Johnny Blades

Bougainvilleans have relished the opportunity to take part in their region's historic independence referendum, with the vote count to begin this weekend.  Audio

An official overseeing public services in Bougainville says the period following the independence referendum must be used to build the self-reliance of the region. Audio

A reconciliation leader says it's vital that Bougainvilleans be united as they enter the post-referendum period. Audio

As polling for an historic independence referendum continues, the former head of the Bougainville Revolutionary Army is calling for foreign partnership to help in the construction of a new nation… Audio

There's a sense of optimism in Bougainville's future and a focus on nation-building, as polling continues in the autonomous Papua New Guinea region's independence referendum. Audio

Papua New Guinea's Minister for Bougainville Affairs says PNG will seek to ensure a likely majority vote for independence in its autonomous region doesn't trigger a break-up of the state. Audio

Polling has begun in Bougainville's referendum on whether to have independence or greater autonomy within Papua New Guinea. Audio

Polling has begun in Bougainville's referendum on whether to have independence or greater autonomy within Papua New Guinea. Audio

The path to a vote over Bougainville's independence from Papua New Guinea has been bloody, long and circuitous. A brutal civil war through the Nineties on this group of islands some 700 kilometres… Audio

As Bougainville nears its self-determination referendum, the mine that sparked its bloody civil war is seen as the key to potential independence from Papua New Guinea. Audio

Bougainville's Chief Referendum Officer is sounding quietly confident that the autonomous Papua New Guinea region's independence vote will run smoothly. Audio

Vanuatu's Labour Commissioner says her decision to refuse an application for the renewal of a work permit for the Daily Post's media director is about localisation of employment positions, and not… Audio

Everything is falling into place for the upcoming referendum on Bougainville's independence from Papua New Guinea, according to its organisers. Audio

RNZ's Johnny Blades talks to Kathryn about the fatal measles outbreak in Samoa and in Bougainville's upcoming referendum on independence from Papua New Guinea. Audio