zealand and would struggle with an influx of Covid patients. The Nurses Organisation's kaiwhakahaere is Kerri Nuku and she spoke to Māni Dunlop on Midday Report.
The Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has confirmed the elimination strategy for Covid-19 will remain outside of Auckland. Public health experts say that means the border surrounding the super city will need to become a lot harder for positive cases to get through. They also say travel to the South Island should be restricted to essential workers who are double vaccinated, and required to have a PCR and a rapid antigen test. Māni Dunlop spoke to Otago University professor of epidemiology Michael Baker.
Locations of interest are popping up in Northland, after a positive case travelled there. But locals are frustrated at reports the woman isn't being forthcoming with public health teams, who're trying to find out where they went and whether there was anybody else with them. 60 new community cases were announced yesterday, and Government ministers are today considering the alert level settings for the country, including Tai Tokerau which is at Alert level 3 until midnight tomorrow. RNZ Northland reporter Samantha Olley joined Māni Dunlop on Midday Report.
Calls to tighten Auckland's borders ahead of Cabinet decision and Northland locals concerned there was a second traveller.
Ni sa bula! It's Fijian language week in Aotearoa. The Ministry for Pacific Peoples has been marking the week with live Facebook videos and Instagram stories of Fijians sharing stories of their language with their Pacific neighbours. Fiji was beaten down by a Covid-19 surge earlier this year, and has been undergoing a long process of recovery. RNZ Pacific journalist Christine Rovoi joins Worldwatch's Max Towle on Midday Report.
Murupara in the Bay of Plenty has the lowest vaccination uptake of any town in the country. Less than one-third of Murupara residents have gotten even one jab, and just sixteen percent are fully vaccinated. Nationally, 80 percent of eligible New Zealanders have had at least one dose and more than half are fully vaccinated Māni Dunlop spoke to Te Akauroa Miki who leads the town's Covid-19 vaccine rollout.
The Prime Minister continues her whirlwind tour of Eastern North Island centres today - trying to put a rocket under the vaccination uptake. Data released yesterday show vaccination levels in wealthy metropolitan suburbs far exceed those of poorer and more remote ones. Māni Dunlop spoke to RNZ Hawke's Bay reporter Tom Kitchin.
Supplies are looking very tight as winegrowers here grapple with two seasons of low grape yields, as well as shipping and labour problems.
Experts from a variety of disciplines are warning Covid-19 is a threat multiplier exploiting the cracks in our social infrastructure. In Aotearoa, we first saw the Delta variant take hold in Auckland's transitional housing. Now it looks like it's here to stay. But what does that mean for protecting our most vulnerable communities? Māori housing researcher Jacqueline Paul joins Māni Dunlop on Midday Report.
Northlanders are bracing for a possible shift to Alert Level 3, after confirmation that a Delta-positive essential worker went through Whangārei. National's Dr Shane Reti talks to Māni Dunlop about the region's vaccination uptake, and helping administer doses, in Northland.
Northlanders are bracing for a possible shift to Alert Level 3, after confirmation that a Delta-positive essential worker went through Whangārei. So far, there are no locations of interest listed for the region where the vaccine uptake was low - but confirmation of the result appears to be turning that around. RNZ's Te Tai Tokerau reporter Samantha Olley is at a mass vaccination clinic in Whangārei and talks to Māni Dunlop.
Northland prepares for a possible alert level upgrade. And the Prime Minister hits the road to try supercharge the vaccination uptake.
The vaccine rollout is bumping up against those who might be hesitant or so-called anti-vaxxers. So how can we tackle those difficult conversations with whanau and friends who're reluctant to get the vaccine? With the government pushing for high vaccination rates as a ticket to more freedoms and a transition away from lockdowns - the voices of those who don't want the vaccine are becoming louder. Jess Berentson Shaw from The Workshop, a research centre that develops ways to talk about complicated issues, including Covid-19 vaccinations, gave Māni Dunlop some tips on how to have those conversations.
In another blow for the events sector the South Island's largest springtime event, the Canterbury A and P show has been cancelled. Due to take place next month the event usually attracts a hundred thousand people. It's the second year the show has been cancelled due to Covid-restrictions. It joins a long list of A and P shows that have had to be called off. Māni Dunlop speaks to development agency Christchurch NZ's chief executive, Joanna Norris.
Farmlands, which has about 80 stores around the country, recently trialed two pop up vaccination clinics at its stores and now more are in the pipeline.
The government is still figuring out what 'mandatory' will actually mean when vaccine certificates roll out next month. Lawyers suggest the certificates could face a legal challenge for breaching a person's human rights, but they say employers also have an obligation to protect their staff and patrons. RNZ reporter Ben Strang has been looking into this and joins Māni Dunlop in the studio.
A political commentator is pointing to a link between the low Māori vaccination rates, and the lack of Māori among the various experts advising the government on Covid-19. Less than a third of Māori have had their second dose of the Pfizer vaccine; compared to the nationwide average of 50 percent. University of Auckland politics and public policy lecturer, Lara Greaves, of Ngāti Kuri and Ngāpuhi joins Māni Dunlop on Midday Report.
Taiwan's president has warned of catastrophic consequences for peace and democracy in Asia if the island were to fall to China. Writing in the journal Foreign Affairs, Tsai Ing-wen said Taiwan did not seek military confrontation, but would do whatever it took to defend itself. Her article comes at a time of mounting pressure from China which regards the island as part of its territory. Taiwan says Chinese air force planes have been flying near the island for more than a year. But in the last four days nearly 150 aircraft have flown into Taiwan's air defence zone causing concern. Worldwatch's Sally Round spoke to Canterbury University Professor of political science and international relations Alex Tan about China's latest military activity in the area.
A women's Super Rugby competition will kick off next year. Super Rugby Aupiki will launch in March, comprising four squads of 28 contracted - or paid - players. Head coaches have been named for the Blues, Chiefs, Hurricanes and a South Island team, which encompasses the Crusaders and Highlanders regions. Women's rugby advocate and provincial player Alice Soper spoke to Māni Dunlop on Midday Report.
Community crisis response workers called in the help of the Waikato Mongrel Mob Leader, Sonny Fatupaito, to help them with hard-to-reach communities within gang chapters and their whanau. The request was made to Sonny, who received an exemption to cross the Auckland boundary, to help get members and their whanau tested. The Cause Collective crisis response team's spokesperson Jerome Mika spoke to Māni Dunlop about why it was necessary.
A group of big businesses want to use rapid Covid-19 antigen tests at critical work sites. News from the business sector, including a market report.
Ross Douglas Browne, the former chaplain of Dilworth School, has pleaded guilty at the High Court in Auckland to over a dozen charges of indecently assaulting boys, some under 12 years old, over more than a decade. The school says it's committed to a survivor-focused redress programme, which will launch in the first half of next year. RNZ reporter Jordan Bond joined Māni Dunlop.
Former rugby league star Manu Vatuvei has admitted importing methamphetamine. Vatuvei was due to stand trial this week on charges of importing the class A drug and possessing it for supply, but entered a guilty plea in Manukau District Court this morning. RNZ reporter Sarah Robson has been following the case and talks to Māni Dunlop.
It's day one of step one in Auckland today. That means outdoor playdates and picnics are on for two bubbles with a maximum of ten people; and people from up to 10 bubbles can exercise together in a socially-distanced way. Auckland Council is gradually reopening playgrounds, skateparks and basketball courts -- but it says libraries, community venues, pools and leisure centres will remain closed. RNZ's Nick Truebridge has been out and about, and joins Māni Dunlop from a gym setting up outdoors in East Tāmaki.
A case of Covid-19 has been confirmed in the King Country coastal town of Kāwhia, just south of Raglan on the North Island's West Coast. Kāwhia is outside of the Waikato Alert Level 3 boundary. The Ōtorohanga District Council told RNZ about the case - but the Ministry of Health would not confirm it until the 1pm briefing. Otago University epidemiologist Professor Michael Baker told Māni Dunlop the Alert Level 3 boundary would need to be extended because the chains of transmission were being poorly controlled.
The French overseas minister Sebastien Lecornu is arriving in New Caledonia tonight for a two-week visit. The French territory is two months away from its third and final independence referendum - after it voted twice to remain French. But New Caledonia is in the grip of a severe Covid-19 crisis, which has cast doubt on whether the vote should even go ahead. Worldwatch's Max Towle spoke to Walter Zweifel of RNZ Pacific
The United States Postal Service has suspended shipping to New Zealand and 21 other countries because of Covid-19's impact on air mail capacity. So those of you who did a spot of lockdown shopping might be left waiting. NZ Post's Murray Silcock told Midday Report's Māni Dunlop it hasn't shut off every option to get parcels to New Zealand.
New Zealanders desperate to get home by Christmas have been getting good or bad news in the last-hour or so after nearly four-thousand spots opened in the MIQ virtual lobby. Users were able to enter the lobby from 11am and results have been released gradually since midday for places in managed isolation and quarantine rooms. Today's release is the third round of the contentious new system and the is first opportunity for people to book a spot at home in January. Midday Report's Māni Dunlop spoke to Martin Newell, from Grounded Kiwis, a group working to support New Zealanders stuck overseas.
News from the rural and farming sector including how a report is looking at the opportunities presented by regenerative agriculture with RNZ's Maja Burry.
Black Cap Devon Conway wishes he had spent more time brushing up on his wicket keeping ahead of the T20 Cricket World Cup. RNZ Sports reporter Barry Guy has more.
Health leaders are nervous that with the ease of restrictions on Auckland - Māori will be disproportionately impacted. While the city is staying at level 3, from midnight two households can meet up, as long as it's outside and there are no more than ten people. There are also loose plans for the city to open up as time goes by, with a push to get vaccination rates up across the board. But Covid-19 vaccination rates among Māori are only about two-thirds of those of the general population. Awerangi Tamihere, from Te Whānau o Waipareira and who will help lead the Maori Health Authority, joined Māni Dunlop.
A sweeping review of the country's electoral laws will consider the voting age, political funding and the length of the parliamentary term. The Justice Minister Kris Faafoi says the independent review will ensure the Electoral Act - largely unchanged since the 1950s - is fit for purpose. RNZ's Political Editor Jane Patterson spoke to Māni Dunlop.
A trial date has been set for the South African mother of three charged with killing her three daughters. 40 year old Lauren Dickason, who is a medical practitioner, was excused from appearing in the High Court in Christchurch via video link for her second hearing. She's accused of murdering her daughters, two year old twins and their 6 year old sister. RNZ reporter, Conan Young, was in court and spoke to Midday Report's Māni Dunlop.
New Zealanders waiting to see if they win the MIQ lottery, and sweeping reviews into Aotearoa's electoral law, but big changes could be far off. Nicola Wright has the news.
The government's move to level 3 in Auckland has been described as premature and could be a deadly mistake as the virus makes it way through vulnerable communities. Cabinet is meeting to review Auckland's alert level after parts of Waikato went into level three last night. Midday Report's Māni Dunlop spoke to commentator Shane Te Pou about what will need to be weighed up politically.
The Raglan community is worried about the impact on businesses with the loss of tourism under level 3. There are also hopes that the cases will encourage more people to get vaccinated. More cases have been confirmed this morning in Raglan, in the household of yesterday's case. Midday Report's Māni Dunlop spoke to the Raglan Business Chamber's chair Morgan Morris.
News from the rural and farming sector, including how farmers and growers in parts of Waikato are adjusting to Level 3 restrictions. Maja Burry has the Rural News.
Taranaki and Chiefs lock Josh Lord has been called into the squad for the Northern Tour to the USA and Europe. Barry Guy has sport.
An appeal against long-standing convictions for former crèche worker Peter Ellis is now underway in the Supreme Court. The Christchurch Civic Crèche worker always maintained his innocence after being found guilty of 16 counts of sexual abuse in 1993, and repeatedly sought to overthrow the convictions. He died in September 2019 but the country's highest court agreed to still hear the appeal. RNZ reporter Emma Hatton has been following the case and spoke to Midday Report's Māni Dunlop
The Prime Minister has indicated there could be an easing of level three restrictions for Aucklanders who have now been under stay at home orders for 6 weeks. Jacinda Ardern said the pathway forward is still a cautious approach but changes to individual rules are being considered. But with only 30 percent of Māori and 41 percent of Pasifika fully vaccinated, what does that mean for those communities? University of Aucklands' Associate Professor of Public Health Dr Colin Tukuitonga spoke to Midday Report's Māni Dunlop
Cases numbers around the Motu continue to climb with positive results now in the Manawatū, Waikato and Auckland regions. The virus has now infected a newborn baby in North Shore hospital as well as a parent from Auckland Hospital's Neonatal intensive care unit. Household contacts of the Raglan case have also returned positive results. RNZ reporter Katie Todd was in Hamilton and spoke to Midday Report's Māni Dunlop.
Covid-19 cases cause concern in Waikato and is there vaccine hesitancy in Raglan? Nicola Wright has the news.
Church leaders in West Papua warn the presence of Indonesian soldiers in classrooms is proving traumatic for children in a region mired in conflict. The military is also present on the health front-line, which has complicated the Covid-19 vaccine rollout in Papua. RNZ Pacific's Johnny Blades has been covering this story, and spoke to Worldwatch's Max Towle.
Tuvalu, a tiny Pacific nation near the equator, is celebrating its language this week. Tuvalu's nine inhabited islands, which are at risk of sinking beneath the waves, are home to about 11,000 people and there are nearly 5,000 Tuvaluans living in Aotearoa. So, in honour of our friends throughout te moana nui a kiwa - the Pacific - Te Gana Tuvalu speaker, and RNZ newsreader Marama T-Pole spoke to Midday Report's Michael Cropp.
Using facial recognition to figure out how long people will wait in a queue is like using a sledgehammer to crack a nut. That's according to the Privacy Commissioner who has serious concerns about the scanning tool being used at Wellington Airport. The tool is used to count passengers passing through security and how long they wait in a line. The Civil Aviation Authority said it's committed to providing transparency with the public and appreciates there are concerns, but there are strict measures in place to protect people's privacy as they move through the terminal. Midday Report's Michael Cropp asked the Commissioner John Edwards about his feedback to Aviation Security.
Thomas Phillips and his three children have now been home safe for a whole day, after spending almost three weeks in the bush - as teams frantically searched for them. While the community is relieved to see them return, many people are asking how did it come to this. Otorohanga local Reuben Warren is overjoyed, but wishes Thomas Phillips had told someone what he was doing. RNZ reporter Robin Martin was in Otorohanga and spoke to Midday Report's Michael Cropp.
Emergency department doctors say patients infected with Covid-19 are being wrongly classified as low-risk, because of Delta's unusual symptoms, and that could be exacerbating the likelihood of transmission within hospitals. Middlemore Hospital dealt with six patients with Covid on Wednesday night, including two who turned up at the emergency department and later tested positive. Midday Report's Michael Cropp spoke to the Australasian College of Emergency Medicine President, Dr John Bonning who said this virus is very difficult to deal with.
A getaway driver who helped police officer Matthew Hunt's killer to escape arrest, has been jailed for 12 months. Natalie Bracken was sentenced in the High Court in Auckland this morning, via audiovisual link. The mother of slain police officer, Diane Hunt told Midday Report's Michael Cropp emotions are raw today.
Australia's Daintree - the world's oldest tropical rainforest - has been returned to its Aboriginal custodians. The UNESCO World Heritage site is more than 180 million years old and has been home to generations of Aboriginal people. The Eastern Kuku Yalanji people will now manage the national park with Queensland's state government. Worldwatch's Max Towle spoke to Andrew Picone of the Queensland Conservation Council.
For the first time - a kaupapa Māori aligned public holiday will have its initial reading in Parliament. If passed, the first Matariki public holiday will be June 24th 2022 - but will shift each year according to the lunar calendar when the star cluster rises. The Labour Party campaign promise has been criticised as another expense for businesses, but tohunga Rereata Makiha from the Matariki Advisory Committee told Māni Dunlop about the broader importance of this holiday.
The Phillips family have been found safe and well in Marokopa nearly three weeks since they were last seen. The search was officially called off last week. One of those involved in the search was Luceille of Ngāti Peehi, whose mum led the effort. She joins Māni Dunlop on Midday Report.
The Government this morning announced plans for a one-off residency visa to help up to 165 thousand migrants currently in Aotearoa, including about 9 thousand agricultural workers or kaimahi.
There's widespread enthusiasm among the business, agricultural and health sectors for a new one-off residence visa that could let up to 165,000 migrants stay in the country. But some migrants say the decision still leaves uncertainty and is bittersweet, after they spent up to two years in limbo. RNZ's immigration reporter Gill Bonnett has been speaking to some of them and joins Māni Dunlop on Midday Report.
The police say the Phillips family have all been located safe and well this morning in Marokopa. They were last seen on September 11 and the official search effort was called off last week. Otorohanga district mayor Max Baxter joins Māni Dunlop on Midday Report.
A person is in a critical condition after being shot by police, following a pursuit which ended in the Hillsborough area in Auckland this morning. The police say the person had a gun and is now in hospital. Another person who was in the car has also been taken into custody. Māni Dunlop spoke to RNZ reporter Sarah Robson at the scene.
A fleeing driver is shot by the police. A new visa to let thousands of migrants to stay in the country.
Kea can parrot their real life behaviour in the virtual world, a new study has found. University of Auckland researchers trained a group of kea to use a touchscreen laptop with their tongues. Lead author of the study Amalia Bastos told Māni Dunlop that kea are quick learners compared to other birds.
Many mayors and councils are gearing up for a fight over the government's Three Waters reforms, while environmentalists are preparing to meet them on the riverbanks of the country's polluted rivers. The eight-week consultation period for local government ends this week and at some point councils will have to opt in or out. Forest & Bird's Canterbury regional manager Nicky Snoyink talks to Māni Dunlop.
Moana Pasifika and the Fijian Drua are in discussions to create a trophy that will be contested between Super Rugby's newest teams.
The National Party wants to ditch the elimination approach to Covid-19, and switch to a 'vigorous suppression' strategy instead. This morning, the Party laid out a three stage proposal for dealing with the virus, starting with supercharging vaccinations and bolstering the health system; the second stage involves stopping lockdowns when 75 percent of those people aged 12 and older are double-dose vaccinated; and the third, re-opening the borders when that vaccination rate reaches 85 percent. The party's leader Judith Collins speaks to Māni Dunlop.
Oranga Tamariki has been described as not fit for purpose and needing transformative change - with the Minister insisting he'll 'force the change'. The Ministerial appointed Advisory Panel report, released today, says Oranga Tamariki lacks strategic direction and also a clear vision of its purpose. It recommends a strategy to devolve resources to Maori and communities; a new operating model with better support and training for social workers; and it also wants a national governance board to oversee the changes and more scrutiny for children being taken into care. The Minister says because the panel was unable to provide assurance that Oranga Tamariki is fit for purpose, he has accepted all its recommendations. The Children's Minister Kelvin Davis talks to Māni Dunlop.
The National Party says its plan to re-open the country to the rest of the world will clear the MIQ backlog, while keeping covid-19 cases under control. Children's Minister Kelvin Davis says he'll "force the change" at Oranga Tamariki, after another report finds it's not fit for purpose.
Dame Patsy Reddy has come to the end of her term as Governor-General after five years. Dame Cindy Kiro will step in to the role after an official ceremony in October. Dame Patsy Reddy joins Māni Dunlop to reflect on her time in role.
Yes that's right, Phoenix veteran Steven Taylor says the reality of another season based in Australia is behind his shock decision to retire.
Senior doctors have released a roadmap to achieve health equity within twenty years. But such equity would take a century to achieve at current rates. A new report by the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists Toi Mata Hauora says not only is there a gap in life expectancy between Māori and pakeha, the life expectancy gap between wealthy and poor New Zealanders is widening. The association's executive director Sarah Dalton speaks to Māni Dunlop.
A clean up is underway on the Kaimai range after a truck crash resulted in 3000 litres of toxic chemicals flowing into a nearby stream. The crash occurred just after 6-o'clock this morning on State Highway 29. RNZ's Waikato reporter Andrew McRae joins Māni Dunlop with the latest.
Midwives are welcoming more ACC cover for maternal birth injuries. Proposed changes announced today will make up to 18,000 women a year who sustain birth injuries eligible for ACC cover. Māni Dunlop spoke to the College of Midwives' chief executive is Alison Eddy, she told me the changes break down funding barriers.
ACC cover for maternal birth injuries And a chemical spill in the Lower Kaimai affects a waterway
The climate crisis has again been at the forefront of speeches by Pacific Island leaders at the UN General Assembly. At a time when the world is preoccupied with the pandemic - island states are warning of the danger of losing focus on the climate. RNZ Pacific's Johnny Blades reports for Worldwatch.
There's already talk that Germany may not have a new government for weeks, possibly until Christmas - after what can only be described as a nail-bitingly close vote. Worldwatch's Max Towle takes a look at the results with Berlin correspondent, Laura Makin-Isherwood.
Guns N Roses' southern fans are immensely frustrated to have a concert scrubbed off their calendars, with the news the band will now only perform in the North Island. It had been due to perform in Wellington and Dunedin this November, but the group's now dropping Dunedin off the schedule and picking up Auckland instead. Those concerts will take place in December next year. RNZ Dunedin reporter Tim Brown talks to Māni Dunlop about the local reaction.
Aotearoa Governments, current and former, have broken human rights promises when it comes to housing and health. That's from a new report by Motu Research, which has outlined multiple failings of the government to meet internationally-agreed standards for living. Māni Dunlop spoke to Motu research analyst Livvy Mitchell -who said the country was facing a "human rights crisis".
Mixed martial arts fighter Israel Adesanya has confirmed he's leaving New Zealand and going to base himself in the United States. The UFC middleweight champion's decision comes amid the ongoing impact of the MIQ system on the country's leading MMA athletes.
Heatwaves, droughts and crop failures are set to become the norm for New Zealanders who are currently just one year old. That's according to new research commissioned by Save the Children, which is urging governments to take more ambitious emissions reductions plans to the climate change conference in Glasgow next month. Māni Dunlop speaks to Save the Children New Zealand's advocacy and research director Jacqui Southey.
The Drug Foundation is worried about the low rates of vaccination among users. Earlier today, University of Otago epidemiologist Michael Baker said he was concerned Covid-19 was still being transmitted in parts of Auckland, and social workers and police should work with health officials to reach marginalised groups. Professor Baker is a member of the Drug Foundation's board. The Foundation's executive director Sarah Helm speaks to Māni Dunlop about what needs to be done.
Do we live in a 'smug hermit kingdom'? Former prime minister Sir John Key says we do - stirring debate among politicians, including current National Party leader Judith Collins who says likening New Zealand to North Korea is too far. RNZ political reporter Charlie Dreaver talks to Māni Dunlop.
Sir John Key criticises the '"smug hermit kingdom", and testing and vaccinations to be targeted at vulnerable communities.
The former All Black Waka Nathan has died, aged 81, after a long illness. He played 23 times for the All Blacks including 14 Tests, winning acclaim as one of the great loose forwards. Māni Dunlop speaks to former All Black's captain Sir Wayne "Buck" Shelford.
One of the most anticipated events for our Rangatahi Māori - the Ngā Manu Korero speech competition took place this week - with young Māori covering issues such as reo revitalisation and land rights. For the first time in its history it's being held completely online because of Covid-19 restrictions. There are four categories - senior english, te reo Māori, junior english and te reo rangatira. Māni Dunlop speaks to Ruth Smith who was one of this year's judges.
Modelling showing as many as 7,000 New Zealanders could die if we dropped most Covid restrictions when only 80 percent of the population is vaccinated, has been criticised as fearmongering. But one of the authors of the report Professor Shaun Hendy says it's important to discuss the potential for severe consequences if restrictions are lifted. Pacific immunologist at the University of Otago Dr Dianne Sika-Paotonu has been looking at the vulnerability of Maori and Pasifika communities and joins Māni Dunlop.
The government's sharpening the safety rules governing the adventure tourism sector following the deadly 2019 eruption on Whakaari, when 25 people were injured and 22 died. RNZ reporter Sarah Robson talks to Māni Dunlop about what's being proposed.
A man has been charged with murdering and sexually violating Lena Zhang Harrap, 27, who was found dead in the Auckland suburb of Mt Albert on Wednesday afternoon. The police said the 31-year old would be appearing in the Auckland District Court today. Māni Dunlop spoke to RNZ reporter Jordan Bond who was at the Court.
Murder charges laid over the death of Lena Zhang Harrap, and tougher safety rules for adventure tourism after the deadly Whakaari eruption.
The government's goal of addressing the staggering inequities Māori face in the health system is one step closer with the appointment of the Māori Health Authority members. The Authority is part of the reforms that will disestablish the country's 20 district health boards and replace them with one new body, Health NZ. The Māori Health Authority will work alongside Health New Zealand with a joint role, commissioning for primary, community and kaupapa Māori services. Sharon Shea and Tipa Mahuta will co chair the Māori Health Authority. They both join Māni Dunlop on Midday Report.
The Restaurant Association has released a roadmap to help the industry survive and thrive after the Covid-19 crisis, after meeting with the Government. It has eight suggestions - from an extension on the wage subsidy to removing GST for dining customers. Since the beginning of the pandemic in March last year, there has been an estimated net loss of over 1,000 hospitality businesses in Aotearoa, representing approximately 13,000 jobs. The association expects further fallout in the coming months. The restaurant association's chief executive Marisa Bidois speaks to Māni Dunlop.
The government's barrelling on with its reform of the health sector; announcing separate eight-member boards for both the Maori Health Authority and Health New Zealand this morning. The country's 20 DHBs will be scrapped; with the new agencies taking over their work. The health minister Andrew Little told Māni Dunlop the new services would ensure the $20 billion health budget goes further.
The risks of unsustainable house prices, and worries that prices could fall, are prompting new limits on how many risky mortgages banks can loan. The Reserve Bank wants only 10 percent of new mortgages to have a deposit of less than 20 percent. House prices have rocketed up on the back of cheap, low-interest debt, and a lack of housing supply. KiwiBank's chief economist Jarrod Kerr joins Māni Dunlop on Midday Report.
Fears about the Reserve Bank's proposed limits on mortgage lending. The government presses on with its health sector reforms.
There are signs that Papua New Guinea's health system is again under increasing pressure due to Covid-19. PNG health authorities scaled back testing in June, as the government told the public the country would have to learn to live with the virus. RNZ Pacific's Johnny Blades has been covering the story and speaks to Max Towle on Worldwatch.
The Department of Conservation spent $130,000 looking after Toa, the orphaned Orca. It was abandoned by its pod north of Wellington in July, and was cared for by the department and volunteers for 12 days before its death. RNZ reporter Charlotte Cook tells Māni Dunlop about what else she's found in documents released by the Department this morning.
Roofers are urging people to be patient with their tradies, as complicated supply issues slow down the construction sector. The Roofing Association says it's so bad that orders placed today won't arrive 'til after Christmas. The association's chief executive Graham Moor speaks to Māni Dunlop.
The Silver Ferns captain and mid-courter Gina Crampton will miss tonight's second netball test against England due to a hip injury she suffered in the first test win in Christchurch on Monday.
The Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield says getting vaccination levels above 90 per cent is the single best tool in New Zealand's Covid-19 toolkit. Dr Bloomfield says Aotearoa may never get back to zero cases, but the elimination strategy is about a zero tolerance approach to Covid in the community. Māni Dunlop speaks to the National Party's Deputy Leader and Health spokesperson Dr Shane Reti.
Two hundred more police officers will be trained to the same level as the Armed Offenders Squad -- but they won't always carry firearms when they're sent out on a job. The government has announced $45 million will go toward better tactical training and intelligence. The police commissioner Andrew Coster says it is in response to increasing violence against officers. RNZ reporter Ruth Hill is at the police college in Porirua, and talks to Māni Dunlop about the announcement.
A magnitude 6 earthquake has struck near Melbourne. Geoscience Australia says the quake hit shortly after 11 this morning about 150 kilometres east of the city at a depth of 10 kilometres. It was felt across Victoria, and in Canberra, Wagga Wagga, and Newcastle. The quake struck near the town of Mansfield - the mayor Mark Holcombe was yet to hear any reports of major damage. Māni Dunlop speaks to Melbourne correspondent Phil Kafcaloudes.
A magnitude 6 earthquake has struck near Melbourne. More than 200 police staff will receive Armed Offenders Squad training in an effort to bolster police resources on the frontlines.
Canadians have today headed to the polls to decide who should lead the country. The Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called the snap election, in a bid to increase the number of seats the Liberal Party (which he leads) holds in Parliament. If the Liberals can lead the government, it would be Trudeau's third term as Prime Minister. But the latest polls suggest the result is far from certain - as many as six parties are in contention for seats in parliament. Poll workers have started to count the votes, which suggest a high turnout, but the outcome may not be known until much later. Correspondent Nick Harper speaks to Max Towle on Worldwatch.
The bells of Nelson's cathedral rang out this morning, heralding the arrival of the bar-tailed godwits. The migratory birds have just flown about 12,000 kilometres non-stop from Alaska at the northern edge of the Pacific Ocean. RNZ's Nelson reporter Samantha Gee speaks to Māni Dunlop.
Lawyers are concerned Parliament's moving too quickly as it considers making the planning of a terrorist attack an offence. The Counter-Terrorism Legislation Bill is up for its second reading in the House today, after being expedited as a result of the LynnMall attack. Both the Green and ACT parties say it needs more work. That position is shared by the New Zealand Bar Association. The Bar Association's President Paul Radich QC talks to Māni Dunlop on Midday Report.
As Auckland drops down a level, the Upper Hauraki area north of State Highway 2 around Mangatangi is now in a bespoke level four lockdown, after the detection of positive cases. Anyone who lives, works in, or has visited the area since 8 September must now stay home and monitor for symptoms. A testing blitz is underway. RNZ reporter Jean Bell joins Māni Dunlop with an update.
As Auckland prepares to drop to Alert Level three, the pressure remains high to vaccinate people against Covid-19. The Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says 80 percent of Aucklanders have received their first of two doses so far, and says it's possible 90 percent of Aucklanders could have had their first dose by the time Cabinet reviews the city's alert level three restrictions in two weeks. Māni Dunlop speaks to Manukau ward councillor Fa'anana Efeso Collins - who thinks the city should have stayed at Alert Level four for longer.
Auckland shifts to Alert Level three at midnight tonight. And, if you're in Tāmaki Makaurau - from tomorrow, you'll again hear the banging of hammers and whirring of drills with construction companies among the businesses being able to operate under level 3. The owner of Wolf Projects Building Solutions in West Auckland Jarrod Tua told Māni Dunlop there is a lot to get sorted before tomorrow.
Builders in Auckland get ready for level three. An anxious wait for test results in Upper Hauraki.
A housing initiative for first home buyers in Lower Hutt has been drawing successful applicants out of a ballot this morning. Koru Homes has completed a residential housing development in Wainuiomata aimed at first-home buyers, with a fixed price of $650,000. Winners of the 11 units have started to be drawn out this morning, one told RNZ it was a dream finally coming true. RNZ's reporter Kirsty Frame spoke to Māni Dunlop from the announcement.
The Māori King - Kingi Tuheitia - and other esteemed leaders are encouraging everyone to go and get vaccinated to increase innoculation rates among Māori. Kingi Tuheitia Potatau Te Wherowhero te tuawhitu - along with Sir Tumu Te Heuheu - have made a public statement to help with the low vaccination rates. Kiingitanga Chief of Staff, Archdeacon Ngira Simmonds, says the slow uptake among Māori are concerning.
The New Zealand canoe racer Aimee Fisher is revelling in her world title after what she's calling the toughest 12 months of her life. Stephen Hewson has sport.
The service sector activity plunges in lockdown. Anan Zaki has the latest business news.
A New Zealand father who's been stuck in Spain says he feels like he's won the lottery in securing spots in MIQ for him and his family to return home. Allister and his two children all logged in separately and after waiting for an hour in the virtual lobby, his daughter exclaimed that she was second in the queue. He says its a huge relief to have secured the spots, but does worry about those who have not been as lucky as him.
This afternoon, Aucklanders will hear if they will remain in their alert level four – or move down a step to three. However with an outbreak in the Waikato region, there are concerns an anticipated change will be delayed. Lara Greaves, a lecturer in New Zealand Politics and Public Policy at University of Auckland, told Māni Dunlop politics will play a part in the decision.
Anxiety has spread through a rural Waikato community on the Hauraki plains, after three people tested postive for Covid-19 last night. The three are household members of a remand prisoner at Mt Eden Prison, who tested positive at the weekend. Two of the positive cases are pupils at Mangatangi School. and a testing station has been set up at the nearby Wharekawa Marae – where RNZ's Waikato reporter, Andrew McRae spoke to Mani Dunlop from.
The small rural communities around the Hauraki Plains are turning out in force to get tested for Covid-19, after three people in the Waikato hapori tested positive for the virus last night. The three people – two of whom are schoolchildren – are household members of a remand prisoner at Mt Eden Prison, who tested positive at the weekend. Te Korowai Hauora o Hauraki is running a pop-up testing centre at Wharekawa Marae, just up the road from Kaiaua. At least 250 people have already been tested, and the chief executive, Riana Manuel, told Māni Dunlop they expect many more to join the queue.
Cabinet ministers will begin meeting in about half an hour to consider any changes to Delta restrictions. A steady flow of people have been going through a testing centre near Kaiaua on the Firth of Thames, following the discovery of the three cases in the area. Nicola Wright has the news.
As the Māori Party here campaigns to officially change the country's name from New Zealand to Aotearoa - Worldwatch thought it appropriate to put together a very brief history lesson - and take a look back at other nations to have done so. The most recent name change was in 2019 from the Republic of Macedonia to North Macedonia. In 2018, Swaziland changed to Eswatini - officially, the Kingdom of Eswatini. In 2017, the Czech Republic changed to "Czechia" - simply to make it easier for companies and sports teams to use the name on products and clothing. In 1980, upon gaining independence, Southern Rhodesia famously changed its name to Zimbabwe - Rhodesia came from the country's former British colonial administrator, Cecil Rhodes. The name Zimbabwe was locally historic, and might translate as "venerated houses" - typically referencing the homes or graves of chiefs. And you can go back further - from New Hebrides to Vanuatu thanks to independence, from Ceylon to Sri Lanka in 1972 to again move away from colonialism, or the flipping back and forth from Republic of the Congo after gaining independence from Belgium - to Zaire - back to the Democratic Republic of the Congo - mostly due to the preference of whoever led the country at the time - the Congo River flows through the country.
China has applied to join the world's biggest free trade agreement -- the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership -- the CPTPP. Of course, China has particular tensions with two CPTPP members -- Australia and Canada. Former New Zealand diplomat Stephen Jacobi told Worldwatch's Max Towle its application will force the conversation.
Despite restrictions easing on Fiji's mainland, six remote islands have been put on high-alert amid the escalating rise in Covid-19 cases there. Health teams have been sent to these areas where nearly 800 people are infected with the Delta strain. Fiji's Government has set a 1 November deadline to reopen the country's borders. The pressure is now on to contain the spread of the virus and achieve the Government's 80 percent vaccination target. RNZ Pacific's Christine Rovoi reports.
An improvement in the weather is helping in the search for the missing Phillips whānau, with the search continuing to focus on the Marokopa coastline today. Thomas Phillips and his three young children have been missing for nearly one week. RNZ's Waikato reporter Andrew McRae joins Māni Dunlop on Midday Report.
Māori are significantly more likely to die after surgery than non-Māori. A new study, published today in the New Zealand Medical Journal, shows that no matter the type of surgery, a significant disparity exists. In some cases, the likelihood of death is more than double that of Pākehā. Anei te purongo a Jamie Tahana.
The Human Rights Commission will no longer consider complaints about the overuse of te reo Māori or anything relating to the term Pākehā. The Broadcasting Standards Authority made a similar move earlier this year - stating that the use of te reo Māori on air was not in breach of broadcasting standards and would not accept complaints on the matter. Today the Human Rights Commission says the Human Rights Act sets out what types of discrimination are unlawful and the use of te reo does not fit the criteria. Māni Dunlop spoke to its chief executive, Rebecca Elvy.
A homicide investigation is underway after three people were found dead at a Timaru house last night. The police were called to the house on Queen Street in the suburb of Parkside just after 10 o'clock last night. One other person was taken to hospital. RNZ reporter Tim Brown is in Timaru and joins Māni Dunlop on Midday Report.
School holidays in Tāmaki Makaurau will go ahead from the beginning of October as planned. The government considered bringing the dates forward in response to the city's drawn-out lockdown, but has kept it at the status quo. Māni Dunlop spoke to the president of the Secondary Principals' Association Vaughan Couillault who says it's the right decision.
Auckland school holidays will go ahead as normal. Timaru is rocked by a triple homicide.
The simmering conflict between West Papuan independence fighters and Indonesian military forces has flared up again. There are more signs of mass displacement too, following an attack on an Indonesian military post this month that killed four soldiers. RNZ Pacific's Johnny Blades talks to Worldwatch's Max Towle.
Equestrian New Zealand is disappointed by the actions of a rider who allegedly flouted lockdown rules to travel to Wānaka. William Willis, along with his partner Hannah Rawnsley, were named as the couple accused of using their essential worker exemption to cross Auckland's border. Willis, an accomplished equestrian, has previously represented New Zealand on the international stage. Equestrian New Zealand's Chief Executive Julian Bowden speaks to Māni Dunlop on Midday Report.
The Opua business association says it is working with authorities to ensure that delta won't get into the community with the imminent arrival in the Bay of Islands of around 50 yachts escaping Fiji's cyclone season. New Zealand citizens or people with the relevant visas are allowed to enter Port Opua and are required to isolate for 14 days on board their yachts. Te Tai Tokerau Border Control spokesperson, Hone Harawira, is worried their arrival could trigger a Covid-19 outbreak. The chair of the Opua business association, Dan Cleaver, told Māni Dunlop they have been raising their concerns with the council and Northland MP, Willow Jean Prime to ensure their businesses and the community are safe.
A plan has been hatched to solve a feral kurī or dog issue in Te Tai Tokerau, Northland.
The Vaxi Taxi; double jab ute; chariots of pfizer. Whatever they're called -- the first vaccination busses begin rolling into South Auckland today, to improve immunisation rates across all suburbs. RNZ Pacific's reporter Mariner Fagaiava-Muller has been at the launch, and joins Māni Dunlop on Midday Report.
The cost of rents continue to skyrocket - and not even the latest lockdown could stop prices reaching an all-time high. August figures from TradeMe show the national median weekly rent is $550 a week - a record first seen in July. Joining Māni Dunlop is TradeMe's Property Sales Director Gavin Lloyd.
Searchers are making the most of a reprieve in the weather today to scale up their attempts to find a missing Waikato father Thomas Phillips and his three young children. The family's abandoned ute was found in the surf at Kiritehere Beach in the King country on Sunday and police were alerted on Monday. But the search window could be brief, with MetService issuing severe weather warnings and watches for heavy rain and strong winds today. RNZ's reporter at the scene Robin Martin speaks to Māni Dunlop.
The economy was running red hot prior to lockdown Surf lifesavers join the search for a missing Waikato family.
The Australian government has several times now vowed to improve Covid-19 vaccination rates within indigenous communities, but has come in for severe criticism for leaving measures too late. The vaccination rate right now for indigenous Australians is little over half what it is for the entire population. In the past few weeks, communities in rural, western New South Wales have been severely impacted by outbreaks of Covid-19. At least two Aboriginal elders have died with the virus. Many live in areas without access to decent healthcare. Worldwatch's Max Towle spoke to Dr Vanessa Lee-Ahmat, a social epidemiologist who specialises in Indigenous health at the University of Sydney. Her people are of the Yupungathiand Meriam Nation. She says colonial history bears some responsibility.
Competition is heating up to find out who will take the feathered crown as voting opens for the National Aquarium's Penguin of the Year. Three kororā finalists will be announced on Thursday next week, before a run-off vote opens. Māni Dunlop spoke to the Aquarium's supervisor of birds, Rebekah Cuthbert.
The National Party is calling for the government to release a long-awaited report on Oranga Tamariki. The Minister for Children Kelvin Davis appointed a four person panel earlier this year to provide him with independent advice. Their report was originally due by the end of June. National's Children and Oranga Tamariki spokesperson Harete Hipango told Māni Dunlop the delays aren't good enough.
All Blacks halfback Aaron Smith concedes there is a chance he won't play for the All Blacks again this year.
More saliva test kits are being added to New Zealand's Covid-fighting arsenal, but some experts aren't convinced they can currently be rolled out en masse. Māni Dunlop spoke to Associate Professor James Ussher, a clinical microbiologist at the University of Otago, who said only one saliva sample could be processed at a time whereas several nasal swabs could be processed at the same time.
The ructions at the Samoan parliament continue to escalate. Yesterday, elected but unsworn members of the opposition HRPP party were prevented from entering the House, because they refuse to recognise the legitimacy of the government and the Speaker. Today, they're being excluded again and Samoa's Head of State has also appeared outside parliamentary grounds. RNZ Pacific's Susana Leiataua spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The search for a family missing around the King Country coastal area today is being impacted by bad weather. Thomas Phillips and his children Jayda, Maverick and Ember were last seen at the weekend. RNZ reporter Robin Martin is in the area and speaks to Māni Dunlop.
Poor weather hampers the search for a missing family and voting opens for Penguin of the Year.
Get ready to 'look up' and join the Great Kererū Count. The citizen science project is in its eighth and final year, finding out where the birds are living across the motu. Māni Dunlop speaks to the co-ordinator Tony Stoddard from Kererū Discovery.
People with cancer symptoms are being urged to get tested, after hundreds of cases went undiagnosed during last year's nationwide Covid-19 lockdown. Te Aho o Te Kahu, the independent Cancer Control Agency, says there is capacity in the health system to get a check. Māni Dunlop spoke to the agency's chief executive Professor Diana Sarfati.
More than 1.1 million people gathered around the country at Midday today to embrace te reo Māori in some way for Māori language week. E whai ana a te taura whiri i te reo Maori kia kotahi miriona tangata e korero ana, e waiata ana, e whakanui ana hoki i te reo - i te wa kotahi, i tetahi wa tuku reo Maori kaore ano kia kite - i te wiki o te reo Maori.
Samoa's Parliament is under police guard today for its first sitting since the general election on 9 April, but members of the opposition HRPP party are not present. This morning, police with shields and protective equipment lined up in front of the parliament buildings and on the road. RNZ Pacific's Moera Tuilaepa-Taylor talks to Māni Dunlop about what's happening.
A search and rescue operation is underway for a man and his three young children who are missing on King Country's West Coast. The police say the group was last seen at Marokopa, west of Te Kuiti, on Saturday, and a search was launched. Māni Dunlop is joined by RNZ's Waikato reporter Andrew McRae with the latest.
The search continues for a missing West Coast family, and in business news Briscoes delivers record profits.
The first direct flight to Kerikeri from Wellington has just landed, leap-frogging Auckland. It's hoped the flights will help boost the economy in Te Tai Tokerau, which had been cut off by the Delta outbreak in the supercity. RNZ reporter Nita Blake-Persen is at the airport in Kerikeri, and tells Māni Dunlop it's looking a little bit like the airport scene in Love Actually.
Community advocates say the glaring cost of inequality is clear as Delta rips through vulnerable neighbourhoods, and they say it's keeping us in lockdown for longer. They say the lack of support for those living in poverty leaves them unprotected from the virus, as well as its economic and social effects. Māni Dunlop talks to Brooke Pao Stanley from Auckland Action Against Poverty.
Under alert level four, flower growers aren't able to sell or distribute their goods which means months of work is going to waste. Growers want the government to change the rules so they can provide click and collect and contactless delivery.
Russian world number two Danill Medvedev has won the US Open final to claim his maiden tennis grand slam crown and deny Novak Djokovic a record 21st major title.
A severe weather warning remains in place, as heavy rain and northwest gales splatter parts of central New Zealand. There are orange warnings for rain between Mt Taranaki and the Buller Ranges, and wind warnings for Wellington, Wairarapa, the Tararua District, and Marlborough. That same strong front hit the South Island overnight, cutting power and sparking fires. In Otago, gusts exceeded 135 kilometres an hour -- and possibly even reached 211 kilometres an hour near Lamb Hill, though MetService says it's now checking the accuracy of that station. Māni Dunlop speaks to Keith Shaw who is the farm manager at Lamb Hill Station near Hindon.
More help is on the way for the south Auckland communities bearing the brunt of the Covid outbreak. The government this morning announced an extra $10 million for food and essential items. Māni Dunlop speaks with the chief executive of Pasifika Futures Debbie Sorensen whose organisation is now in contact with 355 Pasifika people who are in quarantine.
Government ministers are currently meeting to review the current Covid-19 Delta outbreak, and the current Alert Level settings. Auckland remains at Alert Level 4, while everywhere else is at Alert Level 2. There are nearly 600 people currently infected with the virus. RNZ political reporter Charlie Dreaver speaks to Māni Dunlop.
Covid-19 elimination remains key to an alert level shift, and the wild weather front tracks north.
It's the terror attack that changed the course of America and the world. This weekend marks the 20th anniversary of 9/11. Almost 3000 people from 78 countries were killed on September the 11th, including the four hijackers aboard the planes. It sparked the war in Afghanistan - America's longest-running war. Worldwatch's Perlina Lau spoke to a survivor who was in the tower when the first plane hit.
It is Tongan Language Week. Tongans make up about 1.7 percent of New Zealand's population - our Pacific population is expected to reach 414,000 this year. Max Towle spoke to Tongan-born Labour MP Anahila Kanongata'a-Suisuiki about about why events like these are so important.
The country's grid operator Transpower is promising to make changes after a report found it contributed to last month's blackouts. The blackouts caused more than 34,000 customers to lose power on one of the coldest nights of the year. The Electricity Authority, which regulates the sector, says Transpower's messaging confused local lines companies about whether they needed to take immediate steps. Business reporter Anan Zaki has been reading the Authority's report, and he spoke to Max Towle.
News from the rural and farming sector - weather is causing problems for Canterbury farmers.
The White Ferns captain Sophie Devine was confident they'd produced a defendable total in this morning's deciding T20 against England in Taunton only to see the match slip from their grasp with a ball to spare.
Some good news for Dunedin - those keen on visiting the Otago Farmers' Market tomorrow will be able to do so. The government has designated it an event, meaning there is a limit of only 100 people allowed in. The general manager of the Otago Farmers' Market is Michele Driscoll and she spoke to Max Towle.
Note: the picture is from the Feilding farmers' market
As Delta cases continue to pop up, possible symptoms such as stomach pain are under scrutiny. The Director of the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research Professor Graham Le Gros told Max Towle abdominal pain in the Delta variant is something New Zealand should be tracking, considering examples from overseas.
A night of wild wind has downed powerlines and trees, and fanned scrub fires along the South Island's east coast. Severe, orange weather warnings are in place today, with strong northwest gales in exposed parts of Wairarapa, Marlborough, Wellington and Canterbury; and there's heavy rain forecast for the South Island's west coast. RNZ reporter Rachel Graham has been in Glentui, about an hour's drive north-west of Christchurch.
Another mystery case of Covid-19 has potentially exposed 36 Middlemore patients and some visitors to the Delta variant. Seven police officers who also interacted with the patient have been stood down. Yesterday morning a woman spent two hours in Auckland's Middlemore hospital yesterday before testing positive. Max Towle spoke to Covid-19 modeller professor Shaun Hendy, who said he was confident this incident was low risk.
Dozens at risk as a mystery Covid-19 case turns up at Middlemore Hospital and wild weather strikes down South.
Now, "common prosperity" has been the key mission statement from China's ruling communist party and leader Xi Jinping in recent months. He's been putting pressure on China's richest people to better share their wealth - which is something of a change in pace. Chinese officials, for instance, have promised to make schooling, health care and housing less expensive, and more freely available. But what does all of this mean for the secretive country? Worldwatch's Max Towle spoke to Auckland University senior lecturer, Dr Stephen Noakes.
Members of Auckland's Tongan community are taking part in a mass vaccination event which started in the suburb of Favona today. It's part of Tongan Language Week, and will run for the next three days. Organisers are hoping to vaccinate 3000 Tongans aged 12 to 30 at the drive-in vaccination - or huhu malu'i - site at the Free Wesleyan Church of Tonga. RNZ Pacific's Mariner Fagaiava-Muller was there throughout the morning, and joins us now.
While most of the country is returning to normal, Auckland remains in lockdown and not everyone has a bubble to rely on. Support services are being wrapped around those who aren't living with family, such as the elderly and people with disabilities. Michael Cropp spoke to RSA national president and CCS Disability Action regional facilities manager, BJ Clark.
News from the rural and farming sector including milk testing raising the possibility of further M bovis cases.
The Warriors will again be based in Australia for next year's NRL season but plan to play up to half their home games in New Zealand.
The government's first home buyer grant for new houses is being squeezed by the rising cost of building materials. The cost of bricks, timber and steel is steadily rising, with price increases of up to 50 percent over the past year. That's meaning increases to the cost of new builds and means first home buyers would lose their KiwiSaver grants - of up to $20,000 for a couple - if the cost rises above the Government-imposed price caps. It comes as CoreLogic's biannual housing affordability report says it now takes more than a decade for first home buyers to piece together a 20 percent deposit. Michael Cropp spoke to Lesley Harris from the First Home Buyers Club
There's been excitement and anxiety among both kids and their parents, as hundreds-of-thousands of students returned to school today. But 10km south of the Bombay Hills, the Mangatawhiri School community is divided across the borders and Covid Alert Levels. Michael Cropp spoke to the principal Sharron Scouse who said that although 124 students are in Alert Level 4 and 96 students are in Alert Level 2, just 19 students and four teachers turned up for class today.
The nurses' organisation is concerned about hospital visitor rules in Auckland, which are allowing hundreds of people to visit patients every day during Alert Level Four. It says hospital staff are having to deal with poor visitor behaviour, including people refusing to wear masks and turning up in groups. It comes as a renewed focus is put on staff and patient safety, after a Covid-positive patient was admitted to Middlemore Hospital's general ward at the weekend. Michael Cropp spoke to RNZ reporter Katie Todd.
Frustration over hospital visitor numbers and first home buyers find houses further out reach
A few days ago a once-powerful Catholic cardinal pled not guilty to child sexual abuse charges in a Massachusetts court. This is Theodore McCarrick, was defrocked by the Vatican two years ago. This case is significant because he is the highest ranking Catholic official in the US to face criminal charges for sexually abusing children. Worldwatch's Max Towle spoke to lawyer Mitchell Garabedian - who is bringing two civil cases against McCarrick - he was famously depicted by actor Stanley Tucci in the 2015 film Spotlight.
Amohia ake te ora o te iwi - ka puta ki te whai ao - the health and well being of people is paramount - is the motto for Manurewa Marae in South Auckland. The Whanau Ora provider has been rallying to get more Maori vaccinated to help drive up the low vaccination rates of tangata whenua and has seen and increase in uptake with the walk-in approach. It has also been providing food parcels, driving up testing rates and checking in on kaumātua in their hapori. Māni Dunlop spoke to chief executive, Natasha Kemp, about the work they are doing.
Middlemore hospital has added abdominal pain to its list of symptoms when staff screen patients for Covid-19. Four wards are closed at the Auckland hospital and nearly 30 staff have been stood down since the man was unknowingly admitted to a non-Covid ward on Saturday, after presenting with abdominal pain. Māni Dunlop spoke to the President of the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners, Samantha Murton.
$17 million has been injected into reducing the environmental footprint of beef cattle. Rural reporter Sally Murphy has te pūrongo taiwhenua.
All Black Jordie Barrett went to the judiary last night after being sent off in last weekend's 38-21 win over the Wallabies in Perth. Sports reporter Barry Guy has te pūrongo hakinakina.
All Black Jordie Barrett went to the judiary last night after being sent off in last weekend's 38-21 win over the Wallabies in Perth.
Synlait workers are facing potential job cuts. Business Editor Gyles Beckford has te pūrongo pakihi.
News from the business sector, including a market report - Synlait workers are facing potential job cuts
Most of the country is back in Covid Alert Level 2 today, with many businesses outside of Auckland able to reopen, and workers allowed to return to their offices, as long as distancing and mask requirements are met. RNZ reporter Kirsty Frame has been out and about in Wellington and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Middlemore hospital is defending the hospital's front door screening process, after a patient that later tested positive for Covid-19 was admitted to their general ward. Four wards are closed, patients are being isolated, and nearly 30 staff have been stood down after the person was unknowingly admitted on Saturday. Sarah Dalton is executive director at the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists and spoke to Māni Dunlop
New Zealand Post and the MetService are among at least five organisations that a computer security expert says are almost certainly the target of another coordinated cyber attack. ANZ Bank and Kiwi Bank customers have reported being unable to log into ther accounts, while New Zealand Post and Inland Revenue say the outage is being investigated. IT security expert Daniel Ayers spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Multpile websites have been brought offline by what a computer security expert describes as a probable cyber attack, Middlemore hospital is defending its Covid screening processes. Nicola Wright has the news.
New Caledonia will go into a two-week lockdown in just a few minutes, that is at the top of the hour, after the detection of three new Covid-19 cases in the community. The French territory had been Covid-19 free after suppressing a community outbreak in March. Worldwatch reporter Max Towle spoke to RNZ Pacific's Walter Zweifel.
It is Mahuru Māori - the month long reo-Māori challenge. This year's month is in line with the Maramataka - Māori Calendar - with the new moon starting today or Whiro. Mahuru Māori was started by Paraone Gloyne who along with others challenged himself to speak just Māori for the whole month. Six years on, interest and registrations have sky rocketed. There've been some changes in recent years, where you can now setting yourself smaller challenges: an hour a day or half a day or the whole month. Māori Television reporter and reo advocate Rukuwai Tipene-Allen is taking part in Mahuru Māori and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
A record amount will be invested in Transport Projects over the next three years through Waka Kotahi's National Land Transport Programme. The total $24.3 billion is a 44 percent increase on the funding available during the 2018-2021 period. RNZ transport reporter Emma Hatton took Māni Dunlop through the announcement.
An 18-year-old British qualifier has won through to the quarterfinals of the US tennis Open in New York.
Builders are refusing to offer fixed prices due to the escalating cost of construction materials - which are running out. Mortgage brokers say banks favour fixed price builds, and getting a loan could become harder. The pinch is already slowing down construction projects nationwide. Master Builders' president Kerry Archer spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Rampant house price growth is dividing the country into two New Zealands: those who own homes and those who don't. That's according to new research from Consumer NZ, which found three out of five property owners could not afford to buy their home at its current value. Meanwhile, more than 60 percent of renters believe they're locked out of the property market. Māni Dunlop spoke to Consumer's head of communications Gemma Rasmussen who said the dream of owning a home was becoming increasingly impossible.
The Government is close to a multi-country deal to boost vaccine supplies. Pfizer had been delivering more doses than promised, but that could slow to the planned rate throughout the month. RNZ's deputy political editor Craig McCulloch spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Three in five couldn't afford their own home today and material shortage will affect new builds.
Aotearoa's creative community is mourning the loss of one of its most influential artists. Pioneer pop artist Billy Apple died overnight following a short illness. He was 85. In 2009, he worked with New Zealand scientists to manipulate his blood cells and sequence his entire genome, in order to create an art project he dubbed, 'The Immortalisation of Billy Apple'. Art critic Anthony Byrt speaks Māni Dunlop.
Retail companies and New Zealand's postal services are warning of an indefinite crisis in importing retail goods and getting them to customers' front doors over the coming months. The partial closure of the world's third busiest container port in China last month has worsened an already precarious global supply chain crunch. The chief executive of Retail NZ Greg Harford spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The All Blacks are awaiting medical updates on the health of their captain and hooker after last night's 38-21 win over the Wallabies in Perth gave them a 3-nil clean sweep of the Bledisloe Cup series.
At 4pm today, the government will announce whether the Covid-19 Alert levels will be changing for everywhere outside of Auckland. Tāmaki Makaurau is still at Alert Level 4 but the rest of the country is at Alert Level 3. The outbreak stands at 721 cases, the majority are in Auckland, but just over a dozen are in Wellington. Māni Dunlop spoke to Auckland University physics lecturer Dr Dion O'Neal.
Health workers say hospitals have taken an inadequate approach to testing incoming patients for Covid-19. A patient at Middlemore hospital tested positive for Covid-19 yesterday -- 22 hours, two wards and one CT scanning area after they arrived in the hospital on Saturday evening. Jill Ovens represents the Midwives' Union, MERAS, and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Supermarket workers are increasingly worried about their safety; saying Friday's horrific terrorist attack did not come as a surprise. Cabinet will today consider the need for any changes to immigration or anti-terror laws, and a higher level inquiry, in the wake of Friday's attack. Meanwhile, the workers are on the frontlines of the pandemic and encountering an increasingly stressed public. The national retail organiser for FIRST union is Ben Peterson and he spoke to Mani Dunlop.
New concerns for essential worker safety in supermarkets and health experts call for an alert level two plus
A lockdown in French Polynesia has been extended by 15 days, as the Covid-19 situation deteriorates. More than 200 people have died in the past two weeks, and hospitals are full. Worldwatch's Max Towle speaks to RNZ Pacific's Walter Zweifel.
Auckland whānau who're now into their second-and-a-half week in strict lockdown might be in need of some new ideas to keep their tamariki entertained and keep their brains stimulated. Māni Dunlop spoke to Michelle Dickinson, also known as Nanogirl, about activities for the whole family.
Gina Crampton has been named as the new captain for this years's series' against England and Australia.
Māori are the least vaccinated group to date, and yesterday, an extra $23 million was announced to assist agencies. Whānau Ora Commissioning Agency CEO John Tamihere told Māni Dunlop middle class and Pākehā New Zealanders have been cutting the line, reducing access for Māori. He says it's time to turn that around.
At midnight, Northland joined those of us south of Auckland at Alert Level 3. The shift down for Tai Tokerau means there are now checkpoints at the northern and southern boundaries of the Auckland Region. The Deployment Manager for Tāmaki Makaurau, Superintendent Shanan Gray spoke to Māni Dunlop.
Questions still swirl about how a man absconded from his Quarantine hotel early yesterday morning - after he'd tested positive for Covid-19. It is not yet clear how he was able to slip through MIQ, and how many people he came into contact with. Māni Dunlop spoke to Microbiologist Dr Siouxsie Wiles, who said the risk to the public seemed low.
The Victorian government now says it too, like New South Wales, won't be able to eliminate the virus. It's instead banking on a high vaccination rate before opening back up. Another big jump in Victoria today - 176 new cases. Sydney will soon have set the unwanted record for Australia's longest lockdown of the pandemic - people there have been in some sort of lockdown since late June. The only hope on the horizon for Sydney is that 70 percent of the New South Wales population is expected to be fully vaccinated by mid-October. Yet daily cases in the state regularly top 1000. Max Towle spoke to Professor Mary-Louise McLaws about all of this gloominess - she's an epidemiologist at the University of New South Wales.
The first Interislander ferry to cross the Cook Strait since yesterday afternoon has almost reached the port in Picton. Sailings were temporarily suspended yesterday after a remote control train engine and wagon fell into the harbour. An investigation is underway. RNZ's Nelson-Marlborough reporter Samantha Gee was near the scene and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
New figures show the numbers of doctors and nurses waiting to apply for residence has ballooned to almost 3,000. A consultant radiologist says recruiting and retaining staff in areas of critical shortages is hard when there is no certainty they can settle in New Zealand. Māni Dunlop was joined by RNZ's immigration reporter Gill Bonnett.
News from the rural and farming sector - the industry hopes a one-way bubble for workers will be in place in just a few weeks time, saying it's crucial to ensure fruit isn't left to rot like last season.
White Ferns captain Sophie Devine believes a lack of match play did play a part in their 46 run loss in their T20 opener, and they'll be better for the outing.
There are already signs that this lockdown is hitting low-income workers harder than the last. Salvation Army policy analyst Ronji Tanielu has sounded the alarm on increasing food scarcity across the country. The Salvation Army is calling for a rent freeze, with many facing cash flow hits from lockdown. Max Rashbrooke is an expert on economic inequality and he spoke to Māni Dunlop.
The government has announced a $26 million dollar package of support for the Pacific community which is bearing the brunt of the current Delta outbreak. Pacific peoples account for 491 current community cases, out of a total of 687. Māni Dunlop spoke to RNZ Pacific's news editor Susana Lei'ataua.
The government's announced a $26 million package of support for the Pacific community which is bearing the brunt of the current Delta outbreak. Manukau ward councillor Fa'anana Efeso Collins spoke to Mani Dunlop.
The health sector grapples with covid complications and lockdown is hitting some harder than others.
"No jab, no play" - that's the message from Fiji's National Sports Commission - as Covid-19 cases continue to surge in the country. All sporting events were suspended in May, and anyone who wishes to take part in sporting activities going forward must be fully vaccinated. RNZ Pacific's Talei Anderson has more.
Australia's national government has been accused of neglecting remote indigenous communities, particularly those in central and western New South Wales, where Covid-19 is running rampant. An Aboriginal man in Dubbo is believed to be the first Indigenous Australian to die from Covid-19, and the first victim in regional New South Wales. Remote predominantly indigenous communities such as those in the town of Wilcannia are suffering with 70 of the 750 population there have tested positive. And despite a recent uptick, only 6.3 percent of Indigenous people in rural New South Wales are vaccinated - compared to 26 percent for the area's general population. The national government's Indigenous Australians Minister says vaccines were made available to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in March. Worldwatch's Max Towle spoke to Labor's shadow minister for Indigenous Australians, Linda Burney.
Restaurants are able to serve takeaway food and drink in a contactless way, if they're south of Auckland. But we're told it's pretty tricky to make a profit. Māni Dunlop was joined by the Restaurant Association's chief executive Marisa Bidois.
Marae have started vaccination drive-throughs to help boost the low Māori vaccination rate. Data show proportionally fewer Māori are vaccinated than any other group. The Māori Development Minister told a Select Committee today he accepted that the government could have done better by Māori in the pandemic response. One marae in Tāmaki Makaurau has started its first marae-based COVID-19 drive-through vaccination site. Māni Dunlop spoke to Te Aniwa Hurihanganui who was at Papakura Marae.
Captain of the Black Caps Tom Latham says representing your country is all the motivation they need for the T20 series in Dhaka.
New research confirms when vaccines are limited it's better to immunise as many as possible with one dose - rather than two. Director general of health, Dr Ashley Bloomfield told Morning Report vaccines for Auckland could be boosted ahead of the rest of the country. Today vaccinators also open their doors for those age twelve to thirty. Director of the Immunisation Advisory Centre Dr Nikki Turner joins Māni Dunlop.
The Government has accepted it could have done better by Māori in its response to the Covid-19 Pandemic. Minister for Māori Development Willie Jackson and Minister for Whānau Ora Peeni Henare fronted Select Committees this morning. RNZ political reporter Anneke Smith has been watching and spoke to Māni Dunlop.
There is unprecedented demand for food parcels as the level four lockdown continues in Auckland. Foodbanks and other social organisations say some vulnerable whānau - many of whom have been forced into isolation as close contacts - are having to wait as long as a week for food parcels. RNZ reporter Jamie Tahana talks to Māni Dunlop about what he's been hearing from providers.
A five day wait for food parcels in South Auckland and Auckland could be prioritised for vaccines.
At least 38 people in French Polynesia have died of Covid-19 over the weekend. Hospitals are full and there are calls for France to send more help. Joining me now is Walter Zweifel of RNZ Pacific
Due to the delta outbreak, NZQA has pushed back the exam period fourteen days later in December forcing students to stay at school for longer. Student backlash says their summer plans are affected, including employment opportunities. A petition disagreeing with the changes has already garnered more than 24,000 signatures. Year 12 student Ethan Reille spoke to Māni Dunlop.