Morning Report

Catch up with the latest headlines from around the world with RNZ's Alice Wilkins.

Public health researchers are calling for more drinking fountains to be installed nationwide, because they can help improve people's health. Professor Nick Wilson from the University of Otago's Department of Public Health spoke to John Campbell.

Labour leader Chris Hipkins discusses Winston Peters' comments; Local board member raises concerns over fast track process; Westpac chief economist on fuel prices and unemployment; Dr Bev Lawton discusses cervical cancer screening review; Quake experts discusses NZ's alert system and preparedness

Wellington Opera's season of Manon, one of the most popular works in French opera, is a sell out, something the opera company believes is unheard of for a New Zealand opera in living memory. The story of two doomed lovers stars internationally acclaimed Kiwi-Samoan tenor Pene Pati and Kiwi-Egyptian soprano Amina Edris, who are also a couple in real life. Pene Pati joins us now.

Visitors at the popular marine reserve at Te Hawere-a-Maki/Goat Island in the north of Auckland could be made to pay for parking, as early as this summer. DOC's Auckland Operations Director Alex Rogers spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

An early morning sports news update.

The latest market updates and news from RNZ's business team.

It has been a tough few years to be a jobseeker. Data this week is expected to show the unemployment rate still hovering around the highest level it's been in a decade.

A new study of wild deer populations in Hawke's Bay has found the problem is costing farmers tens of thousands of dollars. The research, by primary sector economist Peter MacIntyre, reveals extensive pasture and crop losses from deer, as well as damage to native plantings and bush. Hawke's Bay Tairawhiti reporter Alexa Cook has the story.

The head of a university teacher training scheme is defending the quality of its graduates, after the Education Minister said many leaving the courses aren't 'classroom ready'. Aaron Wilson, Auckland University's Head of School for Education and Social Practice spoke to John Campbell.