Checkpoint

The cold snap gripping the country is set to intensify tonight - with MetService warning of double-digit negative temperatures in parts of the south. The icy conditions are already straining the power grid - and prompting welfare agencies to step up support for vulnerable people. Otago Southland reporter Katie Todd has the story.

Christopher Luxon is digging in over his use of an Air Force flight after attending a National Party fundraiser, saying he has a "busy job". Labour's Chris Hipkins says it's unjustifiable for the Prime Minister to use the Defence Force as a "personal taxi service" for campaigning purposes. Deputy political editor Craig McCulloch spoke to Melissa Chan-Green.

Frustrated dentists say it's not fair that rates of tooth decay in the country's smallest kids have not improved in 25 years. The dental association has released a report card that brings together many dental health statistics in a bid to drive change. It shows 43 percent of children have had tooth decay by the time they're five. Rowan Quinn was at the launch.

A former All Blacks captain is doing his part to combat concussion in community rugby. Same Cane has become an ambassador for 'Hit Kit', an education and first aid tool to help recovery from head knocks. Sports reporter Jonty Dine spoke to Melissa Chan-Green.

A Kiwi apprentice is set to appear on the world stage in a competition showcasing trade skills. The WorldSkills competition in Shanghai tests the world's best in a range of skills from banking to cyber security and retail sales. 22 year old Campbell Brown from Papamoa will be competing to be crowned the world's best refrigeration and air conditioning specialist. Campbell Brown spoke to Melissa Chan-Green.

Middle East correspondent Madeline Croad spoke to Melissa Chan-Green about American officials being optimistic that a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz could be reached as soon as tomorrow. The prospect of an agreement that could allow more vessels to pass through the crucial shipping route saw oil prices tumble to three-week lows. It follows days of contradictions between the US and Iran around whether fresh negotiations are actually taking place.

The Salvation Army is seeing greater numbers of young people turn to them for help - as today's unemployment figures show nearly 96,000 aren't in jobs, education or training. The NEET rate for 15 to 24 year olds is now at 13.8 percent. Unemployment has risen to an 11 year high of 5.6 percent. Salvation Army Principal Policy Analyst, Paul Barber spoke to Melissa Chan-Green.

Australia correspondent Nick Grimm spoke to Melissa Chan-Green about Australians being warned to brace for mass wildlife death as the H5 bird flu outbreak takes hold in the country.

News from the business sector, including a market report.

The All Blacks' tour of South Africa hasn't even kicked off yet, but one player is already headed home injured. Hooker George Bell has suffered a calf strain and will be replaced in the 44-man squad before the weekend's first game. Sports reporter Felicity Reid spoke to Melissa Chan-Green.