New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific Islands ::: A News Blog ::: est 2004



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Friday, August 31

Pacific Islands part of Rudd's labour solution

Labor is embracing calls for guest workers to be imported from Pacific Islands to help offset the labour shortfall in the bush, in line with calls from the National Farmers' Federation. But the Government continues to resist the idea saying it would open the immigration floodgates. The Federal Opposition yesterday announced it would consider bringing in guest workers as part of a foreign aid policy, as the labourers would be required to send money back to their island homes thus stimulating the struggling economies. The National Farmers' Federation last year released a policy urging the Federal Government to allow Pacific Islanders to work in Australia during peak seasonal periods to help resolve the acute shortages of unskilled labour in the agricultural sector.
SOURCE: FarmOnline.



Checkpoints to look at child car restraint use

An inter-agency swoop on child car restraints will see roadside checkpoints around Wellington next week. The Accident Compensation Commission (ACC), the police, Plunket and local councils are co-ordinating the checkpoints, which will operate in Wellington, the Hutt Valley and Porirua. The checkpoints will examine child car restraints and seatbelt use.
Source:NZPA



Food aid to Peru quake victims

New Zealand is giving half a million dollars in aid to Peru, as it struggles in the aftermath of this month's devastating earthquake. 520 people died and 58,000 homes were destroyed in the quake, which measured 8 on the Richter Scale. The funding will go towards the World Food Programme, which is concentrating on delivering urgently needed food supplies to shattered communities.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



100,000 NZ creatures unknown or unclassified

By PAUL EASTON - The Dominion Post
More than 100,000 New Zealand animal species remain undiscovered or unclassified as a shortage of experts holds up work which could help protect against biosecurity risks. Biotechnology and medical research could also benefit from yet-to-be-discovered or classified species, but Niwa principal biodiversity scientist Dennis Gordon said finding and identifying them was painfully slow. "What we can say is there are 55,000 known species. Of those, 10 per cent are freshwater species, 29 per cent are marine and 61 per cent are terrestrial. That last figure is hugely inflated by insects, wasps, butterflies, beetles, you name it."



Avalanche risk in Fiordland moves to high

The Department of Conservation has warned of a high avalanche risk in mountainous areas of Fiordland this weekend. Snow at high levels followed by forecast warm rain is expected to create instability in the snow pack, DOC's acting area manager in Te Anau, Beth Masser, said. "The public are advised not to go into avalanche prone areas. This includes the alpine sections of the Milford, Routeburn and Kepler tracks.
Source:NZPA



Samoans have the highest Pacific presence in NZ

Samoans make up the largest proportion of New Zealand's Pacific population, according to new research released by Statistics New Zealand today. A series of profiles was created on Samoan, Cook Island Maori, Tongan, Niuean, Fijian, Tokelauan and Tuvaluan ethnic groups living in New Zealand. With 49 per cent of New Zealand's Pacific community, Samoans are the biggest group. Then follow Cook Island Maori (22 per cent), Tongans (19 per cent), Niueans (8 per cent), Fijians (4 per cent), Tokelauans (3 per cent) and Tuvaluans (1 per cent).
Source:NZPA.Fairfax New Zealand Limited 2006.



Lower returns for kiwifruit growers

Kiwifruit returns are set to fall by around 12 percent in the coming season, due to a high dollar, tougher competition and high volumes of fruit. Industry marketer and exporter Zespri is forecasting an average payout to growers of $6.91 a tray, down from last year's amount of $7.82.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



National gives obesity plan the red light

National says regulation is not the answer to combating obesity. Associate health spokesman Jonathan Coleman says eliminating choice and relying on controls over people's lives will not work. He says it is better to work with people, rather than dictate to them. Mr Coleman says any response should be aimed at changing the "cultural hard drive" of individuals and at risk groups. Parliament's Health Select Committee has released a raft of recommendations to encourage people to eat healthier food. Among them is green, orange and red labelling highlighting which foods we should eat. A green label signals a product which should be eaten everyday while red label suggests the product should be eaten only as a treat.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Thursday, August 30

No need for high alert for nukes

New Zealand, the country whose anti-nuclear stance so angered the United States that Washington took away its longtime ally status, announced Thursday that it would launch a new campaign to get the nuclear powers to put their weapons of mass destruction into cold storage. "Thousands of nuclear weapons currently are on high-alert status, ready for instant launch," said Disarmament and Arms Control Minister Phil Goff. "This presents a major threat to global security." New Zealand with like-minded states, including Sweden, plans to promote a resolution at next month's United Nations General Assembly calling on the nuclear powers to lower the operational status of their weapons, Goff said. "Nuclear weapon systems at a high level of readiness increase the risk of these weapons being used, including unintentionally or by accident," the minister said. "Such an eventuality would have catastrophic consequences."
(c) 2007 Earthtimes.org



Seventh New Zealand finance company collapses

Another New Zealand finance company collapsed on Thursday - the third in 10 days - prompting calls for the government to step in and regulate the sector in which thousands of small investors have their savings. Directors of Five Star Consumer Finance Ltd, of Auckland, called in receivers, citing “serious concerns as to the state of the debenture market and the ability of Five Star to attract new funds and retain existing investments.” It was not immediately known how much Five Star owed or how many investors had put money into it. The company was ranked at number 41 in terms of assets in a recent survey of finance companies by the New Zealand Herald.
bbj.hu



Report paints mostly rosy picture for elderly

A report on the state of the elderly shows they are living longer and working more, but have less private income than in the past. The Ministry of Social Development report, Positive Ageing Indicators, shows most older people have adequate incomes, enjoy a good quality of life and own their own homes.
Findings include:
Life expectancy for 65-year-olds has risen 3.9 years for men and 5.2 years for women since the 1950s and is continuing to rise;
Home ownership rates are relatively static at 76.2 per cent;
94 per cent lived in housing that was suitable or very suitable;
The proportion of over 85-year-olds living in the community has risen from 67.5 per cent to 70.4 per cent over the past decade;
12.2 per cent of over 65-year-olds are in paid jobs.
Source:NZPA



This blog uses some copyright material. This blog has no commercial value, and is based simply on my interest in the news, New Zealand news specifically. It is a personal interest blog. Mention of a person or organisation in this blog does not imply approval, support, participation in, or any connection with this blog. Links and organisations displayed in the blog are intended to help people seeking information about New Zealand. News sources are always attributed and there is full recognition of copyright holders. Anyone with a genuine interest in the material used and who may object to its use, please email me (address at bottom of page) and I will immediately remove same from this blog.



Aussies lure workers west with promise of big bucks

By ERIN PARKE - The Dominion Post
Wellington workers are being lured to Western Australia with the promise of big bucks, warm weather and "beautiful women". Recruiters at the Go West Now expo are travelling around New Zealand with a message for Kiwis - those with the right skills can name their price in Western Australia. Hundreds turned up to the Wellington Convention Centre on Tuesday to meet potential employers, who are desperate for staff because of the state's resource-based economic boom. Expo organiser Pia Duxbury said recruiters were aware of New Zealand's labour shortage and were not being aggressive in their approach. "We understand there is some sensitivity in this matter - we don't like to think we are poaching workers.
Fairfax New Zealand Limited 2006.



Vines destroyed at vineyard

It will take at least three years before several rows of grape vines destroyed by vandals at a Blenheim vineyard will be back in production. More than 100 mature vines which were planted in 2002 were cut off at the base at the Wither Hills vineyard in Rarangi last weekend. The plants were worth around $50 each. Geoff Matthews, viticulture operations manager, says trellis and irrigation systems had also been cut and security is now being increased at the vineyard.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Thousands caught up in latest finance co collapse

Around 3,000 investors are believed to be caught up in the collapse of a seventh finance company. Five Star Consumer Finance has called in the receivers as its board says it has serous concerns about the state of the debenture and the company's ability to attract new funds and retain existing investments.
The receivers, PricewaterhouseCoopers, have set up a hotline number for investors. It is 09 355 8855. Investors can also log on to www.pwc.com/nz/fivestarfinance
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



NZ Thoroughbred Racing tightens rules

In a bid to keep out Australia's equine flu, New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing has introduced stringent new rules for Australian jockeys and stablehands. New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing has responded by issuing a directive that all riders or stable workers who have ridden or worked with a horse across the Tasman and plan to do so here must declare it immediately. Jockeys must have their racing gear cleared by racecourse inspectors and will only be allowed to ride if racing authorities are satisfied it has been thoroughly washed and disinfected.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



$8.3m winner goes back to work

Lotto's newest multi-millionaire is carrying on working, despite just banking $8.3 million. An anonymous Hastings man has claimed Saturday's Lotto Powerball jackpot. He says he had a feeling in his stomach that the unclaimed prize was his. He did not want to check the numbers himself, but waited until he could put them through a machine. He says ever since Lotto started he told himself if he ever won big, he would keep on working for as long as he was able. The man is remarkably calm and puts that down to the fact the reality of the win has yet to sink in.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Dell admits making misleading claims

Computer firm Dell has admitted breaching the Fair Trading Act with a series of misleading claims about its products and special deals. At one stage it offered a free Windows upgrade, when it charged a $40 delivery fee. In another instance it promoted an online competition to win a laptop which was only available to Australian customers. Last year, Dell marketed a computer monitor as suitable for gaming despite knowing they had an inherent problem where colours were distorted in computer graphics. Dell says it has now eliminated the colour banding issue.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



TVNZ to triple Maori content

TVNZ has unveiled a plan to almost treble its Maori programming. At the moment, TV One and TV2 screen 167 hours of Maori programming. Under the new plan that would increase to 300 hours, with another 190 hours on TVNZ channels 6 and 7. A Maori Programme Commissioner will be appointed to decide what programmes will be created. The plan is subject to approval by funding bodies Te Mangai Paho and New Zealand On Air. TVNZ's Head of Television, Jeff Latch, says it is the first time the national broadcaster has developed a Maori programming strategy.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Wednesday, August 29

NZ, RI should 'work together to save Doha talks'

New Zealand has asked Indonesia to work with it to find a way to help revive the stalled World Trade Organization Doha Round of talks, aimed at breaking down global trade barriers, so that it can be resumed as soon as possible. New Zealand Trade and Defense Minister Phil Goff said both Indonesia and New Zealand should not let the talks fail, not only because multilateral regulations were still the best mechanism for the enhancement of global trade but also because many people would have a lot to lose if it failed
The Jakarta Post



New Zealand airline profit more than doubles, best result in a decade

National carrier Air New Zealand reported its strongest result in a decade Tuesday with a net profit of 214 million New Zealand dollars (US$153 million; €112 million) for the year ended June 30, more than double profit for the previous year. The airline, 76 percent owned by the government after a 2001 financial bailout, posted a profit of NZ$96 million (US$69 million; €50 million) the previous fiscal year. Passenger numbers rose 4.9 percent to 12.5 million for the fiscal year just ended
The Associated Press



Dolphin protection plan released today

Plans are unveiled today detailing protective measures for the rare and endangered Hector's dolphin. Conservation Minister Chris Carter is due to release a draft threat management plan for public consultation. He says Hector's and Maui's dolphins are national treasures that the country cannot afford to lose. At last count there were only 111 Maui dolphins left, making them the world's rarest marine dolphin.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Peters launches Supergold card today

New Zealand First leader Winston Peters will launch his much-vaunted Supergold card for superannuitants at a ceremony in Auckland. The card, which is being mailed out from today, will offer seniors discounts of up to 40 percent at businesses which have tendered to be part of the programme. Around 500,000 people will benefit from the scheme, which is a central plank of New Zealand First's support of the Labour government.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Chinese toothpastes prove toxic

Tests have confirmed high levels of a toxic substance in toothpaste imported from China. Sixteen brands have tested positive for diethylene glycol, a chemical commonly used in anti-freeze products. It can cause liver or kidney damage particularly in young children. One brand tested by the Ministry of Health had a diethylene glycol content of nearly 12 percent. The toothpastes were sold through speciality stores and discount chains. The affected brands are Excel, Crescent and Dr Cool.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Tuesday, August 28

Thirteen months paid parental leave touted

The Families Commission is pushing for a radical increase in paid parental leave. Chief Commissioner Dr Rajen Prasad says the commission is hoping parents will be provided with 13 months of paid leave by 2015. He says it would include a month's paid leave for fathers. Under the current law the Government offers 14 weeks of paid parental leave, with a weekly pay out of $391. The Families Commission also wants an increase in what parents can receive.
© 2007 NZCity, NewsTalkZB



Youth unemployment falls, wages rise

A Labour Department survey has found more young people are in work and their average wages are increasing. Figures show those aged 18 to 24 made up almost 28 percent of those on the dole in 2002, but as of June this year the number has fallen to 18 percent.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



New Zealander Saved After 3 Days in Cave

A New Zealand cave explorer injured in rock slide was pulled to safety early Tuesday by rescuers who spent three days carrying him to the surface, at times lying down in narrow passages and passing his stretcher hand-over-hand. Michael Brewer, 47, broke his pelvis and suffered head injuries Saturday in the Middle Earth cave system on the north of New Zealand's South Island. His climbing partners said they were almost 2 miles from the cave's entrance and 1,300 feet underground.



Clark a clear winner with women voters

By Paula Oliver
Helen Clark is popular among female voters as preferred Prime Minister in the latest Herald Digi-Poll survey, while Labour is virtually neck-and-neck with National in the race for the female party vote. Winning the female vote is something National has openly targeted, and it has gone slightly ahead of its main rival in the poll - registering 44.4 per cent of female support, just ahead of Labour on 43.3 per cent. However, the battle between the two leaders sees a clear-cut victory for Helen Clark, with the Labour leader registering 56.3 per cent support as preferred Prime Minister among females, and National's John Key 33.9 per cent.



Young NZers to star in The Lovely Bones

After a worldwide search, two young New Zealand actresses have been chosen for important roles in Peter Jackson's The Lovely Bones. Rose McIver from Rude Awakenings and Maddigan's Quest will play the Lindsey, the younger sister of murdered character Susie Salmon. Newcomer Carolyn Dando will play Susie's classmate Ruth. Jackson says they looked all over the world for the characters, but found that the best actor for each role happened to be a young kiwi. He says their casting proves the great depth of acting talent in New Zealand. They join a stellar cast of Rachel Weisz, Susan Sarandon, Ryan Gosling, Stanley Tucci and Michael Imperioli. Filming is due to begin in October.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



UFO website will record mysterious encounters

By Errol Kiong
Scientists are welcoming a new website that encourages people to record their UFO sightings. Veteran Hamilton air traffic controller and pilot Graeme Opie is behind the UFO Focus New Zealand Research Network, which aims to document sightings of unidentified objects in the sky. He says the network has received 48 reports of strange objects in New Zealand skies in the past 12 months. While some could be explained by natural phenomena, most could not.
Click for LINK



Lunar eclipse tonight

Much of the country is expected to be able to get at least a glimpse of tonight's lunar eclipse. The weather is clearing for many areas, although Wairarapa and Hawke's Bay residents may miss out. Amateur astronomer Noel Munford says skywatchers will notice some real changes to the moon's appearance from about 8.50pm. A "bite" will appear in the lower section of the full moon as it drops into the earth's shadow. Over the following hour the moon will become fully immersed in the earth's shadow, taking on a red glow.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



MAF visiting properties

More than 400 horses across New South Wales are now suspected of having equine influenza, but so far no racehorses have come down with the virus. The virus has not shown up in New Zealand yet and authorities have managed to located most of the horses that have come into New Zealand from Australia within the past month. Peter Thomson from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry says 97 horses are believed to be on 53 properties. MAF is still trying to contact 10 owners and will be visiting the properties concerned.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



National doubles poll lead

National has doubled its lead over Labour in the latest political opinion poll. The party has 50.3 percent support in the Herald-DigiPoll. Labour is 13.5 points behind on 36.8, falling more than five points since last month's poll. The Greens are the only other party to make it over the five percent mark. Translated into seats in the House, the poll would give National 63 seats, Labour 46 and the Greens four.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Vietnam president to visit New Zealand

Vietnam President Nguyen Minh Triet will lead the largest delegation from his country to visit New Zealand when he arrives on September 9 for a four-day stay, it was announced on Monday. Prime Minister Helen Clark said Triet would be accompanied by several ministers and senior officials during his visit following a summit meeting of Asia-Pacific regional leaders in Sydney. Clark said business interaction between New Zealand and Vietnam was expanding and the two countries were developing a more broad-based relationship including trade, education, defence and investment.



World record tuna landed by NZ fisherman

A 325kg Pacific blue fin tuna, believed to be a world record, was caught off New Zealand's South Island West Coast on Sunday. At 6am angler Steve McCowan knew he had a big one on the line. "Icertainly knew it was a big one two-and-a-half hours later," he said. Having sailed out of Westport, the fishing boat Jewel was off the coast not far from Karamea when the big fish bit. Standing on the back deck, McCowan fought with, and reeled in, the 325kg Pacific blue fin tuna. On Monday morning, Mr McCowan was making sure all the paper work was filled out correctly for his catch to be officially recorded and entered as the world record.



Mexican president to visit New Zealand

Mexico President Felipe Calderon Hinojosa will make an official visit to New Zealand on September 6-7, before going to a summit meeting of Asia-Pacific regional leaders in Sydney, it was announced on Monday. It will be the first time a Mexican president has visited New Zealand, Prime Minister Helen Clark said.



Monday, August 27

First webmail, now phone lines

A fault with its network has disrupted Telecom's services, including 083210, 123 and other lines. For a time this afternoon some customers were unable make outgoing phone calls. The cause of the fault is unknown. It follows a turbulent week for Telecom after thousands of customers experienced problems with their Xtra webmail, following what was meant to be just a 24 hour outage to upgrade of 800,000 inboxes.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Motorsport: Dixon leads Indy championship after win

SONOMA - New Zealand's Scott Dixon won a dramatic Motorola Indy 300 race at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, California, today to take the lead the Indy Racing League. Dixon was second in the league to Dario Franchitti, of Scotland, going into the race. Tony Kanaan finished fourth and Sam Hornish Jr. fifth. He will now go into the penultimate round of the season with a four-point buffer. It is the first time since June that Franchitti has relinquished the championship lead.
NZPA / NZ HERALD STAFF



Job market to stay tight - Government

The strong economy has created big skill shortages which are here to stay for some time, according to a report released today by the Department of Labour. The Skills in the Labour Market report, covering the June 2007 quarter, showed that the working-age population grew by only 0.2 per cent, the lowest quarterly result for nearly two years. The shortages were described in the report as a "long-term feature" of the job market, with conditions expected to remain tight. The unemployment rate has stayed below 4 per cent for three years and fell to an equal record low of 3.6 per cent in the June 2007 quarter.
Source:NZPA



Heavy rain forecast for East Coast

MetService is warning of heavy rain for Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty and Gisborne north of Ruatoria today. Forecasters said a low north of the Tasman Sea is moving southeast and is expected to lie close to Cape Reinga tonight.
NZHERALD STAFF



Free GP visits for under sixes get further boost

The Government today announced funding aimed at ensuring doctors' visits for under sixes were free. It also boosted funding to encourage more GPs sign up to a scheme where they agree to lower fees across the board. As part of its post-election deal with New Zealand First Health Minister Pete Hodgson announced $8.25 million would be spent from January 1 to get under sixes free visits. Mr Hodgson said most GPs – 61 per cent – already charged no fees for under sixes and the additional funding was aimed at getting remaining practices to do the same. Standard consultation fees charged by very low cost access practices would remain at $15.50 for adults 18 years and over, $10.50 for children six-17 years and remain zero for children under six.
Source:NZPA



Warning issued against planting imported garlic

A plant virologist is warning the public not to plant imported garlic, because there is potential for viruses to be passed on to the onion industry. Garlic has been imported to this country for 10 years, but many people are unaware that it is not meant to be planted. Because garlic and onions belong to the same family, Paul Guy of Otago University says viruses can easily pass between them once infected garlic bulbs start to grow.
Copyright © 2007 Radio New Zealand



South Pacific Games begin in Apia

The 13th South Pacific Games opened in Samoa's capital Apia on Saturday. Around 5,500 athletes and officials, representing 22 countries, have arrived for the two-week competition. Apia Park hosted the opening ceremony featuring warriors, over 1,000 school children and the releasing of hundreds of red, white and blue balloons, the national colours of Samoa. Competition begins in earnest on Monday (local time).
Copyright © 2007 Radio New Zealand



Gold medal for shotput won by Valerie Vili

Valerie Vili has won the gold medal for shotput at the world athletics championships in Osaka. She beat defending champion Nadzeya Ostapchuk by 6cm with a final throw of 20.54m. Ostapchuk was relegated to second, with German Nadine Kleinert third. Vili says her next step is planning for the Beijing Olympics in 2008 when she gets home.
Copyright © 2007 Radio New Zealand



New citizenship test expected to start in September

The Australian government says a new citizenship test could be in use by the end of September. The ABC reports the test is part of new citizenship guidelines that lay out values such as tolerance and compassion and a respect for Australia's British heritage. Under the guidelines, prospective immigrants will have to correctly answer a series of questions about the nation's history, institutions and culture. The tests are part of a government push to promote so-called "Australian values" after riots between Muslim and non-Muslim youths at a Sydney beach in 2005.
Copyright © 2007 Radio New Zealand



15 minutes biosecurity check system being developed by AgResearch

A biosecurity system that can help to identify pests and diseases lurking in shipping containers will undergo field trials with border control over the next few months. An entomologist, from the Crown Research Insititute AgResearch Dr Stephen Goldsen, says the system which analyses molecules in pockets of air trapped inside shipping containers, could help Biosecurity inspectors save hours searching for biosecurity threats. He says the aim is to have shipping container inspections carried out in between five and 15 minutes.
Copyright © 2007 Radio New Zealand



Kiwi scientists unpeel secrets of Vitamin C

Agricultural scientists say they have uncovered the last big secret of vitamin C in plants, and it will create the chance to naturally breed healthier fruits. The breakthrough in understanding just how plants manufacture vitamin C will enable state science company Hortresearch to identify DNA markers for individual plants naturally producing high levels of the vitamin. These plants are likely to be used in selective breeding programmes to produce fruit with more vitamin C in a form easily retained by the body, unlike large doses taken in vitamin pills. Existing cultivars of apples or bananas provide less than half the recommended US daily intake of 90mg/day of vitamin C for an adult male, and even an orange doesn't quite measure up – but the new research will lead to more potent fruit.
Source:NZPA



Kiwi lost overboard in Australian seas

Australian authorities have called off the search for a 46-year-old New Zealand man who fell overboard in seas about 285 nautical miles north-east of Cairns. The man was travelling on a seismic survey vessel, the Geo Sounder, ABC radio reported. It is believed another man broke his ankle trying to help the man who fell overboard, and the Geo Sounder is heading for Cairns so he can be treated. The survey vessel, M/V Geo Surveyor, is operated by Fugro Survey Private Ltd of Loyang Offshore Supply Base, Singapore.
Source:NZPA



Peters unveiling Supergold card

More than 500,000 superannuitants will be offered cheaper goods and services as New Zealand First leader Winston Peters unveils his Supergold card this week. The official launch will take place in Auckland on Wednesday and Mr Peters says he has been impressed with how well the idea has been received. A booklet will be released with the card outlining where the discounts are available. Mr Peters says companies have been keen to sign up to it. The card will also cover Government and local Government services.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Sunday, August 26

Beckham set to hit NZ's shores

Wellington ratepayers will be picking up some of the tab to bring multi-millionaire footballer David "Golden Balls" Beckham to the capital. Beckham probably the world's best known footballer is coming to New Zealand with his new LA Galaxy team to play the Wellington Phoenix A-League outfit, owned by Terry Serepisos, on December 2. The Galaxy team is expected to arrive in Wellington on November 29, two days after playing Sydney FC at Telstra Stadium.
source:Sunday Star Times



No boost to birth rate

Demographers doubt more paid parental leave will help boost the birth rate. This follows news the Families' Commission will this week be recommending the Government beef up paid parental leave. A spokesperson for the commission says their research suggests more incentives are needed to help push up the birth rate. However demographer Janet Sceats says it is too hard to tell whether it will have any effect at all. She says how long they will have off work for maternity leave is only one of the factors people take into account when they decide to have a family
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Vets question border control

Vets are concerned whether our border-control procedures are adequate to keep out the potentially-fatal equine influenza. The discovery of the disease in Australia has prompted a blanket ban on all horse imports from Australia into New Zealand. A 72-hour ban on racing's also been handed down in Australia. Equine Veterinary Association president Murray Brightwell says the fact New Zealand horses do not get vaccinated against the disease unless they are destined for export is even more worrying. He says New Zealand is very susceptible to the disease in that regard.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Street sign in English and Chinese

A new sign gives the name of a new street in Otaki in two languages - English and Chinese - to acknowledge the township's multiculturalism. Officials say the name, Jean Hing Place, commemorates the contribution the Chinese community has made to Otaki. Kapiti Coast Mayor Alan Milne says it celebrates one of the district's oldest Chinese families, who came to New Zealand in the 1930s. He says it's thought to be the first time a New Zealand street sign has included a Chinese translation.
Copyright © 2007 Radio New Zealand



Schools fed up with teaching children basic skills

A principals' group says schools are fed up with having to teach children basic life skills because of what is described as parental incompetence. The comment follows the release of an Education Review Office report, which found one in five schools are doing a poor job of teaching sex education. Tai Tokerau Principals Association president Pat Newman, says responsibility for sex education should ultimately lie with parents. He says schools now also teach road safety, electrical safety and food hygiene because parents are too lazy to do so themselves. Mr Newman says schools need more resources if they're to provide adequate education about these issues.
© 2007 Radio New Zealand



Budget-conscious Kiwis turning to debit cards

By LOUISA GAULT - Sunday Star Times
Kiwis are shunning credit cards and signing up for new debit cards in droves, wooed by being able to shop online without being hit with high interest rates. Debit cards take money from shoppers' accounts to pay for goods instantly in a similar way to Eftpos, but can be used for telephone and internet purchases. Their use has soared internationally and last year Visa debit cards made up more than half of the credit card company's total global transactions, outpacing credit card volumes. Westpac, the first bank to introduce a debit card to New Zealand, says that three of every five cards it has issued in the past five months has been a debit card.



Eye on children's Internet activities

Parents are being reminded to keep tabs on their children's Internet activities, and encourage them to be good cybercitizens. It follows the suspension of three Hamilton high school girls, after they posted provocative images of themselves online. NetSafe spokeswoman Rachel Harrison says young people need to realise they leave a huge digital footprint after being on the Internet. She says people are often not aware of how much information they have given away about themselves.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Caver injured 3km below surface

A major rescue operation is being mounted near Nelson to retrieve an injured caver who has been stuck 3km underground for the past 18 hours, and could be there for days. The police say the man, aged 40, was in a caving group in the "Middle Earth" system under the Takaka Hill when a falling rock broke his leg at about 5pm Saturday. It took six hours for two companions to climb out and raise the alarm at 11pm Saturday.
© 2007 Radio New Zealand



Ticket wins $8 million prize

A lucky person who bought a Lotto Powerball ticket in Hastings has won more than $8.3 million in last night's draw. The golden ticket was purchased at Countdown Lotto. New Zealand Lotteries spokeswoman Kate Richards says she would not be surprised if the ticket holder still does not even know they have won. She says some winners get on the phone to the Lotteries Commission first thing the morning after the draw, while others go into shock and take some time to make their claim.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Saturday, August 25

Rugby-Shield goes south to Waikato

Waikato are the new holders of the Ranfurly Shield after demolishing North Harbour 52-7 in Albany. It is the biggest score ever posted by a challenger in Ranfurly Shield history as Waikato ran in seven tries to Harbour's one. In other Air New Zealand Cup action Otago triumphed 29-25 over Bay of Plenty in Mount Maunganui and Wellington took out Tasman 38-25 at Westpac Stadium.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Final whistle for Carlaw Park

Today ended an era for a historic rugby league ground: Carlaw Park in Auckland. The Park's future was announced at an event hosted at the famous old venue by Auckland Rugby League . There are plans for a retirement village on the site, as well as a hotel and an office and retail space. Auckland Rugby League spokesman Gordon Gibbons said it was a magical day for everyone to take their time to farewell what has been very much a part of their lives, and there were not too many many dry-eyes in the place.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Horse imports stopped

All imports of horses from Australia have been stopped. MAF Biosecurity made the move this afternoon following news that horses in New South Wales are suspected of having contracted equine influenza. And it is also likely a blanket ban on horse exports to New South Wales will also be imposed. In addition, all horses that have arrived in New Zealand since the beginning of the month will have their movements traced.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Push for more dad-friendly services

With Father's Day looming, there are calls for organisations such as Plunket and play-centres to make their premises more dad-friendly. Psychotherapist and lecturer at Auckland University of Technology, Warwick Pudney, has produced a report titled 'Fathering Our City'. In it he finds early childhood and infant services have been unconsciously feminised, and are alienating men with a 'woman's atmosphere'. He says when he asked agencies why they felt fathering was important, they could not really answer him. Pudney says men will turn away if they feel they are not needed. He says children without father figures often lack self esteem, particularly boys.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Moon turns to blood

By HEATHER McCRACKEN - Central Leader
For a front row seat to a cosmic light show next week, just look up. On Tuesday night the moon will turn red as it passes through Earth's shadow in the first total lunar eclipse seen from New Zealand since 2000. Excitement is building at Auckland's Stardome Observatory, education and programmes manager Graham Murray says. "This one is great because we're in the path of the moon being totally covered by the shadow," he says. "This is a direct hit. A near miss doesn't matter." A lunar eclipse, or luna rosa, won't be seen from New Zealand again until December 2010.



NZ may follow Australia in restricting sunbed use

New Zealand's Cancer Council says it will ask the Government to look at joining Australian moves to replace voluntary rules on sunbed use in commercial tanning salons with laws to restrict access by teenagers. Australian regulators are planning to make it illegal provide solarium services to children under 16, and to require parent permission for 17 and 18 year-olds, said Cancer Society's skin cancer prevention adviser Dr Judith Galtry. The Victorian government has already tightened controls on the tanning trade in the wake of a campaign run by a Melbourne woman, Clare Oliver, 25, a former solarium user who is dying of skin cancer.
Source:NZPA



US serviceman falls from plane

An American serviceman is in hospital after falling from the top of a plane at Christchurch Airport this morning. The man fell at 4.30am while undertaking pre-flight safety checks on a US C-17 aircraft ahead of its departure for Antarctica. He fell about six metres from the fuselage of the plane and was taken to Christchurch Airport with a broken leg. The US Antarctic programme operates next to the Royal New Zealand Air Force's hangar at the airport.
Source:NZPA



Uruguay celebrates national day

Uruguay's national day is being marked in central Auckland this afternoon. Members of the Uruguayan community will parade their flag and sing their national anthem in Queen Elizabeth Square near Britomart at 3pm. A small celebration including traditional drumming, dance performance and local food will be held at the nearby Pavilion.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Foxton earthquake

A fairly substantial earthquake has shaken the Wanganui basin in the southern North Island.
Seismologists say it was centred about 40 kilometres west of Foxton at a depth of about 50 kilometres. It was 40 km north-west of Levin and 90 km north of Wellington. The tremor registered 5.1 on the Richter Scale.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



High wheat prices good for NZ - Federated Farmers

Federated Farmers says the New Zealand economy will benefit significantly from record high wheat prices on global commodity markets. A bushel of wheat is now at more than $NZ10.50. Bad weather in key grain growing areas such as Canada and parts of Europe have forced wheat prices to hit record highs, as demand has risen. Canada expects this year's wheat output to be 20% lower than last year. He says New Zealand does not rely on grain-feed for cattle and will make a huge profit, as about 90% of what the country produces is for the international market.
© 2007 Radio New Zealand



PM's Wikipedia page protected

As the Australian Prime Minister's staff are criticised of allegedly making changes to his page contained in an online-encyclopaedia, references to New Zealand's Prime Minister are now protected to prevent tampering. The open style of Wikipedia has been too tempting for some, who have posted what censors refer to as 'regular childish vandalism.' John Howard denies ordering his staff to remove potentially damaging details and Helen Clark's page has also come under some scrutiny. Moderators have removed statements such as 'Helen Clark looks and talks like a man' and 'Helen Clark is the most boring person I have ever seen' from the Prime Minister's page. Miss Clark's page has now been protected so that incorrect or defamatory statements can no longer be added.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Horse flu outbreak in Aust

New Zealand horse breeders are keeping a close eye on the outbreak of equine influenza in Australia. Eleven horses at Sydney's Centennial Park are showing symptoms of equine flu and have all returned positive tests. The horses under scrutiny are not race horses but some are thought to have been to shows around Australia this week. All horse racing in New South Wales being cancelled and horse movements have been stopped. Official confirmation of the disease, which originated in horses from Japan, will take several more days.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Friday, August 24

Storm heading for Northland and Auckland

A storm that has brought gales and flooding rains to Queensland is now moving towards New Zealand. Newstalk ZB's head weather analyst Philip Duncan says Northland will be the first to feel the affects of the tropical storm. "Showers will turn to rain on Sunday in the far north to reach Whangarei overnight Sunday. Strong north east winds may gust to gale force in exposed areas north of Auckland on Monday too."
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Big four want finance sector overhaul

The big four in New Zealand's financial world are calling for the introduction of a national independent audit regulation and oversight system. Deloitte, Ernst and Young, KPMG and PricewaterhouseCoopers have met with the Securities Commission to discuss the matter. Together they have sent a letter to Commerce Minister Lianne Dalziel requesting it be addressed as a high priority. The organisations argue New Zealand is falling behind international practice by not having an independent audit oversight structure.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Pacific jobs strategy to be launched by Mininstry

The Ministry of Pacific Island Affairs will launch a Pacific economic development strategy on Friday that aims to get people into better-paid jobs. The prime minister will announce the strategy and another for women in Mt Wellington. Numbering nearly 300,000, the Pacific population in New Zealand is projected to make up 13% of the Labour force by 2051, but is over-represented in low paid work. Radio New Zealand's Pacific issues correspondent says the Pacific Community is good at singing - but that won't get them jobs. Pacific people earn more than $3 dollars less than Europeans, have worse health live in overcrowded houses and fewer own their own homes. They are less likely to finish tertiary education, but unemployment dropped to just over 6% last year from 28% in 1991.
© 2007 Radio New Zealand



Councils urged to name streets after fallen soldiers

Councils are being urged to name new streets after those who have fought and died fighting for New Zealand. Minister of Veterans Affairs, Rick Barker, has written to all councils encouraging them to consider using names from local war memorials on lists of approved street names for developers to use. This has been done by the Queenstown Lakes District Council. The Returned & Services Association has applauded the initiative.
Copyright © 2007 Radio New Zealand



Another finance company in trouble

Another finance company has signalled it's in trouble, following the collapse of debenture finance companies Bridgecorp last month and Nathans Finance earlier this week. Property Finance Group has asked for its shares to be suspended from trading on the stock exchange due to a lack of cash to pay debts during the current credit crunch. Christchurch-based PFG holds around $80 million in debenture stock and its loan book is worth $630m. Chairman Barney Sundstrum says it's having difficulty honouring its debts in the short term.
© 2007 Radio New Zealand



Kings of Leon to play Auckland / Wellington

The Kings of Leon look set to make a return to New Zealand. The band's website has them listed as playing Wellington's TSB Arena on January 11 and Auckland's Vector Arena on January 12 next year. It says tickets will go on sale on September 14. Hailing from America's deep south state of Tennessee the band is made up of three brothers and a cousin. They have already played at two Big Day Outs in New Zealand and reached their highest level of commercial success here with third album Because of the Times, which debuted at number one in April.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Timberlake sells out two shows

Tickets to both Justin Timberlake's Auckland shows have sold out within minutes. Tickets for his Auckland concert at Vector Arena on October 23 went on sale at 9am and sold out in three minutes. Promoters then announced the second show at the same venue on October 24, and tickets were snapped up almost as quickly.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Six liquor sellers caught in underage sting

Six out of ten alcohol selling premises targeted by Canterbury police have been caught out selling to minors. Ten premises in the Selwyn district were targeted last week. Two underage volunteers were watched by police and the Community and Public Health Service as they attempted to buy liquor from licensed premises. Six of the establishments were caught out, of which two were repeat offenders.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Midwife says hospital care "inadequate"

A midwife at Auckland City Hospital fears pregnant women could start losing their babies because of inadequate care. The worker, who wants to remain anonymous, deals with pregnant woman and women with acute gynaecological problems. The midwife says every day women discharge themselves from hospital because the wait is too long. She says patients have to sign an agreement absolving the hospital of responsibility if something goes wrong. The midwife says in her last 12 hour shift she dealt with around 20 women and had no break for meals or rest, other than three cups of coffee. She says her equally-experienced colleague was recently reduced to tears because of the pressure she is faced with at work.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Netballers visit children's ward

Dunedin Hospital's children's ward is about to get a boost from an appeal at local Countdown and Woolworths supermarkets. The Fresh Future Appeal is being launched today. Five netballers from the Otago Rebels are giving gift bags to patients in the children's ward. The appeal aims to raise funds for paediatric care in Dunedin, where 1600 children are treated annually.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Thursday, August 23

Kiwis wanted in WA

Western Australia is trying to recruit New Zealanders to meet the booming state's desperate need for more workers. A team of recruiters is in the land of the long white cloud to tout WA's lifestyle and employment opportunities to New Zealanders. WA Small Business Minister Margaret Quirk said WA was so desperate for workers "even All Black supporters" would be welcome. We are leading the nation with a diverse, internationally competitive economy, but this level of growth has also brought a comprehensive skills shortage," Ms Quirk said. Representatives from a raft of industries will speak to New Zealanders at WA sponsored expos in Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland over the next week.



Scalpers and streakers face jail and fines

Tougher punishments will be handed down to pitch invaders and ticket scalpers when New Zealand hosts the Rugby World Cup in 2011. Parliament has passed the Major Events Management Bill, which aims to protect the interests of sponsors of the tournament. Anyone making an unauthorised entry onto a pitch of any event of international interest now faces a jail term of up to three months, or a $5,000 fine. Any person caught selling tickets for more than they paid for them also face a $5,000 fine.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



64% rise in tourism earnings forecast

A surge in foreign visitors, many from China, is forecast to drive a rise of more than 64% in earnings for the tourism industry over the next six years. A Ministry of Tourism report says a positive global economic outlook, a weaker New Zealand dollar, and a focus on attracting high-spending tourists will all underpin growth in the industry. The report predicts foreign visitor spending will grow annually by around 7.5% to $10.5 billion per year by 2013.
© 2007 Radio New Zealand



Canola crops sought by biodiesel company

A South Island biodiesel company is looking for farmers to grow 1500 hectares of oilseed rape, otherwise known as canola, under a trial contract, with plans to expand operations to 30,000 hectares over the next three years. Biodiesel New Zealand, a division of state-owned enterprise Solid Energy, currently manufactures 1 million litres of biodiesel a year but is looking to expand to 70 million litres. This equates to about 2% of the country's total diesel use, which is more than half of the Government's target to have biofuels make up 3.4% of transport fuel sales by 2012. General manager Paul Quinn says he would like the trials to be spread between Southland and North Canterbury.
© 2007 Radio New Zealand



News of medical student boost welcomed

The Medical Students Association is welcoming a move by the Government to allow more doctors to be trained. The Government has announced that 40 more medical students will be accepted to study at Otago and Auckland universities from next year, bringing the number to 365. The association says the increase will help ease a lack of New Zealand-trained doctors, as New Zealand relies heavily on foreign doctors. The Government says boosting the intake of medical students will help the country work toward being self-sufficient in doctors.
© 2007 Radio New Zealand



Voting initiative in schools outlined

An initiative to get year-nine students, aged about 13 years, interested in voting has nearly 17,000 teenagers signed up. The project was outlined to Parliament's Local Government and Environment Select Committee on Thursday morning. Local Government New Zealand's "Kids Voting" programme aims to emulate schemes in the United States. Studies show they have a lasting influence on students, particularly those from low socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds. A total of 119 schools will take part in mock local body elections in mid-October.
Copyright © 2007 Radio New Zealand



Windfall for some, shortfall for others at ATM

A mistake loading cash into a Kiwibank ATM machine has lined the pockets of a number of Queenstown residents, but left others shortchanged. Customers were lining up to withdraw cash from the machine on Tuesday night after it began dishing out either twice as much money as requested or not enough. Kiwibank spokesman Bruce Thompson says the problem was incorrect stacking. The $10 box was filled with $20 notes and the $20 box was filled with $10 notes.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Pacific Blue offers $39 flights

Pacific Blue is offering promotional fares of $39 each way for flights between Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. The airline has unveiled its domestic plans at a briefing in Wellington this morning, saying it is in New Zealand for the long haul. Services will concentrate on the main trunk route, connecting New Zealand's three biggest cities. The $39 promotional fares go on sale from today, with flights starting on November 15. Those fares will last for six months, after which the prices go up. The cheapest fares will then be $69 between Auckland and Wellington, $59 between Wellington and Christchurch and $79 from Auckland to Christchurch.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Tamihere and Jackson launch mayoral bids

Two former MPs are to stand for the mayoralties of Manukau and Waitakere. Willie Jackson hopes to take over from Sir Barry Curtis in Manukau City. Former Labour MP John Tamihere is standing in Waitakere City.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



MP considers stand against slave labour

Labour MP Lynne Pillay is considering taking a stand against imported goods made by slave labour. The Waitakere MP says she is thinking of drafting a Private Member's Bill that would prevent such products entering the country. Ms Pillay says there is still forced labour, child labour and human trafficking in parts of the world today. Ms Pillay says New Zealand can do its bit to prevent this by refusing to buy goods made by forced slave labour.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Man survives 150m avalanche

A safety expert has been swept almost 150 metres down a Canterbury ski-field by an avalanche The man is not believed to be seriously hurt. Mt Olympus Ski Club vice captain Thomas Stephens says detail are sketchy at the moment, but the man was undertaking routine work. He says ahead of opening on Saturday, the man was checking snow levels and digging pits on extreme terrain, almost out of the club's territory. Mr Stephens says he is among the most experienced people in the country at this type of work.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Auckland fillmmakers to show at Venice

A student and two lecturers from Auckland University have had their films accepted in the short film category of the Venice Film Festival. Postgraduate Leo Woodhead wrote and directed 12-minute film Cargo as his masters thesis project. It was almost entirely set and shot in the Czech Republic and is described as a bleakly realistic look at child trafficking. Senior lecturers Shuchi Kothari and Sarina Pearson have also had their film Coffee and Allah selected for Venice. It explores a New Zealand Ethiopian Muslim woman's appetite for coffee, Islam and a good game of badminton.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Genesis joins Te Waka Windfarm

Genesis Energy has joined the development of a controversial wind farm. The state-owned enterprise has linked up with the two other firms behind the proposed 34 turbines at Te Waka in Hawke's Bay. Earlier this year the Environment Court ruled against the wind farm after objections from the local Maori community. The plans have now been scaled down and re-lodged.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Wednesday, August 22

Party pill legislation introduced to Parliament

Legislation to ban party pills has been introduced to Parliament this afternoon. BZP is the main ingredient in party pills and it will be classified as a Class C drug. Those supplying BZP face a maximum jail term of eight years, while those found using it face three months in prison or a $500 fine.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



University gets $50m rescue deal

By Martha McKenzie-Minifie
Auckland University of Technology is being saved from looming financial strife by a $50 million boost from the Government. The university racked up debt through a $203 million building programme over the 10 years to 2005 to upgrade dilapidated facilities and cater for massive roll growth. Vice-Chancellor Derek McCormack said yesterday the institution had been under-funded for decades but coped by attracting students in big numbers. It faced financial trouble under changes to the funding of tertiary education providers, which come into force next year. The new funding system focuses on "educational outcomes" set in complex investment plans and takes emphasis off student numbers.



Kiwi WW2 aircrew's remains found

By SANDRA COX - The Press
The remains of two young Kiwi airmen killed in a World War 2 plane crash have been found in the Solomon Islands by New Zealand police. Police and the New Zealand Defence Force are now embarking on a national search to find relatives of all five crew members – six decades after their deaths. The Royal New Zealand Air Force servicemen – all aged 20 or 21 – were killed when their Ventura PV1 bomber crashed and exploded on Malaita Island, 50km north-east of Guadalcanal, on May 28, 1945. The crew had left Honiara on a dawn patrol just after 6am. On the way back, the plane failed to clear a steep hill in bad weather and crashed at 1650 feet. The servicemen killed with Flying Officer Keith Graham were: Sergeant Eric George Priest, 21, of Thames; Flight Sergeant Leo Parkes Marshall, 20, of Raurimu; Sergeant Melville Pascoe Lawrence Moxsom, 20, of Morrinsville; and Sergeant Douglas David Read, 20, of Kohukohu, Northland.



Accused love-thief faces more charges

More charges are being laid against a Hastings man accused of scamming middle-aged women out of property and money. William Franklin is appearing in court today on five more charges dating back to April, adding to the five he is already facing for the theft of property and money. One case involves $30,000. It is alleged Franklin has used internet dating sites and newspaper classified ads to find women and woo them into giving him cash, property and in some cases vehicles.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Economic activity slowing

The latest survey shows economic activity is starting to taper off around the regions. The National Bank regional trends survey showed economic activity rose 0.7% in the three months to June. However, eight of 14 regions around the country registered an easing in activity - the weakest result since June 2005.
All but one of the South Island's regions saw a downturn. A rise of 1.4% in Auckland marked the region's biggest jump in three years while strong building consent levels propped up growth in Wellington.
Copyright © 2007 Radio New Zealand



Maori ministry faces criticism over grants

The Ministry of Maori Development has faced criticism from MPs for giving money to rugby unions. Te Puni Kokiri was appearing before Parliament's Maori Affairs Select Committee to answer concerns raised in a critical report by the Auditor-General's Office about the way it distributed millions of dollars in grants. Chief executive Leith Comer says changes have been made to the way grants are administered and he expects a much better audit report next time from the Auditor-General. But MPs criticised the ministry for giving money to the Otago Rugby Union and to East Coast Rugby. Mr Comer defended the grant to the East Coast. But Radio New Zealand's political editor says the MPs weren't impressed and Te Puni Kokiri is likely to have to appear again before the select committee to answer more questions.
Copyright © 2007 Radio New Zealand



Supermarket chain denies 'sham' petrol vouchers

A major New Zealand grocery retailer has rebutted suggestions that discount fuel vouchers offered by supermarket chains are being subsidised by higher grocery prices. The ABC reports that the Retail Grocers Association in Australia has told an inquiry into the cost of unleaded petrol that Australian supermarket discount fuel vouchers are a sham. Foodstuffs South Island chief executive Steve Anderson, who represents the New World and Pak 'N Save grocery brands, says that is not the case in New Zealand.
Copyright © 2007 Radio New Zealand



Iranian overstayer now 40 days without food

A hunger striking Iranian overstayer is now taking liquid mineral supplements to stay alive. Ali Panah has refused to eat for 40 days in protest at his detention at Mount Eden Prison for refusing to sign documents which would lead to his deportation from New Zealand. Mr Panah claims it is not safe for him to return to Iran because he is a Christian convert. Global Peace and Justice Auckland says Mr Panah is now taking mineral supplements, which have little food value, to prevent some of the physical damage from a prolonged period without food.
© 2007 Radio New Zealand



Financial aid for North Korea

New Zealand is contributing $500,000 to Red Cross efforts to help North Korean flood victims.
Hundreds of people were killed and tens of thousands left homeless in this month's devastating floods. Foreign Minister Winston Peters says it is important New Zealand does what it can to assist when a disaster strikes. Mr Peters is due to visit North Korea later this year.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Blanket recalled due to formaldehyde

The distributor of a blanket is recalling the product because of formaldehyde fears. Anyone who bought a Superlux blanket sold under the Gainsborough brand name since 2004 is being urged to return it for a full refund. Testing in Australia shows the blanket contains unacceptable levels of formaldehyde. The freephone number 0800 800 872 has been set up a freephone number for further information. The recall follows concerns about high levels of formaldehyde in clothing imports from China.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Cautious optimism airline won't suffer the blues

A business analyst says although aviation history is littered with failed competitors to Air New Zealand, Pacific Blue might have more luck. Sir Richard Branson's budget airline is about to announce its plans to set up domestic flights in New Zealand. The addition of the Virgin Blue offshoot will mean four major players could be vying for travellers' custom, including the yet to arrive Kiwijet. Past failures have included Ewan Wilson's Kiwi International Airlines and Origin Pacific. Business commentator Roger Kerr says things could be different for a newcomer this time. "If they get the right planes, that link in nicely with their trans-Tasman schedule it could be a way of Pacific Blue making it viable."
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Tuesday, August 21

Air NZ looks at second Auckland airport

Air New Zealand has confirmed it is interested in setting up a domestic service out of Whenuapai Air Force Base. Plans for a commercial airport were put on hold several years ago, after the Defence Force said it would not consider leaving until after 2015. Air New Zealand says it has now formed a favourable view on the possibilities that Whenuapai may be an appropriate location for domestic services in the future.



NZ resisted US requests to take Guantanamo refugees

The New Zealand Government baulked at American efforts to farm out detainees it wants to release from its Cuban military prison in Guantanamo Bay. "In 2005 and early 2006, New Zealand declined several requests from the United States to resettle Guantanamo Bay detainees as refugees in New Zealand," Department of Labour refugee services director Kevin Third said yesterday.
Source:NZPA



Population keeps on growing

New Zealand's population has increased by another 43,400 people in the past year. However, the year's growth was just lower than the average annual increase of 43,800 recorded since June 1997. Data from Statistics New Zealand found the population increased by 1 per cent from 4,184,600 in June 2006 to 4,228,000 in June 2007. Acting government statistician Cathryn Ashley-Jones said the growth was mainly due to the increase of births over deaths of 33,300 people.
Source:NZPA



Kiribati set to go to polls

Registered voters in Kiribati are gearing up to go to the polls for the general election tomorrow. There are 43,184 people registered to vote in Kiribati, with over 10,000 of those registered throughout Tarawa electorates. 146 candidates are contesting this year’s election of a 44-seat parliament.



Tauranga gets $30 million private hospital

A $30 million private hospital has begun treating patients in Tauranga from Monday. Grace Hospital has some of the latest medical technology available, including a $2.7 million system for robot-assisted keyhole surgery. The complex in Oropi has six theatres, 30 day-stay spaces and 48 inpatient beds with en suites. It has resource consent to add another six theatres and a third storey with an extra 32 beds if needed. A lack of space on existing sites led to the joint venture between the city's Southern Cross and Norfolk Community hospitals.
Copyright © 2007 Radio New Zealand



Man faces 16 charges over illegal workers

The first trial in what the Department of Labour describes as the biggest illegal worker scam uncovered in New Zealand begins in Napier on Tuesday. Thu Huynch, 33, a Vietnamese and New Zealand citizen, faces 16 charges under the Immigration Act. He is accused of assisting ship jumpers to work illegally in New Zealand. The trial follows a Department of Labour operation in December to collect evidence of unlawful immigration and labour practices. Officials and police searched 12 properties in the Nelson, Marlborough and Hawke's Bay regions and arrested four Vietnamese men.
Copyright © 2007 Radio New Zealand



Latest poll shows Nat support is up

National Party support is up 1.5 percentage points to 50.5 per cent support, according to the latest Roy Morgan poll. Labour has lost ground, down four points to 31 per cent support. The poll showed support for the Green Party was up one to 7 per cent support. New Zealand First was unchanged on 4 per cent support, the Maori Party was unchanged on 3 per cent, UnitedFuture was up 1.5 to 2 per cent support, ACT was up one to 1.5 per cent and the Progressive Party remained unchanged on 0.5 per cent.
Source:NZPA



Nzers protest on Sydney detention centre roof

Three men, including two New Zealanders, awaiting deportation, were this morning refusing to come off the roof of the Sydney immigration detention facility where they had spent last night, Van Nguyen, from Vietnam, and New Zealand nationals Montana Kelly and Bruce Ngaromo, all of whom were recently released from prison, forced their way onto the roof early yesterday evening after their demands for reinstatement of their visiting rights were refused. A spokeswoman for Immigration Minister Kevin Andrews said Villawood detention centre management had so far failed to persuade the men to end their protest.
Source:NZPA



Wintry cold returns to south

Winter is about to tap us on the shoulder to remind us it is still here. A short, sharp cold snap will descend on the South Island from late this morning. Newstalk ZB's Weather Watch Centre says freezing winds will bring snow to low altitudes in the deep south. Another front is due there tonight, and Wednesday will see snow flurries through Central Otago. Weather analyst Philip Duncan says Invercargill, Queenstown, Dunedin and Christchurch may struggle to reach above four degrees on Wednesday.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Teachers want health check support

Frontline early childhood workers want reassurances that government agencies will be on hand for children who are found to have health problems when tests begin next year. A scheme to test all four-year-olds for eyesight, hearing, general wellbeing and serious behavioural problems will be piloted in Manukau and Wanganui, before being rolled out nationwide in February. Judith Nowatarski from the New Zealand Educational Institute says help must be readily accessible for children found to have serious problems. She says any plan also needs to look at the bigger picture, such as whether children with respiratory problems live in damp houses.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Aid budget to Fiji under-spent

Fiji's political instability has cost it dearly in terms of aid. Official figures from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs show that in 2003-04 just half of the $4.1 million of budgeted aid was used. Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters says the under-spending was due to a loss of momentum in the programme caused by the coup in 2000 and the resulting aid sanctions. He says a refocusing of the aid towards non-governmental agencies and areas of human rights, justice, and poverty took longer than anticipated and also contributed to the aid budget not being met.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Fuel efficiency info may be mandatory

The Government wants information on vehicles' fuel efficiency made available for consumers and is considering a mandatory labelling scheme. New and used vehicles would be sold with a comparative star rating allowing buyers to know exactly how fuel efficient they are. The proposal is limited to vehicles under 3.5 tonnes and motorcycles would be excluded. The scheme would not apply to private sales.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Telecom's email outage too long says customer

An Xtra webmail customer claims Telecom did not provide enough information about an email upgrade which affected his business. Around 16,600 of the company's customers could not access their inboxes for 24 hours at the weekend as the new Yahoo!Xtra Bubble service was upgraded. Some are complaining they are still having problems. Telecom is denying claims it did not let customers know about the outage and says it sent out several emails advising them.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Call to mend trans-Tasman relations

A foreign policy analyst says the government should calm down and mend its shaky relationship with the Australian government. The governments have been at odds over Air New Zealand flying Australian troops to Kuwait, Prime Minister Helen Clark's querying of Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer's appearance at the National Party conference and New Zealand complaining to the World Trade Organisation about Australia's refusal to accept New Zealand's apples.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Monday, August 20

Corrections must explain prisoner's hiring of PR firm, says National

The Corrections Department must explain why a prisoner has been allowed to hire a public relations firm to boost his image, says National. The party's corrections spokesman, Simon Power, says the department is not denying reports that Arthur Taylor has hired a public relations firm. He says the move is bizarre but the real question is why the department is allowing Taylor to do it. It had earlier prevented former bodybuilding champion Justin Rhys from paying for his own private drug counsellor in prison. Mr Power says the Corrections Minister Damien O'Connor should explain the inconsistency.
Copyright © 2007 Radio New Zealand



Sky City (casino) considers selling off assets

Sky City has announced it is considering selling off some of its assets. The company posted a $98.4 million profit in the year to June, down from $120 million last year. Executive Director Elmar Toime admits 2007 was a disappointing trading year, particularly for its cinema assets. As a result, the company has announced today it is considering putting its cinemas on the market. Mr Toime has also confirmed Sky City is talking to several parties interested in buying its Adelaide casino.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Man fined $1800, loses car for taking too many cockles (shellfish)

A Korean man has been fined $1800 and lost his car after taking nine times the legal daily limit of cockles. The Ministry of Fisheries said Hyug Gyu Park, 46, was stopped at a routine checkpoint in Matakana, north of Auckland, on April 1. Although he repeatedly told fishery officers there were no shellfish in his vehicle, a search revealed three plastic bags containing 609 cockles. The legal daily limit for cockles in that area is 50. The ministry said that Park was Park was fined $1800, with $130 court costs, in North Shore District Court last week. His Honda Odyssey vehicle, which was used to commit the offence, was also automatically forfeited to the Crown.
Fairfax New Zealand Limited 2006.



Patient barcodes all but certain

By TOM PULLAR-STRECKER - The Dominion Post
Health minister Pete Hodgson expects a plan to barcode patients, medicines and staff at public hospitals in an effort to reduce the risk of medical misadventure will proceed, after a committee indicated it would recommend it. The Government set aside $10.2 million in last year's Budget to ensure there were no funding hold-ups if the initiative went ahead, though the final cost of installing scanners and developing the back-end systems for hospital wards is not yet known. Based on the results of overseas studies, it has been estimated about 150 people a year may die in New Zealand each year as a result of prescribing errors.



Milk drains cornflakes' iron: science winner

By SOPHIE SPEER - The Southland Times
A Southland schoolboy has discovered the iron content in cornflakes is reduced by 80 percent when milk is added to the popular breakfast dish. Keir Russell, 17, of James Hargest College, was the premier science award winner for his investigation into the iron content of breakfast food at the Southland Science and Technology Fair Since his discovery, he has been looking at scholarships through the University of Otago to do further work on the results during the summer holidays before beginning a degree in health science next year.



Communist threat had NZ on edge

Secret papers mentioned use of nuclear weapons. Hank Schouten reports. New Zealand military chiefs were planning to deploy 45,000 fighters to Malaya at the height of the Cold War, according to newly released top secret files. They outline plans for committing troops to halt the advance of Chinese communist forces in Southeast Asia and reveal allied plans to use nuclear weapons against Chinese forces if they advanced on Malaya. The war plans are referred to in top secret papers released to Archives New Zealand by the Foreign Affairs and Trade Ministry.
Source:Dominion Post



75,000 taken off Electoral Roll

Seventy-five thousand people have been removed from the Electoral Roll ahead of local body elections in October. Murray Wicks, national manager of the Electoral Enrolment Centre, says those people have until Friday to take action and restore their right to vote in the elections. Mr Wicks says if people have not received one of the enrolment update packs by now, they are not enroled.
© 2007 Radio New Zealand



Pacific leaders to attend Maori King's coronation

The King of Tonga and other Pacific leaders will attend the coronation celebrations of the Maori King in Waikato on Monday. A memorial day was held in Huntly for the late Maori Queen last week. Commemorations for the King Tuheitia's coronation have now moved to Turangawaewae Marae near Ngaruawahia. Niuean leaders will be welcomed onto the marae and the King of Tonga, Siosi Tupou V, is expected about 11am. The Hawaiian Princess and Samoan dignitaries will arrive on Monday afternoon. King Tuheitia will deliver his first public speech on the anniversary of his succession, on Tuesday.
Copyright © 2007 Radio New Zealand



Workers head for Antarctica

Flights to Antarctica resume this week, after the usual four month winter hiatus. Operations manager for Raytheon Polar Services Kerry Chuck says a team of New Zealand workers will be among the first of the season to land at Scott Base and have specific projects to work on, including 'de-winterising' the station, which involves working on buildings and setting up a sea ice runway. Mr Chuck says the work will ensure a larger team of scientists will be able to get straight to work when they head south later this year.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Killer flu bug in Australia

New Zealanders are being warned to take all necessary precautions against the flu when travelling to Australia, after it claimed nine lives across the Tasman. Canterbury District Health Board virologist Lance Jennings says it is always worthwhile being aware of diseases which are circulating at a destination and getting immunised before travelling. But Dr Jennings says most New Zealanders appear to be primed against the strain because it has already circulated here, but without the same deadly effects. It is also a strain covered in New Zealand's flu vaccination programme.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Tourist kayaker dies in swollen river

The body of a missing American kayaker has been found in the Kaituna River northeast of Rotorua. The 23-year-old tourist was found yesterday afternoon in the Awesome Gorge after a three hour search of the swollen river. He was believed to have been an experienced kayaker but drowned when his kayak became trapped between fallen logs, forcing him under water.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Regulation wanted on imported clothing

The Green Party wants the Government to regulate imported clothing to ensure consumers are protected from poisonous substances. TV3's Target programme has found high levels of cancer-causing formaldehyde in clothes from China. The poison is used to stop material from creasing and is also present in New Zealand-made clothing which uses fabric imported from China.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Sunday, August 19

Cot death risk for obese babies

There are new claims that obese babies are at higher risk of cot death. Pathologist at the University of Adelaide Roger Byard says babies who carry extra weight find it harder to breathe and move, which increases their risk of sudden infant death syndrome. Dr Byard says he is seeing an increasing number of fat babies dying. Dr Byard is basing his claims on a four-month-old baby who weighed nine kilograms and died of cot death. He says the obesity affected the child's breathing by stopping the chest wall from moving, interfering with the diaphragm and narrowing the airways. All of these factors contributed to the baby's death.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



New Zealand writer wins top book prize

A NEW Zealand-born academic has won one of Scotland's most prestigious literary prizes. Kirsty Gunn was last night announced as the inaugural winner of the Sundial Scottish Arts Council Book of the Year award. The professor of creative writing at Dundee University was awarded the honour for her acclaimed novella The Boy And The Sea. The announcement was made at a high-profile ceremony at the Edinburgh International Book Festival. Gunn was presented with a cheque for £25,000 by William Gray Muir, managing director of Sundial Properties.



Restaurateur battles email smear

An Auckland restaurateur is struggling to rebuild his reputation after a careless move by one of his staff. The young barworker was seen pouring unfinished glasses of Chardonnay back into a bottle at Wildfire in North Shore City. The incident sparked an email smear campaign, urging diners to avoid the place. Wildfire owner Phil Cristou says he is horrified by what happened, and by the response to it. He says the bar person is a really nice girl and must have had a momentary lapse of judgement.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Influx of cruise ship tourists tipped

The tourism sector is being told to prepare for an influx of cruise ship tourists this summer. Cruise New Zealand says passenger numbers are set to double as demand increases and more liners put New Zealand on their routes. Chairman Craig Harris says this year tourist attractions and resources will be stretched to the limit to cater for the surge in numbers.
© 2007 Radio New Zealand



Mobile shops warned to clean up credit contracts

By EMMA PAGE - Sunday Star Times
Four mobile shop companies selling goods on credit in some of the nation's poorest communities have been warned by the Commerce Commission to clean up their act. The warnings come after a three-month investigation, which found the companies' credit contracts were "totally deficient" and failed to disclose important information to customers. Mobile shops are trucks equipped to sell goods door-to-door. They charge inflated prices and offer customers credit, which is repaid by direct debit or automatic payments.



Rugby-Cup tickets in a suitcase

A New Zealand tour operator is the envy of rugby fans everywhere, after returning home from France with 17,000 tickets to Rugby World Cup matches. Nuk Korako of Young and Lee Tours personally carried the $8.5 million dollars' worth of tickets back to Christchurch in a suitcase. He says all the tickets had to be registered with a name and a passport number. He says it took him 13 hours to count out the tickets to make sure he had the right categories and ensure they were all there. He says he carried 44 kilos of tickets onto the plane, keeping them safe in the overhead compartment. Nuk Korako is one of three licensed operators allowed to sell the tickets in New Zealand. He says people still thinking about buying tickets are out of luck, as the last of this lot sold out six months ago.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Orchardist's methods unheard of

Pipfruit New Zealand says growers need to stick to local government regulations when they are dealing with hungry birds. In the Wairarapa, Greytown orchardist John van Vliet has found himself in hot water after employing a company to bomb trees on a neighbouring property that were home to flocks of roosting starlings, because he was concerned the birds would feast on his harvest. Local animal lovers are outraged at the impact on the birds. Pipfruit chief executive Peter Beaven says he has never heard of an apple grower taking this sort of action. He says in the grape industry it is much more common to have to protect the fruit, but in the apple industry it is highly unusual.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Upskilling Afghani police rewarding

New Zealand Defence Force staff in Afghanistan are working harder than ever to help rebuild the shattered nation, piece by piece. There are 112 kiwis working in the provincial reconstruction team based at Bamiyan, 2500 metres above sea level. Training officer Lieutenant Sandra Weston says the team is helping to upskill the Afghani police force. She says they are enhancing the skills the police already have so once the New Zealanders leave there will be well-trained officers looking after the area.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



To Prevent Unintended Pregnancies, Abortions, New Zealand Health Insurer Will Provide No-Cost Vasectomies, IUDs

Waikato Primary Health, a health group in New Zealand serving 305,000 people, recently announced that it will offer some couples no-cost vasectomies or the intrauterine devices after a study by the Waikato District Health Board found that some women had undergone an abortion while on a waiting list for tubal ligation, the New Zealand Herald reports. The health board's study found that two-thirds of the women on Waikato Hospital's waiting list for tubal ligation in 2003 had waited longer than the government's time frame of six months to receive the procedure. About 6% of the women on the waiting list became pregnant, 2% of whom had an abortion and 4% of whom delivered infants, according to the study. In addition, the study found that many women on the waiting lists canceled medical appointments because they were unable to arrange child care or transportation.



Python smuggled into Budapest Zoo kills three rare Kea parrots native to New Zealand island

BUDAPEST, Hungry (AP) - A python that apparently was smuggled into the Budapest Zoo has killed three rare Kea parrots, officials said Friday. It was unclear whether a visitor released the tiger python into the Keas' cage or whether someone released the 6-foot, 6-inch snake elsewhere in the zoo and it found the cage by itself, zoo spokesman Zoltan Hanga said. The Kea is a sharp-beaked parrot native to the high country of New Zealand's South Island. It is considered a vulnerable species - an estimated 1,000-5,000 survive in the wild and another 140 in zoos. The Keas - a female and two males - were very playful birds and came to Budapest from zoos in Austria and Germany. They were each valued at $7,800.



Saturday, August 18

United Nations expresses concern over our race relations

A United Nations report has expressed concern at our country's race relations, especially when it comes to the Treaty of Waitangi and the Foreshore and Seabed Act. The new report has asked for a 12-month progress report on issues centred around the country's founding document. On a more positive note the report welcomed the work being done to reduce the socio-economic disparities for Maori and Pacific communities and the much improved status of the Maori language. Race Relations Commissioner Joris de Bres says he welcomes the report and thinks it is a balanced score card.
© CanWest TVWorks Limited



Clark unveils plaque to Maori queen

By ALASTAIR BULL - NZPA
In a symbolic gesture of unity, Prime Minister Helen Clark was given the duty of unveiling a memorial plaque to the Maori Queen on the first anniversary of her death. Miss Clark unveiled the plaque this evening at Waahi Paa marae in Huntly, Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu's personal retreat during her reign as queen. The unveiling of the plaque on a memorial garden planted in Dame Te Ata's honour was the climax of the first day of events marking the death of the queen and the succession to the throne of her son King Tuheitia.



Prisons move to block calls

By HAYDON DEWES and BEN FAWKES
Devices that block cellphone signals are about to be approved in prisons as the Corrections Department fends off new accusations of tardiness in clamping down. It is understood Corrections will sign a memorandum of understanding next week with both Vodafone and Telecom, giving them the go-ahead to install cellphone signal- blocking devices in prisons. Getting cooperation from the phone companies has been tough, because blocking devices can jam signals outside the intended exclusion zone. It is understood suitable technology has now been obtained and is ready to be tested. National says prisons have become havens for crooks to continue their illegal activities and has called for a full parliamentary inquiry into the prison system.



French rugby union coach turns up World Cup heat

France's rugby union coach, Bernard Laporte, has turned up the World Cup heat by reiterating that the All Blacks play to the limit of the rules and benefit from weak refereeing. Laporte told La Provence newspaper that they have mastered the art of going to the edge of what is allowed. However, any claims of Laporte being bitter over their double hammering in New Zealand earlier this northern summer appear to have been played down by the Frenchman. He says there was no doubt there was a gulf between the teams, but the All Blacks were superior to France, winning 42-11 and 61-10, but says it becomes an issue if the referee does not whistle when they commit fouls.
© 2007 Radio New Zealand



French rugby union coach turns up World Cup heat

France's rugby union coach, Bernard Laporte, has turned up the World Cup heat by reiterating that the All Blacks play to the limit of the rules and benefit from weak refereeing. Laporte told La Provence newspaper that they have mastered the art of going to the edge of what is allowed. However, any claims of Laporte being bitter over their double hammering in New Zealand earlier this northern summer appear to have been played down by the Frenchman. He says there was no doubt there was a gulf between the teams, but the All Blacks were superior to France, winning 42-11 and 61-10, but says it becomes an issue if the referee does not whistle when they commit fouls.
© 2007 Radio New Zealand



More hip and knee ops for Canterbury

Canterbury patients needing hip and knee replacements are now getting them faster than ever before. Canterbury District Health Board has doubled the number of the operations being performed. General Manager Vince Barry says the increase is the result of long-term planning. He says a business case worked on four years ago came to fruition in April with the opening of four new theatres and a new surgical ward and the DHB can now start increasing the number of other orthopaedic procedures it carries out. Mr Barry says even although the issue of doctor recruitment and retention has been in the spotlight lately feedback shows that surgeons like working in Christchurch.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Vietnam battle commemorated

Seven members of the Army's Artillery Regiment are in Canberra, taking part in commemorations of the 40th Anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan. Soldiers from 161 Battery, based at Linton, will join their Australian counterparts in a symbolic regimental fire mission and a parade through the streets of Canberra. Long Tan was one of the most decisive battles of the Vietnam War. New Zealand artillery fire was used to help 250 Australian soldiers repel an attacking force of 1500 North Vietnamese.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Asylum seeker back in jail

Supporters of Iranian hunger striker Ali Panah claim media attention in his case could be behind the Correction Department's decision to move him back to Mt Eden Prison. Forty-year-old Mr Panah has been in Auckland Hospital flanked by two prison guards, while various churches, politicians and organisations called for him to be granted amnesty to stay in the country. Mr Panah claims that if he is sent home to Iran he will be killed because he has converted to Christianity. It is now 37 days since he began his hunger strike. He has been detained for 18 months.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Chinese celebrate diversity

The Chinese community is celebrating its diversity this weekend. The Chinese Association is hosting more than 400 people at its third annual Bananas New Zealand Going Global conference. Spokeswoman Wong Liu Shueng says speakers are there to discuss, debate and analyse New Zealand's diverse Chinese population. She says hopefully people will walk away from the conference with a different view about Chinese culture. She says Chinese people are not just fruit-shop girls, engineers, accountants and lawyers.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Friday, August 17

Tongan soldiers to fly Air NZ to US

By HANK SCHOUTEN - The Dominion Post
Despite hitting severe turbulence from its government owners over helping fly soldiers to Iraq, Air New Zealand will help transport another troop of Baghdad-bound soldiers tomorrow. The airline will fly 55 Tongan soldiers on a commercial flight to the United States, on their way to a six-month deployment in Baghdad. Tongan Defence Force Lieutenant Commander Solomon Savelio confirmed the soldiers were booked to leave tomorrow on an Air Pacific flight to Fiji. From there they were booked to fly United Airlines to Los Angeles on a commercial flight - operated by Air New Zealand.



Christchurch polytech to cut 100 staff

By ARWEN HANN - The Press
The Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology (CPIT) will cut more than 100 staff positions and slash administration costs in a bid to rescue it from dire financial straits. The polytechnic's council agreed to a raft of recommendations this week designed to change the fortunes of the institute, which is facing at least a $3 million deficit this year. Its shortcomings were highlighted in a damning report by independent consultant Deloitte in June, which said "the long-term viability of the institution is at risk" unless changes were made. The Deloitte recommendations included cutting up to 159 staff, reducing the number of courses, increasing car-parking fees and scrapping student accommodation.



Lunar eclipse will be visible from NZ

The only lunar eclipse visible from New Zealand for more than three years will happen later this month. The eclipse on Tuesday, August 28 will start at 7.52pm, but won't be noticed until around 8.51pm, when the moon enters the full shadow of the earth. The moon will be fully eclipsed by the earth's shadow from 9.52pm to 11.23pm, with the eclipse over by 1.22am.
Source:NZPA



65 years sinking sinking of POW ship

It's 65 years since torpedoes hit an Italian troop ship killing 117 New Zealand prisoners of war on board. They were being transported from North Africa to Italy when the Nino Bixio was attacked during World War II, by a British submarine. One torpedo exploded in the engine room and the other in the hold, killing 300 prisoners. The badly damaged ship was towed to Navarino, in Greece, where the dead were buried. Survivors were taken to a prisoner of war camp in northern Italy.
Copyright © 2007 Radio New Zealand



National native seed bank officially opened

A national native seed bank has been officially opened at AgResearch in Palmerston North to ensure endangered native plants will not be lost forever. The bank is the initiative of the New Zealand Plant Conservation Network and is funded by MWH consultants. Native seeds will be alongside grass and clover seeds already housed at AgResearch's Margot Forde Centre. Curator Warren Williams says more than 100 native plants are currently endangered and that figure is predicted to rise.
Copyright © 2007 Radio New Zealand



More babies born - highest number in 35 years

A total of 61,610 babies were born in New Zealand in the year to June - the highest number in 35 years. Statistics New Zealand says the median age of New Zealand women giving birth was just above 30 years. A newborn girl can expect to live 81.9 years and a newborn boy 77.9 years. Statistics New Zealand says births exceeded deaths by 33,150 in the year to June. Some 28,460 people died during the same period.
Copyright © 2007 Radio New Zealand



Fairytale weekend for writers

Love will be in the air in Auckland this weekend. Romance writers are converging on the Crowne Plaza Hotel for the Romance and the City conference. American romantic comedy writer Jenny Crusie is the key guest and will hold workshops offering her advice on the craft. Crusie says romance novels involve rewriting fairy tales to empower women and apart from erotica, are not all about sex. She says in any of the big fairy tales, princesses get what they want by being passive. She says the prince gets to do all the good stuff, such as fighting dragons and facing down stepmothers.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Church calls for lifeline for hunger striker

The Anglican Church has stepped into the fight to keep Iranian man Ali Panah in the country.
Mr Panah is in Auckland Hospital after not eating for 35 days, in protest of moves to deport him. He claims he will be executed if he returns to Iran. Anglican Archbishops Brown Turei and David Moxon say the Government must act in the best interest of its citizens, but it also needs to act mercifully to those who have asked for help. They say if things do not change Mr Panah will die in New Zealand, if not in Iran. The Archbishops are asking Minister of Immigration David Cunliffe to step in and save his life.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News



Crows no bird brains

Ground breaking Auckland University research into animal behaviour has academics crowing.
The study into crows in New Caledonia suggests the birds have better problem solving and tool making abilities than primates. Alex Taylor's PhD research, supervised by Professor Russell Gray, found that the crows were able to fashion sticks into hooks to retrieve food and they always chose the right length of stick. Six out of seven birds got the task right on their first attempt. Prof Gray says the birds made more elaborate tools faster and more consistently than chimps are able to.
© 2007 Newstalk ZB News


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