A revitalisation of Auckland's central business district has been much promised after years of struggling for both businesses and residents with the orange cones and impact of construction of the central rail link. One of those who would like to see a shake up in the approach to the central city is entrepreneur Andrew Barnes - who is also the founder of Perpetual Guardian and is known for promoting the four-day working week.

New Zealand has its second combat sport world champion crowned in as many weeks in the form of Lani Daniels. Sam also discusses the success of the Black Ferns Sevens team as well as the Warriors in the NRL.

Te Rongo Kirkwood's art works have been heating up the glass world. She was the first artist of Maori heritage to receive the prestigious Rakow Commission from the Corning Museum of Glass in New York. The award recognises artists who are pushing the boundaries of what can be done with glass, and Te Rongo's installation The Seer, the Seen and the Seeing - which includes a kakahu or cloak, is now in the Museum's permanent collection. Te Rongo was also the New Zealand Glass Works' first artist in residence four years ago and she also created the award that goes to recipients of music's Aotearoa Charts Icon each year. Her work will be able to be seen at the Aotearoa Art Fair which opens next Thursday April 30 and is the biggest in its history, bringing together more than 60 galleries, and 200 artists from 25 countries. Te Rongo talks to Kathryn about her journey with glass.

Investors are watching the upcoming March quarter CPI release and market reactions to renewed tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

Jimmy gives an update on the death of eels and fish due to the drying up of Pukepuke Lagoon in coastal Manawatu.

Elisabeth Easther reviews Love is an Algorithm by Laura Brooke Robson, published by Text Publishing.

Ukrainian-Canadian author Maria Reva's debut novel Endling is a darkly funny and compelling tale about loss and survival.

Escalating tensions between the US and Iran have sent oil prices surging.

The head of a social service provider is nervous about what might happen once its contract moves under the Social Investment Agency.

The rain overnight wasn't as heavy as feared, though more rain is still forecast.