1The Royal Commission established by the Government to define a social policy for the future has delivered back a stinging attack on the Government's own economic policies (Rogernomics). An in-depth look at the Commission's findings, criticisms and recommendations.

2In defiance of New Zealand's wishes, French Rainbow Warrior saboteur Dominique Prieur is returning to Paris from Hau Atoll.

3French commandoes, humiliated after the bungled Rainbow Warrior operation, have redeemed themselves in France's honour, by rescuing 23 gendarmes held hostage by Kanak extremists in New Caledonia. Fifteen Kanaks were killed during the rescue attempt. A group of freed French hostages have arrived home in Paris from Lebanon. However, the timing of their release is being seen as political opportunism by French Prime Minister and Presidential candidate Jacques Chirac.

4Three spectacular fires in the United States in the past 24 hours have killed at least four people and left hundreds injured.

5The sale of a preserved Maori head (Mokomokai, or Toi moko), will proceed in London, despite objections from the Department of Maori Affairs and museum spokespeople in New Zealand who say it is culturally insensitive.

6Security may be increased at New Zealand's High Commission residence in London after the New Zealand Commissioner and his family were robbed at knifepoint.

7Finance Minister Roger Douglas has warned oil companies that they had better come to turns with the reality of lower petrol prices by this weekend, or the Government will take action to do it for them.

8It is 35 years since Sir Edmund Hillary climbed Mount Everest. Now another group of climbers have reached the summit, with their feat being watched on live television in at least three countries.