The $32m Viaduct Events Centre under construction is being put forward as an alternative "party central" for the RWC.

Rugby World Cup Minister Murray McCully has vented his frustration at the ARC's U-turn over the development of Queens Wharf.

Despite ruling out any kind of carbon price before 2012, Julia Gillard says she's still the safest bet for the planet.

The Prime Minister says he cannot see how the council could afford to restore a 98-year-old cargo shed.

A rail platform which won't be long enough for new three-car units to be used from 2013 can be extended in the future.

Auckland rail officials have been accused of "incompetence on a grand scale" for building a platform too short for the trains it will serve.

John Key's dream of turning Queens Wharf into "party central" for the Rugby World Cup is in tatters following a political impasse between the Govt and the ARC.

It's time John Key put the dummy back in Murray McCully's mouth and sent him to the Chris Carter home for over-stressed politicians.

The ARC, co-owner of Queens Wharf, has voted to keep one of the wharf sheds as a Rugby World Cup "party central" venue, alongside the Govt's temporary Cup structure dubbed the "slug".

Three rugs, four necklaces and a wristwatch from Jacques Chirac were among gifts Helen Clark took with her when she left Parliament.

Prime Minister John Key will launch his own version of 'Panda diplomacy' in Beijing today.

NZ won't extend the number of refugees it accepts and needs to address the increasing risk of people-smuggling boats hitting our shores, says the PM.