Morning Report

Hamilton residents are bracing themselves for a massive rates rise after predictions it will be in double-digits. Mayor Andrew King has recommended 15.5 percent, but a final figure won't be decided… Read more Audio

One of China's favourite ways of paying for things is about to be introduced to Wellington shops - making it easier for Chinese tourists to spend money. Alipay is a smartphone application used by more… Read more Audio

The National Party denies it is trying to drive a wedge between the government parties as it pushes to establish the Kermadec Ocean Sanctuary from opposition. The Nelson MP Nick Smith has lodged a… Read more Audio

It's Friday so we cross the ditch to Canberra to talk to our correspondent Kerry-Anne Walsh. Audio

An Auckland iwi community housing project which uses a system of solar panels and batteries for energy has been recognised for its sustainability practice. Vector and Ngati Whatua Orakei teamed up on… Read more Audio

A new Antarctic marine sanctuary in the Ross Sea comes into effect today, covering more than 1.5 million square kilometres of the Southern Ocean. It's been welcomed by New Zealand filmaker Peter Young… Read more Audio

A new review of global research supports what activists have been saying for years - set nets are a major cause of penguin deaths. The review identifies the endangered hoiho, or yellow-eyed penguin… Read more Audio

The risk of drought is rising. While winter and early spring brought a deluge of rain, saturated soils are now drying out fast. That's raised fears that the spreading dry conditions could dent… Read more Audio

Fiji police have made a public appeal to parents to keep their children safe over the school holiday period after the deaths of four children last week. Police say one child was found floating in a… Read more Audio