1On the Brink All sectors of the community have suffered a shake-up in the Government's revamping of the New Zealand economy. A common factor in the pain has been the startling rise in interest rates. In the first part of a two-part investigation, Close Up looks at how high interest rates, along with a strong New Zealand dollar and falling returns for their meats have caused financial hardship for farmers and threatened the livelihood of businesses dependant on the farming community.

2Mounting Interest All sectors of the community have suffered a shake-up in the Government's revamping of the New Zealand economy. A common factor in the pain has been the startling rise in interest rates. In the second part of a two-part investigation, Close Up looks at how high interest rates affect urban mortgages.

3Fluoride In or Out? Fluoride in the water supply is being hailed as the single most successful factor in reducing tooth decay, but it has always been controversial. critics claim its inclusion in the public water supply is compulsory medication and a violation of human rights. This year, the Timaru Council voted fluoridation out. Now a fight over fluoridation is under way in the West Coast town of Waimarie.