Checkpoint

Former Defence Minister Mark Mitchell tells John Campbell why he thinks he has the right qualities to lead the National Party. Video, Audio

Dunedin man Michael Horgan received a positive result after requesting to be screened for bowel cancer, but was turned away from Southern DHB because he didn't have serious symptoms. Video, Audio

Cancer patients have a better chance of survival in Australia than they do in New Zealand, a new study has found. Cancer patient Jess Spence says that's just not good enough. Video, Audio

Schools have been shut down in Buller and travellers are being warned to expect significant disruptions as Cyclone Gita arrives. It's expected to bring 24 to 48 hours of heavy rain and severe gales. Audio

Watch Monday's full programme here. Video

More than 40,000 visitors from around the world are expected to descend on the region, as the event celebrates its 30th anniversary. Video, Audio

Gita made landfall in Tonga on Monday, flattening the country's Parliament and destroying nearly 200 homes throughout the kingdom. Video, Audio

Now a category 3 storm, former Cyclone Gita will destructive winds and heavy rain on Tuesday. The Metservice is advising people to tie things down and clear drains. Video, Audio

The tiny hopping amphibians, which let off a high-pitched screech when disturbed, are coming into houses at night, freaking out locals, but warming the hearts of conservation experts. Video, Audio

Reporter Jessie Chiang sits down with the Li Family for a Chinese New Year dinner and finds out what their life is like after more than two decades in New Zealand. Read more Video, Audio