Checkpoint

There have been major anti-immigration protests across South Africa this week, attracting thousands of demonstrators. Several political parties and vigilante group are pushing for the removal of undocumented migrants. Thousands have left South Africa fearing they could be targets for violence. Correspondent in Johannesburg, Elna Schutz spoke to Lisa Owen.

The owner of an Auckland gardening business is frustrated at how difficult it seems to get workers despite high numbers of people apparently needing jobs. She says she's advertised several times for a gardener to join her company, with no experience required and on the job training. She's now resorted to using a recruitment company. The business owner spoke to Lisa Owen.

Neil the Seal is causing more destruction - officials say to admire from afar. Australia correspondent Nick Grimm joins Lisa Owen on Checkpoint.

News from the business sector, including a market report.

All Blacks coach Dave Rennie's first team of the year has two debuntants on the bench and a new first-five. Rugby reporter Joe Porter spoke with Lisa Owen.

A hand-made silk victorian frock, coloured with arsenic-based dye, is going on display for the first time at Whanganui regional museum. Museum acting director Trish Nugent Lyne spoke with Lisa Owen.

Every option, as soon as possible. It's what the Consumer Affairs Minister is demanding after findings this morning showed asbestos in contaminated children's play sand can be airborne. One of the options Cameron Brewer has asked for could be a total ban on the products. His urgent meeting with officials today came hours after AUT released its results from a world-first study. Some every-day parents whose children played with contaminated sand, now face fresh worry. Kim Baker Wilson reports.

One of Aotearoa's most popular fish is on the verge of extinction and drastic action is needed to save it, according to an environmental group. Tarakihi is often one half of that much loved duo, fish and chips, part of a home fry up or popular on restaurant menus. Most are caught commercially using trawl nets. Raewyn Peart from the Environmental Defence Society spoke to Lisa Owen.

Six underwater hockey players from Nelson are representing New Zealand at the age group world championships in Turkey later this month. The minority sport has always had a strong following at the top of the South, with Nelson Tasman club players often competing nationally and internationally, trained by coaches who have represented the country at an elite level.

Te Pati Maori's troubles have resurfaced, with a former co-leader calling for a change in leadership. It comes after the party faced a period of turmoil and infighting, resulting in one of its MPs being expelled and another leaving to start her own party. Te Ururoa Flavell says he's been approached by many staunch supporters who were uncertain about how to vote.