Comedians Irene Pink and Donna Brookbanks with some of the lighter stories of the week, including a cartoon character mascot unveiled by the Vatican in the hope of engaging young people.

Big occasions await for a series of NZ sporting teams both here and overseas - Sam Ackerman breaks down what awaits the All Blacks, Black Caps and Kiwis - as well as the first ever all NZ A-league derby between Auckland FC and the Wellington Phoenix.

Amy discusses the controversy this week over the decision to move Western Springs Speedway, also an update on the CRL stations taking shape and midtown rejuvenation.

Eden Denyer from Unity Books Wellington reviews This Is How You Remember It by Catherine Prasifka, published by Canongate.

Kiribati's president-elect Taneti Maamau has secured 55 percent of votes.

We reveal the five winners of this year's Nine to Noon short story competition.

Retired eye surgeon Philip Polkinghorne has been sentenced to 150 hours of community work for methamphetamine charges at the High Court at Auckland this morning.

The Transport Accident Investigation Commission wants to expand the types of investigations it undertakes.

From today, Pharmac is to fund a new form of hormone replacement therapy, after years of campaigning by doctors and patients.

The Commerce Commission has filed proceedings against GIB manufacturer Winstone Wallboards for anti-competitive behaviour.