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Monday, January 31

Nursing homes, resorts evacuated ahead of cyclone

Evacuations have begun at resorts and nursing homes ahead of what Queensland Premier Anna Bligh says could be one of the largest cyclones in the Australian state's history. Emergency Management Queensland, police and weather officials have met to discuss the possible threat of Cyclone Yasi. The Category 2 storm is buffeting the northern-most province of Vanuatu with winds of up to 100km/h and was expected to ease on Monday night. However, there are concerns about damage to food crops in the remote Torres group of islands in the Torba province. Yasi is expected to intensify before crossing the north Queensland coast late on Wednesday night with winds of up to 260km/h. A cyclone watch is in place from Cairns to Yeppoon, the ABC reports. Ms Bligh says the cyclone is expected to be a Category 4 system by Wednesday and is a very serious threat. Earlier, Cyclone Andrew crossed the north Queensland coast bringing with it strong winds and rain. Areas between Ayr and Mackay experienced wind gusts of up to 155km/h, the ABC reports. Power has been cut to about 10,000 properties in areas including Bowen, Airlie Beach and Sarina.
Copyright © 2011 Radio New Zealand



NZ ready to send Defence Force planes to Egypt

Prime Minister John Key says the Government may consider using Defence Force planes to get New Zealanders out of Egypt if the situation worsens. Several countries are organising charter flights to get their citizens out of Egypt, including the United States, Australia, China and Japan, amid reports hundreds of people are stranded at Cairo International Airport after dozens of flights were cancelled. Mr Key says the Government is urging New Zealanders in Egypt to leave and providing whatever support it can. Using Defence Force planes is an option if the Government thinks it needs too, but it has not yet been advised this is the case, he says. The New Zealand embassy in Cairo has been unable to reopen after the demonstrations. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) says the ground floor of the embassy has been damaged during the protests and the building has no electricity. Staff are working from Ambassador Rene Wilson's residence.
The New Zealand Embassy Cairo, Egypt
Contact details are
Street Address 8th floor, North Tower, Nile City building, Corniche El Nil, Ramlet Beaulac, Cairo, Egypt
Telephone +202 2461 6000 Facsimile +202 2461 6099
Email: enquiries@nzembassy.org.eg
Website: www.nzembassy.com/egypt
Office Hours Sun-Thur 0900-1600 hrs
Copyright © 2011 Radio New Zealand



Vanuatu babies being treated with new five-in-one vaccine

Health services in Vanuatu have begun administering a five-in-one vaccine which will halve the number of injections received by new born babies. The Pentavalent vaccine protects against diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus, hepatitis B and haemophilus influenza type B, and is being administered to babies at six weeks of age, again at ten weeks and then at 14 weeks. Dr Len Tarivonda says the NGO, the Japan Committee for Vaccines, is contributing 600 thousand US dollars to help fund the vaccine programme over the next four years.
News Content © Radio New Zealand International



NZ Immigration officials urge Samoans to claim refund after overcharging

New Zealand’s Department of Immigration is urging hundreds of Samoans who’ve applied for residency and mistakenly been charged an extra fee to come forward and claim a refund. A spokesperson for the department says a website error meant they were overcharged 90 New Zealand dollars in information settlement fees from which Samoans are exempt. The department says more than seven hundred people are due the refund and letters were sent out two months ago explaining the mistake. To date just over 150 people have claimed the money back. Samoans who applied for residence visas between November 2005 and July 2009, and were charged an information settlement fee, are eligible for the refund.
News Content © Radio New Zealand International



Father reunited with son taken to Europe

An Australian man who cycled around Europe looking for his missing son has returned to Sydney with the six-year-old. Ken Thompson, a former New South Wales deputy fire chief, retired from his job to cycle 6500km across Europe in a bid to find Andrew, who was taken overseas in April 2008. The boy was taken out of Australia by his mother during a custody dispute, the ABC reports. The father and son were reunited late last year and with the permission of Dutch authorities flew to Sydney last week. Mr Thompson says they are glad to be home and is appealing to media to respect his son's privacy. He has called on the Australian government to make it a crime to take a child out of the country without permission.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



New Zealand provides aid to boost tourism in Tonga

New Zealand has committed around 3-point-8 million US dollars over three years to support the development of tourism in Tonga. The aid funding will be distributed through Tonga’s Ministry of Tourism. The money is earmarked to help improve marketing, especially to Australia and New Zealand markets, and to go towards improving the standard of accommodation. Funds will also be set aside for developing and improving key tourism sites, and for hospitality training and mentoring.
News Content © Radio New Zealand International



Review calls for mandatory alcohol warnings to women

A Trans-Tasman review recommends a push for labels to be placed on alcohol warning of the dangers of drinking while pregnant. The independent food labelling review panel was commissioned by the Trans-Tasman Australia and New Zealand Food Regulation Ministerial Council to help reduce the incidence of foetal alcohol syndrome. "Not having this basic information displayed on the product sends a signal to women that alcohol mustn't be that much of a problem during pregnancy - a message that is contrary to both ALAC and official Ministry of Health advice to avoid alcohol during that time. "There is no known safe level of alcohol consumption during pregnancy. "The medical evidence is overwhelming that drinking during pregnancy puts babies at risk of foetal alcohol syndrome. "It is estimated that as many as one baby in 100 is affected by foetal alcohol syndrome which can have devastating effects on babies' brains and other organs."
Source: ONE News



Kiwi tourists comfort each other in Cairo

Kiwi and Australian tourists in the Oasis Hotel, opposite the presidential palace, are comforting each other as gunfire intensifies outside. New Zealand tourist Craig Cochrane told Newstalk ZB there is small arms fire and larger gunfire, which is coming and going and is quite loud, but he has been told he'll be moved tomorrow, probably to the airport. "Given there's a curfew in place at the moment, it's probably more likely that we'll be moved at about 11 o'clock tomorrow." Mr Cochrane says the airline has told him all the flights are booked out. Meanwhile, our embassy in Cairo has had to stay shut today, after the ground floor of the building was damaged and the power was cut. The New Zealand Government has updated its travel advisory for Egypt to 'extreme risk', the highest possible category. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is advising against all travel to the country.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd



Tomato most popular vegetable

Tomatoes are the number one favourite vegetable in New Zealand, but only just. The latest Household Economic Survey figures show New Zealanders bought $99 million worth of tomatoes last year, only slightly ahead of our spending on potatoes at $98.9 million. However the figures for fruit show a very clear winner with the banana being the number one best seller. New Zealanders bought $142 million worth of bananas last year, $40 million more than we spent on any other fresh fruit or vegetable.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd



Tropical cyclone sweeps into north Queensland

A tropical cyclone has crossed the north Queensland coast bringing with it strong winds and rain. Areas between Ayr and Mackay have experienced wind gusts of up to 155 km/h, the ABC reports. The broadcaster says power has been cut to about 10,000 properties in areas including Bowen, Airlie Beach and Sarina. Cyclone Anthony crossed the coast shortly before 10:00pm (AEST) has since been downgraded to a Category 1 system and is expected to weaken into a tropical low as it moves further inland. Authorities are continuing to monitor Tropical Cyclone Yasi, which is expected to cross the Queensland coast on Thursday.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Another trade surplus recorded

New Zealand has recorded its fifth consecutive quarterly trade surplus, helped by a rise in meat exports. The seasonally-adjusted trade surplus was $275 million in the three months to December. Exports rose 3% to $11.1 billion, helped by higher sales of meat, logs and wood products. On an annual basis, a surplus of $1.1 billion was recorded.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Push to tag alcohol with health alert

REBECCA TODD
A warning that alcohol is bad for you will appear on glitzy liquor and wine labels if proposals for trans-Tasman food labelling laws are adopted. An alcohol warning is one of many proposals made by an independent panel, commissioned by the Australia and New Zealand Food Regulation Ministerial Council. The panel also recommends fast-food outlets highlight the calorie counts of their burgers, chips and other foods. In a newly released report, Labelling Logic, the panel has recommended that generic warnings such as "Alcohol can damage your health" be mandatory on all alcohol. Warnings about the danger of drinking while pregnant would be on individual containers and at the point of sale. Alcoholic drinks would also have to have the calorie content of the drink on their labels.



Hundreds of vessels in Auckland regatta

More than 500 vessels are due to take part in Auckland's 171st annual regatta on the Hauraki Gulf on Monday. The anniversary day regatta is the biggest in the country. The chair of the organising committee, Eric Mahoney, says the event starts at 9am with 20 tug boats parading from Viaduct Harbour to their race start line off North Head. "The tug-boat race has become quite a feature of the regatta and involves tugs dating back to almost the turn of last century," he says. Mr Mahoney says the Governor-General, Sir Anand Satyanand, fires the official starting gun for the division A class classic yacht race at 11.30am.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Sunday, January 30

Cyclone Yasi approaches Vanuatu’s north east provinces

A tropical low off Vanuatu which intensified into a category one cyclone named Yasi this afternoon is expected to move west across north eastern parts of the country overnight. The Vanuatu Meteorological Service has issued warnings advising that Tropical Cyclone Yasi is expected to affect the provinces of Sanma, Torba, Penama and Malampa by tomorrow morning. Yasi is expected to intensify and hit Queensland’s tropical coast later in the week.
News Content © Radio New Zealand International



NZ embassy in Cairo suffers minor damage in unrest

The New Zealand embassy building in Cairo has suffered some minor damage from the civil unrest but will open on Monday. There are 282 New Zealanders registered with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade as being in Egypt. MFAT says the ground floor of the embassy building was damaged by demonstrators. But it says it has no concerns for the safety of about a dozen embassy staff who will be on duty on Monday.
Copyright © 2011 Radio New Zealand



Christchurch Egyptians protest

Egyptians in Christchurch have protested against the continuing violence and destruction in their home country. Egypt is now in its sixth day of demonstrations across their country calling for President Hosni Mubarak to end his 30-year rule. Two anti-government protests have been held in Christchurch’s Cathedral Square, where local Egyptians displayed the Egyptian flag and held placards demanding an end to the corruption and injustice. "We were delighted by the sympathy we received at the protest from many New Zealanders", said local Christchurch resident Waleed Wahsh. "We have been doing what we can to show our support, including establishing a Facebook page - New Zealand Egyptian Solidarity Movement."
The Press



Tropical cyclone intensifies

A tropical cyclone heading for the North Queensland coast has intensified to a category two system. Cyclone Anthony was about 360 kilometres east of Townsville on Sunday evening and is expected to cross the coast south of Ayr overnight. Manfred Greitschus from the Tropical Cyclone Warning Centre says it could dump falls up to 400 millimetres in parts. Queensland authorities say it is increasingly likely the state will face two cyclones in the next five days reports the ABC. Tropical Cyclone Yasi, which is brewing near Vanuatu, is tipped to hit Queensland on Thursday. Major commercial ports in the area and Townsville's ferry services have closed, and the Sunlander train has been cancelled.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



NZers travel plans disrupted by Egypt unrest

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade says its embassy in Egypt has been contacted for advice by a number of New Zealanders who have had their travel plans disrupted by the unrest. MFAT is advising against all tourist and non-essential travel to Egypt due to the demonstrations. It also says New Zealanders in Egypt with concerns about the security situation should consider leaving if it is safe to do so. It has 282 New Zealanders registered as being in Egypt. The Ministry is telling New Zealanders in Egypt to avoid areas where protests are occurring, to monitor local news reports, and to ensure they follow the instructions of local authorities, including complying with any curfews.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Hot times in the Outback

Central Australia is sweltering through a record-breaking string of hot days. The ABC reports temperatures are again heading for 46 degrees (115F) in the tourist town of Yulara, near Uluru. Ambulances have been called to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park several times in recent weeks for visitors suffering heat stress. The weather bureau says it is a remarkable hot spell. "The temperature has actually been above 42 degrees for nine days running at Yulara, which beats the previous record of six days running greater than 42 degrees," said senior forecaster Mark Kersemakers.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



No way Fiji regime leader will be at World Cup - NZ

The New Zealand Government says members of Fiji's military regime will not be allowed to attend this year's Rugby World Cup. It has rejected a report in the Sunday Star-Times that coup leader Frank Bainimarama could be entitled to visit New Zealand for the tournament. In 2006, the then-Labour Government imposed a range of sanctions on Fiji, including a travel ban on military personnel and their families. World Cup Minister Murray McCully says these sanctions still apply for the September sporting event. Mr McCully says he has made New Zealand's position clear to the International Rugby Board. Commodore Bainimarama deposed the elected government in Fiji in December 2006. It was the fourth coup there since 1987.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Big mums risk babies' health

By Rachel Grunwell
Pregnant women are packing on too many kilograms, risking their health and that of their babies - and costing the health system a fortune. A staggering 41.5 per cent of the 7735 women who gave birth at Auckland's National Women's Hospital in 2009 were classed as overweight or obese. Those with a body mass index (BMI) of more than 25 were considered overweight, while those who exceeded 30 were said to be obese. Previous data on pregnant weights at National Women's are incomplete and there are no national statistics on the size of expectant mums. But national and international research showed it was a growing problem, said Professor Lesley McCowan, of the University of Auckland department of obstetrics and gynaecology, who lectured on the issue to gynaecologists and obstetricians in Dunedin recently. "It's a massive problem," she said. "It costs the health system millions and millions."



Lance Armstrong's Kiwi holiday

By Frances Morton
Tour de France legend Lance Armstrong has been spotted in holiday hotspots across New Zealand as he takes time out from the drug allegations that continue to swirl around him. The seven-times winner of cycling's toughest race flew into Hawke's Bay in his Gulfstream jet with partner Anna Hansen and children Maxwell and Olivia on Monday, fresh from competing in Australia. On Friday, he signed autographs before boarding his private jet to Queenstown.



5% of Queensland coal exports lost due to floods

The Queensland government says the recent flooding stopped about 5% of the state's coking coal exports from getting to the global market. Queensland accounts for 90% of Australia's steel-making coal exports. The state government estimates 15 million tonnes of exports will be delayed or lost this year because of the floods. But the ABC reports exports are expected to command a higher price in coming months as supply is slow to catch up with demand. The state government says it expects higher contract prices for coking coal in the June quarter.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Free WiFi network along waterfront in Wellington

Free internet access will available along part of the Wellington waterfront on Monday or Tuesday. The WiFi network was originally planned to be operating by December and to cover a wider area. The project has been funded by Wellington City Council and TradeMe, which says progress was delayed by bad weather and red tape. Free access will be available along the waterfront from Te Papa to Frank Kitts lagoon.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Tropical cyclone still coming

Tropical Cyclone Anthony has picked up speed as it nears the coast of north Queensland. Anthony is expected to cross the coast near Townsville on Sunday night as either a category one or two cyclone. The ABC reports a cyclone warning is in place from Lucinda to Proserpine. Anthony was estimated to be 600km east-north-east of Townsville just before 5am (AEST) on Sunday. It is expected to make landfall early on Monday morning.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Saturday, January 29

Hart makes billion-dollar bid for US car products group

New Zealand billionaire Graeme Hart is spending $NZ1.23 billion to buy the automotive consumer products group (CPG) owned by giant United States corporation Honeywell. Hart's private investment firm Rank Group will pay cash for the automotive CPG, based in Danbury, Connecticut, the New York Times reported today. The company being bought by Auckland-based Rank makes Prestone antifreeze, Fram filters and Autolite spark plugs among other brands. It had sales of $US1 billion last year.
NZPA



Cricket - Black Caps humbled, Pakistan level series

You know it is bad when singles are sarcastically cheered in a big run chase. Sadly for the expectant and demanding hometown fans, that is the scenario New Zealand faced as their chase for victory in the third one-day cricket international against Pakistan limped to a failed ending in Christchurch tonight. Pakistan's total of 293 for seven - inspired by a maiden hundred to opener Mohammad Hafeez and a blistering late attack from skipper Shahid Afridi - was always going to be competitive, but it proved far more than that as the hosts struggled to 250 for nine in reply. The tourists' 43-run victory saw them level the six-match series at 1-1 as both teams head to Napier for the fourth match on Tuesday.
NZPA



Top artists invade Waiheke Island

New Zealand's leading outdoor sculpture exhibition is underway on Waiheke Island in Auckland, but did not manage to escape the wrath of Cyclone Wilma. Tens of thousands of people are expected over the coming weeks to attend Headland Sculpture on Hauraki Gulf, where some of New Zealand's leading artists have left their mark on the landscape. The exhibition was closed today after a slip blocked a part of the walkway, but will be open again tomorrow. There are close to 40 sculptures along a two kilometre coastal walkway, but it is the piece The Tangler's Cave by artist Dennis O'Conner that has been judged the best. The exhibition runs on Waiheke Island for the next three weeks.
Source: ONE News



Sub-Antarctic reserves to be created

Three massive marine reserves - covering more than 435,000 hectares - are to be created around the sub-Antarctic Islands, the Government announced today. A marine reserve will cover the entire territorial sea - out to 12 nautical miles, or 22.2km - surrounding Antipodes Island. Two further marine reserves around the Bounty Islands and Campbell Island will cover 58% and 39% of those islands' territorial seas respectively, said Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson and Fisheries Minister Phil Heatley.
NZPA



Apples being picked early in Nelson/Motueka

Early picking of apples is due to start next week in the Nelson/Motueka region, which is experiencing a hot summer. Country Life reports there appears to be much more fruit than originally predicted. It's also been a good season for growers in Hawke's Bay. Cherries have all been picked, most Fortune plums are off the trees and the Black Doris harvest is underway. Golden Queens are a couple of weeks away.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Rugby World Cup tipped to boost NZ economy by $700m

The Reserve Bank is predicting the Rugby World Cup will add $700 million to the economy and a win by the All Blacks would boost confidence in consumer spending. Governor Alan Bollard said in a speech on Friday that it is quite hard to predict the effects of big sports events on the economy. But he said the World Cup will be large enough to have a significant impact, increasing GDP by 0.3%.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Friday, January 28

Queensland now threatened by cyclones

After weeks of devastating floods, Queensland is again on high alert with a warning two cyclones could hit the Australian state's coast next week. Emergency services are also keeping a close eye on a cyclone nearing Western Australia, the ABC reports. Tropical Cyclone Anthony has reformed into a category 1 system off North Queensland and has turned back towards land. A second system is off Fiji and could hit Queensland as a Category 4 or 5 cyclone as early as next Thursday. Meanwhile, authorities along the south-west coast of Western Australia are also preparing for possible damage from Cyclone Bianca.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Foreigners will buy asset shares - Treasury

MARTIN KAY
Foreign corporates could end up with big stakes in state-owned power companies within a decade of them being partially-sold, according to a Treasury assessment. A ''think piece'' prepared at the end of last year says partial sales of power companies Meridian, Mighty River Power and Genesis and state-owned coal miner Solid Energy could see ''possible cornerstone stakes by energy multinationals'' within ten years. The prediction could prove embarrassing for National as it tries to garner support for plans to sell up to 49 per cent of the companies. The Government is also looking to reduce its 75 per cent stake in Air New Zealand, but retain a majority shareholding. Prime Minister John Key has promised that Kiwis would be first in line to buy up the sold off portions, but has acknowledged it would be difficult to prevent their stakes being onsold to foreign interests. The purchase of state assets by foreign companies was one of the most controversial aspects of the sales programmes in the 1980s and 1990s.



Cyclone Wilma to deluge North Island

IMOGEN NEALE
The remnants of Cyclone Wilma have started to spoil the long anniversary weekend in the top half of the North Island. The storm, which killed three people in Samoa and caused extensive damage to homes and gardens in Tonga, is around 900 kilometres north of Cape Reinga but heavy rain has started falling in the far north. The MetService warned that Wilma's remnants would bring heavy rain to Northland, Auckland, Waikato, the Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty and Gisborne between midday today and midday tomorrow. It said Wilma should lie to the east of East Cape midday tomorrow, then move quickly away to the east.



Fish stocks expected to rise in fake seagrass

Scientists at NIWA hope an artificial undersea habitat might help increase stocks of some popular varieties of fish. Plastic seagrass mats, made to resemble thick blades of grass, have been laid in Whangapoua harbour off the Coromandel peninsula. An estimated 10,000 young fish, including trevally and snapper, will be attracted to the 6000 metre square fake bed of grass. Ecologist Mark Moron says hundreds will be tagged and their growth and survival rate tracked. Dr Moron expects the thick grass will protect the fish from predators.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



No more barriers on apple exports to Australia

Pipfruit New Zealand says there's been some progress in sorting out the detail of exporting apples to Australia. In December, the World Trade Organisation upheld a decision it made last August, that Australia broke international trade rules with its restrictions on importing apples from New Zealand. The decision means Australia has to review its import risk analysis for New Zealand apples and negotiate a new set of conditions. It ended a dispute between the two countries since 1921, when Australia banned imports of apples from New Zealand after the bacterial disease of fireblight was found on apples trees in the Auckland region.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand



Kiwi actor to play Prince William

Kiwi actor Nico Evers Swindell has been chosen to play Prince William in a movie about the prince's relationship with Kate Middleton. Evers Swindell starred in the Edge of Darkness with Mel Gibson last year and has made appearances in NCIS: Los Angeles and Law & Order. The role of Charles will be played by Star Trek actor Ben Cross. The role of Kate Middleton remains open, E! Online reports. The movie, called William & Kate is set to air on American TV network Lifetime the week before the wedding on April 29.
Source: ONE News



Anti-smoking books for jails

Prisons are to be given copies of a famous self-help book to help inmates to stop smoking. The Department of Corrections is delivering copies of Allen Carr's The Easy Way To Stop Smoking in preparation for a smoking ban in all jails in five months. "The traditional New Year's resolution, together with the January 1 tobacco tax increase, has prompted a record number of smokers to contact The Quit Group to get help to stop smoking, and we are hoping that prisoners and staff who smoke are making the same resolution," said the assistant general manager of prison services, Brendan Anstiss. Already more than 1300 prisoners have started nicotine replacement therapy since the ban was announced last July. Free nicotine patches and lozenges are being provided to assist those who want to give up smoking.
Copyright 2011, APN Holdings NZ Limited



Stan Walker headlines Parachute

An Australian idol winner is expected to be a highlight at this year's Parachute music festival. The four day Christian music event kicks off this afternoon at Hamilton's Mystery Creek Events Centre. An expected 25,000 will pack the events centre, the same number as last year. Parachute events and marketing general manager David Curtis says Stan Walker will be performing on Saturday night. David Curtis says it is great to see the most talented Australian is actually a Kiwi.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd



NZ fourth in world in rate of cancer

REBECCA TODD
New Zealanders have the fourth-highest cancer rate in the world, but a third could be prevented with healthier lifestyles, new figures show. Tables compiled by the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) reveal New Zealand has about 309 people diagnosed with cancer annually for every 100,000 people. This rate was slightly lower than Australia (314), Ireland (317) and Denmark (326). New Zealand women had the second-highest rates of cancer in the world at 287 new cases a year per 100,000 women, second only to Denmark. New Zealand men were diagnosed at a rate of 338 per 100,000, putting them eighth on the list. Scientists estimated that about a third of the most common cancers in high-income countries could be prevented by maintaining a healthy weight, being more physically active and eating more healthily. However, the trend around the world was in the other direction as people were becoming more overweight and less active. Stopping smoking and avoiding sunburn were also important.



More students from India coming to NZ

Latest migration figures from the Department of Labour show more students from India are studying in New Zealand. They comprise the largest group of people applying for graduate or post-study work visas. Immigration New Zealand says Chinese still make up the biggest proportion of international students, at 20%. The agency says India and China are both countries where New Zealand actively seeks immigrants.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Farm living halves asthma and allergy rate

New research has found that farm-living reduces the chance of developing asthma or allergies. Professor Jeroen Douwes from Massey University told an international symposium in Auckland on Thursday that growing up on a farm reduces the risk of being allergic or asthmatic by 50% - 60%. He says it is the result of direct contact with livestock. "The animals themselves may not necessarily protect you, it may be the microbial contact," he said.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



NIWA carrying out post-disaster surveys in Australia

Scientists from the National Institute of Water & Atmospheric Research are leaving for Queensland to conduct post-disaster surveys among flood victims there. They will join Geosciences Australia in assessing the hidden costs of the floods and deciding how to prepare for future disasters. Natural hazards scientist Stefan Reese says the research will help scientists advise on changes to building codes, and how and where people should rebuild.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Thursday, January 27

Severe weather warning for North Island

MetService has issued a severe weather warning for the upper North Island - including gales, pounding rain and very rough seas. Heavy rain should drench Northland tomorrow afternoon, and spread to Auckland, Waikato, the Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty and Gisborne tomorrow night. The rain will be accompanied by winds up to gale force - particularly in exposed areas of Northland, Auckland and the Coromandel. Heavy northeast swells and very rough seas are forecast for eastern coastal areas from Northland to East Cape. MetService expects the storm to move quickly east - away from East Cape - on Saturday afternoon.
Source: Newstalk ZB



Flu vaccinations set to begin in Februrary

The flu vaccination campaign is set to begin in February, with changes made to the eligibility for free jabs. The Health Ministry says elderly people, those with chronic conditions and pregnant women will qualify for free flu vaccinations but young children from deprived backgrounds and people who are very obese will not. The ministry says people who are obese, as well as deprived children, were eligible for free jabs last year because they were hit hard in the first wave of swine flu. It says the swine flu pandemic is now over and swine flu is acting like a normal flu. This year's vaccine will cover the same three strains of flu as last year's vaccine, including swine flu. Children aged under nine are to be given the Fluarix vaccine from GlaxoSmithKline, rather than the alternative Fluvax, which caused serious reactions in some children in Australia last year.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand



Jackson recovering after emergency surgery

Oscar-winning film director Sir Peter Jackson has undergone emergency surgery at a New Zealand hospital. Sir Peter was admitted to Wellington Hospital on Wednesday night with acute stomach pains and underwent surgery for a peforated ulcer. In a statement on Thursday, Sir Peter's production company says he is resting comfortably and doctors expect him to make a full recovery. It says Sir Peter's surgery is not expected to affect his directing commitment to The Hobbit beyond a slight delay to the start of filming. Sir Peter's films include the Lord of the Rings trilogy, King Kong, The Lovely Bones and Heavenly Creatures.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Blue menace litters beaches

Forget about sharks - the real danger in the water this summer is small, blue and packs a real punch. Twenty beachgoers have been treated for bluebottle stings during the past week by lifeguards patrolling Northland beaches. The influx of bluebottles, also known as the Portuguese man o' war, has been put down to the La Nina weather pattern. Lifeguards at Ocean Beach gave first aid to nine people suffering stings. Waipu treated six people and Ruakaka reported five. The majority of people treated were children under the age of 10 who had been stung while trying to pick them up on the beaches.
TREATMENT
* Place the sting area in water as hot as is bearable.
* If the heat does not relieve the pain, use cold packs or ice on the sting area.
* Seek urgent medical attention if pain develops, the sting area is large or the patient appears to be having an allergic reaction.
* Keep the patient at rest and under constant observation.
* Pick off any remaining tentacles with fingers or tweezers; harmless prickling may be felt.
* Rinse with sea water.
- APN



Now La Nina brings fly plague

By Isaac Davison
La Nina has already brought us floods, cyclones and stifling humidity. Now it is also being blamed for greater numbers of flies in our homes. Not only are there more of them, they are harder to kill. The warmer, wetter summer is behind the proliferation in Auckland of the common household fly, which thrives in these conditions. Entomologist and "Bugman" Ruud Kleinpaste said high temperatures in December meant adult flies hatched earlier, and in greater numbers.



Key invited to royal wedding

Looks like John Key will get to attend this year's royal wedding. Advance faxes have been sent out telling VIPs to clear their diaries for the April 29th nuptials of Prince William and Kate Middleton. UK correspondent Malcolm Stuart said former monarchs like ex-King Constantine of Greece, ex-King Michael of Romania and Alexander, Crown Prince of Serbia will also attend.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd



Science minister in Antarctica

Science Minister Wayne Mapp is in the Antarctic checking out our scientists in action. During his three day visit, Dr Mapp is touring the Arrival Heights research facility where scientists take advantage of clear air to measure ozone levels. Dr Mapp is also looking at the strength of our scientific ties with the United States in the Antarctic. He'll visit historic huts, a wind farm and the McMurdo Dry Valleys which are cold deserts where the environment is similar to Mars.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd



Wednesday, January 26

Crops on Tongas Ha apai devastated by Cyclone Wilma

Food crops have been devastated and many buildings damaged on Tonga’s Ha’apai Islands from Cyclone Wilma. The cyclone brought winds of up to 166 kilometers an hour yesterday during high tide on the island group. On the islands surveyed so far, the Ha’apai governor’s residence suffered extensive damage, an office at the airport was demolished, several church structures were badly damaged and some schools suffered roof or water damage. The acting secretary for the Ha’apai governor, Viliami Taumoefolau Latu, says low lying areas like Lifuka experienced severe flooding with storm surges reaching up to 20 metres inland in places..He says most agricultural crops and food gardens have also been ruined. Viliami Taumoefolau Latu says the power is still off in places due to many power lines being blown down, during the cyclone.
News Content © Radio New Zealand International



Relief agencies work to get supplies to cyclone hit islands in Vanuatu

Relief Agencies say areas in Vanuatu affected by Cyclone Vania over a week ago will face food shortages for the next three months. The islands of Tanna, Erromango, and Aniwa in Tafea province rely heavily on subsistence farming but the cyclone has destroyed most of the fruit and vegetable crops. May Pascual from UNICEF Vanuatu, says a number of agencies met yesterday to discuss the situation. She says the main concern is getting food supplies out there and also treating the water.
News Content © Radio New Zealand International



Cyclone on track to strike New Zealand

A tropical cyclone roaring down the Pacific towards New Zealand is expected to approach Cape Reinga early on Saturday, with the centre of the low-pressure system tracking over Northland later in the weekend. Cyclone Wilma formed east of Samoa last Saturday, and the Fiji Meteorological Service predicts it will now reach category 4 strength, considered "very severe" with winds gusting between 225kmh and 279kmh, over the next day. The cyclone, with sustained winds at 170kmh and gusts estimated well over 210kmh, yesterday passed over Tonga, causing damage to resorts and crops. But like last week's two cyclones Zelia and Vania, the strength of Wilma is expected to decrease by the time it reaches New Zealand.
NZPA



NZ to donate $4m to Aust flood victims

The New Zealand Government is donating $4 million to help people in Australia affected by floods. Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully says Australians are New Zealand's closest friends and neighbours and there is a history of reciprocal support during natural disasters. Some $3 million will go to the Queensland Premier's Flood Relief Fund, while $1million will be given to the Red Cross Victorian Floods Appeal 2011.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Australian supermarkets to cut milk price

Australian supermarket giants Coles and Woolworths plan to reduce the price of their milk by about a third. A two-litre container of the supermarkets' own-brand milk will cost about $A2. The equivalent Woolworths' two-litre bottle in New Zealand costs $NZ4.15. Lobby group Australian Dairy Farmers says the move could destroy the local dairy industry, as other producers struggle to compete, the ABC reports. Coles says farmers will still get exactly the same price for their milk.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Cricket - Second ODI abandoned

The second one-day cricket international between New Zealand and Pakistan at the Queenstown Events Centre today has been abandoned because of rain. Frustrated spectators were officially put out of their misery at 3:17 (NZT) when the umpires decided there was no chance the match could get underway by 4:17, which was the cut-off point of a minimum 20 overs-a-side match. Rain delayed the start by an hour, which initially reduced the match to 48 overs a side, but only 4.2 overs were possible before the rain returned and set in for the afternoon. New Zealand lead the six-match series 1-0. The third match is at Christchurch on Saturday.
NZPA



Teenage sailor honoured in Australia

By Brodie Kane - NewstalkZB
Teenage sailor Jessica Watson has been named 2011's Young Australian of the Year. At just 17, the youngster captured the nation's attention during her 210 day odyssey to become the youngest person to sail non-stop and unassisted around the world. She sailed into Sydney Harbour to a hero's welcome in May last year having finally completed a 23,000 nautical mile, seven month journey.



PM signals partial sale of energy firms

In his first major speech of the year, Prime Minister John Key says the Government will explore partial sell-offs of four of New Zealand's major energy companies. They are Mighty River Power, Meridian, Genesis and Solid Energy. He says the Government wants to free up some capital from its $220 billion asset base, which could be achieved through a partial share float. Tests that would have to met first include the Government retaining a majority shareholding, New Zealand investors would have to be at the front of the queue, and any capital raised would have to be spent on funding new assets.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand



Tuesday, January 25

UN warns of hunger in Vanuatu after cyclone

An estimated 16,000 people in Vanuatu face immediate hunger and lack of safe water after a cyclone hit two weeks ago, the United Nations says. A joint assessment by the government, UNICEF and partners has revealed Cyclone Vania caused an almost complete destruction of crops on the islands of Tanna and Erromango. Families are expected to be without food or incomes for the next six months, Radio New Zealand International reports. UNICEF says parts of the area were already short of food due to drought and ground wells contaminated by extensive flooding in some areas has now heightened the risk of waterborne disease.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



PM sends condolences to Russia

Prime Minister John Key will write to Russian President Dimitry Medvedev to express condolences on behalf of New Zealanders following today's bomb attack. A suicide bomber carrying a suitcase set off a huge explosion killing at least 35 people at Moscow's Domededovo Airport. Up to 180 people were thought to be injured in the blast including French, Italian, and German foreigners. Many of the injured are in critical condition. The New Zealand Embassy in Moscow has been contacting New Zealanders registered with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade as being in the area and there are currently no reports of New Zealanders being caught up in the blast.
Source: ONE News



Cyclone heading for Tonga's main island

Latest: 5:45pm tues NZ time
Cyclone Wilma is now heading towards Tonga's main island of Tongatapu, the country's Met Service warns. The cyclone has been upgraded to a Category 3 storm and passed to the eastern side of Vava'u before directly hitting the Ha'apai group of islands on Tuesday morning. The high winds and big waves damaged buildings and crops. Met Service director Ofa Faanunu says other islands are being affected by winds from the storm, which is expected to intensify. Residents on Tongatapu and Eua have been warned and should be ready when the storm hits, he says. Cyclone Wilma had already passed through American Samoa and Samoa, and a cyclone alert is now in force for the southern Lau group islands in Fiji.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand



PM flags modest rise to minimum wage

Prime Minister John Key has indicated a likely increase of about 2% to the minimum wage this year. It is currently $12.75. The Cabinet usually considers the rise alongside the rate of inflation, which is running at about 4%. Mr Key says advice to the Government is that increasing the minimum wage to $15 would result in 6000 to 8000 people losing their jobs.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand



Principals call for restrictions on fatty food

By james williams - NewstalkZB
School principals are calling for restrictions to be placed on dairies in the fight against youth obesity. A Canterbury University study has found there were up to five and a half times more fast food outlets or convenience stores around schools. Secondary School Principals' Association president Patrick Walsh says he understands dairy owners are trying to earn a living but there are wider implications. He says there should be restrictions on selling things like pies and coke between 8am and 9am and also around three when students are leaving school.



Tax-free zone for Kiwis under Labour

New Zealanders will not pay tax on their first $5000 of income if Labour returns to office and the party will introduce a new top rate of tax for six-figure earners. Labour leader Phil Goff says Labour will rebalance the tax system so that everyone pays their fair share. "We will provide some financial relief for all New Zealanders and crack down on tax dodgers who exploit the system, leaving the rest of us to pay the price for their actions," he said in his state of the nation speech in Auckland.
Copyright © 2009, Television New Zealand Limited



Maori TV audience numbers up

Maori TV is reporting its audience numbers are up. The details are revealed in its annual report, where the broadcaster's monthly viewer numbers are described as having risen by around 9%. Maori Television says it has an average of 1.7 million viewers a month, and last April managed to attract 2 million viewers in a single month for the first time.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd



NZ high on global prosperity list

New Zealand has been ranked fifth on an international scale of the prosperity, with its education system rating as the best in the world. The ratings have been published by Britain's Legatum Institute which has been attempting to produce different kinds of indices to mainstream economic scales. Its Prosperity Index ranks 110 nations, and includes both material wealth and quality of life. Norway headed the index, followed by Denmark, Finland, Australia and New Zealand. The indices said New Zealand rated only 19th in the health rankings and 17th in economic. It was first in education and third in ranks of personal freedom and social capital. It was fourth in governance and seventh in safety and security. It was 14th in entrepreneurship and opportunity. New Zealand would have been higher than Australia had it not been for Australia's much stronger economy. On the overall scale, the US was 10th, Britain 13th, Japan 18th , China 58th and India 88th.
Source:Stuff



Veterinary students gather in Palmerston North

Australasia's top veterinary students are in Palmerston North this week for an international conference. The week-long event, which is held every few years, has brought together more than 90 students from New Zealand, Australia and South Africa. The students will hear from speakers at the top of their profession and participate in practical workshops that cover topics from avian to small animal medicine. This years marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of the veterinary profession, following the establishment of the first veterinary school in France in 1761.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Toddler self-control 'can predict health and wealth'

Children who have low levels of self-control at the age of three are more likely to have health and money problems and a criminal record by the time they're 32, a study that included New Zealand children has found. Researchers from Britain, the United States and New Zealand analysed data from two large studies in which children completed a range of physical tests and interviews to assess genetic and environmental factors that can shape their lives. The study found that children with low self-control were more likely to have health problems in later life including high blood pressure, being overweight, breathing problems and sexually transmitted infections. They were also more likely to be dependent on substances such as tobacco, alcohol and drugs, more likely to be single parents, have difficulty managing money and have criminal records. The researchers looked first at data from around 1,000 children born in New Zealand between April 1972 and March 1973. The findings were published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences journal.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Monday, January 24

Giddings to be Tasmania's first female premier

Australia's Lara Giddings will become Tasmania's first female premier after being elected leader of the Labor Party. Giddings fills the vacancy left by David Bartlett, who announced his resignation yesterday to spend more time with his family. She will be sworn in by Governor Peter Underwood at Government House in Hobart at 2.30pm on Monday. Giddings was unanimously elected leader with Bryan Green as her deputy at the meeting on Monday morning, Labor MP Bec White said. She will be Tasmania's 44th premier, and the first woman to hold the title. It is expected she will remain as the state's treasurer.
Source: AAP



Buskers draw large crowds

Despite poor weather conditions organisers of the World Buskers Festival in Christchurch are impressed with the opening weekend. Buskers from around the world have been busy entertaining large crowds at venues across the city as part of the 10 day event. Co-director Jo Blair says the crowds have been up there with some of the best they have had with most shows sold out every night. She says the outside shows are also proving very popular. The festival runs until Sunday.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd



Free entry to Wellington exhibition

Wellingtonians will get the chance to get a free look at some of the greatest art the world has to offer. Te Papa's European Masters exhibition will be open to Wellington City ratepayers free of charge for one day only on February 3rd. The exhibition includes works by Renoir, Rousseau, Degas, Picasso and Monet. Wellington City Council Economic portfolio leader Jo Coughlan says previous open days have been extremely popular. She says people need to be patient and expect there will be quite long queues. People will need to bring proof they're a Wellington ratepayer, such as a bill or rates invoice showing their residential address.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd



A royal opportunity to put a stamp on events

CLAIRE ROGERS
New Zealand Post is commissioning stamps and may issue gold or silver coins to commemorate the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton. The April wedding has whetted Kiwis' appetites for royalty and romance and other businesses are also gearing up to cash in. NZ Post stamps and coins general manager Ivor Masters said two stamps would be issued in March along with a presentation pack for collectors – with images and information about the wedding. "Royalty is an extremely strong theme and very much sought after as a collectible." The two stamps would bear images of the happy couple and have a value of $2.40, the cost of postage to Britain. The presentation pack would cost $19.90. Stamps would be on sale for 12 months, but the packs would be limited to "a couple of thousand".
The Dominion Post



Pacific nations on cyclone alert

Tropical Cyclone Wilma has hit American Samoa and triggered alerts in other island countries in the central South Pacific. The Category One storm has winds of up to 110 km/h and gusts in excess of 130 km/h. The storm has hit eastern villages, downing power lines, and is due to sweep over the western island of Tutuila. A marine warning says there is a hazardous surf up to 5 metres high throughout the storm, causing some flooding. The Governor, Togiola Tulafono, has activated the Emergency Operations Center. As the cyclone heads south, it will also affect Samoa's main island, Upolu. A cyclone alert has been issued for Fiji's eastern islands. An alert is also in place for Tonga's northern islands. For Tokelau, an alert is still in force, but winds there are now expected to ease. Fiji Met Service forecaster Misaeli Funaki says Cyclone Wilma's wind speed will be powerful enough to cause damage as it nears land masses.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



North Island highways reopen after flooding

Major North Island roads which had been closed due to flooding following the wild weekend weather began to reopen on Monday morning. The Desert Road in the Waiouru area which had been affected by flooding and SH3, blocked at the Manawatu Gorge by a slip, both reopened. In Taranaki however, SH 43 between Stratford and Taumarunui remained closed by floodwater as at 10am Monday, while one lane of SH3 was blocked by a tree, rocks and mud. From early Sunday until midnight Fire Service staff attended a total of 184 incidents in Northland, Auckland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty caused by the wild weather. The Hawke's Bay Regional Council says up until last Friday the region had received only 18% of its average rainfall for January, but now it's over 200%.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Sunday, January 23

Top NZ ballet scholarship given to Brazilian dancer

Brazilian Helio Lima is the first dancer from outside Australasia to receive Royal New Zealand Ballet's top scholarship. Lima's ballet skills have turned heads and impressed experts around the globe. His win is a first for Royal New Zealand Ballet. "Traditionally the support has only been given to New Zealanders or Australian dancers, so he's the first non-such person to receive it, being a South American," Matz Skoog of Royal New Zealand Ballet said. Lima will continue to dance in New Zealand but plans to eventually take his skills to the United States and Europe, before heading home to Brazil.
Source: ONE News



Tasmania's Premier resigns

Tasmania's Premier David Bartlett has confirmed he will stand down as the state's leader, citing family reasons. Mr Bartlett has used the social networking site Facebook to confirm he is resigning as premier. He has also backed the Deputy Premier Lara Giddings as his successor. He says he is stepping down for family reasons, saying he wants to be a better father for his two children reports the ABC.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Tropical Cyclone Wilma expected to take a u-turn in Polynesia

Samoa remains the subject of gale and storm warnings as Tropical Cyclone Wilma brings strong winds to the region. The Samoa Met Service reported that the cyclone was about 250 kilometres northeast of Asau at 0100 UTC. The Fiji Met Service says the cyclone is moving northeast at about 20 kilometres an hour. Yesterday the cyclone was tracked by American Samoa’s Joint Typhoon Warning Centre as moving east-southeast over Swains Island which experienced strong winds and high seas. But the system turned northward overnight and is slowly intensifying. Wilma is now expected to turn dramatically on a southwest track in the next 24 to 48 hours and eventually affect the Tonga group. The Fiji Met Service is also issuing cylone warnings for Tokelau where gale force winds are expected tonight.
News Content © Radio New Zealand International



Rain grounds Wings over Wairarapa pilots

Heavy rain has grounded all pilots taking part in Wings over Wairarapa. All air shows for today have been cancelled, but ground displays are still open to the public. Organiser Liz Pollock says it's the first time in the show's history they have had to put off the events. Pollock says ticket holders should contact Ticketek about possible refunds. The three day event, which began yesterday and still has one more day to go, is now in its 12th year. Yesterday, thousands braved the rain to watch the planes above Masterton, even though some events were shortened or rescheduled. Organisers were hoping 35,000 would attend this year, equalling the record achieved in 2009.
Source: Newstalk ZB/ONE News



Rain lashes Nth Is overnight and worsening today

The rain has increased in intensity overnight and is now widespread across the North Island, as a low pressure system moves across the country. The MetService has issued a severe weather warning for most of the North Island, including the Bay of Plenty, where the region's defence emergency workers are on standby. The council's emergency management flood room has been activated at 9am today and manned 24/7, says Bay of Plenty Regional Council spokeswoman Bronwyn Campbell. High sea levels produced by strong north to northeast onshore winds accompanying the rain could restrict rivers flowing into the sea in eastern areas from Auckland to the Bay of Plenty, she said. The MetService has said the heavy rain is expected to be significant for most regions from Northland down to Waitomo and the central North Island high country, and across the Bay of Plenty to Gisborne and Hawkes Bay. The heaviest rain is expected to be in Northland, Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty, the central high country and the ranges of Gisborne and Hawke's Bay.
Source: ONE News/NZPA



Saturday, January 22

Cricket - Black Caps break losing streak in style

The New Zealand cricketers have ended their 11-match losing streak with an emphatic nine-wicket victory over Pakistan in the first one-day international in Wellington. Tim Southee took five wickets as Pakistan were bowled out for just 124, a total the Black Caps reached in the 17th over with Jesse Ryder making a run-a-ball 55 and Martin Guptil an unbeaten 40. Ryder and Guptill brought up the first 50 runs inside six overs and were then forced to take the scheduled tea break after New Zealand had earlier bowled the visitors out for 124 in 37.3 overs. Southee took a career-best 5-33, while wicketkeeper Brendon McCullum took five catches in an innings for the fourth time. Ryder scored 32 of New Zealand's first 50 runs with three fours and two sixes prior to the break and continued afterwards bringing up his fourth one-day half century off 31 balls before he was caught on the boundary by Asad Shafiq off Sohail Tanvir.
The second match is in Queenstown on Wednesday.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



First ever Samoan film wraps up

There are high hopes a first ever feature length movie, filmed in Samoa and in the Samoan language, will boost tourism. The Orator, funded by the New Zealand Film Commission and the Samoan government, has finished filming. Writer director Tusi Tamasese has showcased his home country and language in the film. "Being in Samoa you are surrounded by family and support - its good to showcase your home country," Tamasese said. The film will go to the big screen later this year.
Source: ONE News



Samoa donates to Pike River, Qld floods

Samoan Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malilegaoi this afternoon presented government's monetary donations towards the Pike River mining disaster and also relief efforts following widespread flooding in Queensland, Australia. "Our donation might be insignificant in terms of the overall costs of these disasters but it is the spirit in which we give, I guess, that counts," said Tuilaepa. "It also highlights the close relations between our three countries. New Zealand and Australia, of course, has assisted us generously through the years, particularly following the tsunami of September, 2009." The Prime Minister then presented a cheque of $60,000 towards the Pike River disaster to New Zealand High Commissioner HE Nick Hurley and another cheque of $130,261 to Australian High Commissioner HE Matt Anderson towards Queensland flooding relief.
Source: ONE News



High enrolments reported at polytechnics

Polytechnics say their enrolments are so high they are likely to turn prospective students away again later this year. NZ Institutes of Technology & Polytechnics, which represents 12 of the 18 polytechnics, says enrolments at some of its members are 10% higher than last year. Dr James Buwalda says polytechnics have funding for about 450 more students than last year, but the increase is unlikely to keep up with demand. He says it is likely some polytechnics will have to close their enrolments, as happened last year, and some students will miss out. Dr Buwalda says enrolments are particularly strong in programmes such as nursing, engineering and IT.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Severe weather warning extended for North Island

Heavy rain forecast tonight is expected to make driving dangerous and may cause flooding and slips across the upper North Island. A severe weather warning has been extended, with the heaviest rain expected in Northland, Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty, the central high country and the ranges of Gisborne and Hawke's Bay, the MetService said. In addition, high sea levels caused by strong wind could restrict rivers flowing into the sea along the east coast from Auckland to the Bay of Plenty, adding to potential flooding.
NZPA



Ratana celebrations underway

The Ratana Church's annual celebrations are being held this weekend. The four-day celebrations at Ratana Pa, near Whanganui, mark the birthday of the church's prophet, Tahu Potiki Wiremu Ratana. Up to 10,000 people are expected to attend.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Friday, January 21

Good news for Govt in latest poll

The first political opinion poll of the election year is bringing good news for the Government and some not so good news for Labour. The Roy Morgan poll has National on 55% support, up 6.5 points from a month ago. Its gain has largely been Labour's loss though, with support for the opposition dropping six points to 29%. For the other parties, the Greens are steady on 7%, New Zealand First is up 1.5 points to 4.5%, and the Maori Party is polling 2.5% support. ACT is on 1.5% and United Future is on just 0.5%.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd



Chch humming for Paralympic worlds

Thousands have gathered in Cathedral Square for the opening of the IPC World Athletics Champs. The event gets underway at QE2 stadium tomorrow. It is the first time it has been held outside Europe. 1000 athletes and 700 officials from 80 countries are attending, along with 140 accredited media outlets. Lesley Murdoch says at least 3000 people are there to watch. "It's very colourful, all the people of Christchurch have come out and they've got colourful garb on and really starting to get a an atmosphere about these games which we're so lucky to have in Christchurch. It's the first time they've never been held outside of Europe," she says.
NewstalkZB



Legionnaires' disease alert to Bali travellers

Australia's Chief Medical Officer has issued an alert to travellers in Bali about an outbreak in Legionnaires' disease. Professor Jim Bishop said Australian health authorities have been made aware of 11 cases of the disease. He said people returning from Bali who experience 'flu-like' symptoms such as fever and cough should consult their GPs or hospital emergency departments. Professor Bishop said Indonesian health authorities and the World Health Organisation are aware of the problem and are investigating. Darren Hunt, Deputy Director of Public Health, said he was not aware of any cases of Legionnaires' disease in New Zealand related to travel to Bali.
Source: ONE News



2010 a record year at the NZ box office

Last year was the highest grossing box office year in New Zealand cinema history. Movie-goers spent $176.5 million in 2010, a rise of 3.8% on 2009, the NZ Motion Picture Distributors' Association announced today. Screenings of 3D films contributed 17.5% of the total with Avatar, released in December 2009, bringing in the most money. However, the highest grossing film released last year was New Zealand Film Commission-financed Boy, which grossed $9.3 million. Boy was shot in Waihau Bay - in the North Island region of Eastland - and is set in the 1980s. Mid-year 2010 proved particularly strong with releases like Karate Kid and Toy Story 3.
Source: ONE News



Flood tax headed for Australians

Australians look set to be hit with a flood tax. Prime Minister Julia Gillard's suggesting there will also need to be spending cuts, if the Federal Government is going to be able to afford the whopping cost of the clean up. Australia correspondent Steve Price says most people would like to her carve into the $43 billion earmarked for a new broadband scheme. "She said she won't do that so the $20 billion has to come from somewhere and the easiest way for the Federal Government to do that is to add to our MediCare levy," he says.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd



Medics ready at music festival

Ambulance and medical personal are gearing up to look after people at the Big Day Out music festival in Auckland. The 12-hour event is underway at Mt Smart Stadium and more than 40,000 people are expected to attend. St John Ambulance says the concert is one of its busiest days. It has 150 personnel on hand. St John has set up a field hospital, two portable medical units and a series of first aid posts manned by volunteer doctors, nurses and paramedics.
Copyright © 2011 Radio New Zealand



Thursday, January 20

Depression near Wallis could become cyclone

A tropical depression forming near Wallis and Futuna could develop into a cyclone by the weekend, and hit Samoa, Tonga and Fiji. An active trough of low pressure with associated cloud and rain is currently near Wallis and Futuna. A cyclone forecaster at the Fiji Metservice, Terry Atalifo, says the system is currently a disturbance, but it is likely to be upgraded to a depression by Friday morning. He says there’s a 50/50 chance of it becoming a cyclone.
© Radio New Zealand International



Foreign patients costly for hospitals

Foreign patients are costing district health boards millions of dollars each year. Their unpaid medical bills being written off as bad debt. The Ministry of Health says foreign patient debt has been a problem for several years. More than $13 million in outstanding debt was accumulated last year. District health boards billed non residents $33 million last year. But $13 million remains unpaid and $8 million has been written off. Auckland District Health Board has the worst record, having written off $3.3 million in debt last year.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand



More cyclones could be on the way

The country could be in for another deluge as three new tropical cyclones threaten northern New Zealand. The cyclones may form north of New Zealand before the end of the weekend as La Nina conditions ramp up. WeatherWatch.co.nz says it's too early to know if any of them will impact the country but the tail of one may affect eastern areas later this weekend. Head weather analyst Philip Duncan says there will be high humidity and periods of rain, possibly heavy, in the northern half of the North Island by late Friday. He says the heavy rain bands may affect areas further east, such as Bay of Plenty, East Cape and Gisborne.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd



Rescued bird numbers triple in heat

Numbers of morepork and tui chicks at a rescue centre in Northland have more than tripled because of soaring temperatures and humidity levels. The Native Bird Recovery Centre in Whangarei says the centre has cared for eight moreporks this summer, the youngest being five days old. Co-founder Robert Webb says their mothers flap their wings to keep them cool but if they are still too hot, she will throw one or two out. He says the centre has also looked after nine or 10 young tui this year, which were most likely trying to keep themselves cool when they lost their footing and were too young to get back into their nest.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Fiji on US seasonal workers list because of need for remittances

The United States Embassy in Fiji says one of the reasons it pushed for Fiji’s inclusion on the list of countries eligible for seasonal work in the US was the fact that remittances are very important to Fiji and its people. The Fiji Village website reports the US Embassy in Suva sought the inclusion of Pacific Island countries in its recommendations for the program. Fiji joins 53 other countries whose citizens can apply to work in the US in the agricultural sector. The other Pacific countries are reported to be Kiribati, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.
News Content © Radio New Zealand International



Rugby World Cup organisers target dodgy websites

Rugby World Cup lawyers are working with internet search engines to stop websites peddling non-existent tickets to the tournament. So far, organisers have received three complaints from people who have encountered bogus sites. Fans searching for World Cup tickets on Google will find Online Ticket Express appearing above the tournament website as a sponsored link. Despite promising the best online prices, its offerings are not cheap - with some tickets to see New Zealand play Tonga costing almost $1000. Rugby World Cup 2011 says the prices are inflated and the tickets possibly non-existent. Complaints organisers have received about bogus websites all concern a Norwegian company, called Euroteam.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand



Timaru teen to be evacuated from Tunisia

A Timaru teenager caught up in Tunisia's violent uprising while on an AFS exchange will be evacuated from the north African country, AFS says. Louise Berwick, 17 next week, went to Tunisia in August and is living with a family on the outskirts of the capital, Tunis, where long-term President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali was ousted on Friday. At least 78 people had been killed since the start of the uprising and the unrest had cost 3 billion dinars ($NZ2.69 billion) in damages and lost business. AFS was constantly monitoring the situation and its international risk management team now recommended she left the country, AFS spokesman Tony Calvert said. The decision was made yesterday because AFS could not guarantee the situation would settle over the next month or two, he said. All international AFS students were being evacuated.
NZPA



Netball - Silver Ferns finish series unbeaten after winning final test in England

The New Zealand netball team has beaten England 47-40 in a nail-biting third and final test at the O2 arena in London to end the 3-match series unbeaten. The Silver Ferns were caught on the back foot by a fast starting England but bounced back from a 16-19 half-time deficit to claim the match and rub salt into the wounds of the English.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Wednesday, January 19

Fifteen died from swine flu in 2010

Fifteen New Zealanders died from swine-flu related illnesses last year flu experts said today, urging people not to skip the flu vaccine in the approach to winter. The National Influenza Strategy Group (NISG) also urged GPs to order vaccine now, the magazine Doctor reported. NISG said it was concerned that complacent New Zealanders might skip the flu shots this year. "Don't Let the Flu Get You" TV adverts start running mid-April, and stocks of the seasonal influenza vaccine were expected to arrive here about mid-March.
NZPA



Overstayers given break after being unfairly treated

Thirteen Pacific Island families have been granted residency after the Ombudsman decided that they had been unfairly treated by Immigration New Zealand. The families had attended sessions run by Immigration's Pacific Division, a department that was abolished in 2009 after a damning government report. The Ombudsman ruled that the information the families were given during the 2005 meetings was confusing and misleading. That has prompted Immigration New Zealand to grant them residency, pending medical and police clearance. Overstayer Olivia Halafihi has spent years in hiding. She told ONE News the decision is an overwhelming relief. "I am very, very happy because of this opportunity offered to me and my family." For the Sili family the reprieve means an end to years spent living in fear. "I would never open the door for anyone who is knocking because of the fear we have," said Rawinia Sili.
Source: ONE News



American Samoa prepares for smoking restrictions

American Samoa’s Department of Health has been running public awareness programmes before the new smoking law takes effect this week. The new law states that smoking is prohibited in all enclosed areas of public places as well as in enclosed areas within places of employment. The department’s programme manager, Dottie Siavii, says the agency has been working hard to educate people, especially smokers, about the new law which was signed last October.
© Radio New Zealand International



Australian PM promises aid for Victoria

Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard says the federal government will offer flood assistance payments to people in Victoria. Fifty-one towns across the state are now affected by the floods, particularly in the north-west. Ms Gillard says rising floodwaters have also caused substantial damage in the state and affected communities deserve support. The federal government has already paid more than $A150 million to people affected by floods in Queensland and Ms Gillard says it is determined to help Victoria recover also. Walls of water kilometres wide are flowing across the north and west in the wake of record rainfall last week, prompting State Premier Ted Baillieu to warn that the recovery costs will be enormous.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand



Cricket - Series victory for Pakistan after test ends in draw

The second cricket test between New Zealand and Pakistan has ended in a draw on Wednesday. Pakistan finished on 225 for 5 after the New Zealanders set a target of 274 at the Basin Reserve in Wellington to claim their first series victory since 2006. The test had been evenly poised heading into the fifth day, with Pakistan looking capable of reaching the required target on a batsmen's pitch. New Zealand took three early wickets, giving their fans hope of a win to level the two test series. But Pakistan had other ideas, denying the New Zealand bowlers the chance to draw the test and claimed a 1-nil series triumph. The one-day series begins in Wellington on Saturday.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand



Power company says South Otago wind farm approved

A power generation company says it has been given approval by the Clutha District Council to build a wind farm in South Otago. The $17 million project at Mt Stuart near Milton will consist of nine turbines to generate 7.65 megawatts of power. Construction is expected to start mid-April and the wind farm is scheduled to be operational by the end of the year.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



PNG short of teachers

Papua New Guinea is facing a massive shortage of teachers, with the 2011 school year just two weeks away. The newspaper, The National, reports there are vacancies for 11,000 teachers nationwide and only 1,200 leaving teachers colleges to join the service. The PNG Teachers Association says 1,700 teachers resigned last year. The Association’s general secretary, Ugwalubu Mowana, says rural-based schools will be the hardest hit as teachers prefer to teach in urban schools. He says the teaching services commission and the government must take responsibility for the flight of teachers and the plight of the education system. Mr Mowana says most leave because of poor conditions and the government’s careless attitude towards the needs of the teachers.
News Content © Radio New Zealand International



Cafe lets customers choose prices

OLIVIA CARVILLE
Customers can pay what they believe a meal is worth at an alternative New Brighton cafe because the owner believes anyone who is hungry should be able to eat. The unique concept at the Space of Love vegetarian cafe has formed a mutual respect between customers and owner Sruti Stojchevski. An honesty box sits on the counter and Stojchevski, who is originally from Macedonia, asks customers to put a donation in the box after their meal. Stojchevski is the sole staff member and knows most of his customers by name. He opened the cafe nine months ago and said he felt uncomfortable charging for food. "Food is a necessity of life and it should be available to anyone who is hungry, " he said. "It is much more empowering for people to decide how happy they are with the food and the service." The daily donations cover rent, bills, ingredients and Stojchevski's living costs, but the chef has not been able to make renovations or employ another worker. Stojchevski does the shopping, cooking, serving and cleaning alone, sometimes working 14 hours a day. Some regular customers provide support by volunteering to clean and serve meals when Stojchevski is busy.
The Press



Kiwi in Dubai jail after attack by jilted girlfriend

A New Zealand man has been locked up by Dubai police after he called them to control a former girlfriend armed with a knife. The jilted woman allegedly took revenge by wrecking the New Zealand man's apartment and threatening him with a knife when she caught him having sex with his new girlfriend, the Gulf News website reported. The Brazilian former girlfriend caught the unidentified New Zealander in bed with his new British girlfriend on the same day he broke up with her. The Brazilian, 24, went to the man's home early in the morning and wrecked the house with a kitchen knife, the police said. She then allegedly attempted to attack the New Zealander and his new girlfriend with the knife. The man called police, who arrested everyone and locked them up in Bur Dubai police station - with the two women in the same cell.
Ed note: Obviously the Dubai police feel some timeout together to talk things through will help.
NZPA



Whisky from Deep South still considered good

Three bottles of whisky which were encased in Antarctic ice for more than 100 years have been found to be in good condition after being returned to Scotland from New Zealand. The bottles were slowly thawed at the Canterbury Museum and opened there in August. Eleven bottles of Mackinlay brand whisky, dating from 1896, made by the Whyte & MacKay company were discovered in 2006 at the hut of Sir Ernest Shackleton. The Shackleton expedition was unsuccessful and the base and the whisky, were abandoned in 1907. The whisky was so valuable it was transported back to Scotland on a private jet.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Maori Party MPs lodge complaint against Harawira

Maori Party President Pem Bird has received a complaint against MP Hone Harawira from inside the caucus. Mr Bird says the complaint was laid by Te Ururoa Flavell and supported by co-leaders Pita Sharples and Tariana Turia, as well as Rahui Katene. Mr Bird told Summer Report the complaint relates to an article written by Mr Harawira in the Sunday Star Times. Mr Bird says the party's National Council is seeking legal advice on how to deal with the complaint and has asked the Te Tai Tokerau Electorate Council to call an urgent hui for this Friday. The Maori Party has five seats in Parliament.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Tuesday, January 18

Heavy rain falling, winds building

Heavy rain and strong winds are beginning to be felt across the country this afternoon. MetService earlier issued a severe weather warning, forecasting heavy rain and gales for most of northern and central New Zealand until tomorrow morning after ex-tropical cyclone Zelia with the remnants of cyclone Vania. In the lower North Island, heavy rain is due to fall in Taranaki, the Whanganui River Headwaters, the Tararua Ranges and the Horowhenua and Wellington Hills. In the South Island, Westland, Buller , Nelson and the Marlborough Sounds are bearing the brunt of the wet weather with heavy rain falling in the area all day. The Fox River (which is about half way between Greymouth and Westport and along SH6) has burst its banks.
Source: ONE News



Piece of Charles and Di's cake up for sale

A slice of royal history is up for sale on Trade Me. Katrina Greenslade has put up for auction her 30-year old piece of cake left over from Charles and Diana's so-called fairytale wedding in 1981. The slice of wedding cake was given to Katrina Greenslade's father, one of several New Zealand Air Force staff to receive a piece, and has stayed with her family ever since. Greenslade says the icing has faded somewhat from its original bright turquoise colour and is now more yellowish. She says it's been kept in a tupperware container at the back of a drawer. She says she plans to donate the money to Ronald McDonald house.
Ed note: Ronald McDonald House is a charity which supports children undergoing hospital treatment.
Source: ONE News



New email scam targeting lawyers

The New Zealand Law Society is concerned at the latest round of email scams targeting lawyers. The email asks the lawyer to act in a matrimonial settlement by getting the 'reluctant' overseas ex-spouse to pay out. After a series of emails, the spouse agrees and sends a cheque which is transferred into the lawyer's bank account. The lawyer then transfers the debt amount, only to discover a week later the cheque bounces. Law Society spokesman John Munson says already several law firms have lost money to the scam.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd



Waikato students looking for Pink and White Terraces

A group of Waikato University students is assisting in the search for remnants of the Pink and White Terraces. GNS Science is leading the project which includes an underwater survey of Lake Rotomahana to look for clues about what happened to the natural wonder, believed to have been destroyed in the 1886 Mount Tarawera eruption. The Waikato scientists will be involved in taking sediment samples from the bottom of the lake. Volcanologist Dr Adrian Pittari says tests on volcanic materials will indicate whether there are any traces of the Pink and White Terraces within the sediments.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd



Record visitors for Christchurch Art Gallery

The Christchurch Art Gallery is celebrating record numbers of visitors to the Ron Mueck exhibition. So far more than 110,000 people have visited the exhibition by Mueck, who is an Australian sculptor who created incredibly life like human figures of vastly different scales. The gallery's director Jenny Harper says the queues are long again this morning. Jenny Harper is expecting a last minute rush with a number of late nights, including midnight on Saturday. The exhibition closes at 5pm on Sunday.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd



Harbourmaster: Missing yachtie should not have sailed

The elderly yachtie presumed drowned off the Far North should not have gone to sea because his boat was poorly maintained and probably unseaworthy, marine experts say. The missing yachtie, 77-year-old Malcolm Widdilove, had also been rescued twice by the coastguard in the past few years off Cape Reinga in the Far North. His 7.6m wooden yacht, Boadicea, was found sunk near Tapotupotu Bay, east of Cape Reinga in the Far North last week. Police called off the search for Mr Widdilove yesterday, saying the yacht was not made for offshore sailing. Mr Widdilove was believed to have left Opua, in the Bay of Islands, where he had been living on his yacht. He was apparently heading for Norfolk Island.
NZPA



Netball - Ferns win again

The Silver Ferns have beaten England 41-39 in the second netball test in Nottingham. The Ferns led throughout and were up by 10 goals on a number of occassions but they could never put England away. The Ferns continued to make a number of turnovers that caused them problems in the 42-40 win in the first test. Maria Tutaia improved her shooting, while Daneka Wipiiti replaced Irene van Dyk at half time but scored just 2 goals. The third test is in London on Thursday.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Timaru teen trapped in Tunisia

A Timaru teenager on an AFS exchange has been caught up in Tunisia's violent uprising. Louise Berwick, who turns 17 next week, went to Tunisia in August and is living with a family on the outskirts of the capital, Tunis, where long-term President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali was ousted on Friday, The Timaru Herald reported. Louise's mother, Imogen Berwick, said her daughter had heard gunshots outside her host family's home where she has been holed up since the unrest started. While her daughter's situation was stressful, she preferred she stayed with her host family rather than trying to get to an airport, Berwick said. Louise was also keen to stay, despite the unrest, she said.
NZPA



Stores pull spinach, salads after health alert

By Amelia Wade
Salad and spinach products sold in three supermarket chains are being recalled because of fears they contain a food-poisoning bacteria. The Foodstuffs Own Brands company recalled its Pams brand salad and spinach products at the weekend. Foodstuffs' supplier Living Foods Ltd told the supermarket chain company the affected products were found to contain listeria. The three chains are Pak 'n Save, New World and Four Square. All are owned by Foodstuffs and may have sold the products to customers. The affected products have best-before dates between January 12 and 23.
The products are: Pams Fresh Express Baby Spinach 120g and 300g, Pams Fresh Express Spinach and Cos Mix Salads 120g, Pams Fresh Express Mediterranean Salad 295g and 120g, Living Foods Baby Spinach Salads 120g, 300g, 1kg, 2kg, 3kg and Living Foods Mediterranean Salad 295g.



Hundreds of birds perish in botulism outbreak

The Auckland SPCA says a "massive" outbreak of botulism is killing hundreds of birds. The charity's chief inspector, Vicki Border, says she has not seen this scale of fatalities in her ten years at the SPCA. Birds that are still alive but have contracted the illness are basically paralysed, she says. The disease thrives in shallow, warm water and Ms Border says warmer temperatures at present are helping the bacteria which produces the toxin to multiply.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Monday, January 17

NZ food prices lower for second month in row

Food prices have fallen for the second month in a row. Prices fell 0.8% in December, following a 0.6% drop in November. In both months, seasonal falls in vegetable prices were the key contributor. Vegetable prices fell 7.9% in December, resulting in cheaper tomatoes, lettuces, capsicums, cabbages and broccoli. Grocery food prices and dairy also fell in December, but meat, poultry and fish prices increased.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand



Windy Wellington the setting of Italian Job remake

By Charlotte Shipman
Bollywood has descended on the capital for a remake of the film The Italian Job. But the mostly Indian crew has already had a battle with one of the film's biggest stars - the city itself. Seven seconds of action took 100 extras, three practices and more than an hour and a half to orchestrate. Streets around Wellington's CBD were closed for the filming of The Players. Line producer Nirang Desai says the city’s distinctive high winds have been “a bit of a downer”. Yesterday just three shots were filmed. Most of the 100-strong crew and their equipment have been flown in from India to film the second half of the film which is set in Auckland and Wellington.
3 News



Orca visit Bay of Plenty shores

Hundreds of swimmers in the Bay of Plenty were given a big fright when a pod of 30 killer whales came within metres of the shore. The orca estimated from as big as 3.5 metres long, were spotted chasing stingray off Papamoa beach yesterday. Meanwhile, a pod of about nine orca were seen further up the coast in Pauanui on Saturday afternoon.
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd



Australian flood crisis continues to spread

Some rivers in Victoria are at their highest recorded levels as floodwaters in the Australian state swamp towns and force homes to be evacuated. One of the worst floods in the state's history is affecting more than 40 towns and at least 3500 people have fled their homes. Rochester and Charlton were the hardest hit so far, the ABC reports. The town of Horsham is bracing for its worst floods in more than 100 years when the Wimmera River peaks on Monday. Floodwaters from the Campaspe River were on Monday making their way into the northern town of Echuca, inundating a number of homes and cutting off roads. Emergency alerts have also been issued for the towns of Quambatook and Culgoa.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand



Hundreds gather in Chch for national band camp

By Jessica Rowe
Pipers and drummers from around New Zealand have gathered for the National Bag Pipe Summer Camp in Christchurch. And within this group of keen players are the country's most talented young pipers, selected to be part of a new National Youth Band. Organised by the Royal New Zealand Pipe Band Association, over 200 pipers and drummers have been marching to traditional Scottish tunes this summer. About a dozen tutors from around the world have come together to pass on their expertise.



School milk key to lower cancer - study

By Martin Johnston
Adults who drank plenty of the free milk supplied at schools when they were young have a reduced risk of bowel cancer, a study has found. A free half-pint bottle of full cream milk - 284ml - was given daily to children at school between 1937 and 1967. The mid-morning drink was paid for by the state. Writing in the American Journal of Epidemiology, Associate Professor Brian Cox and Dr Mary Jane Sneyd report they found a 30 per cent reduced risk of bowel cancer for those who took part in school milk programmes. And the more school milk people drank, the lower their bowel cancer risk, culminating in a 38 per cent reduction for the biggest drinkers. The researchers suggest calcium - a nutrient in milk more commonly associated with healthy bone development - may affect the growth of bowel adenomas, benign tumours that can become malignant. New Zealand has one of the world's highest bowel cancer rates. Each year around 2800 people are diagnosed with the disease and it kills more than 1200.



DOC hopes seal stays at sea

The Department of Conservation is hoping a large fur seal rescued from a street in Invercargill will stay at sea. Motorists had to swerve to avoid hitting the large animal as in wandered along the street yesterday afternoon. It is thought the fur seal found its way into town up a nearby stream. DOC staff eventually came to the fur seal's aid trapping it in a net and releasing at Oreti Beach last night
Copyright 2002 - 2010, TelstraClear Ltd



Little spotted kiwi spotted in Karori sanctuary

Small, fluffy and already fending for themselves, a pair of chicks have boosted the numbers of the only mainland population of little spotted kiwi. The birds were found by Victoria University researchers at the Karori wildlife sanctuary Zealandia, where a survey last May revealed the population to be about 100 birds. Andrew Digby said the birds would have hatched on or about New Year's Eve. He has been tracking nine breeding pairs of kiwi at the predator-free sanctuary with fellow researcher Kristina Ramstad, looking at their reproductive behaviour and nesting success. They are the smallest of New Zealand's six species of kiwi, and highly vulnerable to predation – particularly as chicks, which fend for themselves almost as soon as they hatch. The majority of the 2000 little spotted kiwi live on Kapiti Island, but a population was established at Zealandia in 2000, when 20 birds were taken there.
The Dominion Post



Cyclone Zelia on track towards Norfolk Island

A cyclone warning is in place for Norfolk Island as Cyclone Zelia is heading towards the Tasman Sea. The cyclone is expected to pass very close to Norfolk Island tomorrow morning. It is about 250 kilometers off New Caledonia’s main island. In New Caledonia, people are advised to look out for possible risk of flooding if rain falls on already saturated ground following Cyclone Vania. Vania hit the south of the main island on Friday with heavy rain before the system weakened on a track towards New Zealand.
News Content © Radio New Zealand International



Take up dancing, mayor urges councillors

Ballroom dancing may not be on many employers list of suggested skills, but Wellington mayor Celia Wade-Brown is encouraging city councillors to pick up such activities to help improve their thinking skills. Ms Wade-Brown has been criticised by some councillors for sending an email encouraging them to sharpen their minds by taking up pastimes such as a new language or dancing. She told Summer Report she has been reading neuroscientific research which shows physical exercise and learning new skills helps lift brain levels.
Copyright © 2010 Radio New Zealand



Sunday, January 16

Netball - Silver Ferns beat England in first test

The Silver Ferns have beaten England 42-40 in the first netball test in Manchester. The New Zealanders led by four goals at quarter time, five at half time and seven points at three-quarter time in their match on Sunday morning (NZ time). England closed in late in the game, but the Silver Ferns' defenders impressed and the visitors held on for the win. The second test is in Nottingham on Tuesday morning.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Shackleton's century-old whiskey returns to Scotland

Three bottles of some of the world's oldest whisky head back to their ancestral home in Scotland today after a trip which began 104 years ago and reached the bottom of the world. The 115-year-old bottles of Mackinlay whisky were from a cache of three crates of whisky and two of brandy British explorer Sir Earnest Shackleton took to the Antarctic in 1907. Today they were to leave New Zealand with billionaire Indian liquor baron Dr Vijay Mallya, who owns the Scottish distillery that produced the whisky more than a century ago. Under an agreement with the Christchurch-based Antarctic Heritage Trust, he was to take the whisky back to Scotland where it would be scientifically analysed. The whisky and brandy were found in ice under the floorboards of Shackleton's hut's at Cape Royds on Ross Island near McMurdo Sound in 2006. The crates, marked British Antarctic Expedition 1907, were frozen solid but the whisky inside the crates was still liquid. One crate was brought back to New Zealand early last year and slowly thawed. It was opened and the bottles were lifted out at the Canterbury Museum in Christchurch last August.
NZPA



City ready to shake - with laughter

LOIS CAIRNS - Sunday Star Times
It will be bellies - not buildings - shaking in central Christchurch when the city's annual chuckle fest gets under way later this week. The World Buskers Festival is expected to draw hundreds of thousands to Christchurch's city centre. The 50 acts selected to take part in this year's festival will perform 500 shows over the 10 days of the festival. Most of the shows are free to attend and are held at outdoor venues around the city centre. Performing in the festival include: American contortionist Jonathan Burns; the The Half-Naked Chef, a spoof Australian TV cook; Jack Dagger, the self-proclaimed American King of Fling who has found fame and fortune throwing knives and tomahawks and cracking whips; and Sammy J and Randy, the winners of Australia's premier comedy award. The festival starts on January 21 and finishes on January 31.



Dotterel nest-movers on standby in cyclone season

Nesting sites of the rare New Zealand dotterel in Coromandel are being closely monitored as the cyclone season approaches, in case they have to be moved from danger. New Zealand has just 1700 of the wading birds, with just 50 pairs on the Coromandel Peninsula. The birds nest beside rivers and on beaches and the Conservation Department's Andy Wills says a sea swell during a single cyclone can flood 30 nests. Mr Wills says a programme to save the dotterel pays for a ranger who gradually moves the nests to higher ground or builds a buttress of sand underneath them. He says they're also helped by 60 volunteer nest-minders.
Copyright © 2011, Radio New Zealand



Bequest revealed

Six paintings, purchased with a surprise $1.8 million bequest to Christchurch Art Gallery, will be unveiled in the city on Tuesday. The Sunday Star- Times understands at least one of the works is by Rita Angus, a personal favourite of Norman Barrett, who left the money in his will last January. Barrett was known as "the man on the bicycle" who lived frugally, riding to art gallery openings from a rented bedsit in Barbadoes St, giving no outward clue to the wealth he had amassed on the stockmarket. Under the terms of his bequest, all six artworks, to be revealed at a function on Tuesday evening, are by local artists, or artists with strong connections to Christchurch and Canterbury, made between 1940-80.
Sunday Star Times


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