Wednesday 04th February, 2015

The national unemployment rate has risen in the last quarter, and is now almost 6%.

But there are also more people entering the labour force, driving employment up in some regions.

Over the last year there's been an increase in the number of people in employment overall.

Auckland and Canterbury jobs are contributing the most to that trend.

Annual wage inflation, as measured by the labour cost index, has also increased.

It's up 1.8% compared with a more modest annual consumer price inflation.


Wednesday 04th February, 2015
Woman fights for justice

A Dunedin mother is fighting for justice in the case of her son's death at a nearby prison.

She's waited four years for those involved in the incident to be held accountable.

And despite a major setback, she's vowing to do all she can to ensure her son's fate isn't repeated.


Friday 30th January, 2015

Export values are up, led by a large increase in the amount and value of exported meat.

In the last quarter, total exports were worth $12b.

The value of meat exports was up 15%, and the quantity of exported meat also rose.

That helped to counter a downturn in the dairy market.

Milk powder, butter, and cheese exports were all down.

Export values for such products have fallen by a quarter in the last year.

China continues to take more local product year on year, although a lot of New Zealand milk powder is now going to Algeria.


Friday 30th January, 2015
Local designers showcase Dunedin fashion

Dunedin fashion has long been celebrated for its edgy, unique attributes, and now that's forming a one-of-a-kind exhibition.

Several local designers are involved in a showcase of Dunedin garments, soon to be launched in Auckland.

It's a collaborative project that's set to expose southern style to a much wider audience.


Thursday 29th January, 2015
Social housing issues coming to a head

Properties in Dunedin are likely to be sold as part of a newly-announced government state house sell-off.

That's prompted criticism from Dunedin South MP Clare Curran, who's slammed the move as short-sighted.

And it seems other issues around social housing may be coming to a head.


Thursday 29th January, 2015
Exorbitant fines puts national parking firm under scrutiny

A national parking firm is coming under increased local scrutiny, for what some residents say are exorbitant penalty fines.


Thursday 29th January, 2015
Major milestone in sight for local rugby player

A major milestone is in sight for a local rugby player, gearing up for this year's Super Rugby season.

The Highlander and his fellow players are hard at work, ensuring they make the most of their remaining pre-season games.

And time is of the essence, with the international tournament just around the corner.


Tuesday 27th January, 2015

Dunedin is part of a positive report on the services sector, showing the city's had steady business growth in many areas.

Tourism-related business is up, as well as wholesale and property services.

The latest figures are included in a nationwide services performance index.

It shows that Otago and Southland are leading the way, ahead of the rest of the country.

Activity relates to December, when Dunedin had solid seasonal business expansion, in part due to good weather.


Monday 26th January, 2015

The New Zealand dollar has fallen to its lowest level against the greenback in more than three years.

The kiwi was down to 74.25 US cents this morning.

That's come as investors sell euros and buy US dollars in anticipation of a revived American economy.

The high US dollar is in turn pushing other currencies down.

The kiwi is now at its lowest level against the greenback since November 2011, when it fell under 74 cents.

Interest rates in the US are expected to rise this year.

That's good news for local exporters, but not so good for consumers.


Monday 26th January, 2015
Kiwi cyclist raising money for Diabetes New Zealand

A Kiwi cyclist is traversing the entire country to raise money for Diabetes New Zealand.

The music teacher from Masterton has reached Dunedin, ahead of the last leg of his journey.

And he's got a strong message for every New Zealander.