Midday Report for Wednesday 7 October 2020

12:50 PM.For more than two months, we've been reporting on the mass demonstrations taking place in Belarus, following the re-election of President Alexander Lukashenko that many believe was rigged.

Hundreds… Read more Audio

12:46 PM.A Fijian living in New Zealand says Fijian Language Week is important for the preserving the language - also known as iTaukei, which is declining in use.

The 2020 Fijian Language theme is 'Noqu Vosa… Read more Audio

12:42 PM.The Electoral Commission has apologised for a range of problems some people have experienced during this first week of advanced voting, but there's concern it'll turn some off from having their say at… Read more Audio

12:35 PM.The horticulture industry is still holding onto hope that some RSE workers from the Pacific may be able to come into the country to help pick fruit this season.

Eric Frykberg has nga korero e pa ana… Read more Audio

12:28 PM.The White Ferns are playing for pride in their final cricket one-dayer in Brisbane today.

Stephen Hewson has te pūrongo pakihi. Read more Audio

12:20 PM.Healthcare is on the expansion trail as it moves to raise $250 million to upgrade two Australian hospitals, and develop a new health precinct in Adelaide, South Australia.

Gyles Beckford has te… Read more Audio

12:14 PM.The first Assistant Māori Commissioner for Children has been appointed.

Glenis Philip-Barbara, no Ngāti Porou me Ngati Uepōhatu, says the role acknowledges Te Tiriti in practice and is committed to… Read more Audio

12:11 PM.Strong winds that have been hampering firefighting efforts at Lake Ohau have died down, allowing the on-site crew to gain further control of the situation.

The fire has caused widespread devastation… Read more Audio

12:00 PM.Criticism for some companies claiming wage subsidies. Gains are made in fighting the Lake Ohau fire. And the first assitant Māori children's commisisoner is appointed.

Nicola Wright has the news. Read more Audio