Drenching not dampening spirits at Parachute

The heavens have opened at the biggest Christian music festival in the southern hemisphere. Around 25,000 revellers at Parachute near Hamilton have been wading in high waters. Nineteen millimetres of rain has turned much of the site into a river, soaking campers but not dampening spirits. Despite the treacherous conditions organisers say Sunday night's final concert will go ahead.
Source: ONE News

American Gates wins NZ Golf Open

American golfer Robert Gates survived a late scare to win the New Zealand Open, becoming the Nationwide Tour's thirteenth player to win on debut. Gates saw a six stroke lead evaporate between the eighth and sixteenth holes, and he and Queenslander Andrew Dodt traded shots over the last two holes. Gates won the title by one stroke with a 14 under par total, and a cheque for $152,000. The top New Zealander was Josh Geary who tied for ninth, 7 strokes behind the winner.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Helicopter rescues 15 people stranded by flooding

Fifteen people stranded by flooding north of Gisborne were rescued by helicopter on Sunday afternoon. Police say the people tried and failed to drive through surface flooding near Te Karaka on State Highway Two. A Gisborne District Council Emergency Management Officer, Richard Steele, says all 15 people are now safe and well.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Deluge sparks North Island road closures, evacuations

Heavy rain causing flooding and slips has closed several roads in the eastern North Island, including State Highway 5 between Napier and Taupo. Rain has hammered Gisborne overnight prompting the evacuation of six people from Mangatuna village, a small settlement north of Tolaga Bay, Gisborne, as swelling rivers threaten to flood. More bursts of heavy rain were expected today in Gisborne, Tauranga and Hawke's Bay as a strong easterly flow of rain spread across the central and southern North Island, Inspector Lou Alofa of northern police communications said.
NZPA

US researchers use NZ skin cancer database

American researchers will be using an image database of more than 1 million skin lesions from New Zealand and Australian patients to find new ways of detecting melanoma. New Zealand company MoleMap, which has created software for monitoring potentially cancerous changes through digital imagery, has just signed a deal with New York University. In the past seven years, MoleMap clinics in New Zealand and Australia have carried out more than 120,000 examinations, assessing over 1 million lesions and identifying nearly 1000 cases of melanoma.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Whitney Houston heads to New Zealand

Pop diva Whitney Houston will perform a single show in New Plymouth in March. Promoters announced the March 6 show at the Bowl of Brooklands, after Houston's two Perth shows on March 6 and 7 were cancelled last week. Houston's Nothing But Love tour also includes performances in South Korea, Japan, France and England.
NZPA

Move to protect rare falcons in Marlborough

Some Marlborough vineyard owners say they will pay to protect rare native falcons from being electrocuted on power pole transformers. The Marlborough Falcon Conservation Trust, which is trying to restore the bird's numbers, says almost half the fatalities in the past five years have been due to electrocution. The Marlborough Lines company has refused the Trust's appeal to cover live equipment, saying it is too expensive. It has, however, agreed to do so if landowners pay the cost, and seven vineyards so far have said they will.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Serena Williams takes Australian Open title

Serena Williams is once again the Australian Open tennis champion, successfully defending her title with a 6-4, 3-6, 6-2 win over Justine Henin in Melbourne on Saturday. It was Williams' fifth Australian Open win and 12th grand slam title, putting her in equal sixth place to Bille Jean King on the alltime majors list. The 28-year-old had won the Australian Open in 2003, 2005, 2007 and 2009.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

How Bizarre's Pauly Fuemana dies

Auckland musician Pauly Fuemana, who found fame with the hit song How Bizarre, has died. The 40-year-old died at North Shore Hospital just after 7.00am on Sunday, after a short illness. One of New Zealand's most successful songs, How Bizarre was released by the Otara Millionaire's Club in 1995. The song was named Single of the Year at the 1996 New Zealand Music Awards. It stormed to the top of the charts around the world, spending three weeks at number one in New Zealand, three weeks in Ireland, and five weeks in Australia.
Source: ONE News

Napier, Hastings in for heavy rain

Heavy rain is forecast to hit parts of the eastern North Island, including the cities of Hastings and Napier, with a vengeance on Sunday. MetService says a band of heavy rain is spreading onto Gisborne tonight and is expected to spread into Bay of Plenty, Coromandel and Hawke's Bay Sunday morning.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd

NZ company withdraws from joint oil exploration study

New Zealand Oil and Gas says it still sees potential for oil exploration in Romania, despite withdrawing from a joint study examining possibilities in the area. The listed energy company last year joined a consortium, with two listed Australian energy companies, to assess the most attractive areas for exploration in Romania, and possibly bid for exploration contracts. New Zealand Oil and Gas chief executive, David Salisbury, says it terminated its involvement in Romania last month.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

WWI soldiers to be reburied

The first of 250 unknown British and Australian soldiers whose remains were recovered from a World War I battlefield are to be reburied on Saturday. A special ceremony will take place in a few hours time in the village of Fromelles near Lille in Northern France at the first new Commonwealth war cemetery to have been created in 60 years.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Greatbatch to coach NZ cricket team

Former international batsman Mark Greatbatch has been named as the new coach of the New Zealand cricket team. He will take on the role before the Black Caps' series against Bangladesh and will focus in particular on the team's batting performance, New Zealand Cricket says. Greatbatch will join the existing Blackcaps coaching team of Mark O'Donnell and Shane Jurgensen, while captain Daniel Vettori will continue his high-level involvement in the team selection, tactics and strategy.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

NZers stranded in Peru safe and well

Fourteen New Zealanders have now been evacuated from Peru, following this week's floods and mudslides around Machu Picchu. Seven are still waiting to be taken out of the area and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade says Peruvian authorities expect evacuations to be completed by the end of today. A spokeswoman says the ministry has been in contact with the remaining New Zealanders and they are all safe and well.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd

Research could dismay English language purists

By BRITTON BROUN - The Dominion Post
Should a mafia gangster sleep with the fishes – or should that be sleep with the fish? And is the past tense of "stride" – strode, strided or stridden? According to Victoria University linguist Laurie Bauer, there's no right answer. Professor Bauer will spend the next three years poring over 100 million words to get an update on the state of the English language. He has been granted a $619,000 Marsden research grant and, working with two other leading international linguists, will be putting together a book on English morphology – how words are constructed. Accessing massive British and American databases of published newspapers, novels and other texts, the research will look at how words are used today. It is the first time the morphology of the English language has been looked at in this depth since rules were first laid out in the 19th century.

Strong interest in Afghanistan jobs

Several people are chasing a top diplomatic posting in Afghanistan – a job Prime Minister John Key admits would not be his choice. The Government will announce two new high-level postings to the war-torn country within a fortnight – an ambassador to head the New Zealand mission in Kabul and a Bamiyan development adviser. The ambassador will move New Zealand's mission in Afghanistan towards a greater emphasis on civilian aid and will build a stronger relationship with the Afghan Government. The ambassador will be based in the embassy of an unnamed partner.
The Press

Plea for pharmacists to ditch stock

By SAM SACHDEVA - The Press
Organisers of a planned "overdose" of homeopathic remedies hope to encourage pharmacists to stop stocking the treatments. New Zealand Skeptics chairwoman Vicki Hyde said today's Cathedral Square protest was organised in conjunction with similar events around the world to protest against pharmacists who stock homeopathic remedies. Participants would exceed the recommended dosage of homeopathic treatments to show they had no effect. Hyde said homeopaths admitted there was little in their remedies, which were diluted several times until only the "memory" of the original ingredient was left. People who used homeopathic remedies usually did so instead of conventional medicines. Hyde said that could have deadly consequences. She said it was unethical for pharmacists to sell homeopathic remedies when there was no proof that they worked.

Tropical cyclone Nisha downgraded and now poses no threat to Cook Islands

Tropical cyclone Nisha, which had been forecast to hit the Cook Islands early this morning has now been downgraded. Schools were closed in the Cook Islands yesterday as people prepared for the arrival of the tropical cyclone. But the director of the emergency management in the Cook Islands, Charles Carlson, says overnight the tropical cyclone was downgraded to a tropical depression and is now phasing out. Mr Carlson says the outer islands did receive strong winds, heavy rain and rough seas as the cyclone approached but there have been no reports of damage so far.
News Content © Radio New Zealand International

Heavy rain due for parts of North Island

Heavy downpours were expected on Saturday for the northeast of the North Island, with risks of flooding, slips and rapidly rising waterways. MetService says 120mm to 180mm of rain is forecast to fall near the ranges in Gisborne and Hawke's Bay north of Wairoa through to noon on Sunday.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Maori flag will not fly at Waitangi Treaty Grounds

The red, white and black Tino Rangatiratanga flag will not be flying from the flagstaff on the Treaty Grounds at Waitangi this year. The flag has been approved by the Government to be flown at other official places on Waitangi Day, but the Waitangi National Trust has decided against the move. Prominent local elder Kingi Taurua says he does not want the Tino Rangatiratanga flag to be flown from the flagpole at the nearby Waitangi marae. The trust chairman, Pita Paraone, says the flag remains controversial, and the trust does not want to be at odds with the local marae.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

NZ reaps benefits of China FTA

By Jacqui Stanford - NewstalkZB
New Zealand's free trade agreement with China, in place for just over a year, is paying dividends. While overall exports from New Zealand last year fell by 7.5 percent, exports to China increased by 43 percent. That has been welcomed by the Wellington Chamber of Commerce, which says New Zealand's economic recovery will be export-driven. Its boss Charles Finny, who was in Beijing for the free trade signing ceremony, says China is now New Zealand's second biggest trade partner after Australia. He says it is poised to overtake the United States as New Zealand's second largest export market

Elderly fire victim gives museum $10m

By GLENN CONWAY - The Press
Canterbury Museum has been left $10 million by an unassuming elderly Blenheim businessman who died in a house fire last year. The money - the largest gift in the museum's 130 year history - was left by Arthur Henry Harrison, a retired businessman who died tragically in November aged 96. His bequest will be used to form the Adson charitable trust, to be used for buying historic items for public display at the Museum. Museum director Anthony Wright said it was an "extraordinary gift." "It's wonderful that through the charitable trust, his legacy in the community will endure in perpetuity." Harrison named the trust after his late wife's maiden name (Adams) and his own.

Cyclone Nisha slowing as it nears southern Cooks

Tropical cyclone Nisha is expected to hit the Southern Cook Islands within the next few hours, bringing heavy rain and damaging winds. Forecasters predict gusts of up to 65 knots from tomorrow, and flooding of low-lying coastal areas. Charles Carlson, the director of Emergency Management says the islands are at a full warning, with schools and all shops closed.
News Content © Radio New Zealand International

Woman injured after stingray barb left on chair

A woman has been stung by a stingray in unusual circumstances in Hawke's Bay. A stingray's tail had been cut off and left on a chair, and when the woman sat down the barb went into her leg. Rescue teams in Mahia Peninsula who responded to her on Friday say the venom from a dead stingray would deliver the same pain as a live one. The woman, who is in her late 40s, was taken by helicopter to Hawke's Bay Hospital for treatment.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Parachute festival kicks off

Source: Newstalk ZB
The Parachute Christian music festival is kicking off in Hamilton this weekend. The Mystery Creek event will be bigger than ever as it celebrates its 20th anniversary. Gates opened at about 11.00am on Friday and concert-goers will be busy pitching tents before the shows get underway in the evening. The festival, which runs until midday Monday, is the biggest of any kind in the country and is an alcohol and drug free zone.

Schools closed in Cooks as cyclone Nisha nears

Schools are closed in the Cook Islands as people prepare for the arrival of tropical cyclone Nisha. The storm is expected to hit the Southern Cook Islands tomorrow morning, bringing with it strong and damaging winds, heavy rain and rough seas. Charles Carlson, the direct of emergency management, says a meeting will be held this later afternoon of the response agencies to decide the next move.
“At this stage we’ve closed the schools, and everyone is just preparing for the cyclone. The information has gone out through the radio warning people, especially those who especially those who live along the coastline to be aware and to make preparations. Basically to secure their rooves, and make sure they are ready to evacuate if it’s required.”
Charles Carlson says the cyclone has already passed the north-western island of Palmerston, which saw heavy rain and rough seas, but everyone on the island is safe.
News Content © Radio New Zealand International

Fledgling penguin rescued

The Nelson Mail
An exhausted little blue penguin, washed up on Nelson's Tahunanui Beach, landed in just the right place. Beach visitors who found the fledgling brought him to nearby Natureland Zoo, where staff took him in under its rescue and release programme for native and seabirds. They fed him on fish, courtesy of NZ King Salmon and Sealord, and on Monday released him back to where he was found. "He looked at us, gave us a wave and headed out to sea," said Natureland operations manager Gail Sutton.

Checks urged for Chinese fruit imports

Comments in an official report by the agriculture ministry have prompted calls for more checks to ensure fresh produce imported from China meets New Zealand standards. The report, written by senior MAF advisor Dr Mike Ormsby after a visit to China, questions the transparency and accuracy of record keeping in that country. Biosecurity systems used in China are set up in a way that ensures all produce passes official audits and failures are not recorded or reported, he says. His report says that if MAF relied on China's systems to prevent pests and diseases entering New Zealand, it would need to ensure that Chinese packing companies did not pervert the system by disguising or otherwise hiding risk from those doing audit and compliance checks.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Hydro power likely throughout winter

The wet weather in the South Island should save consumers from any power shortages this winter. Rain Effects Hydrologist Dave Stewart says the main hydro lakes, Tekapo and Pukaki, are full to overflowing and water has been spilled over the last couple of weeks. Excess water is also being spilled from the Manapouri and Te Anau lakes. Mr Stewart says if the lakes are still full going into May, there should be no shortages this winter.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd

NZers evacuated from Peru

Ten New Zealanders have been evacuated from Peru and another 11 remain at Macchu Picchu awaiting evacuation from the flood-stricken area. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade expects to get them out today. Another eight kiwis are confirmed safe elsewhere in Peru. Evacuations are heavily dependent on the weather, but Peruvian authorities report they are hopeful all the stranded tourists will be evacuated by tomorrow.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd

Endangered dolphin at further risk

NewstalkZB
Illegal fishers are threatening an already endangered dolphin. There are just 100 Maui's dolphins left in the world and the Ministry of Fisheries says they are being put at even more risk by fishers using set nets illegally. Operational manager Greg Keys says the nets are banned on the west coast of the North Island from Maunganui Bluff in Northland to south of Mokau in the New Plymouth region. The ban also extends inside the mouth of the Manukau Harbour. It has been in place since 2003 but Mr Keys says the ministry is still finding people illegally set netting. Mr Keys says set nets could be the final straw for the Maui's dolphin. "Maui's dolphins are perilously close to extinction and everybody needs to do their part to help protect the remaining population."

Philippines to warn would-be job-seekers

By Lincoln Tan
The Philippines will place an advisory on its Foreign Affairs Ministry website warning its citizens about the perils of moving to New Zealand on the work-to-residence scheme. Under the scheme, applicants have nine months to come to New Zealand to seek skilled employment, and those who succeed qualify to apply for permanent residency. Immigration Minister Jonathan Coleman says it is made clear to applicants that there are no guarantees of work, job offers or residence. But Philippines consul-general Emilie Shi says Immigration New Zealand is not doing enough to warn would-be applicants about the difficulties of finding a job or telling them that Kiwis will be given preference by employers.

Early birds can get flu shots

Health officials say people should start booking their influenza vaccinations. Waikato District Health Board medical officer of health Dr Felicity Dumble says a seasonal flu vaccination, which includes protection against swine flu and two other influenza strains, will be available in six weeks. However, the Ministry of Health is also offering an early bird single-strain vaccine against swine flu from next week to people deemed particularly at risk from the pandemic. They include children under 5 enrolled in designated general practices, pregnant women, people with certain medical conditions, the morbidly obese and frontline healthcare workers.
Copyright 2010, APN Holdings NZ Limited

New Zealanders want cigarettes banned by 2020

Half the nation, including smokers, support completely banning cigarettes within 10 years, a study has found. The 2008 Health and Lifestyles Survey compiled nationwide interviews from the Health Sponsorship Council of 1608 people, including 422 smokers, and has just been published in the NZ Medical Journal. It found 49.8 percent of people agreed cigarettes should no longer be sold in New Zealand in 10 years, 30.3 percent disagreed and 19.9 percent neither agreed nor disagreed. Of the smokers surveyed, 26.2 percent agreed and 55.3 percent disagreed. The study also showed public support for plain, unbranded cigarette packets and fewer tobacco retailers. Pacific Islanders, in particular, showed strong support for the measures.
NZPA

Fringe Festival turns 20

Wellington's Fringe Festival marked its 20th birthday with a celebration in the capital on Thursday night. Over the years, top acts like Flight of the Conchords, Rhys Darby, Ben Hurley and Strike Percussion have had their initiation at the fringe, which has grown from just a handful of shows to 80 this year. The festival began at the BATS theatre in Wellington as an alternative to the International Festival of the Arts, giving anyone the chance to put on a show. This year's festival runs from 12 February to 6 March.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Maori community magistrate to take up office

Auckland's first Maori community magistrate was being sworn in on Friday. Lavinia Nathan, of Ngapuhi and Ngati Whatua, has worked on offender rehabilitation since the 1980s. She will be one of eight community magistrates to take the judicial oath at Manukau District Court on Friday. Ms Nathan says it's important for Maori to see other Maori in judicial roles. Community magistrates were first appointed in the Waikato Bay of Plenty area in 1999 to take some of the workload off District Court judges.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Thousands flock to AC/DC in Wellington

About 40,000 people packed into Westpac stadium in Wellington on Thursday to see Australian rockers AC/DC. It's been 12 years since AC/DC played in New Zealand and 19 years since their last concert in Wellington. The concert tour's promoter Christo Van Egmond says nearly 90,000 tickets were sold for the New Zealand leg of the tour the first day they went on sale. The band plays another concert in the capital on Saturday and one in Auckland next Thursday as part of their Black Ice tour.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Drug giant recalls blood-thining tablet

Drug company GlaxoSmithKline is recalling a blood-thinning tablet that may contain more medicine than it should. Blue Marevan tablets containing warfarin have been dispensed to patients in New Zealand since November last year. GlaxoSmithKline says there is an increased risk of bruising and/or bleeding due to a manufacturing problem. Warfarin is an anticoagulant treatment used widely to thin blood to help prevent clots. Marevan is one of three medications containing warfarin that pharmacists can dispense in New Zealand. Patients who take the Marevan tablets are being advised not to suddenly stop and to seek medical advice.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Cook Islands issues cyclone alert

The Cook Islands has issued a cyclone alert for Palmerston and the southern islands on Thursday afternoon. The Pacific island nation's disaster management office says it is expecting gale force winds to hit in 36 to 48 hours' time, Radio New Zealand International reports.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Opposition wants ban on tobacco displays

Labour is calling on the Government to follow in the Scottish Parliament's footsteps and ban displays of tobacco products in retail outlets. Associate Health Spokesman Iain Lees-Galloway says clearly the Scottish Government takes the health of its people seriously, with around 5000 New Zealanders dying each year from smoking related diseases. Mr Lees-Galloway says the next logical step in the fight to reduce the smoking rate is ending the display of tobacco products in stores, and our Government needs to be bold and act.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd

MFAT searching for 7 NZers in Peru

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it is aware of 22 New Zealanders who are in or near the areas affected by flooding in Peru. Flash floods and mudslides have left roads, train lines and bridges underwater near the ancient ruins at Machu Picchu. MFAT say it has not been able to contact seven of the 22 New Zealanders stranded in Peru. It says Peruvian authorities and the British Embassy are assisting in the search for them. The other 15 New Zealanders have been confirmed safe. Peru Rail is advising it may be able to evacuate a thousand people today, weather permitting.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd

Animal tracing gets go-ahead

By JON MORGAN - The Dominion Post
A scheme to trace beef and venison back to the farm it came from has been given the go-ahead by the Government. The National Animal Identification and Tracing (Nait) project, more than two years in the planning, would get government funding, Agriculture Minister David Carter said yesterday. It is expected to become mandatory for beef after a short voluntary period in October next year and to be joined by venison the following year. Sheep meat is expected to be added later. Mr Carter said Nait would help maintain the confidence of export markets in the safety and disease-free status of New Zealand's livestock products. It would also boost the country's ability to prepare and respond to disease outbreaks. Australia, Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina have similar traceability systems and the United States and Canada are developing them.

Stingray leaves tourist with 40 stitches

By PETER BINGHAM - Taranaki Daily News
A Canadian tourist needed surgery after the barb of a huge stingray drove through his thigh in waist-deep surf near Waitara this week. Matt Brazeau, 36, stood on the ray after he tipped out of a kayak just north of the Waiongona River and is sporting 40 stitches after surgery at Taranaki Base Hospital. "I was reaching for the kayak and felt this unbelievable pain through my leg," the restaurant-bar owner from Fernie, British Columbia, said. "It was as though something had bit me but with electrical impulses. It was really fast, in and out within a second. There was no movement, no action in the water except for me jumping back into the kayak. It had to be a stingray." Department of Conservation marine ranger Callum Lilley said stingrays were dangerous if disturbed. "They are normally very placid. If they are stood on or harassed they will lash out. It's their only form of defence," he said.

Think-tank calls for lifting of Fiji travel ban

An Australian think-tank is calling for the country's travel bans on people from Fiji connected with the 2006 military coup to be lifted. A report by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute says the travel bans are unfair. Author Richard Herr, a law expert at the University of Tasmania, says Australia should follow the United States and ensure appropriate military connections exist. The report also calls for the reach of the Pacific Islands Forum suspension to be limited and for Fiji to be re-admitted to talks on the Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER Plus).
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

NZers stranded in Peru mudslides

Several New Zealanders are believed to be stranded in Peru, which has been hit by torrential rains and mudslides. Helicopters are being rushed in to evacuate some 2000 tourists stranded in the Andes, where the heaviest rains in 15 years have killed five people and cut off access to Machu Picchu. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is aware of 16 New Zealanders who are in or near the world heritage site. Spokesman David Courtney says they are currently in the process of contacting them to ensure their wellbeing. He says there are no reports of any tourists being injured or missing as a result of the floods. Mr Courtney says if anyone is concerned about their friends or family in Peru, they should contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 04 439 8000.
© 2010 NZCity, NewsTalkZB

Tropical cyclone Nisha brings strong winds to American Samoa

American Samoa’s National Weather Service says tropical cyclone Nisha, located about 144 kilometres southeast of Tutuila this morning, pummeled the island with winds of up 70 kilometres per hour. The Meteorologist in charge, Leilua Akapo Akapo, says the cyclone while intensifying is moving away from Tutuila though it should continue to impact Manu’a for most of today.
News Content © Radio New Zealand International

Green MP Jeanette Fitzsimons announces resignation

Jeanette Fitzsimons has announced she will resign from Parliament next month, after 13 years as a Green MP. Ms Fitzsimons stepped down as the Greens' co-leader last year and signalled then that she would not stand in the 2011 election. She says now is a good time for a change of pace and she leaves the Green caucus in good shape. Ms Fitzsimons will be replaced by Gareth Hughes, 28, an environmental advocate currently working for Greenpeace.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Kiwi short film takes top Sundance award

The New Zealand short film The Six Dollar Fifty Man has taken top honours at the Sundance International Film Festival in Utah. Written by Wellingtonians Mark Albiston and Louis Sutherland, the film is about an eight-year-old boy who retreats into a world of make-believe to escape playground bullying. It won the International Jury Prize for short-film making on Wednesday night. Last week, the film took the top prize at the 19th annual Flickerfest international festival in Sydney.
Source: ONE News

Holocaust remembered in Wellington

Members of the Jewish community have gathered in Wellington's Makara cemetery to mark Holocaust Remembrance Day. Wednesday's services coincide with the 65th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz II-Birkenau concentration camp. Prayers and speeches were delivered to remember the Holocaust victims. Stones were laid at the memorial, in Jewish tradition, by Holocaust survivors and dignitaries, including the German ambassador.
Source: ONE News

Samoa tourism booking spring back after tsunami downturn

A major travel agent in New Zealand says holiday makers’ confidence in Samoa after the tsunami has picked up, with more bookings made this year than at the same time last year. After the tsunami that swept over parts of Samoa’s south coast and destroyed homes and resorts, many travellers cancelled or postponed their bookings. But House of Travel’s retail director, Brent Thomas, says numbers have since risen.
News Content © Radio New Zealand International

NZ tourists stranded in flooded Machu Picchu

Flooding and mudslides near Peru's historic ruins of Machu Picchu have killed at least five people and stranded 1900 tourists, including 16 New Zealanders. Seventy people have been flown out by helicopter, but the operation to airlift foreigners out of the southeastern disaster zone has been suspended on Tuesday because of heavy rain. New Zealand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs says spokesperson says it knows of 16 New Zealanders in or near the flooded area. It says embassy officials in nearby Chile are following the situation, and at this stage there are no reports of any New Zealanders injured or missing.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Hard work giving away $1m home

By KARLA AKUHATA - Waikato Times
Michelle Smith has been so busy packing and running the Piece Of NZ promotion that she almost forgot her wedding anniversary. "I haven't even wished my husband happy anniversary and I guess he has forgotten about it too, but we always forget and with this promotion we just haven't had time to remember," she said. Mr and Mrs Smith are giving away their home near Lake Karapiro to raise funds for Bridges Church and to build a community centre. The house is valued at $1 million and for $25 people can buy a set of photographs and be in a draw to win the house, which has five bedrooms, an open-plan kitchen and dining area, a lounge, two bathrooms and two self-contained guest units. So far the promotion has earned $838,000.

Legal go-ahead for wind farm

Meridian Energy says the Central Wind farm development which will be located across five privately-owned rural properties in the central North Island will power up to 50,000 homes. The Environment Court has approved the company's proposed development in full and the 52 turbines will be situated on a site between Waiouru and Taihape. Tim Lusk, Meridian chief executive, says the site has consistently strong winds which will allow the project to operate over a broad range of speeds. The turbines are expected to generate electricity for about 90 percent of the time.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd

Minimum wage will rise by 25c an hour

Twenty five cents an hour,or $10 a week before tax, is the Government's offer to low-paid workers. The minimum living wage has been increased to $12.75 an hour, which is being described as disgusting by low-paid workers, but realistic by employers. Business New Zealand chief Phil O'Reilly says the Government has got it about right. He says a big rise would destroy businesses and would exclude the unskilled who are currently on the minimum wage, in favour of people with skills.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd

Export apple crop down

Pipfruit New Zealand says this year's export apple crop will be down at least 15% on last year. Chief executive Peter Beaven says growers in both Hawke's Bay and Nelson have had to put up with challenging growing conditions in the past four months. Although August provided favourable weather for flowering, he says there was a mixture of cold weather, rain and hail in October and November. The worst affected variety is Braeburn which is expected to drop in production by 30%. Production of another major export variety, Royal Gala, could be cut by 15%.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Sitting for long periods found to be unhealthy

A study has found that sitting for long periods of time can have a negative impact on people's health, even if they exercise regularly. Research by Auckland University of Technology supports a recent study in Australia that found watching television for long periods can shorten people's lives. AUT Public Health Professor Grant Schofield says inactivity and prolonged periods spent sitting increase the risk of obesity, heart disease, diabetes and early death. He says people need to think about not just getting out and exercising, but breaking their sitting time with activity.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Kiwi resigns as World Bank managing director

New Zealander Graeme Wheeler has announced his resignation as managing director of the World Bank. Wheeler, who joined the Washington-based development institution in 1997 from the New Zealand Treasury, said in a statement he was leaving to pursue new career opportunities. He first joined the World Bank as director of its newly established financial services department and was promoted to treasurer in 2001. He has been managing director for four years.
NZPA

Working holiday scheme with Vietnam proposed

Talks will begin soon on a working holiday scheme for young Vietnamese and New Zealanders to travel and work in each other's countries, Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully says. "Already upward of 1,000 New Zealand tourists visit Vietnam each month. I hope that in the future we will see the tourist flow increase in the other direction too," he said in a speech at the Vietnam National University in Hanoi. His speech marked the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, and coincided with Vietnam assuming the chair of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) and the East Asia Summit. He said the new free trade agreement between Asean, Australia, and New Zealand (or AANZFTA) offered benefits to all parties in terms of liberalisation of trade in goods, services and investment.
NZPA

Jail term for German after lizards found in underwear

A German man who tried to smuggle live lizards in his underwear out of New Zealand has been jailed. Hans Kubus, 58, was caught trying to board a flight at Christchurch airport in December with 24 geckos and 20 skinks concealed in an eight-compartment pouch. Kubus pleaded guilty to trading in endangered species and hunting protected wildlife. He appeared in Christchurch District Court on Tuesday where he was jailed for three-and-a-half months and fined $5000. The Department of Conservation says it is happy with the sentence.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Tolley loses portfolio to focus on national standards

Prime Minister John Key has taken the tertiary education portfolio off Education Minister Anne Tolley to allow her to concentrate on introducing national standards to primary schools. Transport Minister Steven Joyce takes over the tertiary education role. Mr Key says the decision to relieve Mrs Tolley of the portfolio is no reflection on her ability - he simply wants her to have time to focus fully on introducing national literacy and numeracy standards this year. The Prime Minister is adamant the Government will not back down on the policy, saying it is prepared to sack school boards which refuse to co-operate. In another move, Trade Minister Tim Groser has lost his conservation portfolio to Minister of Labour Kate Wilkinson. Mr Key says that change has been made because Mr Groser is out of the country so often.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Sitting down all day bad for health - study

New research shows sitting down for long periods of time can be harmful to a persons health, even if they are a regular exerciser. The research from AUT University supports recent Australian studies that show exercising at the end of the day does not stop the detrimental health effects of sitting down at work all day. Professor of public health at AUT University Grant Schofield says it is important to be active throughout the day. He says says small adjustments, like standing up when you are on the phone or going for regular walks outdoors or during television ad breaks, can make a big difference. He says another way to increase daytime activity is rather than hunting for the closest carpark, take the first one you find and then walk the rest of the way to your destination.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd

MPs line up for stomach stapling

The number of MPs who have admitted having their stomach stapled continues to rise and a Wellington doctor says it is a generally safe operation. Two Maori Party MPs Tariana Turia and Rahui Katene, and two National MPs Chester Borrows and Anne Tolley have admitted having the operation, however other MPs are also believed to have had the stomach-shrinking procedure. Doctor Christian Kalderimis says stomach stapling is a major operation and there are potential complications. But he says it can transform lives. In light of the number of MPs having the procedure done, Labour MP Ruth Dyson is asking why funding for obesity prevention for ordinary New Zealanders has been cut.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd

Otago winemaker in running for 'Oscars'

An Otago winemaker has been named one of the six best in the world. Rudi Bauer from Quartz Reef vineyard has been nominated for Winemaker of the Year in the international Der Feinschmecker awards. The competition is considered the 'wine Oscars.' It is the first time a New Zealander has ever been nominated for the award. Wine Growers Association CEO Philip Gregan says it is a significant achievement for New Zealand's reputation. The Quartz Reef estate near Cromwell is split between two vineyards and specialises in producing Pinot Nior, Pinot Gris, and Methode Traditionnelle. The awards will be announced in Germany on March 20.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd

Labour leadership re-elected

The leader and deputy leader of the Labour Party have been re-elected unopposed by MPs at a strategy session in Auckland. Phil Goff and his deputy Annette King were re-elected, with no other nominations put forward. The vote is required by the party's constitution in the middle year of the Parliamentary term.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Groser leaves for World Economic Forum

Trade Minister Tim Groser leaves on Tuesday for Davos in Switzerland to attend the World Economic Forum. Mr Groser's main focus at the forum will be to take part in a meeting of trade ministers to try to resolve differences which are preventing a new international trade agreement being reached in the Doha round of talks. After Davos, Mr Groser travels to Beijing to discuss trade and climate changes issues with Chinese officials. His trip ends with a visit to Tokyo on 4 - 5 February, when he will continue to lobby for closer trade ties with Japan.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Airline to introduce economy class beds

Air New Zealand is to introduce economy class beds in a revamp of its long-haul aircraft cabins later this year. The airline has revealed its prototype design for Boeing 777-300s that it will take delivery of, in November. The new economy cabin design includes a Skycouch, which is essentially a row of three seats that can lie flat to create a bed. The airline is also introducing a new interior colour scheme, a touchscreen in-flight entertainment system, refurbished galleys to cook food from scratch, an in-flight library and bathrooms with inbuilt windows.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Futuna king quits amid clan rivalries

Futuna is now without its two kings after the reported abdication of the monarch of Alo. RFO television reports that Petelo Vikena stepped down just over a year after be ascended to the position. Vikena’s choice had been widely criticised from the onset with several chiefly clans saying his coronation did not result from a consensus among chiefly and royal clans and families, but from a unilateral decision from the chiefly council. France recognises three kingdoms in its territory of Wallis and Futuna.
News Content © Radio New Zealand International

Conditions ripe for thunderstorms

Conditions are ripe for thunderstorms during the afternoons in central North Island during the next few days. "The right combination of ingredients is coming to together," MetService spokesman Bob McDavitt said today. A moist easterly flow was likely to prevail over the North Island this week and was expected to combine with the daytime heating of the ground and cooler than normal air aloft to trigger sporadic outbursts of intense afternoon showers over inland high ground until Thursday. Mr McDavitt said that, once brewed, the intense showers were likely to drift around and spread off the hills and across the plains in Hawke's bay and Bay of Plenty.
NZPA

Church using internet to reach members

The head of the Catholic Bishops Conference has welcomed a message by Pope Benedict XVI for priests to use the internet to reach their flock. In message on the Church's World Day of Communications, the Pope told priests they must learn to use new forms of communication to spread the gospel. Bishop Denis Browne says Catholic churches in New Zealand are already using websites to reach their congregation. Following the Pope's message, he says parishes will explore how to use networking resources such as You Tube and Facebook to spread the word of God. Bishop Patrick Dunne of Auckland has already started a Facebook page for church notices and news.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Top-level US science delegation visits NZ

A top-level science delegation from the United States is in New Zealand this week to discuss topics including bio-energy, marine science and the Antarctic. Thirty scientists are here for a bilateral meeting on science and technology, continuing a 35-year partnership. Scientists spent the weekend in workshops, which covered topics such as climate change and renewable energy. The US National Science Foundation has a budget of $NZ9 billion to invest in research. Research, Science and Technology Minister Wayne Mapp says the visit will lead to collaborative research and practical industry outcomes.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Kohanga reo network hailed by UNESCO

A kohanga reo pioneer Dame Iritana Tawhiwhirangi is celebrating a United Nations report praising the Maori language early childhood network. Waatea News reports the UNESCO report on education for indigenous people around the world said kohanga reo's ethos of self-help and commitment to continuity across generations has inspired young parents and demonstrated the immense benefits of revitalising the language. Dame Iritana said it's a boost for the families who started kohanga reo 28 years ago. She said other indigenous peoples have embraced the kohanga system to revitalise their own languages.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Loss of provincial series seen as death knell for women's rugby

Black Ferns captain Farah Palmer is warning the axing of the women's National Provincial Competition could be the death knell for women's rugby. The New Zealand Rugby Union has cancelled this year's competition, blaming funding. Black Ferns captain Farah Palmer says it could be the death of women's rugby. The Black Ferns won the last three Women's Rugby World Cup and hope to win do so again in August.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

NZ film draws sell-out audiences at Sundance festival

Director Taika Waititi's second feature film is attracting sell-out audiences at the Sundance independent film festival in Utah. Boy is set in the 1980s on the East Coast and extends some of the characters and ideas from Waititi's award winning short film Two Cars One Night. New Zealand Film Commission sales manager James Thompson says it's one of the films everyone at the festival is talking about. He told Waatea News it's a "really true New Zealand film in a true New Zealand setting" and the audience reaction has been "fantastic".
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Teen sailor faces 10 metre waves in Atlantic

Australian teenage sailor Jessica Watson says she has survived her toughest test yet on her round the world trip with her yacht being forced on its side four times by big waves and high winds in the Atlantic ocean. Miss Watson's online blog says after experiencing her first knockdown, which is when the mast goes into the sea, she then had three more during an eight-hour storm on Saturday. The ABC reports the winds were gusting up to 70 knots with a swell of up to 10 metres. Miss Watson, who's attempting the record as the youngest to sail solo around the world, has now passed the 11,000 nautical mile mark in her boat, Ella's Pink Lady.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

More asylum seeker boats in Australian waters

Two more boatloads of asylum seekers have been intercepted off the north coast of Western Australia since Friday. They were carrying about 70 people. In a statement, Home Affairs Minister Brendan O'Connor said HMAS Ararat intercepted a boat late on Friday afternoon near West Islet at Ashmore Reef. It was believed to have 29 passengers and four crew. HMAS Bathurst intercepted another boat one nautical mile north of Christmas Island early on Saturday. It was believed to have 38 passengers and two crew. The two groups will be taken to Christmas Island for processing.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Fifteen whales dead after mass stranding

Fifteen pilot whales have died after a mass stranding at Port Levy on the Banks Peninsula near Christchurch. A large group of whales were reported stranded on the beach about 6.30am. The Department of Conservation and volunteers from marine group Project Jonah returned six to the water and another 50 followed, Radio New Zealand reported. The dead whales are likely to be buried on the beach.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Bruce McLaren honoured

By Bruce Russell - NewstalkZB
Motorsport enthusiasts turned out yesterday to honour New Zealand racing legend Bruce McLaren at the Hampton Downs Motorsport Park south of Auckland. The event is the first ever New Zealand Festival of Motor Racing. A highlight was a Legends Parade of old cars that McLaren had built or raced, and of cars that he had raced against. Auckland-born Bruce McLaren died at the age of 32 in England when the Can-Am he was driving crashed on the Goodwood Circuit in 1970.

Vaccine alert for next wave of pandemic

By LOIS CAIRNS - Sunday Star Times
Supplies of the swine flu vaccine are being rushed into New Zealand amid concern the next wave of the deadly pandemic could hit the country as early as March. The Ministry of Health wants to begin vaccinating pregnant women and vulnerable young children from next month as overseas experience suggests that they are most likely to die from the virus. New data from the United States shows the H1N1 virus, which first surfaced last year, has been responsible for an estimated 1090 deaths in children – far more than in any of the three previous influenza seasons. The mortality rate has been especially high in children under the age of one. Health professionals are now saying that it is critical that children aged six months and over and pregnant women are vaccinated to protect themselves and their newborns.

First export shipment to be made by Pike

Pike River Coal says its first export shipment of 20,000 tonnes of premium hard coking coal will leave Lyttelton next month, bound for a customer in India. The inaugural cargo is worth about $3.4 million. The company says its second export shipment scheduled for the June quarter, will be around 40,000 tonnes.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Cyclone heading towards coast of north Queensland

Tropical Cyclone Olga has strengthened as it heads toward the coast of far north Queensland. The Category Two system is about 190km east of Cairns and Cooktown and moving at about 21km per hour. The Cyclone Warning Centre says Olga is expected to cross the coast on Sunday afternoon and is likely to make landfall around Cooktown. Winds of 140km per hour are expected. The ABC reports there has been heavy rain over the last two days between Innisfail and Mossman. More is expected.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Rocket company going to see NASA

A New Zealand company behind the launch of a rocket from Great Mercury Island, is to discuss its technology with NASA. Rocket Lab chief executive Peter Beck is to spend three weeks in the United States discussing the hybrid propulsion technology used in the launch of a rocket named Atea-1 in November. The trip includes visits to NASA's Ames research center, Marshall space flight centre, the Wallops flight facility and Kennedy space centre. Mr Beck says the aim of the trip is to bring work back to New Zealand.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand.

Aussies hopping mad at govt stance on toad-busting

By KRISTEN GELINEAU, Associated Press Writer
SYDNEY – When the enemy reached Australia's largest state last year, the Kimberley Toad Busters knew the battle was on. But they didn't expect that officialdom might strip them of their most effective weapon. The enemy? The cane toad. The weapon? Plastic bags full of carbon dioxide — long considered the animal-friendly alternative to whacking the creatures with golf clubs or cricket bats. But Western Australia's Department of Environment and Conservation isn't so sure that euthanizing Bufo marinus with carbon dioxide is the kindest way to go, and says further tests are needed. Should the tests prove the toads are suffering, the carbon dioxide option could be banned across Western Australia. And that, the Toad Busters fear, would make the war against cane toads virtually unwinnable. Keep on whacking them instead, says the government. But to many, that makes no sense. This all may sound like a simple matter of bureaucracy and humane pest control, but cane toads are a 75-year-old Australian nightmare. The toads, native to Central and South America, were deliberately introduced to Queensland, on the other side of the continent from Western Australia, in 1935 in an unsuccessful attempt to control beetles on sugarcane plantations. The toads bred rapidly, and their millions-strong population now threatens many species across Australia. They spread diseases, such as salmonella, and their skin exudes a venom that can kill would-be predators.

Christchurch tram restored to former glory

It is being described as the one of the most ambitious tram restoration projects ever undertaken anywhere in the world as Christchurch's Tramway Historical Society have returned a 105-year-old double-decker tram to its former glory. Tram number 26 was one of only three double-decker trams to ever run through Christchurch. After a massive restoration project, led by project leader Graham Richardson, spanning three decades, it is back on the tracks. "It's a very historic car. it's the only American-built double-decker electric tramcar we know in existence in the world," says Richardson. It was first commissioned in 1905 to run on Christchurch's then newly electrified tram system.
Source: ONE News

Weight-loss drug reviewed by safety authority

The Medical Association says doctors and patients should review their use of the popular weight loss drug Reductil following new research linking it with heart problems. Sibutramine, which is marketed as Reductil, has been pulled off the market in Europe, after a study found an increased risk of heart problems. The Health Ministry is reviewing Reductil, and reminding doctors it should not be prescribed to people with heart disease. However, the company which makes sibutramine insists the medicine is safe if taken as intended. Medical Association chairperson Dr Peter Foley says he has always been concerned about patients seeing the drug as a quick fix. Dr Foley says increasing use of direct-to-consumer advertising of drugs like Reductil has led to patients putting pressure on doctors to prescribe them.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Boat found off Kiribati after 16 days

By Bruce Russell - NewstalkZB
The Air Force has located a boat that had been missing in the Pacific Ocean for 16 days. An Orion found the boat in the seas off Tarawa, an island of the Kiribati group. Three teenagers, three females and one male, were all well but drifting in their vessel after the outboard motor stopped because of mechanical problems. Wing Commander Nick Olney says New Zealand got a search and rescue call on Thursday night and the Orion went out yesterday morning and found the boat within an hour. The four relieved teenagers were waving their arms frantically.

Foreign Minister to attend London summit on Afghanistan

Foreign Minister Murray McCully will be at a top level summit on Afghanistan next week. Mr McCully will attend the conference in London, which he says will focus on governance, economic development and security objectives. He will join foreign ministers from nations contributing to the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan. British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, the United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon and Afghanistan's President Hamid Karzai will open the meeting.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Severe fire warning in most of NSW

The heat is rising in New South Wales, with temperatures expected to hit 43 degrees in parts of Sydney on Saturday. The ABC reports a peak of 39 degrees is predicted in the city centre and 43 in parts of Sydney's west, but the Bureau of Meteorology says a gusty southerly will bring some relief to the city on Saturday afternoon. Much of the state is on alert with severe and extreme fire dangers declared in 13 districts.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

NZ winemaker signs US deal

Winemaker Villa Maria has signed an exclusive deal with a US premium wine importer. The company's founder, Sir George Fistonich, says the deal is worth about $100 million over five years. He says Villa Maria has been exporting to the US for 13 years but it has been difficult to crack the high end of the wine market there. This deal will help the company reach top wine shops and restaurants, he said.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Surge in skilled workers from South Africa

The number of skilled workers immigrating to New Zealand from South Africa rose by more than 40% last year. Most skilled migrant approvals from 2008 to 2009 came from the United Kingdom, which accounted for 22%. South Africa became the second largest source, at 18%, beating China into third spot with 14%. The chairman of South Africans in New Zealand Charitable Trust, Brian Casey, says those who have already arrived from South Africa are encouraging further immigration by reporting back about New Zealand's attractive lifestyle. However, he says, many South Africans have had to leave this country because they can not find work.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Deluge swamps Hawke's Bay

By DAVE BURGESS and TOM FITZSIMONS - The Dominion Post
Flash floods in Hawke's Bay closed roads and stranded traffic as thunderstorms lashed the region. The barrage dumped more than 30 millimetres of rain in an hour at Napier airport from about 4pm yesterday and flooded streets to waist level in Flaxmere, near Hastings. About 2000 lightning strikes were recorded last night as the storms rolled across Hawke's Bay, MetService said. Police communications spokesman Senior Sergeant Marty Edghill said the storms closed part of State Highway 50 in inland Hawke's Bay between Ongaonga and Tikokino last night.

UFO papers to be made public

By CHARLIE GATES - The Press
Hundreds of pages of secret files on New Zealand UFO sightings will be released by the military this year. The files include reports of UFO sightings from 1979 to 1984 and references to the Kaikoura sighting of December 1978. The files are held by Archives New Zealand and were to have been made public this month, but the Defence Force is removing personal information from them to comply with the Privacy Act. "At the moment we are working on making copies of these files, minus the personal information," a Defence Force spokeswoman said. "Once this work is completed, we are hoping to be able to release a copy of all the UFO files, including some ahead of their release time, within the year."

Fiji regime stops paying Rabuka’s pension

The Fiji interim regime has stopped the pension paid to a former Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka. This comes just over two weeks after a decree was passed giving the interim prime minister the sole authority to end retirement benefits to retirees who criticised the regime or incited hatred. Mr Rabuka, who led the 1987 coups, has confirmed that he had received a letter, explaining the decision to him. The interim regime also seized the vehicle which was part of his retirement package. It is not known how many retirees are being targetted for having held views that caused displeasure to the interim government.
News Content © Radio New Zealand International

Police seek naked escaped prisoner

Whakatane police have warned people not to approach a near-naked escaped prisoner, who avoided them in spectacular fashion on Friday. At one stage Werimu Rangi Hauraki was caught and handcuffed by police, but while being escorted he managed to dive from balcony over a steep cliff head-first. "He is currently naked, except for some weed matting he is wearing and handcuffed," acting Inspector Tony Jeurissen of Whakatane police said. "Unfortunately he is being very evasive in very difficult terrain. This man is determined and does not want to be apprehended." Police are asking the public if they have sightings of Hauraki, who has dreadlocks, (now that will help you identify this naked man:Ed) to contact them on 111 and not to approach him.
NZPA

Sky-park to be a world first in Tekapo

Tekapo is one step closer to becoming the base for the worlds first heritage starlight reserve. The New Zealand team behind the reserve plan has been in Tekapo putting the final touches on a bid to the United Nations for the heritage classification. Mt John is considered one of the worlds most accessible observatories in the world with 70% cloud free nights and almost no light pollution which makes it the ideal candidate for heritage status. Light pollution is controlled by law in Tekapo, all outdoor lighting must direct downwards. Latest Nasa pictures show why half the population of the planet can't even see stars at night and it makes them all the more determined to protect their dark sky.
Source: ONE News

Risks of Reductil being reviewed

Medsafe is reviewing risks associated with the weight-loss medication Sibutramine which is marketed in New Zealand as Reductil. It is advising healthcare professionals to avoid using the medication on patients with a history of heart disease. Medsafe says it is aware the European Medicines Agency has recommended the suspension of the marketing Sibutramine, concluding the risk of the medication is greater than its benefits.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd

New food rules for Australian semi-dried tomatoes

Australia's food safety authority wants semi-dried tomatoes to be traceable from the farm to the supermarket shelf, following a disease outbreak last year. Food Standards Australia and New Zealand says to protect public health and safety, traceability and processing requirements should be changed for semi-dried tomatoes and other ingredients. It follows the two outbreaks of locally acquired hepatitis A in Australia, most likely from eating semi-dried tomatoes.
Source: abc.net.au

Tongan ferry a rustbucket, inquiry told

The ferry that sank off Tonga in August was a rustbucket, the company secretary of owner Pacific Shipping Corporation says. Lord Dalgety told the Royal Commission investigating the Princess Ashika sinking that if due diligence on the boat had been done, it would not have been bought. A former freight officer with the shipping corporation said ferry crew reported the vessel flooded on every voyage prior to its purchase. More than 70 lives were lost in the sinking, which occurred on 5 August, about 90km northwest of the Tongan capital Nuku'alofa.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Māori inspires 'Avatar' alien language

New Zealand’s input into the latest Hollywood blockbuster Avatar is well documented but few people know that the alien language spoken in the movie is based on Māori. Avatar director James Cameron has revealed that he used Māori language sounds he heard in New Zealand to create the language spoken by the blue alien movie stars. New Zealand technology and expertise developed the new generation 3D special effects for the phenomenally successful movie that was partly shot here. Many Kiwi designers, cast and crew were involved in the production. Te reo Māori (the Māori language) is enjoying a revival in New Zealand thanks to a number of government and private initiatives.
Copyright 1999-2010 Tourism New Zealand

Ladyhawke nominated for Brit awards

Kiwi pop star Ladyhawke is continuing her meteoric flight to international fame with nomination in the 2010 Brit Awards - the British version of the Grammys. The New Zealand singer-songwriter, whose real name is Pip Brown, has secured a nomination for International Female Solo Artist. She shares the category with big-names like Lady Gaga, Norah Jones, Rihanna and Shakira. Now 30 years old, Ladyhawke - who was born and raised in Masterton in New Zealand’s North Island - has quickly become an international star. She also dominated the local music scene in 2009 by taking six top prizes at the New Zealand Music Awards, and was crowned Australia’s breakthrough artist in 2009. The 2010 Brit Awards will be held at Earls Court, London, on 16 February. Ladyhawke is based in the UK where she is working on her second album. She is home in New Zealand this summer touring with the Big Day Out.
Copyright 1999-2010 Tourism New Zealand

Surfing world eyes New Zealand waves

New Zealand has become the centre of the surfing world with the official opening of the 2010 Quiksilver ISA World Junior Surfing Championships at Piha beach on Auckland’s west coast. The biggest international surfing tournament for under-18 surfers has attracted representatives from 21 countries. The event was officially opened today and competition got underway yesterday (21.01.10). Some of the world's elite junior surfers including New Zealand hopeful Sarah Mason, newly-crowned World Pro Junior Champion (under-20) Maxime Huscenot (France) and reigning ISA Under-16 gold medallist Keanu Asing (Hawaii) are lining up for the event.
Copyright 1999-2010 Tourism New Zealand

Zandra Rhodes en route to iD Fashion Week

British fashion guru Zandra Rhodes, who will be guest designer at the 2010 iD Dunedin Fashion Week (8 - 14 March), is looking forward to seeing the work of New Zealand’s emerging designers. The designer, who’s been called ‘Princess of Punk’ and ‘Queen of Colour’, is renowned for her unique use of bold prints and passion for feminine patterns. Zandra Rhodes will display her current collection and some vintage items in Dunedin, but says the highlight will be judging the iD Emerging Designer Awards. "I’m absolutely thrilled to be coming to beautiful New Zealand and very excited about my first ever visit to Dunedin and iD Fashion Week," Rhodes said.
Copyright 1999-2010 Tourism New Zealand

Postshops, Kiwibank to accept UK passport applications

British citizens in New Zealand will be able to take their passport applications to Postshops and Kiwibanks from February 1. People currently have to send or submit applications to the British High Commission's Wellington office. Nearly 70 percent of 20,000 applications a year are delayed because they are incomplete, Colin Green of the British High Commission said. Postshop staff would check the applications before forwarding them to the high commission for processing. The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office drove the change as part of a worldwide initiative to improve efficiency.
NZPA

Lightning cripples Hamilton water plant

A lightning strike that crippled Hamilton's water treatment plant, has affected water supplies in parts of the city and some cases cut it off altogether. The lightning bolt on Thursday night damaged the site's computer, alarm and communication systems. Residents in the suburbs of Hillcrest and Flagstaff in particular are experiencing low pressure. There are reports some have no water at all.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Carole King, James Taylor heading to Chch

An additional concert date has been added to the New Zealand leg of Carole King and James Taylor's world tour. The duo were already due to play at Auckland's Vector Arena on April 10. They will now also be playing at Christchurch's Westpac Arena on April 8. The tour is the first time in nearly 40 years that King and Taylor have taken to the stage together. Tickets for the Christchurch concert will go on sale Monday, February 1 at 9.00am. Limited tickets to the Auckland show are still available.
Source: ONE News

Tourism fund to target Australians unveiled

The Government has unveiled plans for a regional tourism fund to attract more Australian visitors. John Key, who is also tourism minister, says the Government will put $5 million into the fund, which will be matched by money from regional tourism organisations and private sector funding. Mr Key says the joint venture will allow regional tourism organisations and Tourism New Zealand to work together to raise the profile of their regions and target Australian visitors.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Severe thunderstorm warning in deep south

By LAWRENCE HAKIWAI - NewstalkZB
MetService has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Central Otago, Clutha, Southland and Dunedin. It says its weather radar detected thunderstorms near Lake Mahinerangi and Lammerlaw Range. The severe thunderstorms are expected to be accompanied by very heavy rain. MetService says very heavy rain can cause surface and/or flash flooding about streams, gullies and urban areas, and make driving conditions extremely hazardous.

Another $1 million pledged for Haiti

New Zealand is pledging an extra million dollars to relief and recovery efforts in Haiti. Today's announcement follows the million dollars already committed to the earthquake ravaged Caribbean island to provide emergency food aid. Foreign Minister Murray McCully says it is important New Zealand is part of the international response aimed at getting food, water, fuel and medical supplies to those who most need them.
© 2010 NZCity, NewsTalkZB

Biblical citations on NZDF weapons to go

Going to war in Afghanistan with Biblical citations stamped on their weapons is not appropriate for New Zealand soldiers, the Defence Force says. Biblical citations had been found on weapon sights used by New Zealand troops in Afghanistan but the Defence Force said they would be removed. The Trijicon Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight rifle sights used by Kiwi troops were supplied with references to Bible verses that appeared in raised lettering at the end of the stock number, The Press newspaper reported today. Markings included "JN8:12", a reference to John 8:12: "When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life'." The markings were also on sights used by the United States and British military. The American manufacturer would be told not to put the inscriptions on further orders and the letters would be removed from existing gun sights.
NZPA

Results of drug trial for ADHD sufferers prove 'astonishing'

By REBECCA TODD - The Press
Tim Webb's mind used to be like a bus exchange. "You couldn't stop the thoughts from coming in and out," he said. "They were just coming thick and fast, and once the buses had left you couldn't bring it back." Life is calmer these days. The 32-year-old started taking micronutrients more than three months ago as part of a Canterbury University trial for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) sufferers. He says the difference is "phenomenal". Webb said he had tried medication, but it made him feel "dull", and since starting on micronutrients his other symptoms had virtually disappeared. Canterbury University associate professor of psychology Julia Rucklidge led the micronutrients study and said the results were almost unbelievable.

Christchurch stadium ready for Rugby World Cup

Prime Minister John Key has formally opened the redeveloped AMI stadium in Christchurch, the first of the country's stadiums to be ready for the 2011 Rugby World Cup. The $60 million redevelopment includes the new Deans Stand and gives the stadium a seating capacity of 38,500, which will increase to 45,000 for World Cup matches. Mr Key said the "magnificent" stadium will showcase Christchurch to the world, as it hosts seven World Cup matches.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Bidding open for oil and gas exploration

The Government is offering six new permits to drill for oil and gas across the Reinga Basin, off the northwest coast. The exploration block covers 105,230 square kilometres of ocean and neighbours the Northland Basin, which is also open for bidding. Energy and Resources Minister Gerry Brownlee says Crown Minerals will be promoting the bidding rounds to companies in Australia, North America, Europe and Asia.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Drought zone declared in Northland

The government has declared Northland a drought zone. All three of Northland's districts; the Far North, Whangarei and Kaipara, are affected by what is considered a medium-level drought. A record dry November and challenging spring conditions have led to poor pasture in many areas, which has dried out further with the recent low rainfall, high winds and temperatures. Agriculture Minister David Carter says the Government will come to the aid of affected farmers. He says a drought recovery package is now in place.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd

Internet group warns 'all users are vulnerable'

An Internet users group says a recent cyber attack on the search engine Google should serve as a warning for all users to ensure they have good security software. Hackers reportedly used a crack in Microsoft's Internet Explorer to wage an attack on Google in China. The Australian government is the latest to warn people to use a different browser, install temporary fixes and update security software regularly.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Claiming absolute control, Fiji military issues stern warning

Fiji citizens are again being warned to behave and watch what they say, with the military saying it will not tolerate any anti-government activities. The Land Force commander, Brigadier-General Pita Driti, says not only Methodist church members should take heed of the warning, but all people because the Public Emergency Regulation was is still in place. Brigadier-General Driti says the administration will hunt detractors down and make sure they were taken to task for their words or actions. He says people should be careful and keep still. He has also called to support the leaders and do not do what might be regretted later in life. Brigadier-General Driti says under the emergency regulation, the military and security forces retain absolute control. Emergency rule was last renewed two weeks ago.
News Content © Radio New Zealand International

UN report gives kohanga reo centres a big tick

By Kara Segedin
A UN education report has commended New Zealand's kohanga reo early childhood centres for playing an important role in challenging discrimination and building a more multicultural national identity. Unesco communications officer, Leila Loupis, said the new report, "Reaching the marginalised", looked at how countries have attempted to improve the education provided to indigenous people. "We take New Zealand's indigenous language movement as a positive example of having contributed to the expansion of education for Maori children," she said. The report said kohanga reo have provided a social, political and cultural focal point for the empowerment of Maori and have shown how powerful a revitalised indigenous language can be with educational and social benefits. Dr Pita Sharples, Associate Education Minister, said he was really pleased with Unesco's findings and to see the efforts of kohanga reo and kura kaupapa recognised. He said "We've taken it (the concept) to New Guinea, North American Indians and Hawaii and watched them adapt."

Restrictions recommended for drugs containing codeine

Painkillers containing codeine may soon be moved behind the counter due to the increasing number of reports about misuse and addiction to the drug. A government advisory committee has submitted recommendations to the Health Ministry asking that condeine-containing medicines be restricted to direct sale by a qualified pharmacist, and the maximum pack size of painkillers be reduced to a five-day supply from eight. Codeine-containing medicines would also have to be labelled with warning statements, highlighting codeine is an addictive substance and not to use for more than three days, similar to those found in the United Kingdom.
NZPA

Mike Moore to be new ambassador to US

Mike Moore, a former Labour prime minister who has headed the World Trade Organisation, is to be New Zealand's next ambassador to the United States. Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully will make the announcement this afternoon. Mr Moore would replace career diplomat Roy Ferguson in the role. Another former prime minister - Jim Bolger - has also previously served as New Zealand's ambassador to the US.
NZPA

DHB wants masks sold with potting mix

The Canterbury District Health Board is recommending face masks be sold with potting mix to reduce the risk of any more cases of Legionnaires Disease being contracted. The latest figures show there were three cases of the disease in the week ending January 15. In December five people contracted the infection and one of the victims died. Legionnaires Disease is a potentially fatal form of pneumonia caused by a bacteria commonly found in water and soils, including potting mix and compost. Medical Officer of Health Dr Alistair Humphrey says potting mixes come with a warning and people should wear masks and dampen it down before using it.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd

Academy award for NZ man

A Wellington man is to receive an Academy award for helping develop a system used in films such as King Kong, Spider-Man 2 and the blockbuster Avatar. Mark Sagar, who works at Weta Digital, is one of 46 people to receive commendation at the Scientific and Technical Academy Awards. Mr Sagar says the lighting stage and facial rendering system he helped develop allows an actor to look photo-realistic in any environment. He will receive his award in Los Angeles in mid-February.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Prince William visits Australia

Prince William flew into Sydney on Tuesday for his first visit to Australia since he was a baby, with a poll showing Australians would prefer the young British prince as their next king over his father Prince Charles. Prince William, who is second in line to the British throne, arrived from New Zealand amid tight security in the second stage of his first official solo tour overseas to represent his grandmother Queen Elizabeth. The last time the 27-year-old prince visited Australia was in 1983 in the arms of his mother, Princess Diana, who was killed in a car crash in Paris nearly 13 years ago. Prince Charles went on to marry Camilla Parker-Bowles. Asked if the prince's three-day visit could rekindle an affection for the monarchy, Foreign Minister Stephen Smith said: "There's an affection for the Queen herself, and there's clearly an affection for Prince William."
Source: Reuters

Cricket-Easy win for New Zealand over Zimbabe

New Zealand's Under 19 cricketers have beaten Zimbabwe by seven wickets in their World Cup match at Lincoln near Christchurch,. New Zealand won the toss and dismissed Zimbabwe for 135 in the 43rd over -- but can't afford to concede 28 extras -- including 20 wides -- when they play Sri Lanka tomorrow. West Indies beat Papua New Guinea by five wickets in Palmerston North, Afghanistan defeated Hong Kong by eight wickets in Christchurch and Ireland beat the United States by five wickets in Queenstown,
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Do you know Garry Coles ? A readers request.

Rhonda Coles is looking for her brother thought to be in New Zealand....Can you help?
.......Hopefully someone can help me, I'm looking for my brother who has not made contact with his worried family in Australia for over 16 months now. If anyone knows the where abouts of Garry William Coles of Forrest Hill, Auckland (last known address) or knows him can they please contact his loving sister Rhonda at this email address dropinmum@hotmail.com would very much welcome any information, Garry if you read this please phone me or a family member.
Rhonda Coles........
(Or contact Daily New Zealand News for phone number. Email address at bottom of this news page)

Support slips for Australia PM Kevin Rudd

Support for Australia's Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has fallen as conservative opponents rally behind a new leader, a leading opinion survey showed on Tuesday, but he remains well-placed to win an election later this year. The closely-watched Newspoll in the Australian newspaper showed support for Rudd's centre-left Labor had slipped two points to 54% in the two-party terms that decide elections, while the conservatives were up by the same margin to 46%. Rudd will most likely call an election in the second half of 2010, and is strongly tipped to govern for another three years on the back of a growing economy that has emerged largely unscathed from the global financial crisis.
Source: Reuters

NZ troops at scene of Kabul attack - report

New Zealand SAS soldiers were reportedly the only Western forces at the scene of an attack which killed at least 13 people and wounded more than 70 in the Afghanistan capital, Kabul, yesterday. A team of militants launched the assault in Pashtunistan Square, an area that holds the Ministry of Justice, the Central Bank and the palace of President Hamid Karzai, about 9.30am local time, with two men detonating suicide bombs. A small group of commandos from New Zealand were the only Western soldiers on the scene, the New York Times reported. The New Zealand Defence Force is refusing to confirm or deny whether the SAS were involved in the fighting. Major Kristian Dunne said the military did not comment on SAS operations.
NZPA

Three strikes policy announced

Repeat violent offenders will not be eligible for parole after their third offence, the Government has this afternoon announced. Prime Minister John Key told reporters that an agreement with the ACT Party had been reached and the policy would be incorporated in to legislation due in parliament in March. The three strikes policy has been the subject of controversy with some campaigners worried offenders could be locked up for long periods over minor offences. An offender would receive a standard sentence and warning for their first serious offence. The second offence would usually lead to a jail term with no parole and a further warning. On conviction for a third serious offence, the offender would receive the maximum penalty in prison for that offence with no parole. Offences to be counted as a strike would have to be punishable by a sentence of five years or more.
Copyright 2010, APN Holdings NZ Limited

Fiji again welcomes thaw in New Zealand ties

Fiji’s interim prime minister Commodore Frank Bainimarama has restated that he welcomes the New Zealand government’s decision to continue talks with Fiji. This follows talks in Fiji this month between the New Zealand foreign minister, Murray McCully, and his Fiji counterpart, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola. The two agreed to send counsellors to the two countries’ respective embassies to improve strained ties. Commodore Bainimarama has told Fjivillage website that New Zealand wants to restore full diplomatic ties in the near future.
News Content © Radio New Zealand International

Exhibition to mark NZ forces at Monte Cassino

New Zealand's involvement in the battle of Monte Cassino during World War 2 will be commemorated in an art exhibition in Italy this year. Italian-based New Zealand organiser Kay de Lautour Scott said the exhibition would be held in Cassino's public library in the centre of the town from May 15 to 29, dates that marked the liberation of towns in the area during the war. New Zealand artists who had a connection to soldiers who fought in Cassino would be first invited to take part.
NZPA

Kiwis exposed to tourist with meningitis

Five New Zealanders are taking a course of antibiotics after being exposed to an Australian woman who died from meningococcal meningitis. The woman died in Sydney's Royal Prince Alfred Hospital after recently returning from New Zealand. The five, from the Waikato and mid-central regions, were contacted by public health services over the past two days, Radio New Zealand reported. They were offered treatment as a preventative measure in case of exposure to the disease.
NZPA

New Zealand set to take Oceanic Viking asylum-seekers

By TOM ALLARD, JAKARTA and JONATHAN PEARLMAN - The Age
The last asylum seekers from the Oceanic Viking are due to leave Indonesia this week, with many destined for New Zealand, which had originally refused to take any of the 78 Sri Lankans on the customs vessel. The development brings to an end a politically challenging saga for Australia's Rudd Government that began when the ethnic Tamils refused to get off the Oceanic Viking after being rescued on the high seas. More than half the 78 from the Oceanic Viking will go to countries other than Australia. Twenty-eight of the ethnic Tamils are heading to the US, 13 to Canada, 13 to New Zealand and three to Norway.

Two mum household for Dunedin albatross

Dunedin's world renowned royal albatross colony is making headlines around the world thanks to a two-mum "household". Two female birds are incubating an egg at the world's only mainland breeding colony at Taiaroa Head sparking major interest from, among others, gay and lesbian news sites. She looks like every other mother in the colony sitting minding the nest, but this one is an unlikely star. "It's quite unusual in the albatross population here at Taiaroa Head to have two females mating together, even more unusual than that is the eggs actually fertile this season," says Department of Conservation (DOC) ranger Lyndon Perriman. A surrogate dad has been involved but it is the female, and her partner that have sent international media into a spin.
Source: ONE News

Economists divided on growth prospects

Economists are in two minds about how strong New Zealand's economic recovery will be this year. Westpac is forecasting that the economy will grow by 3.7% in 2010 as New Zealand rides on the rapidly recovering coat-tails of emerging economies. Dun & Bradstreet general manager John Scott says New Zealand has survived the recession relatively unscathed, and many of the country's trading partners are recovering faster than expected.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Savings made as overstayer removals halve

The number of overstayers removed from the country has more than halved in a year, saving taxpayers $1.25 million. The overstayers have been encouraged to leave voluntarily – and to pay for their own flights home. Figures issued under the Official Information Act show removals fell from 991 in 2008 to 472 last year. This is nearly a third less than the 1400 removals five years ago. On average, removals cost $2450 each. A Labour Department spokesman said the drop in removals was because of a greater emphasis on encouraging people to leave by choice. "If Immigration New Zealand removes an overstayer, that person is subject to a five-year ban on returning to New Zealand and full reimbursement of the removal costs." The number of people deported – foreigners who have committed a crime and are sent home after serving a jail sentence, or suspected terrorists – has risen steadily to 35 last year, more than double the deportation numbers five years ago.
The Dominion Post

Red Cross still delivering water after Samoa tsunami

The Red Cross in Samoa is still delivering water to about 5000 people a day after September's tsunami. Many people moved to higher ground in the wake of the disaster, where they still live in makeshift shelters, while rebuilding their homes. The operations managers of the New Zealand Red Cross, Andrew McKee, says volunteers still need to deliver water and it is being trucked in daily to the relocation camps. He says work is under way to pipe supplies from a fresh water lake to the relocation areas. It is expected to be completed in a month.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

South Island child care service closed

The South Island operation of the Easy Mind child care service has been closed by liquidators, resulting in the loss of almost 50 full time jobs. Employees at Easy Mind were told two weeks ago that the company was having financial difficulty and a buyer was being sought. Former Dunedin regional manager Linda Harvey says a buyer has been found for the company's operations in the North Island, but a sale of its South Island assets has fallen through. South Island personnel were told on Sunday night that they are all out of a job.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Qld deputy premier hospitalised

Queensland Deputy Premier Paul Lucas is awaiting health test results after being admitted to hospital on Sunday night. Treasurer Andrew Fraser, who will be acting premier all week while Anna Bligh is on a US trade mission, told reporters Lucas became unwell on Sunday and was taken by ambulance to the Mater Hospital in Brisbane. Fraser said tests were clear and Lucas was now waiting to see a doctor. Bligh returns to Queensland this weekend.
Source: Reuters

Carter leads Caribbean delegation

Labour MP Chris Carter is heading to the Caribbean. He has been asked by the Commonwealth Secretary General to lead a five-strong team to monitor the general election being held in St Kitts and Nevis on January 25. The last election in 2004 was plagued by allegations of corrupt practices.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd

Samoa drops school fees for low-income families

Scores of children from low-income families in Samoa are set to attend school for the first time this year after the government announced the waiving of their fees. The ministry of education is planning to launch the scheme this week. Our correspondent, in Apia, Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia, reports the incentive will trigger a huge change for affected families.
News Content © Radio New Zealand International

New Supreme Court building opened by prince

Prince William has officially opened the new Supreme Court building in Wellington. A crowd of more than 1000 was there to see the prince, 27, who is second in line to the throne. Chief Justice Dame Sian Elias and Prime Minister John Key led him inside the building to inspect the new premises. He said the new buildings symbolise core values of fairness, justice, democracy and an absolute rejection of corruption. Afterwards, Prince William left to go to the Kapiti Island bird sanctuary, north of Wellington.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

No comment from MetService on Brit contract

MetService is not commenting on speculation it could be taking over the job of forecasting Britain's weather. The Times Online has reported that the BBC is considering ending its 90 year contract with The British Met Office, after continued complaints about inaccurate weather forecasts. The state-owned forecaster predicted a "barbecue summer" last year and a mild winter this year, both of which turned out to be completely inaccurate. A MetService spokesperson can neither confirm or deny the forecaster is putting in a bid for the new contract.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd

Blue penguins starving amidst plenty

The Department of Conservation believes starvation is killing little blue penguins on the west coast of the North Island. Around 50 blue penguins have been found on Taranaki beaches and a similar number in Waikato. DoC says the cause of their deaths came as a real surprise as there appears to be plenty of food around for them. New Plymouth marine supervisor Bryan Williams told Summer Report that just why it was happening was a mystery at this stage. Further investigation was required.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

Eastern emissions down

A new report reveals that greenhouse gas emissions have fallen by almost 2% across the eastern states of Australia. The greenhouse indicator annual report shows a reduction in coal, natural gas and petroleum emissions of 5.3 million tonnes in 2009 over the previous year. The Climate Group - an environmental organisation that produced the figures - says the declines were registered in South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand

China displaces UK in family migration to NZ

By Lincoln Tan
China has for the first time outstripped New Zealand's traditional source of family immigration - the United Kingdom - to produce the highest number of new residents through the Family Sponsored Stream and the Partnership policy. Figures issued today in the Department of Labour's Migration Trends and Outlook also show that last year, for the second time in five years, China was New Zealand's top source of new immigrants aged 20 and over. There were 6361 new Chinese residents aged 20 and over, topping the UK's 6302. Overall, the UK was still the biggest source with 8641 new residents - but 2339 were aged 19 or younger, possibly children of the main applicants.

Minimum wage should go up

Most people who responded to a new survey want the minimum wage lifted to $15 an hour. The results from a Herald Summer Survey of over 2,000 people comes only weeks before Cabinet sets the minimum wage for this year. It is currently $12.50 an hour. Asked what the minimum wage should be, 61 per cent of respondents opted for $15. More women than men were generally more in favour of a raise of that size.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd

Milestone oil shipment from Kupe

By Lesley Deverall - NewstalkZB
The first shipment of light crude oil from the Kupe project in the Taranaki Basin is due to leave Port Taranaki this week. Tanker ship, the British Chivalry arrived in Port Taranaki yesterday, to begin loading an initial 120,000-180,000 barrel shipment for BP's Refinery in Australia. Origin Energy General Manager Chris Bush says production of gas and light crude has been proceeding as expected since early December and the first shipment is a significant milestone for the project.

Children's composer in elite company

By TINA LAW - The Press
School assembly classics such as Up A Lazy River and Row Row Row Your Boat will be joined by a Christchurch composition in an Australasian songbook this year. Dance and Sing, written by Christchurch musician Murray Lennox, was selected from more than 400 entries as one of 50 songs in the Australian Broadcasting Corporation's Sing! Book, which is sold to thousands of schools for use in assemblies and classes. Lennox's song – the only one from New Zealand chosen – joins Paul Young's Love of the Common People and Cliff Richard's Summer Holiday. "It's a great thrill to have kids singing something that I've written," Lennox said. The songbook has a print run of 70,000, with most distributed to Australian schools, but about 500 sent to New Zealand. It was based on a Zimbabwean proverb, "If you can walk you can dance, if you can talk you can sing", which was written on a magnet attached to Lennox's fridge.

British MP intrigued by NZ's 'empty beauty'

The South Island's raw beauty is "awesome", while New Zealand is "a model of how Britain might have been", says a European politician whose blogs attract millions of hits. Daniel Hannan, a British Conservative member of the European Parliament, became an internet star last year when his speech criticising British Prime Minister Gordon Brown became the most watched political clip in British history. It has attracted 2.5 million views. Hannan, who visited New Zealand last week, did not hold back with his Godzone infatuation in a column in The Spectator's Australian edition. He believed the country's appeal was in its "vast, empty beauty". "[The] South Island, in particular, seems to bring a new ecosystem with every bend in the road." He also writes that New Zealand is a model of how Britain might have been had it not made the "calamitous error" of joining the European Economic Community in 1972.
The Press