Checkpoint

The government has given itself new powers to override councils, if they their decisions will negatively impact economic growth, development or employment. Housing and RMA reform minister Chris Bishop… Read more Audio

The Prime Minister is rattling through a blitz of business promos on his first day in China, showcasing New Zealand's wares, and pitching it as a tourist destination. Deputy political editor Craig… Read more Audio

A senior doctor has said she's kept awake at night by having to ration care at Whangarei hospital which she says is understaffed and under resourced. Others say it's frustrating, exhausting and like… Read more Audio

The father of Sophia Crestani, who was crushed to death at an over-crowded Otago student house party, is calling for a liquor store in the heart of Dunedin's student quarter to shut an hour earlier… Read more Audio

New Zealanders have filled out their last traditional Census form, with the five-yearly count to be scrapped from 2030. The census, which has existed in a similar format for more than 70 years, will… Read more Audio

A new research lab in Porirua has been built to be set on fire. The Building Research Association said the $40 million facility can simulate the way fire spreads through multi-storey buildings… Read more Audio

The man who was given a restraining order for stalking British tennis player Emma Raducanu earlier this year has been caught trying to apply for tickets for this month's Wimbledon Championships… Read more Audio

The price of butter has seen a number of schools ditch traditional fundraisers in favour of selling blocks of butter instead. Westgold has been supplying the 250 gram blocks which go for $4, and… Read more Audio

Asia correspondent Erin Hale spoke to Lisa Owen about a volcanic eruption in Indonesia that has left many tourists, including New Zealanders, stranded in Bali, meanwhile two suspects have been… Read more Audio

Chiefs fans have been told that cow bells are not welcome at the Super Rugby Pacific final in Christchurch on Saturday. The Waikato supporters are known for enthusiastically ringing the metal bells… Read more Audio

Cyclists on Auckland's North Shore can finally take the bus across the Harbour Bridge. Buses in the city don't have bike racks - and the only public transport option cyclists have had to get across… Read more Audio

Australia correspondent Nick Grimm spoke to Lisa Owen about Donald's Trump early departure from the G7 summit leaving other world leaders hanging, including Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.