Checkpoint

News from the business sector, including a market report.

Football's latest transfer window has just slammed shut with some big money moves being made during a record-breaking couple of months. English Premier League clubs have spent nearly $8 billion in the summer transfer window, while clubs in other leagues have also been willing to spend significant sums to get All Whites on board. Sports reporter Felicity Reid spoke to Melissa Chan-Green.

A slice of kiwi history has been dug out of the Footrot Flats archive ready for a new home. 50 years after Murray Ball created the iconic cartoon, an original artwork he did for Water Safety NZ in the 80s is being sold to raise funds for the organisation. Murray Ball's son, Mason Ball spoke to Melissa Chan-Green.

In news just to hand, RNZ can reveal that police commissioner Richard Chambers has been cleared of criminal wrongdoing following a Police investigation into historical allegations against him.

Opponents of the government's move-on orders are plased a bill before parliament looks set to be watered down, so that 14 to 17 year olds are no longer included. The legislation gives police the power to shift people if they are being disorderly, begging, or rough sleeping. Political reporter Giles Dexter has more.

A global methanol producer which has employed locals in Taranaki for 40 years is ceasing operations. Production will end from February because there is not enough gas available to fuel its operation, and there's no pathway to a meaningful new supply. Resources Minister Shane Jones spoke to Melissa Chan-Green.

Hundreds of seagulls are plaguing a northern Auckland district, leaving business owners at their wit's end. The birds are damaging roofs, while their excrement blocks drains and contaminates water in Dairy Flat - well away from the nearest beach. Locals are stumped about how they can solve a problem no one is taking responsibility for. Evie Richardson reports.

Crucial warnings that Wellington's Moa Point could catastrophically flood were missed, according to an Independent Crown Review into the February disaster. 14 billion litres of raw sewage has since spewed into the sea off the city's South Coast as a result of the plant failure. The review, released today, points to systemic failures in leadership by the city council, Wellington Water and plant operator Veolia as contributing to the meltdown. Reporter Ellen O'Dwyer spoke to Melissa Chan-Green.

Auckland is pushing a different kind of bull today. A cattle auction at Epsom's inner-city Cornwall Park has attracted farmers from across the upper North Island. The farm is known for its quiet and friendly bulls, who've adapted to the buzz of urban life. Felix Walton reports.

Pakistan cricket is in meltdown, and a Kiwi is suddenly at the centre of the rescue mission. Former Black Caps coach Mike Hesson has been parachuted in to take over Pakistan's test side after two crushing defeats to England. It comes amid a chaotic 48 hours for the team with seven players and two coaching staff sent home from the tour. Sports editor Dana Johannsen spoke to Melissa Chan-Green.