Checkpoint

A lack of regulation around AI use in New Zealand has musicians and other creatives worried about the risks the tech may pose. With no clear laws, and an outdated copyright model that doesn't account for AI, it's unclear how artists can protect themselves and their work. Clive Elliott KC, a barrister at Shortland Chambers who specialises in Intellectual Property spoke to Lisa Owen.

New Zealand's musicians are watching on with a mix of horror and wonder as artificial intelligence programmes create increasingly plausible songs ... often with just a few clicks of a button. Just weeks ago a band called the 'Velvet Sundown' rose up the Spotify charts before it was revealed all their music had been generated by AI. As the technology continues to evolve at breakneck speed, artists and producers here are concerned about the lack of regulation around the tech. To find out what risks and potential benefits AI may hold for Aotearoa's music industry, Evie Richardson tested out some of the tech on offer.

Taupo residents have vowed to fight for the town's hospital, due to fears it could lose critival services because of dire workforce shortages. The shortages were so bad that contingency plans were drawn up last year to move patients to Rotorua Hospital if Taupo's clinic had to close its doors. That would leave the area's 40,000 people without a hospital. It is a scenario residents at a packed public meeting last night said cannot happen. Jimmy Ellingham reports.

Dame Lydia Ko will defend her British Open golf title in Wales when the tournament begins tonight. The New Zealander said she has nothing to prove when she tees off in a group that includes one the sport's rising stars and a former world number one. Sports reporter Felicity Reid spoke to Lisa Owen.

The Global Guinness Ambassador has made his way to New Zealand shores to teach people how to pour the perfect pint, and pass on his wisdom about the history of Ireland's famous stout. Global Guinness Ambassador, Padraig Fox spoke to Lisa Owen.

United States correspondent Todd Zwillich spoke to Lisa Owen about more details coming to light about the gunman behind the Manhattan office building mass shooting.

A desperate attempt to salvage a dying industry is how one animal welfare group has described a competition where a racing greyhound is the prize. Another said it raises serious ethical issues. Greyhound NZ has been offering part shares in a racing dog as a prize in a competition where entrants have to say why they oppose a ban on the sport. Both Safe and the SPCA have raised concerns about the competition. GRNZ board member and Greyhound trainer Craig Roberts spoke to Lisa Owen.

UK correspondent Lucy Thomson spoke to Lisa Owen about Israel hitting back at the Starmer government over their stance on Gaza, as well as London playing host to one of the most unique sporting World Cups.

The New Zealand government is holding the line on Palestinian statehood, despite the United Kingdom's shift in position. The British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced an intention to recognise a Palestinian state at a UN meeting in September - unless Israel agrees to key conditions, including a ceasefire. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said he would discuss the move with Starmer, but would not be following his lead at this stage.

News from the business sector, including a market report.