An early morning sports news update.

The race is on with four candidates now confirmed to be contesting the Te Tai Tokerau seat. Te Pati Maori announced its candidate yesterday for the Maori electorate, following the departure of Mariameno Kapa-Kingi who will run under a new party banner. But, Labour and the Greens are also in it to win it. Political reporter Lillian Hanly reports.

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

Christchurch's new Te Kaha Stadium has been great news for the city. But for some nearby businesses road closures during big events are causing headaches. They say the road management during the events is losing them customers and money. Andrew Brady, owner of Mediterranean Foods on Tuam Street spoke to John Campbell.

Samoa police investigate two local men accused of murder in Vietnam. A West Papuan activist targeted in fake AI-generated reel. Some big movements in deep sea mining.

Samoa's ministry of police, prisons and corrections services have launched an investigation into two Samoan nationals accused of murdering a gang leader in Vietnam.

A West Papuan independence activist says AI-generated fake video footage of her and her words has been used to spread disinformation on social media.

The latest news and sport from RNZ Pacific.

Big seabed mining news in our Pacific business wrap.

Labour's Willow-Jean Prime on the party's priorities ahead of the budget announcement.