Fiji's military boss says coup tomorrow.

Fiji's military commander Commodore Frank Bainimarama has announced that he will take over the running of the country from midday tomorrow, Fiji time. He has given the MPs until then to clear their desks. Commodore Bainimarama says the transition to martial law will be a smooth one.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

NZ rejects Australia's apple assessment.

Biosecurity Australia has released its final risk assessment for New Zealand apples, saying they can be imported - under strict conditions - to every state except Western Australia. New Zealand apples have been banned from Australia since 1921, ostensibly on grounds that they could bring with them the destructive bacterial disease fire blight. The trade dispute has incensed Kiwi farmers, who have been threatening to take the dispute to the World Trade Organisation. Today's ruling contains tough control measures, which are likely to spark further complaints from New Zealand growers, who already believe the restrictions make any export endeavour unviable. They include orchard inspections in New Zealand to check for fire blight symptoms, the use of disinfection treatments in packing houses, and auditing that involves the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Key supports no nukes law.

By IAN LLEWELLYN
National Party leader John Key says there will be no nuclear powered ships entering New Zealand's harbours as long as he leads the party and he accepts the ANZUS treaty is dead. Speaking to journalists after a closed seminar on defence and foreign affairs policy, Mr Key tried to put to bed the nuclear issue, which has troubled National in the past. Some in National believe New Zealand should try and revive the ANZUS treaty which cemented New Zealand defence ties with both Australia and the United States. It has been on the shelf for 20 years since Labour passed the anti-nuclear legislation and some in National have argued to scrap the law in order to rebuild the alliance.
Source:NZPA

Fijians stock up in case of a coup.

Fiji remains in a high state of tension today following military exercises overnight which saw mortar rounds and gun shots out over Suva's harbour. Newstalk ZB Political Editor, Barry Soper says the military action was part of an exercise to prepare the country against foreign intervention but observers in the Fijian capital say it is simply a case of the military flexing its muscle. There are no signs of the military on the streets of Suva today although it is expected they will be out in force again tonight. The Prime Minister, Laisenia Qarase will hold a news conference later today while military strongman Frank Bainimarama is meeting with his senior officers. Barry Soper says supermarkets are reporting an upsurge in sales as people stock up in the event of a coup and there has been a run on money machines with long queues of people extracting cash.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Cold snap sweeps South Island.

Snow has been reported in areas of Otago and inland South Canterbury today. Yesterday roads in the area were under an extreme care warning due to strong hot nor-westers and today it finds itself under a blanket of snow. The nasty southern blast is expected to get closer to Christchurch tonight with snow predicted to 700 metres and strong southerlies bringing gusts of up to 70 kilometres an hour to Banks Peninsula.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Telecom kept busy with by spam.

Telecom says increasing volumes of spam and increasingly clever ways of masking spam is keeping them busy. Some Christchurch consumers have complained of long delays in receiving e-mails over the past couple of days.Telecom spokesman Nick Brown says the problem is not widespread but they have had about a hundred extra calls this week complaining of a slow e-mail service. He says November has been a particularly bad month and they have been filtering out about 20 million pieces of spam a day.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Brash quits politics.

Don Brash has resigned from Parliament. When he quit as National's leader last week, Dr Brash said he would only stay on as an MP if he got a decent portfolio. While National's front-bench line up will not be announced until tomorrow, it is thought there is no room for Dr Brash.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

White Pointer to be protected.

The White Pointer shark will now be fully protected within New Zealand waters. Conservation Minister Chris Carter announced changes to legislation to protect the shark, at Kelly Tarlton's this morning. From April it will be illegal to hunt, kill or harm a White Pointer shark within New Zealand's 200 nautical mile exclusive economic zone. New Zealand flagged boats are also prohibited from catching the White Pointer outside our exclusive economic zone. Anyone caught possessing or trading any part of a White Pointer Shark will face up to 250-thousand dollars in fines or six months imprisonment.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Wild weather plays havoc with bridge flag.

Blustery and wet weather in Auckland has torn the Scottish national flag to shredsIt is Scotland's national day and to mark the occasion the flag of Saint Andrew has been flying from the Auckland Harbour Bridge. However the strong wind and rain has caused the flag to be ripped to shreds, leaving only a small piece of tattered material flapping from the flag pole.

Queenstown On Flood Alert.

Queenstown is on flood alert after heavy overnight rain pushed Lake Wakatipu through its first flood warning indicator. More than 100 millimetres of rain has fallen in the catchments and the Queenstown Lakes District Council is warning property owners and businesses in low lying areas to make sure their flood evacuation plans are in order.
© NewsRoom 2006

Spooks meet in Wellington.

The bosses of many of the major western intelligence services have been meeting in Wellington this week. The Government has confirmed there has been a high level visit to mark the 50th anniversary of New Zealand's SIS. The gathering also formed part of an ongoing liaison relationship. The visiting "spooks" included the Director of the CIA, the Director General of the British Secret Service and the Directors General of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation and the Australian SIS.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Changes ahead for landlords and tenants.

The rules and regulations governing landlords and tenants are being reformed. Building Issues Minister Clayton Cosgrove has announced a number of changes will be made to the Residential Tenancies Act. They include limiting the liability of tenants for damage they do not cause or cannot prevent and extending access to tenancy dispute resolution. Mr Cosgrove says the interests of landlords will also be protected, as they will have the ability to seek redress from those responsible for damaging their properties, even if they are not tenants.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Fatal Black Hawk crash.

The Australian Defence Force is in shock following the fatal crash of one of its Black Hawk helicopters off the coast of Fiji. One soldier is dead, another is missing, and seven others onboard received minor injuries. Australian defence chief Angus Houston told Sky TV that the accident happened as the chopper was coming in to land on the HMAS Kanimbla. It hit the landing deck, went over the side and sank very rapidly in very deep water. The Kanimbla is one of three Australian Navy vessels stationed off Fiji, in case of a coup.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Broadband users face 100 attacks a day.

New Zealand broadband computer users are being attacked by would-be intruder more than a hundred times a day, a study released today says. The study by NetSafe and IBM New Zealand -- to mark International Computer Security Day on Thursday - shows computers in New Zealand, connected to the internet, were targeted more than a hundred times a day by a variety of worms, viruses, trojans and hackers.
The study examined the type and frequency of threats exposed to a computer accessing popular websites via a broadband connection.
Source:NZPA

Fiji Military Announces It Is Securing Strategic Areas Of Suva.

Fiji's military has just announced that it will conduct night-time exercises, including securing strategic areas of the capital. The military issued a statement shortly before 5pm Wednesday, saying the exercises are because of fears of "foreign intervention" against a possible coup. Soldiers were already on the streets and the military commander, Commodore Frank Bainimarama, had called up Army reservists in readiness for what he described as a clean-up of the government. The Biketawa Declaration of the Pacific Islands Forum allows for intervention in a member state if requested by the government of that nation.
© NewsRoom 2006

Another 3000 DHB workers to strike.

There is set to be another strike within the District Health Boards with around 3000 staff from the Service and Food Workers' Union to down tools for 90 minutes on December 13. The workers, which include hospital cleaners, kitchen and food workers, orderlies and home aides are after a single national agreement. South Canterbury District Health Board chairman Craig Climo is hitting out, saying talks are scheduled for next week and an offer is yet to be made.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Possible US intelligence official departs.

Intelligence talks may have something to do with a visit of a mystery US official to Wellington. A large US military C-17 jet was parked at Wellington Airport from Monday until today, but all the US Embassy will say is that a senior official is here on routine talks. They will not identify the person involved.
The office for the Minister of Defence says they have nothing to do with the visit and is referring all enquiries to the Prime Minister.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Surrounded farm block added to Abel Tasman National Park.

By Martin Johnston
A large block of private land containing native forest and wetland has been saved from subdivision and will be added to Abel Tasman National Park. Walkers on the park's coastal track pass near the Hadfield block when they cross Awaroa Inlet. The property, on the western side of the picturesque estuary, is the last major block of undeveloped land surrounded by the park. The state-funded Nature Heritage Fund has bought the block for $2.7 million from the Hadfield family, which had owned it since the 1860s.

Frosts, hail damage grapes.

By TANYA KATTERNS
Wairarapa grape-growers are feeling the destructive effects of chilling late spring frosts and freak hail-storms.
Three heavy frosts this month, and Monday night's intense 15-minute hailstorm, have wiped out about 25 per cent of the region's grape production. The first frost was on November 9, followed by another just over a week later. Temperatures plummeted to minus three degrees celsius and caught many growers unprepared. Wellington Region Wine Growers Association chairman Jeff Barber, a Martinborough vineyard owner, said this month's wild weather had affected vineyards in Martinborough, Gladstone, Carterton and Masterton.
Source:Dominion Post

5.6 Quake In Eastern Bay Of Plenty.

An earthquake measuring magnitude 5.6 has occurred in the eastern Bay of Plenty, but there were have been no immediate reports of damage or injury. The Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences said the quake was at a depth of 80km, and centred 20 kilometres southwest of Whakatane, at 7.54am.
© NewsRoom 2006

Locke on Tongan mission.

Green MP Keith Locke has gone to Tonga on a fact finding mission. He left New Zealand yesterday for what will be a quick trip to the troubled kingdom after riots and civil disturbances in the capital Nuku'alofa earlier this month. Six people died in the unrest. The Green MP will be talking to some of the Tongan MPs, government officials, and members of the pro-democracy movement. He says the aim is to get a picture of the democratic reform process and the best way New Zealand can help. A contingent of around 150 New Zealand and Australian soldiers went to the region to restore peace after a request from Tonga's government. Defence Minister Phil Goff has indicated the troops may be withdrawn this week.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Monorail to solve capital's traffic woes.

A monorail is being suggested as the solution to Wellington's transport problems. Auckland company SkyCabs International says a monorail from Johnsonville through to the CBD and on to the airport could be economically feasible. The company is currently trying to raise the $31 million it needs to pay for a 600 metre demonstration track at Auckland's Rainbow's End theme park.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Pressure on real estate agents.

The Government is putting pressure on the Real Estate Institute to put in place regulatory measures to discipline members. It follows several complaints, including the case of a Napier agent who tried to get a woman to accept $230,000 for two townhouses when she wanted $400,000 for them. Associate Justice Minister Clayton Cosgrove wants an independent watchdog appointed. Institute President Murray Cleland says a real estate ombudsman has been suggested and it is an option the institute favours.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

DOC spies on rimu robbers.

The Department of Conservation has been forced to use sophisticated monitoring equipment to stop the plundering of native forest parks used to supply the black market. Trees, some up to 800 years old, are being illegally milled on-site in the dead of night. DOC says the demand for native New Zealand timber - such as rimu, matai, tawa, totara and miro - is high, with the potential for just one tree to fetch up to $10,000 on the black market. Timber theft is now so bad that DOC is monitoring trees it believes could be potential targets.
Source:One News

Ministry For Culture To Review Sale Of Student Radio Station.

The Ministry for Culture and Heritage is reviewing the sale of Canterbury University's student radio station. A newly formed company - RDU 98.5fm Ltd - bought the station for $1 and will lease the radio frequency from the Canterbury University Students Association. The Ministry for Culture and Heritage says it will look at the details of the sale and subletting agreement to make sure the station is still operating under the terms of its broadcasting licence.
© NewsRoom 2006

Rugby-Taxpayers face $175m bill over Eden Park.

Taxpayers are again facing a $175 million bill as Eden Park resumes its position as frontrunner to host the 2011 Rugby World Cup final. Sports Minister Trevor Mallard's dream of a new waterfront stadium was abandoned by the Cabinet yesterday - but the Government will not fully commit to Eden Park for another three weeks. Issues to be thrashed out include deciding whether the proposed $385 million design to add 13,000 seats at Eden Park is justified and who will cover the current $175 million funding shortfall. The Government is also likely to require representation on the board before putting any taxpayer money into the stadium. The venue's redevelopment is expected to cost about $385 million. North Harbour stadium is now officially the backup venue for the final.
Source:Dominion Post

Half all medicines not taken correctly.

PHARMAC has spent a record $28.5 million dollars on medicines in the past year - around half of which are not taken correctly. The state drug buying agency is suggesting we take a close look at what happens to medicines once a doctor has prescribed them. It is quoting independent research showing 50 percent of people do not take the medicines as prescribed - which could be anything from not taking it at all, or taking the wrong dose. As well, nine percent of prescriptions, or two-and-a-half million a year, are incorrectly dispensed.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Record snows crush historic Antarctic hut.

By JOHN HENZELL
An Antarctic hut used by Captain Robert Falcon Scott is being crushed under record snowdrifts, prompting a marathon digging effort by a New Zealand-led team. Four conservators with the Antarctic Heritage Trust (AHT) spent a week shovelling 85 tonnes of snow from around Cape Evans hut in a bid to prevent more damage being caused by snowdrifts one third bigger than it has faced in its 95-year history. The hut is one of the top drawcards of Antarctica and still features Scott's sleeping bag lying on the bunk which he left in 1911 on his ill-fated expedition to the South Pole, never to return.
Source:The Press

Govt to protect birds in Kermadec Islands.

The Government is taking action under emergency provisions in the Fisheries Act to prevent further bird deaths in the Kermadec Islands. Minister Jim Anderton says 51 albatrosses, seven petrels as well as two critically endangered leatherback turtles were caught by a swordfishing vessel in the area recently. He says the turtles and 17 albatrosses were released alive but it is not known if they survived. Mr Anderton is closing the entire Kermadec fishery to surface long-line fishing and is making night setting mandatory in all New Zealand surface long-line fisheries.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Emergency services scramble as egg truck rolls.

Emergency services were scrambled when a truck load of eggs rolled in North Canterbury early today. Police said the driver escaped with just scratches and bruising when his truck flipped in the Hundalee hills, just south of Oaro, about 6.20am. No other vehicles were involved.
Source:NZPA

Religion not a big part of Kiwi Xmas.

Readers' Digest magazine has commissioned a poll on what New Zealanders love about Christmas. Ten percent say the religious message remains the most important aspect while 63 percent say the best thing is spending time with family and friends.. Ninety-four percent eat Christmas dinner at home with up to a dozen or more people. For most, that means a roast dinner complete with Christmas pudding. People expect to eat and drink too much, play backyard sport and take an afternoon nap. New fads are also creeping in, with 26 percent of respondents putting Christmas lights on the outside of their homes and 56 percent touring around suburbs looking at them.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Nat's lineup "hard to beat"

The new National Party leadership lineup is being called a hard one to beat. Political commentator Chris Trotter says Labour has its work cut out when it comes to dealing with John Key and Bill English. He says they are a formidable duo, especially with Mr English's extensive knowledge of the party. Mr Trotter says the combination is being touted by some as the 'dream team'.

Bainimarama delays return to Fiji.

Fiji's military commander Frank Bainimarama has delayed plans to return to Suva as diplomatic efforts to avoid a coup are being made in Wellington. Our political editor understands Prime Minister Helen Clark has been talking with both the Commodore and with Fiji's Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase trying to broker a deal. Fiji police commissioner Peter Hughes has been threatening to arrest Commodore Bainimarama and charge him with sedition. Helen Clark is expected to reveal more at a news conference about the situation later this afternoon.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Decision time soon on new school curriculum.

By DEIDRE MUSSEN
Statistics show 82 per cent of New Zealanders are monolingual. A draft new curriculum for New Zealand's primary and secondary school students has prompted an outpouring of interest. More than 8000 submissions have been received by the Ministry of Education. Months of consultation ends on Thursday on the proposed curriculum, which is planned to guide the country's 756,000 students' education from the start of 2008. The draft has attracted controversy - teachers have said schools lack the resources to ensure all year 7-10 students learn a foreign language, as proposed, and are concerned at a lack of focus on maths and English. The Maori Party has also criticised removal of Treaty of Waitangi references.
source:Sunday Star Times

Christchurch pummeled by wild weather.

Thunder, lightning and hail - Christchurch has had it all today. A thunderstorm pummeled the central city with rain and hail this afternoon, despite an earlier forecast suggesting there would only be light showers. One Linwood resident says the hailstorm left her property looking like an English Christmas card. She says huge, crashing, thunder and lightning preceded the hail.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Strike threatens to cripple hospitals.

By Errol Kiong
Blood transfusions, blood-testing and tissue-sampling services will be unavailable for all but life-threatening conditions if a planned strike by medical laboratory workers goes ahead this week. Hospitals and union representatives are meeting in Auckland today for talks to avert the action, which could paralyse public and private hospitals across the country. Some operations have already been postponed. The strike - involving 1200 lab staff - will make most surgery impossible and hamper medical decisions.

Big Rise In Number Of Over 65s In Workforce.

New figures reveal the number of older people in the workforce has increased hugely, with more than double the number of over 65s staying on in employment. The data, from Statistics New Zealand, shows the number of workers aged over 65 increased by 109 percent in the five years to 2005. It also reveals the number of workers aged 60 to 64 has increased by 67 percent, and those aged between 55 and 59 are up 48 percent.
© NewsRoom 2006

Travel warning for Fiji.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has issued a high-risk security warning for Fiji and says a coup is becoming more and more likely. Tension began mounting earlier this month when military commander Frank Bainimarama threatened to overthrow the Fijian government. MFAT says the increasing risk of a military coup means that there's a high risk to personal safety in Suva, and the government cannot guarantee your safety in Fiji if things deteriorate. New Zealanders are advised not to travel to Suva unless absolutely necessary.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Territorial Soldiers Leave For Honiara.

A group of part-time territorial force personnel has left New Zealand for the Solomon Islands, to serve for four months. Most of those involved have taken a leave of absence from their jobs, but some have had to resign in order to meet the commitment. They will replace soldiers who have been with the regional assistance mission since July. Commander Joint Forces New Zealand, Rear Admiral Jack Steer, says the group is made up of 33 Army, Navy and Air Force personnel. The platoon will perform regular patrols around the islands and support police in Honiara, as well as providing help with external security at Rove Prison.
© NewsRoom 2006

Rugby-Eden Park gets the nod.

A redeveloped Eden Park will be the centrepiece of the 2011 Rugby World Cup. Rugby Cup Minister Trevor Mallard has just announced the Government's decision on the venue at his office in Parliament. Our Political Editor Barry Soper says Mr Mallard is disappointed his dream of a waterfront stadium in Auckland is in tatters. However, he said the decision was always one that Auckland had to make. He said sadly the Auckland Regional Council and Auckland City Council's could not come to a unanimous decision.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Key appointment by National caucus.

As expected, John Key is the National party's new leader. Mr Key has emerged from today's caucus meeting in Wellington with confirmation he has taken over the helm of the party, following the resignation of Don Brash last week. Bill English has also been confirmed as his deputy.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Crunch time for Oxford's Kiwi vice-chancellor.

By RUTH HILL
The New Zealand academic heading Oxford University looks set to succeed in pushing through controversial reforms at a key vote this week. In 2004, former Auckland University vice-chancellor Dr John Hood became the first outsider to head Oxford. He suffered a humiliating defeat just eight months into office when plans to introduce staff performance appraisals were rejected by the congregation, the university's "parliament" of 3700 lecturers and fellows. On Tuesday the congregation is expected to vote on current proposals which include streamlining decision-making at the 900-year-old institution by creating an independent board of trustees to oversee finances, and a single academic council.
source:Sunday Star Times

Nurses of the past sought.

Southland District Health Board is keen to tap into the pool of experience held by nurses of the past. The DHB is encouraging former nurses who are thinking of getting back into the workforce to take another look at the profession. An information meeting is being held tomorrow. Return To Nursing coordinator Rosalie McDonald says the programme offers registered nurses who are currently not practicing the opportunity to update their clinical skills and theory knowledge, so they can again work in a clinical environment.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Job market up for over 55s.

Latest figures suggest redundant older workers are finding it a little easier to get new employment. Statistics New Zealand says filled jobs increased by just over four percent last month - and 18 and a half percent in the past year. The greatest increase in jobs is for those over 55.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Fiji travel alert for New Zealanders.

The New Zealand government is recommending against all non-essential travel to Fiji, due to the increasing risk of a military coup. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade says there is a high risk to personal safety in Suva. It says although the situation at the moment is calm, underlying tensions could lead to a rapid deterioration.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Second Generation Kiwi Chick Recovered .

A project in Hawke's Bay which aims to help restore a population of kiwis living in the wild has celebrated a major milestone. The Environmental Conservation and Outdoor Education Trust has recovered its first ever second generation kiwi chick from the Kaweka Forest park. Chairman Matthew Lawson says a chick called Puk which the trust raised in captivity has partnered with a wild kiwi and produced a chick.
Matthew Lawson says the Trust has now successfully raised 44 kiwi chicks and the next job is to complete a 40 hectare predator free creche just north of Napier.
© NewsRoom 2006

New Zealand's Favourite Tree.

The Chatham Islands Christmas tree has been voted the country's favourite native plant in the New Zealand Plant Conservation Network's annual survey. The survey has run for the past five years, and invites New Zealanders to vote on-line for their favourite native plant. The network's patron, Rob Fenwick, says the tree, which also goes by the name Rautini, is unique to the Chatham Islands, and has yellow blooms during the summer months. He says its a surprise the tree won, because in other years well-known varieties such as Pohutakawa and Kowhai have taken the top spot. The Poor Knights Lily and Parapara were voted second and third respectively.
© NewsRoom 2006

Rugby-ABs demolish Wales 45-10 in dramatic match.

The All Blacks have demolished Wales 45-10 in a dramatic test at Millennium Stadium Cardiff. New Zealand led 28-3 at halftime. However, Richie McCaw and Andrew Hore were sinbinned.
The All Blacks refused to perform the haka to the crowd. It follows the Welsh Rugby Union asking the haka be performed in between the national anthems, instead of after. The All Blacks agreed to perform it in between the anthems when they played the Welsh team last year, as a one off to commemorate the centenary of rugby between the two nations. All Blacks manager Darren Shand says the haka is an important tradition which is respected world wide, and they ask the Welsh have the same respect.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Auckland Christmas Parade today.

The jingling of bells is not the only ringing hoping to be heard at this year's annual Auckland Santa Parade. The 250,000 spectators expected at the pageant are being urged to bring any loose change for collectors. The charity Koru Care will share the proceeds with event organisers, the Auckland Children's Christmas Parade Trust. Donations generated from the parade will be used to send children with terminal illnesses and disabilities to Disneyland. This afternoon will be the 72nd time the parade has been held.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Kiwis record Pacific island sinking into sea.

By GREG MEYLAN
New Zealand film makers are to document the last days of the tiny Polynesian island of Takuu before it slips beneath the waves. The island, 250km off Papua New Guinea, is home to 500 people and a unique culture - but its highest point is just 1m above sea level. Tectonic activity at the junction of the Pacific and Australian continental plates means the island is sinking 20cm a year. Its disappearance is being viewed as a dummy run for other low-lying Pacific islands, as sea levels rise due to global warming. Documentary director Briar March and cameraman Zane Holmes will accompany Auckland University anthropologist Dr Richard Moyle to the island next month.
source:Sunday Star Times

Customers lose patience with ihug.

By Jenny Keown
Ihug customers are still experiencing major delays in connecting to the internet as well as having trouble reaching the company's call centre. The internet problems have been going on for three weeks. Ihug chief executive Mark Rushworth would not be drawn on how many customers had been affected, but said it was in the thousands. Ihug said on Wednesday that broadband customers would be unable to connect to the internet while its call centre had an overload of incoming calls.
Source:APN

Porirua Annual March 1,000 Strong.

Traffic came to a halt at the main bridge in Porirua, north of Wellington, this morning for a rally of around 1,000 people from different Pacific communities. Organisers say the rally launched the Strong Pacific Families week, and was an opportunity to show the strength of Pacific families en masse. The rally, which included Pacific floats and bagpipes, began simultaneously at Waitangirua Mall in Porirua East and at Titahi Bay school in the city's western suburbs. It is the second time the rally has been held.
© NewsRoom 2006

NZ-Aus Consider Joint Marine Protection Area.

New Zealand and Australia have agreed to look at creating a marine protection area where Australian and New Zealand waters meet in the Tasman Sea. Under the Convention on Biological Diversity the countries are obligated to make a global network of marine protected areas by 2012. Conservation Minister Chris Carter says the agreement is believed to be the first between two countries, and they would share jurisdiction and be responsible for the policing of the area.
© NewsRoom 2006

Mums homing in on part-time work.

By Simon Collins
Women still want to be stay-at-home mums - but research suggests they may not be as happy as they expected. A Massey University sociologist, who has done two pilot studies in Wellington, says women still plan to stop paid work for three to five years after having children and then go back to work only part time. "Those old traditional patterns are still there," Dr Lesley Patterson said. "I thought they might have shifted a bit more. I'm surprised at how gendered the division of labour still is." Auckland University sociologist Maureen Baker said local mothers still dropped out of paid work more than in other developed nations. Only 43 per cent of Kiwi mums with children under 3 were in paid work, compared with 59 per cent in Canada.
Source:APN

Families no better off 20 years on.

By Simon Collins
A massive shift of women into paid work over the past 20 years has left the average New Zealand family no better off. A research project led by Prime Minister Helen Clark's husband, Auckland University sociologist Peter Davis, has found that the median family income, after adjusting for inflation and family size, was just over $37,000 a year in 1981 - and was still just over $37,000 in 2001. In the same period, the proportion of working women rose from 47 per cent to 61 per cent. The increase in women was offset by a 20 per cent drop in male fulltime employment, as men moved into self-employment and part-time work and on to benefits. Families on middle and low incomes have ended up merely holding their own, while high-income families are better off.

More checks for newborn babies.

By KIM RUSCOE
A heel-prick screening programme carried out on newborn babies since the 1960s is to be expanded to include tests for a further 20 life-threatening disorders. Health Ministry child and youth health chief adviser Pat Tuohy said the current checks for seven metabolic conditions found disorders in about 35 babies a year. The most common disorder expected to be picked up is medium chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency, which prevents energy being extracted from fats. Other disorders could cause cataracts, intellectual disability and sexual development problems.
Source:Dominion Post

Rugby- Eden Park breaks clear in World Cup race.

Eden Park is leading the field for the Rugby World Cup after Auckland's local body politicians came to a split decision on the waterfront national stadium. Auckland Regional Council, owner of the port facilities, rejected the plan yesterday. On Thursday, Auckland City Council backed the stadium 12-8 after a five-hour session. Rugby World Cup Minister Trevor Mallard said he would refer the councils' decisions to Monday's Cabinet. It is understood the Government is unlikely to push the waterfront option any more. Mr Mallard had given Auckland two weeks to decide on the offer, setting a deadline of midday yesterday. At 12.30pm the regional council unanimously rejected the plan for a waterfront stadium, preferring the original plan to upgrade Eden Park.
Source:Dominion Post

NZ sends 20 more police to Tonga.

The New Zealand Government is to send another 20 police staff to Tonga today, in the wake of riots in the capital, Nuku'alofa. Police Minister Annette King said the deployment would bring the number of New Zealand police in Tonga to 45. "The situation in Nuku'alofa is calm and good progress is being made by Tonga police, with support from New Zealand and Australian police, on crime-scene investigation and the building of cases against suspects," she said. A New Zealand-led defence force of 150 military and police officers were sent to Tonga last weekend. International flights resumed on Monday, four days after pro- democracy youths burned and looted the commercial centre.
Source:NZPA

Two dead after light plane crash.

Two people are dead after their light plane crashed in the Kaipara Harbour. The plane went down just after 9 o'clock this morning at Pouto Point. An eyewitness reports seeing the plane take off near the beach, and climbing to about 200 metres. It then veered to the left and crashed into the ocean. Police and fire crews have managed to secure the wreckage, which was spotted in the water by a helicopter.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Samoan Govt will help with migrant worker rules.

The Samoan Government is pledging it will do its bit to ensure new rules here for migrant workers will be respected. Earlier this year the Government changed immigration rules to allow more unskilled workers, predominantly from the Pacific, to help fill labour shortages in seasonal work. Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Lupesoliai Malielagaoi is acknowledging how important the changes are to his country but is also offering assurances our immigration rules will be respected by workers if the correct procedures are in place.

Commissioner takes over Allenvale School.

By YVONNE MARTIN
A commissioner has taken control of Christchurch's Allenvale School and the board of trustees has been dissolved over financial mismanagement issues. Education Minister Steve Maharey replaced the board yesterday, after a report found "a lapse of governance and management" at the special school. Allenvale manages $1.4 million of government funding for high-needs pupils from 23 Canterbury schools. The ministry became involved when the Bryndwr school's annual report raised questions about its financial management.
Source:The Press

Queenstown on flood alert.

Queenstown remains wary as neighbouring Lake Wakatipu has risen towards levels that threaten to flood the tourist mecca. Properties along the shores of the lake are most at risk, as people in the area are expected to get 24 hours' notice of an impending flood. The last major lake flood, in 1999, caused three weeks of lost business for Queenstown retailers and cost the local economy an estimated $56 million. "Public health is also an issue. The floodwater won't be very clean," said Otago Regional Council spokesman John Threlfall. The lake level was yesterday hovering around 310.5m. The first "flood risk trigger" level is 310.8m, when those in the most at-risk areas are officially warned to prepare. Once it reaches 311.25m, a flood is expected.
Source:APN

Triangle to show al-Jazeera news.

Triangle Television will tomorrow begin screening programmes from al-Jazeera English, the recently-launched English language news and current affairs programme from the controversial Middle East-based broadcaster. The first programme features British journalist David Frost.
Source:APN

Regional Councillors Back Eden Park For Rugby World Cup.

The Auckland Regional Council has voted overwhwelmingly to reject a waterfront stadium, and back Eden Park as the venue for the 2011 Rugby World Cup. The councillors have been meeting since 9:30am Friday and finalized their decision just after 12.30pm. Chairman Mike Lee says it basically comes down to a matter of costs, with the stadium cost simply too high. This means local authorities are divided over the venue - after the Auckland City Council last night voted for the waterfront option. Rugby World Cup Minister, Trevor Mallard, is expected to make a statement later this afternoon.
© NewsRoom 2006

Non-emergency call service trial launched today.

Police officially launch a trial run of a non-emergency phone service today, which if successful may lead to a nationwide number for contacting police. Police announced in June they would run the demonstration to test the processes and systems involved in taking non-emergency calls - where the caller has dialled a police station rather than 111. The trial would take non-emergency calls coming to the communications centres' general queue from the Auckland City and Bay of Plenty police districts.
Source:NZPA

Couple want to tie knot on iceberg.

It sounds like a case of cold feet. A Dunedin couple have had to put their wedding plans on ice. Lawyer Bridget Byers and builder Donald Wyatt planned to marry on one of the many icebergs floating off the Otago coastline on ice, the Otago daily Times reported. The pair would take a wedding celebrant – and their crampons – by helicopter to say their I dos on one of the giant visitors from the Antarctic which have so enamoured New Zealanders for the past few weeks. However, Southern Lakes Helicopter pilot Richard Hannibal Hayes, of Te Anau, known for his search and rescue work in the region, said plans were on hold as the job was too risky. The slow thaw of the flotilla as the icebergs moved north meant they were constantly shedding ice, and it was difficult to find a safe haven for the lovebirds to land on. Internal Affairs also threw cold water on the couple's plans, saying people had to be within 12 nautical miles of the coast to be married legally.
Source:NZPA

More trouble brewing in the Pacific.

Australia believes Fijian military chief Frank Bainimarama is planning a coup. Following comments by Fijian Police Commissioner Andrew Hughes that a group of senior figures are pulling the commodore's strings, Foreign Minister Alexander Downer predicts an attempt to overthrow the elected government of Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase could come within a fortnight. Commander Bainimarama is in New Zealand at the moment for what is being described as a private visit. Australia has sent naval ships to the region in case its nationals need to be evacuated.

New rules for pool owners.

New rules for pool owners are expected after a raft of new recommendations from Standards New Zealand this morning. The new standard aims to set out clearer rules for pool owners and include new technologies that are not included in the existing 1987 Fencing of Swimming Pools Act. Standards New Zealand Ian Godfrey says New Zealand has the highest rate of drownings among OECD countries and the new standard aims to improve the statistics.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Tongan rioters may end up in NZ courts.

By DAN EATON
Kiwis are likely to judge the worst cases of violence resulting from Tonga's civil unrest that killed six people and destroyed much of the capital. Tongan Chief Justice Tony Ford, a lawyer from Wellington, said yesterday it would take an extreme situation for him to impose the death penalty which had not been used in the Pacific kingdom since 1983. A second Supreme Court judge, a lawyer from Auckland, would arrive soon and the country may require aid from New Zealand and Australia to expand the prison on the main island of Tongatapu to cope with a large rise in inmate numbers, he said. Many arrests were expected in the next few days and Ford said about 25 people were already being held in police cells as a result of last Thursday's rioting by pro-democracy mobs.
Source:The Press
click HERE for full story

Plans to increase solar water heating.

The Greens have won $15.5 million from the Government to increase the use of solar water heating. Co-leader Jeanette Fitzsimons says the programme will run for five-and-a-half years, with the money allocated for the first three-and-a-half years. She says funding levels for the final two years will be decided after a review in 2009. Ms Fitzsimons says the programme includes putting more solar water heating systems into government buildings and providing financial assistance to home owners.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

U2 planning secret pub gig?

Rumours are emerging that U2 are planning a secret gig in an Auckland city pub. The band is already in New Zealand ahead of its two sold out concerts tomorrow night and Saturday which will be in front of 90,000 people at Mt Smart Stadium. The rock giants are believed to be tired of playing at vast, impersonal venues and want to hold a smaller more intimate gig. There are no rumours of a surprise show atop One Tree Hill however.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Warning about shonky Xmas lights.

Shoppers hoping to light up their Christmas are being warned to watch out for shonky and potentially dangerous Christmas light sets which were being sold through discount and low-price chain stores.
The lights have been ordered off the shelves, but there is concern some may still be about. Associate Energy Minister, Harry Duynhoven, says the lights do not meet New Zealand safety codes and could cause an electric shock. The low cost lights were commonly sold in unmarked plastic bags or boxes labelled Christmas Tree Lights, or Decorative Lighting.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Albatross deaths investigated.

Fisheries officers are investigating a number of albatross deaths that have occurred while fishermen were catching swordfish in New Zealand's northern waters. Swordfish have only been included in the fish quota management system since October. The fishery is still small and involves only a few boats and a fisheries observer. Fisheries Minister Jim Anderton says the albatross deaths are deeply disturbing. An investigation is underway into how they happened and to see what action can be taken to prevent further cases.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Women reclaiming the night.

Women and children take to the streets of Wellington tonight. The annual Women Reclaim the Night Walk comes during White Ribbon Week, to raise awareness of male violence against women. Charity group Jigsaw says the walk symbolises the rejection of the belief that women should not walk alone after dark. Chief executive Tau Huirama says current attitudes suggest it is the victim's fault for being out late at night or the way they dress. He says that needs to change. The walk, which is for women and children only, starts at 8.30pm from Waitangi Park.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

SPCA faces shocking animal cruelty case.

The Auckland SPCA is dealing with one of the most shocking cases of animal cruelty staff have ever seen. They are fighting to save a dog abandoned at a Housing New Zealand property in Mangere.
SPCA General Manager Jane Thompson says the animal had been locked in a room for a week. As well as being severely dehydrated and hungry, the dog has the worst case of mange staff have ever seen and has bleeding sores all over its body. Jane Thompson says the dog so badly disfigured, it is impossible to even tell what breed it is. It is touch and go as to whether it will survive. Ms Thompson is promising to do everything possible to track down and prosecute the dog's owner.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Online initiative to attract Air Force recruits.

The Air Force is going online to try to attract more people to sign up. A three month 'Bring it On' recruitment campaign is being launched online and is designed to attract the gaming generation. The website aims to educate users about the Air Force through a series of challenges and adventures. Air Force Director of Recruitment Squadron Leader Shaun Sexton says it was decided that engaging potential recruits in an online environment would be the best way to try to boost numbers. He says recent recruitment initiatives have done well but are starting to have less impact.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Tsunami hits NZ - but quietly.

Parts of the country have been hit by a tsunami, however there is no need to run for the hills. The National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research says the half metre wave was generated by a huge earthquake in the northern Pacific Ocean just over a week ago. Fourteen hours after the magnitude 8.3 quake, the initial wave reached the Chatham Islands and the Bay of Plenty, 9600 km from the site of the quake. Its journey across the Pacific was measured at an average speed of 685 km/hr. By comparison, a Boeing 737-300 travels at 790 km/hr. A couple of days later it was recorded at Timaru, Lyttelton and Kaikoura. The tsunami affected New Zealand for over a three or four day period as waves bounced off undersea ridges such as the Chatham Rise, and moved to and fro along indented sections of the coast.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Brash steps down.

Don Brash has stepped down from the leadership of the National Party. Dr Brash made the announcement at a media conference in Wellington shortly after one o'clock this afternoon. He told reporters that ongoing speculation about his leadership was damaging National Party and its election prospects. His resignation will take effect from a special caucus meeting on Monday. Dr Brash has been at the centre of a political storm, following the theft of a number of his personal e-mails and an injunction halting the publication of a book by investigative writer Nicky Hager about the National Party.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

ihug blames phones for broadband outage.

Internet provider ihug yesterday blamed a problem at a telephone exchange for the loss of its broadband service all day to customers nationwide. The ihug 0800 number crashed in the afternoon when incoming calls overloaded the call centre. The provider's woes this month have included 20,000 customers losing email services at one stage.
Source:APN

Netball-Davu relishing new role with Fiji.

Former Silver Fern Vilimaina Davu faces a baptism of fire in her new job as Fiji netball coach.
Netball Fiji yesterday confirmed the appointment of its most famous netballing export to coach its team at the world championships in Suva in July. But the powerful defender - dubbed the Smiling Assassin - will plunge into the deep end as coach with one of her first assignments, a test against the Silver Ferns in Fiji in March. Fiji are also scheduled to play Australia in January. Davu takes over from Australian Megan Simpson who resigned in August. The 29-year-old will still play for the Northern Force in the (NZ) National Bank Cup next year.
Source:The Press

Icebergs now near Timaru.

Fishing boats are reporting icebergs off the Timaru coast. Two fishing boats - the Nidaro and the Amber Wave - have reported seeing icebergs heading north. An iceberg appeared on the horizon while the boat was about 60 kilometres out from the Timaru coast. "We saw it on the horizon, and weren't sure what it was, but then we saw it was an iceberg." Mr Laurie estimated the iceberg was about 30 to 45 metres high and a good 45m across.
Timaru Herald

NZ imperiled by Aussie nuclear proposals - Greens.

Proposals to build 25 nuclear plants on Australia's east coast would imperil New Zealand if they went ahead, Green Party co-leader Jeanette Fitzsimons says. The head of a task force investigating atomic energy in Australia, Ziggy Switkowski, yesterday released his report on a possible nuclear energy industry in Australia, concluding 25 nuclear reactors could produce a third of Australia's electricity needs by 2050. Ms Fitzsimons said New Zealand would be in the path of fallout if there was a nuclear accident. "With the prevailing winds blowing from the west, New Zealand would become the early warning system – the canary in the coalmine – for an Australian-made disaster."
Source:NZPA

Huge back burn to stop NSW (Aust) fire.

Firefighters in New South Wales are setting up a 20 kilometre area of back burn in an effort to contain a huge bush fire in the upper Blue Mountains. The all-night operation has included volunteers patrolling streets at Mt Tomah, the township most under threat. The back burn stretches from Blackheath to Wentworth Falls.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Bill giving trial work period rejected.

Parliament has dumped the Wayne Mapp's private member's bill aimed at establishing a 90 day probationary period for workers going into new jobs. The National Party MP's bill was rejected last night 67 votes to 53. Labour Minister Ruth Dyson told the House she would be proud of MPs if they chose to reject the legislation as it was shallow and self serving. She says its adoption would have meant a return to the bad old days of the Employment Contracts Act where workers were stripped of their rights.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

U2 believed to already be in NZ.

The long wait for U2 fans is almost over. The Irish super group plays in Auckland tomorrow and Saturday nights and it is understood the band is already in the country. The original shows set down for March were delayed due to family illness. Builders have been working on the massive stage at Mt Smart Stadium since Sunday and it is expected to be finished today.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Troops Move Into Tonga's Capital.

The New Zealand-led defence force in Tonga is starting to move troops into the centre of the capital Nuku'alofa, which has been cordoned off after last week's rioting. The riots on Thursday resulted in much of the city's central business district being destroyed. So far New Zealand and Australian troops have been confined to the airport, but Lieutenant Colonel Darren Beck says now that's secured troops are moving in to support Tongan police. Lieutenant Colonel Beck says he is confident the situation is completely under control and life in Tonga is returning to normal.
© NewsRoom 2006

Greens call for end to cigarette marketing.

The Greens are calling for cigarette marketing to be stubbed out. MP Metiria Turei wants to see regulations introduced that would see cigarettes removed from display in retail areas. She says they are branded and marketed so as to entice consumers, and young people, and this needs to be stopped. Minister of Health Pete Hodgson says the Government does have the power to regulate but is waiting on the outcome of ongoing work being carried out by the Commerce Commission.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

NZ 7th in gender equality.

A new study places New Zealand 7th in the Gender Gap Index put together by the World Economic Forum and the London Business School. The index measures gaps between men and women in four areas: economic participation and opportunity, educational attainment, health and survival and political empowerment. The ranking covers 90% of the world's population. Sweden has gone farthest in eliminating inequality between men and women, followed by Norway, Finland and Iceland. The Philippines is the only Asian country in the top 10, coming in just ahead of New Zealand at number six. Yemen ranks bottom of the 115 nations surveyed.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Mysterious deaths of birds.

Large numbers of birds are dying near Havelock North and no one knows why. The Hawke's Bay District Health Board has issued a warning for the public to stay away from an area near Anderson Park where the dead birds have been found. Medical Officer of Health Dr Lester Calder says the deaths began two days ago. He says 200 birds have died along with several cats while one dog has had to be put down.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Number of working-holiday Chileans to double to 1000.

New Zealand's working holiday scheme with Chile is being extended again, this time to allow 1000 young Chileans a year to come here. Prime Minister Helen Clark made the announcement yesterday after talks with Chilean President Michelle Bachelet. New Zealand's working holiday scheme with Chile started in 2001 with 200 places. That has been extended each year until last year, when 500 young Chileans came here. Helen Clark said yesterday that when applications were opened on October 1 for this year's quota, all 500 places were snapped up within three weeks. There's clearly a huge demand and we have made the decision to increase the number of places each year from now on to 1000."
Source:NZPA

Talents take unwise turn.

By DEAN CALCOTT
A national title-winning weightlifter misguidedly used his talents to tip over a parked car, causing nearly $1800 damage. Jonathon Selkirk, 22, who is a national title winner in the under-85kg class for weightlifting, admitted a charge of wilful damage. The Christchurch District Court was told yesterday that while visiting Invercargill for a weightlifting contest on October 15, Selkirk, who was intoxicated along with three associates, helped pick a parked car and tip it on its side. Panel damage was caused along one side and a window was smashed in the early-morning offence, reparation of $1704 being sought.
Source:The Press

About 90pc of homes with kids are smokefree - survey.

About nine out of 10 homes with children in them are smokefree, figures released today show. The Health Sponsorship Council said survey results from 2006 indicated that 91 per cent of parents and caregivers reported no exposure to second-hand smoke in the home within the previous week. The council said this was a significant increase from 79 per cent in 2003. In 2004, the council launched its Smokefree Homes campaign.
Source:NZPA

Elton John auction hits $11,000.

Bids in an auction to meet Elton John when he comes to Wellington next month have reached $11,000. The charity auction on TradeMe includes a meeting with Sir Elton, a backstage tour, a VIP concert booth, merchandise and luxury accommodation. The auction closes at nine tonight with a bidding war between two fans pushing the price up to $11,000. All proceeds will go to the New Zealand Aids Foundation.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Lizards likely to be destroyed.

Eleven endangered exotic lizards are likely to be destroyed, after being smuggled into New Zealand. Biosecurity NZ is trying to find out how the eight green iguana, two emerald monitors and one blue tree monitor were brought into the country, after finding them for sale on the internet. Investigations Manager Greg Reid says when seized, all were found to be carrying diseases. He says the iguana are carrying a strain of salmonella which is new to New Zealand, and the monitors have a blood parasite. He says that could have catastrophic effects on our flora and fauna, not to mention what a five foot carnivore would do to our native animals.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Addiction problem for Maori.

Maori are twice as likely as all other ethnic groups to develop drug addictions. Researcher Professor Doug Sellman, who is the director of the National Addiction Centre and Christchurch School of Medicine, says the reasons are not yet fully understood, but it shows the pressing need for effective anti-addiction services for Maori. "In the raw data, it appeared Maori were actually three times more likely to have substance abuse problems than other ethnic groups, so the question was asked: how much of this result is due to ethnicity, and how much is due to other factors?" says Professor Sellman.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Smacking ban looks certain to be law.

By Ruth Berry
The anti-smacking bill looks certain to be passed by Parliament in a slightly weakened form. The Herald has confirmed claims by the bill's sponsor, Green MP Sue Bradford, that she has enough votes to ensure it will become law. The bill will change the Crimes Act to remove the defence of "reasonable force" that parents can invoke if charged with assaulting a child. But the select committee that approved the bill yesterday has forced a compromise which will permit parents to use reasonable force to exercise necessary parental control. This would include restraining a child to prevent it from harm, or from causing others harm, or to prevent it engaging in disruptive behaviour.
Source:APN

ANZ in China bank deal.

Australia and New Zealand Banking Group hopes to sign a deal this week to buy a 20 per cent stake in China's Shanghai Rural Commercial Bank for around US$250 million ($376 million). The investment would be ANZ's second in China after it bought 19.9 per cent of Tianjin City Commercial Bank last year for $US120 million.
Source:APN

Surf's up for public servants.

By NIKKI MACDONALD
Government workers spend at least 35,000 hours a year on internet auction site Trade Me, a new investigation by The Dominion Post suggests. That's equivalent to a year's work for more than 18 full-time staff, and about $1 million in lost productivity, based on average public sector hourly earnings. The annual figure was extrapolated from a one-month snapshot obtained under the Official Information Act. And it's likely to be conservative, given that six of the 16 agencies surveyed either did not respond or were unable to measure the amount of time workers spent on the auction website. Four government staff have been disciplined in the past year for inappropriate web surfing, and one Social Development Ministry worker was sacked.
Source:Dominion Post

Rugby-Sevens tickets on sale.

Tickets for next year's Wellington Sevens have gone on sale online and at ticket outlets.
They are not expected to last long, with just 10,000 up for grabs and 25,000 already allocated, some to season ticket holders at the capital's stadium. A small group of determined sevens fans spent the night outside Real Groovy in Cuba Steet. Some people queued overnight to be first in line. Many said they wanted to make sure they secured tickets after a bad experience trying to buy online last year.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Native Plant Seed Bank To Be Set Up .

A seed bank is being set up to help save the country's native plants from extinction.New Zealand has more than 200 threatened indigenous plant species and extinction is imminent for some of them.
It's a joint venture between the New Zealand Plant Conservation Network and the engineering and environment consultancy, MWH New Zealand. The seed bank will be based at AgResearch in Palmerston North.
© NewsRoom 2006

New police non-emergency service to be launched on Friday.

he trial of a new police telephone service for non-emergency calls will begin on Friday. Intended to take pressure off the stretched 111 system, the trial will filter non-emergency calls away from the communications centres of Auckland City and Bay of Plenty police districts. Non-urgent calls, like burglaries and car thefts, will be diverted to the new service. Police Minister Annette King said the Government had allocated $3.5 million a year in funding for the trial from this year's budget.
Source:NZPA

South Islanders warned earthquakes on the way.

By PAUL GORMAN
South Islanders could be shaken by more earthquakes over the next week or two, but geologists say they are unlikely to be major. Four tremors in three days have rocked the top half of the South Island, two in the outer Marlborough Sounds and two in North Canterbury. Picton residents were jolted awake at 3.38am on Saturday by a tremor measuring 5.5 on the Richter Scale and centred 40km north-east of Picton, 70km deep.
Source:The Press

Chile's president visiting.

Chilean President Michelle Bachelet is in Wellington today meeting government MPs and National Party leader Don Brash. Ms Bachelet will also be guest of honour at a state luncheon at Parliament and at a dinner hosted by Prime Minister Helen Clark at Premier House this evening.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Banner to mark children's day.

A gigantic banner with around 5000 children's handprints will be unveiled today to coincide with Universal Children's Day. Children have been adding their handprints to the 100m-long banner at Auckland Zoo for the past five weeks. The event was organised by ChildFund New Zealand. National director Paul Brown said Universal Children's Day was about raising awareness of children living in poverty around the world.

Sea Floor Compound Future Energy Source?

Scientists say a compound found off the coast of New Zealand could be mined as a future energy source. An international team of scientists have just returned from a voyage exploring the sea floor off the east coast of New Zealand Dr Craig Smith from the University of Hawaii says the compound, Methane Hydrate, was found near seeps on the seafloor that were the main focus of the expedition. He says methane hydrates could be mined off the coast of New Zealand and there should be a lot there.
© NewsRoom 2006

Visitors flee Tonga.

There is relief this evening on the faces of those arriving in Auckland on the first commercial flight from Tonga since last week's riots. Many were holiday-makers or those on businesses whose flights home over the weekend had been delayed. Those spoken to by Newstalk ZB said Nuku 'alofa had been a frightening place to be on Thursday, with many witnessing arson and looting. While it was clear they were relieved to be back in New Zealand, most agreed they never feared for their lives as they knew visitors were not the target of the rioters. Meanwhile one guesthouse has told our newsroom 80 percent of the capital's infrastructure is no longer in place and all of their customers have said they want to get out as soon as possible.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

More babies born than any time in the last 12 years.

More New Zealand babies were born in the past year than in any year since 1992. Statistics New Zealand said today 59,120 babies were born, the highest number of live births registered in New Zealand since September 1992 year, when 59,510 babies were born. Mr Pink said the birth rate was up slightly to 2.1 children per New Zealand woman on average, but still near to the long-term average of 2.0 over the past 20 years. It was higher than the 1.8 child average of Australia, Denmark, England and Wales, Norway and Sweden while the French were also less prolific -- 1.9 children per woman. The United States also averaged 2.1 children.
Source:NZPA

on't let them in, say NZ Tongans.

A group of Tongans living in New Zealand does not want New Zealand to be a refuge for rioters who destroyed businesses in the Tongan capital last week. New Zealand and Australia sent troops to Tonga to help stabilise the country after rioters destroyed the central business district of Nuku'alofa on Thursday. Commercial flights between Tonga and New Zealand are due to resume on Monday. "Once the perpetrators are identified we call on the New Zealand government to blacklist all those involved in perpetrating, planning or inciting these events from entering New Zealand," the Tongan Advisory Council said in a statement on Sunday. The council is a group of Tongans based in New Zealand set up in 2002
Source:NZPA

Hydro lakes at healthy levels.

Levels at the South Island's hydro lakes are looking healthy, heading into summer. Lakes Wanaka and Wakatipu are more than half a metre above their average levels. Pukaki has jumped four metres and is continuing to rise, Lake Tekapo has risen 2.5 metres and Lake Hawea, three metres since hitting its lowest point in August.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Clark invites Bush to visit NZ.

With the growing instability in the Pacific, the Prime Minister has invited President Bush to New Zealand to meet with Pacific Island leaders. Helen Clark has talked with the president at the APEC summit in Hanoi overnight. She says he seemed keen on the plan, but she emphasises it is little more than an idea at this stage. Miss Clark says the Chinese, French and Japanese all meet with Pacific leaders each year. She says if the meeting came off, President Bush would come to New Zealand after next year's APEC meeting in Sydney.
© 2006 NZCity, NewsTalkZB

Economic activity rises in 12 regions.

Attempts to slow inflationary pressures seem to have failed miserably. The latest National Bank regional trends survey shows a rise in economic activity across 12 regional economies for the September quarter. Bay of Plenty posted the biggest increase at nearly 3%, followed by West Coast and Southland with more than a 2% leap. The only two regions to dip were Taranaki - down 0.4% and Waikato down 0.2%.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Barclay takes top Oz acting award.

New Zealand actress Emily Barclay has taken out one of the top awards at the Inside Film (IF) Awards, beating established Australian actor Abbie Cornish and Hollywood star Laura Linney to be named best female actress. The 2006 IF Awards were held at Queensland's Gold Coast Convention Centre, the first time they've been held out of Sydney in their eight-year history.

Tip Top celebrates big seller.

New Zealanders eat more ice cream than anyone else in the world and this week the country's biggest ice cream brand celebrates 70 years of its most popular flavour. Tip Top founders Albert Hayman and Len Malaghan started the company in 1936 and Tip Top milk bars quickly popped up around the country selling just vanilla. Tip Top has around 70% of the ice cream market, and as the second most trusted brand it may serve up its frozen treats for another 70 years to come.
Source:One News

Waterfront stadium opponents unite.

Opponents of an Auckland waterfront stadium have come together for the first time, determined to stop the government pushing ahead with Stadium New Zealand. More than 300 people, including architects, councillors and social justice campaigners turned up the 'Say No to the Waterfront Stadium' meeting at Aotea Square in Auckland. Speakers have slammed the lack of information from Rugby World Cup Minister Trevor Mallard, and pushed for Carlaw Park, Manukau and North Harbour Stadium to be included in the vote.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Chaplain's plant sale costs $50k.

By LEIGH VAN DER STOEP
A university chaplain has landed taxpayers with a $50,000 clean-up bill after illegally importing and then selling alien aquatic plant species on TradeMe. Singaporean migrant Henry Kuan San Tan last week admitted 36 charges of knowingly possessing and selling unauthorised goods, many of which were exotic aquarium plants.
Biosecurity New Zealand's compliance and enforcement group manager investigations Greg Reid said despite spending $50,000 on the clean- up, some of the plants were still unaccounted for.
source:Sunday Star Times

New law could set precedent.

By IRENE CHAPPLE
More children may seek to "divorce" their parents under a law change which places greater weight on the wishes of the child and removes age and maturity as factors in court decisions. Last week the Sunday Star-Times reported a Family Court judgement allowing a 16-year-old to place herself under legal guardianship of the court after falling out with her mother. Otago University law faculty dean Mark Henaghan said the case, in which the 16-year-old effectively transferred her day-to-day care to her older sister, was the result of new law which recognised children as independent entities rather than extensions of their families. However, Henaghan said family law cases were always decided on their merits and this case would not necessarily set a precedent for teenagers who fall out with their parents. Teenagers frequently fell out with their mothers. This one had become a "cause celebre" because it reached the courts.
source:Sunday Star Times

Rugby-All Blacks win.

The All Blacks have defeated France 23-11 in Paris. They play Wales next weekend in Cardiff.

Nuku'alofa calm.

The streets of Nuku'alofa are calm this afternoon, as 62 New Zealand defence force personnel touch down in the troubled Tongan capital. Ninety Australian troops are joining them to boost security after violent riots this week in which eight people died. Two more shops were set ablaze on the outskirts of the town overnight, but authorities say otherwise things are quiet. The central district remains closed to civilians.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB New

Weather heads east.

Eastern districts are being advised to batten down the hatches as an extreme weather system moves across the country. MetService says the eastern Bay of Plenty is now in the sights of a fast moving frontal band. The front is expected to bring heavy rain and gale force winds to the ranges by this evening.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

New NZ navy ship launched in Melbourne.

Defence Minister Phil Goff was in Melbourne today for the launch of New Zealand's first offshore patrol vessel, HMNZS Otago. The ship is being built under the $500 million Project Protector programme and it will remain in Williamstown, Melbourne, for fitting out, trials and crew training. It will be delivered and commissioned into service with the Royal New Zealand Navy in the second half of next year. HMNZS Otago will be launched alongside the 130m multi-role vessel, HMNZS Canterbury, which was built in the Netherlands and delivered to Melbourne for fitting out and crew training. The offshore patrol vessels will provide border protection and assist police and customs.
Source:NZPA

Ship’s Cove Celebrations Today .

European and Maori will celebrate at one of New Zealand's most important historic sites today, at Ship Cove in the Marlborough Sounds. The cove was Captain Cook's main anchorage during three visits to the area and where the first sustained contact between Maori and European took place. The Department of Conservation's area manager, Roy Grose, says three local iwi will take part in today's events, along with crew from the Navy ship Resolution, a vessel with the same name as Captain Cook's ship. Mr Grose says the Conservation Minister Chris Carter will open new facilities at the site, including a bridge to symbolise the meeting of two cultures.
© NewsRoom 2006

Policeman tasers himself and teenager at domestic dispute.

An Auckland policeman attending a domestic dispute in Auckland accidentally blasted himself and a teenager with a Taser, before pepper-spraying an innocent woman. The constable was attending the incident at a central Auckland home when he shocked himself, the 16-year-old and then later pepper-sprayed the 21-year-old woman, The New Zealand Herald reported today. The constable was reloading his weapon when he accidentally blasted himself with the Taser's 50,000 volts while trying to stun a man at the centre of the domestic incident on October 1. One shot accidentally struck the man's teenage son.
After five attempts to hit the man, the officer eventually used pepper spray but hit the man's 21-year-old daughter – an unintended target.
Source:NZPA

Birthday party called off.

Auckland Zoo has postponed a birthday party for its two elephants today because of poor weather. Burma and Kashin were due to be painted in traditional Thai style to mark the occasion. An elephant sized cake was baked, but it has been put back in the pantry until tomorrow. Kashin is celebrating her 38th birthday and Burma is 24.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Troops Leave This Morning For Tonga.

A joint force of New Zealand and Australian troops and police will deploy to Tonga this morning, after rioting in the capital, Nukualofa, left at least eight people dead. The deployment was announced at the Asia Pacific summit in Vietnam by New Zealand's Prime Minister, Helen Clark, and Australia's Prime minister John Howard. New Zealand will send 60 soldiers and a lieutenant colonel to command the force. A 757 with military personnel is leaving Whenuapai airbase early this morning and two Hercules flights are being planned for today. Australia will send 50 soldiers and 35 police.
© NewsRoom 2006

Rare Maori portraits go under the hammer.

By James Ihaka and Jon Stokes
Four "extraordinary" Maori portrait tiles will go under the hammer at British auction house Bonhams this month. Up for sale are the ceramic images of Ngati Maru chief Matene Te Nga, Tuari Netana, believed to be another Maori chief, and two women named only as "Bella" and "Sophia". Few details are known of Tuari Netana, but the women are believed to be the celebrated Rotorua guides Sophia Hinerangi and Bella Papakura. Guide Sophia is also famous for her role as a rescuer during the Mt Tarawera eruption. The set of four portraits, taken about the turn of the 20th century, is expected to fetch between £1000 and £1500 ($2850 to $4275).
Source:APN

Sea birds get protection from 10 countries.

Ten countries have agreed to be body guards for Southern Hemisphere albatross and petrels as part of a three-year plan to secure the seabirds' future, At a meeting in Christchurch this week the nations, signatories to the agreeement on the conservation of abatross and petrels, agreed to tackle key threats to the seabirds including aninal pests at breeding sites and pollution. Of the 28 species of albatross and petrel that are covered by the treaty, 18 were native to New Zealand but spent much of their lives beyond our jurisdiction, meeting chair Bill Mansfield said yesterday. "That's why it is not enough for New Zealand to take conservation measures on its own – New Zealand needs the help of all other countries in southern temperate latitudes." The countries that agreed to the treaty were New Zealand, Australia, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Ecuador, South Africa, France, United Kingdom and Uruguay.
Source:NZPA

Mallard does u-turn on stadium preference.

Rugby World Cup Minister Trevor Mallard has admitted he does not actually mind if Eden Park is Auckland's stadium for the 2011 tournament. Having spent the last two days trying to convince the region's authorities about the merits of a waterfront stadium, Mr Mallard now says he favours the idea of redeveloping Eden Park. He says he loves the ground and has a romantic attachment with it as he used to drive up from Hamilton to watch games. Mr Mallard is now off to Canada and will be back next Thursday, the day before Auckland's city and regional councils are due to make the decision on which stadium they favour.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Tonga calls for NZ troops.

The Tongan Government has reportedly called for help from New Zealand and Australian troops following violence in the capital Nuku'alofa which has claimed six lives. The bodies were found in the Shoreline electricity company which was set alight when pro-democracy protesters rampaged through the streets overturning cars and setting buildings on fire. The company is owned by King George Tupou V. Sky News says 200 troops are sought to keep the peace. An RNZAF Hercules is on standby to head up to the kingdom. Air New Zealand has cancelled this weekend's flights to Tonga. It is concerned about the safety of its passengers, air crew and planes at Nuku'alofa airport. The airline says it will make a decision on Sunday evening about when services will resume.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

NZ, Aust on standby for Tonga.

New Zealand and Australia stand at the ready if called on by the Tongan government to assist in the wake of the riots which have left six dead. An Air Force Hercules has been put on standby in case it is needed. Foreign Minister Winston Peters, who is about to leave Hanoi after the APEC summit, says the riots reflect badly on the kingdom. He says at this stage the Tongan government believes it can handle the situation without outside help and he hopes it was nothing more than a one off drunken episode. The violence broke out after thousands of Tongans rallied in the centre of the capital Nuku'alofa. The demonstration degenerated into a riot, which saw drunken youths target shops and government buildings, resulting in millions of dollars worth of damage.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Thousands Expected At New Pukawa Marae.

More than 10,000 Maori will gather on the shore of Lake Taupo today for what has been billed as the most significant hui of recent times. The hui will today meet at Waihi Marae to discuss whether Maoridom needs a new national structure and how tribes can support the new Maori King. New Zealand Maori Council deputy chair Jim Nicholls says one of the things that will be looked at is the way issues around health, education and housing are approached.
© NewsRoom 2006

Brash gets injunction to stop publication of leaked emails.

National Party leader Don Brash has got an interim injunction stopping the publication of leaked emails he believes were stolen from his computer. Dr Brash does not know who has the emails so was unable to name specific people or organisations in the injunction. The interim injunction was granted in the High Court at Wellington yesterday and names as first and second defendants "John and Jane Doe". Dr Brash said the interim injunction stopped publication by any means -- website, publication or broadcast -- or distribution of copies of the emails. National asked the police to investigate after failing to find out who was responsible for leaking the emails.
Source:NZPA

Restructuring plans for hospital being announced.

Dunedin Hospital staff will find out today if their jobs are secure, as the Otago District Health Board announces its restructuring plans. Up to 60 jobs could be lost, as the board moves to save $4 million.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Two dolphins dead within a week - DOC.

Two baby dolphins, one from a critically endangered species, have been found washed up dead in the space of a week, worrying Department of Conservation (DOC) staff. The body of a Maui's dolphin was recovered from Sunset Beach, just to the south of the Waikato River mouth on Monday. As only about a hundred Maui's dolphins were left in the world, any deaths were of great concern DOC marine mammal advisor Helen McConnell said. Initial reports showed the dolphin was likely to have died during birth, or was stillborn, she said. In a separate incident, a very young South Island Hector's dolphin was found last Friday on Farewell Spit, at the northwestern tip of the South Island.

Plunket raises more than $650,000 in loose change.

The five cent piece may not have bought much before it was phased out, but an appeal for donations of them has netted Plunket more than $650,000 in a charity drive. The "5s for Under Fives" appeal run by ANZ raised $650,631.90 over the last 16 months – the equivalent of 13 million five cent pieces for children and young families. Plunket's New Zealand president, Kaye Crowther, said she was elated at the results of the appeal, and thanked New Zealanders who supported Plunket by gathering and donating the coins before their withdrawal from circulation.
Source:NZPA

Travel warning follows Tongan riots.

People travelling to Tonga are being warned their safety could be at risk. Rioting has erupted in the capital Nuku'alofa after the government deferred today's sitting, during which it was supposed to look at democratic reforms. Rioting crowds have overturned cars, looted the central supermarket Molisi Tonga, torched buildings and thrown stones at the prime minister's office. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has upgraded its travel advice for the Pacific nation. Spokeswoman Helen Tunnah says the ministry is in contact with Tonga and information on the situation is still coming in. She says Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters, who is at the APEC meeting in Hanoi, has been briefed. About 600 New Zealand residents live in Tonga.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Rioting in Tongan capital.

Rioting erupted in the Tongan capital Nuku'alofa on Thursday in protest at the lack of democratic reforms by the government of the South Pacific island nation, said witnesses and local media. Rioters overturned cars, looted a supermarket and threw stones at the prime minister's office, Matangi Tonga news service reported on its website www.matangitonga.to Radio New Zealand International said rioting started after the government deferred its sitting on Thursday, as thousands of pro-democracy supporters demanded a vote on democratic reforms take place before the house rises for the year.

Upham medals to stay in NZ.

The medals of our most decorated soldier, Captain Charles Upham, look set to stay in New Zealand. Upham's Victoria Cross and Bar are reported to have been bought by Britain's Imperial War Museum, and will be lent to New Zealand for 999 years. There was controversy earlier this year when Upham's daughters rejected a government offer to buy the medals. They will be displayed at the Army Museum in Waiouru.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Army sells M113 fleet for scrap.

The Army has sold its Vietnam-era fleet of 48 armoured personnel carriers and they will all be melted down for scrap before Christmas. The M113 tracked carriers have been sold to a New Zealand company for $500,000, half the price the Army would have got in a deal last year with an Australian military collector. That deal was stopped when the US State Department stepped in and vetoed the sale.
NZPA / NZHERALD STAFF

One-tonne bull charges crowd.

By BECK ELEVEN
A woman was injured and a girl left in shock after a runaway bull charged crowds at the Royal New Zealand Show yesterday. The one-tonne limousin bull was being led around a roped-off cattle ring when it was startled by the noise of a helicopter. People scattered as the bull ran through the Canterbury Agricultural Park carpark to the equestrian arena, where a warning was given over the public address system. Cattle handlers tried to calm the bull, but it raced towards the crowds, startling one rider, who fell from her horse. The bull charged at two females trying to move a horse from the bull's path. A woman was thrown into the air and a 15-year-old girl was knocked to the ground. The woman, an Oxford dairy farmer who did not want to be named, was treated by ambulance staff and taken to Christchurch Hospital with concussion. "I basically got the s... kicked out of me by a bull," she said.
Source:The Press

Obesity solutions discussed.

Healthcare professionals, food manufacturers and academics are meeting at Auckland University today to discuss policy changes which could be implemented to fight the obesity epidemic. About 150 people will discuss the causes of the rise in obesity, existing policies and ongoing research in the area.
Associate Professor Robert Scragg says until recently, the focus has been on marketing, but legislation and policies also to be examined. He says taxation issues will also be discussed as it was a successful strategy when encouraging people to quit smoking.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Local excited by iceberg views.

Dunedin residents are flocking to coastal hills to catch a glimpse of a rare event - icebergs about 60 kilometres off shore. It is a relatively clear day so the floating bergs can be seen from the land through binoculars. Mosgiel woman Betty is one of a group of 14 walkers who took a peek from the summit of Saddle Hill. She says you could see the white point of the top of the berg. She describes it as awesome. Another man, Brian told Newstalk ZB listeners he was on the summit of Waihola Hill, south of Dunedin where one floating monster is visible to the naked eye from his vantage point.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Heavy rain warning for Wairarapa.

The Greater Wellington Regional Council has issued a heavy rain warning for the Wairarapa. Steady rain is predicted, with the heaviest intensities expected between nine this evening and midnight, and between three am and six am tomorrow. MetService's heavy rainfall warning is in force for the next 30 hours, from this afternoon until nine tomorrow night.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Man jailed for damaging environment.

An Auckland stonemason has been jailed for six weeks for damaging the environment. Foketi Puleiku pleaded guilty to a total of 12 charges. They relate to damage to several protected trees, breaching resource consent conditions, damaging a public footpath and dumping rubbish on a public reserve. The Auckland City Council says it cost $11,000 to remove the earth, branches and other rubbish. During sentencing, the Judge noted Puleiku was a repeat offender with a blatant disregard for the environment and the law.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Darfield Residents Asked To Boil Water.

Residents in the Canterbury township of Darfield are being warned to boil their drinking water because recent weather conditions have affected wells supplying the town. Wild weather on Tuesday brought down trees and powerlines and pushed up river levels. Selwyn District Council says the weather severely discoloured the Waimakariri River, affecting the town's water supply.
© NewsRoom 2006

Clark discusses formalising NZ-EU links.

Prime Minister Helen Clark today said she discussed formalising New Zealand's closeness with the European Union (EU) in talks with the leaders of France and Germany. Today in Paris she met with France president Jacques Chirac and OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) secretary general Angel Gurria. Building New Zealand's relationship with the EU had been touched on in those talks, Miss Clark said today, adding the relationship required support from the big member countries like France and Germany. "There's an appreciation in Brussels that New Zealand is the most like-minded country on earth to the EU and. . .there's an appreciation that we're very, very close," Miss Clark said.
Source:NZPA

Lack of pickers may send prices soaring.

A labour shortage is threatening supplies of fruit and vegetables. Vegetable growers are being forced to either pick their own crops or mulch crops back into the ground because of a lack of workers.
There are now fears the prices of some fresh produce could sky rocket. One of those affected Harjit Singh of Hamilton fruit and vegetable store Vege King says something has to be done and soon. He says he does not care where the labour comes from or who they are, as long as they are prepared to work hard. Mr Singh says it is a real problem which is affecting growers' livelihoods. He says asparagus and strawberries are two crops which are at threat.
© 2006 Newstalk ZB News

Killer whales could be in Bay for a fortnight.

KELLY BURNs.
A pod of orcas has been spotted in Hawke's Bay waters. The orcas, or killer whales, were sighted from Westshore and Bay View throughout yesterday. Department of Conservation programme manager John Adams said the pod could stay in Hawke Bay for up to two weeks, or they could simply be passing through. Orcas are spotted in Hawke Bay about two to three times a year.

Aussies up in arms over US ban on Vegemite.

The near-100,000 Australian and New Zealand expatriates in the US are up in arms at attempts to deprive them of their beloved Vegemite, a vegetable spread vaguely analogous, sources suggest, to Marmite. Vegemite has fallen foul of an obscure US dietary law that bans folate, one of its ingredients, from anything other than bread and cereals. Like British expats smuggling in Earl Grey tea, Aussies and Kiwis have circumvented the ban by bringing in supplies from visits home. But they are now finding, according to reports in the Australian press, that these shipments are being blocked at the border by over-zealous US officials

Aust grapples with drought crisis.

Australian Prime Minister John Howard says he will support the draining of wetlands to provide water to drought stricken-communities in the parched Murray-Darling Basin.Howard called the Murray-Darling states - New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Queensland - to a crisis summit in Canberra on Tuesday amid official warnings the three dams which underpin the system's southern farmlands will dry up by April. In a presentation to the summit, the government's Murray-Darling Basin Commission flagged drastic measures to conserve water, including using earth banks to isolate wetlands. Howard on Wednesday made it clear that the needs of communities would be given priority over the environment as governments consider how to tackle the drastic water shortage.

MOH To Counter MenzB Documentary.

The Ministry of Health says it is in damage control mode because a television documentary which criticised the meningococcal B vaccination's safety has frightened parents. The Norwegian documentary, screened in New Zealand earlier this month, queried a link between the vaccine and chronic fatigue syndrome and questioned Norway's trial of the vaccine 18 years ago. It has prompted Norway's government to review the vaccination programme. The head of the New Zealand vaccination programme, Jane O'Hallahan, says since the documentary was aired here the immunisation helpline has received double the amount of calls from parents. And she says workers on the ground say people are less likely to enrol in the vaccination programme. Ms O'Hallahan says the ministry is starting a communications campaign to counter the documentary.
© NewsRoom 2006

Christchurch Stomach Bug Spread Warning .

Christchurch’s Medical Officer of Health is warning people to stay away from hospitals, rest homes and creches if they have a stomach bug. This week a number of patients in Ward 2a at Princess Margaret Hospital are sick with gastroenteritis, but it is not yet known if it is an outbreak of norovirus. Staff say infection control precautions are in place and they are asking people who have been sick with diarrhoea or vomiting not to go to Princess Margaret Hospital. The bug is also prevalent in rest homes and creches, so people who are sick or have been sick with a stomach bug are being asked to stay away from those places too.
© NewsRoom 2006

Melanoma cases continue to rise.

New Zealand's rate of melanoma - skin tumours - continues to increase, with Northland, Bay of Plenty and Taranaki being the worst-affected. The figures, released by the Melanoma Scorecard developed by MoleMap, show melanoma rates had grown at 7.5 per cent every year over the past 10 years.
MoleMap -- established in 1997 by a group of dermatologists -- is a database of moles and other skin lesions.
MoleMap CEO Adrian Bowling said the figures meant New Zealand maintained its position as having the highest incidence of invasive melanoma per head in the world.
Source:NZPA

Mixed report for NZ health system.

A new report into the health systems of several developed countries shows New Zealand's system is performing well in some areas, but poorly in others. Health Minister Pete Hodgson today released research from the New York-based Commonwealth Fund looking at a range of health indicators in nine developed countries. Most of the data was from 2004. However, the research also shows New Zealanders also had the lowest number of visits to the doctor a year -- 3.2, compared with an OECD median of 6.1 -- and the third-lowest rate of practising doctors. New Zealand had the lowest healthcare spending per capita per year at $2083 -- about a third of the US -- and the lowest spending on pharmaceuticals, at $174 a year per person.
Source:NZPA

Man who owes $1.8m in fines staying put in Australia.

Australian authorities would not extradite a New Zealander living in Brisbane who owed $1.8 million in outstanding fines, Courts Minister Rick Barker said today. National MP Simon Power was today questioning the minister on the Government's record of getting tough on fines defaulters and those who owed reparations to victims of crime. Mr Power said the biggest fine defaulter owed $1.8m but lived in Brisbane. A newspaper journalist tracked the man down earlier this year while he was driving his Mercedes.
"Why hasn't he sought co-operation from the Australian authorities to get the money from him?" Mr Power asked. Mr Barker said officials had known for a long time where the man lived. He had been fined for breaches of the Customs and Excise Act for importing vehicles with wound-back odometers. "We have made approaches to Australia and the simple fact is the Australians will not agree to extradition of a person like this. "But the message is clear to that gentleman. Should that person come back to New Zealand, he will be arrested at the border," Mr Barker said.
Source:NZPA

Peters raises free trade issue with Rice.

Foreign Minister Winston Peters is appealing to American consciences when it comes to a free trade agreement with New Zealand. Mr Peters meets with US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice in Hanoi tomorrow where Foreign Ministers are holding APEC talks. He says a free trade agreement would allow New Zealand to perform better as an economy and therefore act more effectively in the Pacific. Mr Peters says he will be raising the issue with Dr Rice tomorrow.