Latest fromAustralasia

The Ashes: England facing defeat
England were 81-5 in their second innings at stumps on the third day of the third Test against Australia.

Australia to be overrun by Oprah lovers
Brand Oprah gives Australia plenty of good publicity but tourists who don't share her philosophy might be put off.

<i>The Muddle-headed Wombat</i> author dies
New Zealand-born Ruth Park resonated with generations of Australians, novelist Thomas Keneally said today.

Petra poached for TV's Breakfast
TV3 personality Petra Bagust is tipped to be named today as one of two new presenters on TVNZ's popular Breakfast.

80 jobs axed at Ohakune sawmill
Another 80 job losses announced today in a third sawmill unable to profitably export timber suggests the wood industry is in crisis, says a union representing workers in the sector.

Soccer: Paston struggles for positives
Mark Paston will use his computer science degree to get some work experience at an IT firm during his injury layoff.

Larry King's 25-year reign comes to an end
He is from another era of current affairs television and tonight (Friday afternoon NZ time) that era will end.

Public-private deal in offing for Coromandel beach
A proposal to put the iconic New Chums Beach on the Coromandel Peninsula into public ownership through a private-public deal is being considered by the Department of Conservation.

Armed man commandeered Mr Whippy van, court told
A knife-wielding man commandeered a Mr Whippy van and hurled ice creams at passersby, a court has been told.

Elton John to play in Dunedin
Dunedin's new stadium has attracted its first major singing act, with Sir Elton John set to perform late next year.