Associate Professor Miro Erkintalo of Auckland University this year won the Beatrice Hill Tinsley Medal for outstanding research published within 15 years of getting a PhD.

Matthew Parris signs off from Nine to Noon after many years as UK correspondent. Today he recounts the time he saved a dog from drowning in the Thames and was congratulated by then Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.

As the Christmas rush to the airport begins in earnest, how has our national carrier risen to its myriad challenges this year?

A new paper is backing claims Auckland's 2016 unitary plan changes, saw more houses built , and kept a lid on rents, despite criticism to the contrary.

Science commentator Allan Blackman looks at a recent study that has scientists warning about "mirror life" - a category of synthetic organisms that could pose unprecedented risks to human life and eco-systems.

The disaster relief charity Taskforce Kiwi was founded two years ago by Richard Adams and since then it has been on the ground, supporting local communities and emergency services.

Music correspondent Kirsten Zemke explores how German Baroque composer Johann Pachelbel's Canon in D has been used in modern music.

Logan talks to Kathryn about a Southlander winning the inaugural space award, racing punters are tightening the belt, and the looming financial gap from greyhound ban.

Lisa Finucane reviews Venetian Lessons in Love by Jenna Lo Bianco published by Macmillan

The aftershocks are continuing to rattle Vanuatu following yesterday's deadly 7.3 magnitude earthquake. Dickinson Tevi, Secretary General of Vanuatu Red Cross, joins Kathryn.