Morning Report

The All Blacks face off against France in Dunedin tomorrow night, for their first test of the year. Dunedin Venues chief executive Paul Doorn spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss. Audio

The first All Blacks team has been named for the year, with four debutants, a new midfield, a new loose forward combination and a return to the wing for a star player among the topics being discussed… Read more Audio

Nominations for local elections officially open today, but Auckland Council is worried fewer people than usual are expressing an interest in running in Tamaki Makaurau. RNZ reporter Jessica Hopkins… Read more Audio

People at the top of the south are relieved the worst of yesterday's weather passed them by but many are weary as they look ahead to a lengthy clean up. Adam Burns filed this report. Audio

Taranaki hit with flash floods, slips, popped manholes and sewage flows as the region was pummelled by thunderstorms. New Plymouth District Mayor Neil Holdom spoke to Corin Dann. Audio

The All Blacks coach Scott Robertson has picked a new look loose forward trio for the opening test against France as he seeks to find the best combination. Audio

Returning to the NRLW after a five-year hiatus, the Warriors will face defending champions Sydney Roosters on Sunday. Jonty Dine has the story. Audio

A programme to try to get people off meth and away from crime has been launched in Porirua as part of a multi-million dollar government drive. Ellen O'Dwyer reports. Audio

A New Zealand woman and a British tourist have been killed by an elephant while on a walking safari in Zambia. A Facebook post names the Kiwi as 67-year-old Alison Jean Taylor The Guardian's Rachel… Read more Audio

The government's turning to locals to help steer the build of the beleagured Dunedin Hospital, but they won't be giving advice on design, care or money. Dunedin mayor Jules Radich spoke to Ingrid… Read more Audio

Makeshift shelters of cardboard and blankets, some propped up with road cones, are dotted along the street near Auckland City Mission, which is struggling to support an increase in rough sleepers. Amy… Read more Audio

Nurses are slamming their latest pay offer as a massive backward step. Health New Zealand says its new deal has a higher percentage pay increase than the earlier one, and lump sum payments this year… Read more Audio