New Zealand may be about to host peace talks between warring groups on the Papua New Guinea Island of Bougainville. EX BRUCE HILL
Police say they're now convinced that the theft of the Colin McCahon painting "Urewera Triptych", from a DOC visitors' centre two weeks ago - was the work of Māori activists. The head of "Operation Art" Detective Inspector Graham Bell says after tracking the offenders vehicles they now have a number of suspects. PRE REC OF GRAHAM BELL
The Minister of Health is condemning a scheme being operated by North Shore doctors where pregnant women are being charged 880 dollars for maternity care. The GP group known as Shore Birth says the service is more personalised and comprehensive than publicly-funded care. PRE REC OF BILL ENGLISH
1715 HEADS
1715 BUISNESS NEWS
Popular schools are to be forced to accept local students. The Minister of Education Wyatt Creech is to legislate this year making such schools' selection [illegible] give high priority to locals. EX MORRISON
One of those 13 schools most affected is New Plymouth Boys High. PRE REC OF PRINCIPAL LYALL FRENCH-WRIGHT
1730 NEWS
The Customs Service three-week old crackdown on suspected duty fraud in the used car import industry is starting to make an impact locally. The flow of used imports from Japan has begun to slow as a backlog of cars awaiting Customs clearance impacts on the cash flow of importers. EX NIALL
The Treasurer has today brushed-off suggestions the coalition government's first Budget has been "oversold".
Winston Peters presents his first budget next week but already he's on the defensive as opposition parties pick-up their attack. EX PARKER
Beware - your toddlers are cleverer than you think. Research out today from the University of Otago's early learning project shows that by 18 months children can pick up information from television. PRE REC OF HARLENE HAYNE
1745 HEADS
1745 SPORTS
Compulsory safety standards for prams and strollers could be on the way following an announcement by the Minister of Consumer Affairs today. Robyn McDonald says she wants the standards following the deaths of at least two babies in the last two years. EX SZIRANYI
1750 MANA NEWS
Farmers from around the country have been in Palmerston North for National Beef Bull Sale week - seen as a key indicator to the beef industry's financial health and optimism. EX GALLOWAY