1Prime Minister David Lange says it would be premature of him to comment on an apparent easing of tension between New Zealand and the United States over the nuclear ships issue.

2Several unions staged a mass walkout of the Federation of Labour (FOL) conference in Wellington today following a vote in favour of a Council of Trade Unions (CTU).

3The Broadcasting Corporation (BCNZ) today confirmed its decision not to show live coverage of the Cavaliers' rebel rugby matches in South Africa.

4Former All Black and test referee Frank McMullen left New Zealand today to take part in the rebel rugby tour of South Africa. Meanwhile, the South African Rugby Board announced today that for the first time, the Springboks will be sponsored for the so-called tests against the Cavaliers.

5Passenger services on the North Island main trunk line were cancelled today as the dispute over railway staffing levels and the Railway Corporation's redundancy plan widens.

6A seismic wave (tidal wave or tsunami) warning has been issued to nations around the Pacific this evening following a major earthquake near the Aleutian Islands. It is likely to have little effect on New Zealand, apart from the development of rapid currents in harbours and channels which could trouble people out in small boats.

7Reports have come out of the Soviet Union today regarding a mass exodus from the Ukrainian city of Kiev, twelve days after the nuclear accident at Chernobyl.

8The Tamil separatist movement, accused of setting off the bomb in Colombo last night, has denied involvement. Another dissident group, called the Sinhalese Leftist Movement has claimed responsibility.

9Analysis of the latest Eyewitness News Heylen poll which shows the new Opposition leader Jim Bolger's popularity continues to rise. He scores well for both his performance in the job and as a potential Prime Minister. National is now level with Labour in terms of public popularity.

10The Australian Federal Government is battling to restore calm within politics and the judiciary following the latest developments in a controversy involving ne of Australia's most senior judges. Today the Government Caucus was deciding on the terms of reference for a Commission of Inquiry into allegations about High Court judge Lionel Murphy's behaviour.

11There is a growing trend in New Zealand towards teaching intellectually handicapped children alongside mainstream children. However, there are fears that mainstreaming children with high needs could place too much strain on teachers and penalise other pupils.