Kiwi experts are helping, in a global fight against pneumonia

A landmark international study into the illness has brought researchers closer to finding a vaccine that could help save thousands of young children worldwide.

The study involved seven countries and nearly 10,000 children, and pin-pointed the deadliest forms of viruses and bacteria.

They say a vaccine could make a big difference.

The findings will help shape how clinicians prevent, diagnose and treat the illness in the 21st century,

Each year, more than 100-million cases of the pneumonia are reported - and about 900-thousand deaths.




New Zealand wouldn't need to overhaul its education system to start teaching kids about climate change.

One Victoria University education professor has been fighting for more than two years to make climate change part of the curriculum.

Professor Jennie Ritchie says it wouldn't even require a big shake-up.

She says the environment is part of the existing curriculum - it just needs to be taught in a more empowering way.



Funding's coming for pilot service programmes for tackling problem gambling.

The Government's announced 5-million-dollars for innovative technology and pilot programme services.

It's on top of a 60-million-dollar, three-year strategy to minimise gambling harm.

Health ministry addictions manager Richard Taylor says the pilot programmes will allow the Government to reach under-serviced groups.





Fire and Emergency says lessons can be learned from a fire that nearly destroyed a Wellington Marae.

An investigation has found the blaze that ripped through Tapu Te Ranga Marae earlier this month was accidental.

It was caused by wind blowing hot embers from a brazier into the main building.

Wellington area manager Dave Key says even in winter, embers can stay hot for a long time.



He says alarms need to be operational at all times.



Crusaders assistant coach Jason Ryan has fired a warning to the Hurricanes ahead of their Super Rugby semi-final in Christchurch tonight.

The two-time defending champions have wrapped preparations for the home match with their captain's run.

But it was their final major training run that caught Ryan's eye - saying it was their best training in three years.