Checkpoint

Music is probably one of the last things you'd pay attention to when out for a meal or drink - but it can make or break the whole experience.

We've all been to a restaurant or bar where the music is… Read more Audio

A massive earthquake has rocked Taiwan and prompted tsunami warnings in Japan and the Phillipines. Earlier, the quake was reported to be M7.2, but the Japan Meteorological Agency has upgraded the… Read more Audio

Recruiters have said the brain drain is underway, with some people heading overseas to get away from New Zealand's tough job market. Dozens of companies and government agencies have announced… Read more Audio

Police are on the hunt for three people after a kidnapping on Auckland's North Shore last night. Officers responded to reports of a gunshot, following an altercation at a property on Sunnyhaven Avenue… Read more Audio

Sam Whitelock has shut the door on a potential return to the All Blacks. The veteran lock has announced he'll retire from all rugby after wrapping up his obligations with French club Pau this season… Read more Audio

The situation for pet owners may be related to cost of living pressures and this week we've heard about charities struggling to stay afloat as Kiwis pull back their spending. Georgie Hannifin asked… Read more Video, Audio

Two kittens have been dumped outside a vet clinic in Auckland, with a note saying de-sexing is too expensive. The cats were left in a container which was taped shut. They have now been transferred to… Read more Audio

The axe is falling on hundreds of jobs in the public sector, with the latest losses looming at Oranga Tamariki and The Ministry of Health. Ministries have been ordered to find between 6.5 and 7.5% in… Read more Audio

Asia correspondent Per Elinder Liljas speaks to Susana Leiataua about the large earthquake that struck Taiwan today and El Niño contributing to soaring temperatures. Read more Audio

Australia correspondent Peter Ryan speaks to Lisa Owen about Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese demanding answers from Israel after an Australian aid worker was killed while delivering food… Read more Audio

At least five aid workers providing food in Gaza have reportedly been killed in an Israeli air strike. An Australian woman is believed to be among the dead World Central Kitchen workers. Israel said… Read more Audio