There seemed to be more laughing and joking going on than rugby as some deserving teens got to test their skills against their sporting idols.

Auckland City and Manukau ratepayers will foot a $28 million bill as their councils move to secure their stakes in Auckland Airport.

The Govt says its 25 cent increase to the minimum wage - about $10 a week - is all that can be afforded, but unions call it is miserly.

Bob Buckle's tax report will have many of our more wealthy MPs working their calculators overtime.

British Prime Minister Gordon Brown has been presented with more damaging evidence.

The blanket secrecy over SAS operations has been ditched, with the Defence Force revealing that elite troopers recently helped capture bomb-makers in Kabul.

Animal experts are urging improved education of dog owners form a major part of the Government's review on dog controls.

Stripping minister Anne Tolley of part of her education portfolio was not a reflection on her capability, Prime Minister John Key said today.

Labour's caucus has confirmed Phil Goff and Annette King's leadership of the party.

Tension on streets as supporters of former Army chief say they will fight for power.