March 2010

Laws need to stop PNG carbon 'cowboys' selling fake creditsAudio

Updated 31/03/2010 08:15:12

An expert on forestry is warning that Papua New Guinean forest owners could be exploited by foreigners posing as genuine carbon brokers.

US streamlines visa application process for TongansAudioTranscript

Updated 31/03/2010 08:15:15

The United States embassy is about to make life easier for Tongans wanting to apply for visas.

NZ conservation officials track tourists who shot protected birdsAudio

Updated 31/03/2010 08:15:17

New Zealand's Department of Conservation is chasing five Norweigan tourists accused of shooting protected native birds while on holiday in the country.

Report into Tonga's Princess Ashika sinking may not be made publicAudio

Updated 31/03/2010 08:15:12

In Tonga, the final report on the sinking of the ferry Princess Ashika is to be handed over to King George Tupou V today.

PNG cricket future bright with school investmentAudio

Updated 31/03/2010 16:49:50

Papua New Guinea's Bank South Pacific and Cricket PNG have today jointly announced the launch of PNG's largest junior sports school development program.

PINA says website glitch not Fiji govt faultAudio

Updated 31/03/2010 16:49:50

The Pacific Island News Association says Fiji's military-backed government has not been blocking is website or its wire service, Pacnews.

Research argues HPV vaccine should extend to boysAudioTranscript

Updated 31/03/2010 16:49:50

It is already available free to young girls in countries like Nauru, Vanuatu, Tuvalu and Cook Islands, but researchers are now saying the human papilloma virus, or HPV, vaccine Gardasil should also be offered to males.

New Tongan recruits for Australia worker schemeAudio

Updated 31/03/2010 16:49:50

Australia's Pacific Seasonal Worker Pilot Scheme has been subjected to a lot of criticism since it was introduced 18 months ago.

Retiring Solomons electorial chief previews electionAudio

Updated 31/03/2010 16:49:51

Around 200,000 Solomon Islanders will vote in this year's general elections, with 11 new political parties so-far declaring their intentions to run alongside the six existing political parties.

Solomons lashes Australia on PACER PlusAudio

Updated 31/03/2010 16:49:51

The Solomon Islands' foreign minister, William Haomae, says Australia is still not listening to Pacific island countries on the timetable for talks on the proposed PACER Plus free trade agreement.

Ashika report delivered to King, PM and parliamentAudioTranscript

Updated 31/03/2010 16:49:51

The King of Tonga has been presented with the findings of the Royal Commission into the sinking of the inter-island ferry, the MV Princess Ashika.

Semi-pro rubgy league players more at risk of injuryAudio

Updated 31/03/2010 16:49:49

When rugby league players run on to the field many of them are nursing injuries, most are bracing themselves to receive them.

Chemicals in smoke can help forests regenerate after fireAudio

Updated 30/03/2010 07:43:29

Researchers in Western Australia have discovered how smoke plays a role in the regeneration of forests destroyed by fire.

Japan's Peace Boat stops in FijiAudio

Updated 30/03/2010 07:43:29

The Peace Boat stopped off in Fiji this week.

Taiwan president makes brief stop off in GuamAudio

Updated 30/03/2010 07:43:29

Earlier this week Taiwan's President Ma Ying-jeou landed on Guam for a re-fuelling stop on his way to Palau.

New US mini series focuses on Solomon Islands during WWIIAudio

Updated 30/03/2010 07:43:29

On August 7 1942, in the midst of World War Two, Allied forces consisting mostly of American Marines landed on the islands of Guadalcanal, Tulagi and Florida in southern Solomon Islands.

Australian family washed up on remote FSM islandAudio

Updated 30/03/2010 07:43:29

An Australian family has found themselves shipwrecked on a South Pacific island after being caught in a major typhoon.

Cyclone damage to crops pushes up prices in Fiji marketsAudio

Updated 30/03/2010 07:43:30

A report by Fiji's Disaster Management Agency, DISMAC, has found that farmers were hit hardest by Cyclone Tomas.

Ombudsman concerned PNG constitution change lacks reviewAudioTranscript

Updated 30/03/2010 16:53:58

Papua New Guinea's Ombudsman Commission is concerned about a proposed amendment to the constitution and the Organic Law on the Duties and Responsibilities of Leadership.

Tongan police defend charges over ferry disasterAudio

Updated 30/03/2010 16:53:58

Tongan police have defended the arrests and charges they have made in relation to the sinking of the MV Princess Ashika.

Controversial former Solomons PM outlines election planAudioTranscript

Updated 30/03/2010 16:53:58

Sir Allan Kemakeza KBE was the seventh prime minister of Solomon Islands from 2001 to 2006 at the height of the ethnic tension, and the time RAMSI was brought in to restore law and order.

UNAIDS wants travel restrictions lifted on HIV/AIDSAudio

Updated 30/03/2010 16:53:58

The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS wants the countries that have restrictions on entry, stay and residency based on a person's HIV status to eliminate these restrictions.

Cook Islands backbencher becomes new environment ministerAudio

Updated 29/03/2010 08:54:59

After weeks and months of political reshuffles there's been yet another change in Cook Islands.

Tilapia accused of endangering native fish in FijiAudio

Updated 29/03/2010 08:55:00

Fiji's tilapia breeding program, which has been described as one of the country's most successful rural development initiatives, has attracted some controversy.

Solomons PM says stamping out corruption is election priorityAudioTranscript

Updated 29/03/2010 08:55:00

In Solomon Islands questions have been asked about the whereabouts of a $10 million assistance fund Taiwan contributed to the Rural Development Constituency Fund.

Evidence of crackdown on corruption ahead of Solomons' electionAudio

Updated 29/03/2010 08:55:00

The Solomon Islands Ombudsman's office is demanding honesty and higher standards of integrity from the country's leaders and workers.

Samoa on track for tsunami recovery six months onAudioTranscript

Updated 29/03/2010 08:55:00

In September last year an earthquake and tsunami devastated Samoa, American Samoa and Tonga and left about 200 people dead.

New Zealand, Australia could have remained as one land massAudioTranscript

Updated 29/03/2010 17:55:39

The rivalry between Australia and New Zealand is well documented, with thousand of jokes about cultural differences.

Majority use cannabis in some Australian communitiesAudioTranscript

Updated 29/03/2010 17:55:39

Police in Australia's Far North Queensland say they are concerned about the increasing use of cannabis in remote indigenous communities.

Hospital admissions grow amongst long-term cannabis usersAudioTranscript

Updated 29/03/2010 17:55:39

New research has shown a dramatic increase in the number of Australian hospital admissions for long term cannabis users.

Samoa wins Hong Kong Sevens tournamentAudio

Updated 29/03/2010 17:55:39

Samoa has won the world's most prestigous Rugby Sevens tournament in Hong Kong.

Solomon Islands wanted man Toloi arrestedAudio

Updated 29/03/2010 17:55:39

Solomon Islands' police commissioner says wanted criminals in the country who are at large can run and hide, but the law is going to catch up with them sooner or later.

Fiji Methodist leaders refuse to quitAudio

Updated 29/03/2010 17:55:39

The top leadership of the Fiji Methodist Church are standing firm in their refusal to step down.

More charges laid as Tonga prepares for ferry findingAudioTranscript

Updated 29/03/2010 17:55:39

Manslaughter charges have been laid against some of the key players in the MV Princess Ashika tragedy in Tonga.

Taiwan's President departs Sol Is signalling change to aid provisionAudioTranscript

Updated 26/03/2010 08:07:47

Tawain's President Mah Ying-jeoh says he wants Taiwan's aid to the region to be responsible, professional, legal and transparent.

Premiers of Guadalcanal and Malaita discuss past tensionsAudio

Updated 26/03/2010 08:07:49

Leaders from the Solomon Islands provinces of Malaita and Guadalcanal provinces are getting together to discuss their differences which gave rise to ethic tension are being discussed in Honiara.

Pacific Rugby teams prepare for Hong Kong Sevens tournamentAudioTranscript

Updated 26/03/2010 08:07:44

This weekend two Pacific island nations will be competing for Rugby Sevens supremacy in Hong Kong.

Sir Peter and Lady Margaret Kenilorea discuss life after politicsAudio

Updated 26/03/2010 08:17:51


On Wednesday's we brought you the news that former Solomon Islands Prime Minister Sir Peter Kenilorea was retiring from politics.

Internet emerges as a major threat to wildlifeAudioTranscript

Updated 26/03/2010 17:03:20

Some of the world's leading animal conservation advocates say the world wide web has emerged as one of the biggest threats to endangered wildlife.

SPREP designates 2010 the International Year of BiodiversityAudio

Updated 26/03/2010 17:03:20

The Pacific region contains some of the most unique species of plants and animals in the world.

PNG Ramu mine land ownership issue unresolvedAudio

Updated 26/03/2010 17:03:20


The ownership issue concerning the site of the Chinese-owned, multi-billion dollar Ramu Nickel Mine in Papua New Guinea's Madang province is yet to be resolved.

Samoan NGOs concerned about freedom of religionAudio

Updated 26/03/2010 17:03:20

Non-government organisations in Samoa are upset about the composition of a government Commission of Inquiry into freedom of religion.

Nominations open for Bougainville electionsAudioTranscript

Updated 26/03/2010 17:03:20

Nominations have opened in what could be the last elections on the Papua New Guinea island of Bougainville before a referendum on independence.

Young PNG cricketers taste success in Australia and NZAudio

Updated 26/03/2010 17:03:19

A group of young Papua New Guineans have been given the opportunity to play cricket abroad as part of the Brian Bell Future Stars scholarship program.

Taiwan President to address Solomon Is Parliament on ThursdayAudio

Updated 25/03/2010 08:22:03

Taiwan's President Ma Ying-jeou has a big schedule of activities in Honiara today.

Eami Sogavare talks about husband's hopes in 2010 Sol Is electionsAudio

Updated 25/03/2010 08:22:06

Taiwan's President arrives in Solomon Islands amid questions over aidAudio

Updated 25/03/2010 08:22:03

The visit of the Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou, to Solomon Islands has prompted the Solomon's Deputy Prime Minister to lash out at Australian boomerang aid and call for highly paid Australian technical advisors to be sent home.

More PNG women dying during childbirthAudio

Updated 25/03/2010 16:18:06

In Papua New Guinea more women are now dying during childbirth than ten years ago.

Sols election: Rev Riti and Hilda Kari consider runningAudio

Updated 25/03/2010 16:18:06

Eleven new parties will join the existing six political parties to contest this year's elections in Solomon Islands and, if previous elections are anything to go by, many more parties and independents with soon join the race to run in the elections.

Concerns NZ Ministry of Pacific Affairs may closeAudio

Updated 25/03/2010 16:18:06

There are concerns amongst Pacific island communities in New Zealand that a government ministry dedicated to helping them may be shut down.

PNG sets up taskforce to resettle Manam IslandersAudio

Updated 25/03/2010 16:18:07

The Papua New Guinea govenment has set up a Task Force to deal with the permanent resettelement of Manam Islanders.

Taiwan to reform aid delivery to PacificAudio

Updated 25/03/2010 16:18:07

Taiwan's president, Mah Ying-jeoh, has told the Solomon Islands parliament that now Taiwan and China have stopped trying to win over each other's diplomatic allies, there are changes taking place in the way Taiwan delivers aid to the region.

Prominent Fijian goes public with censorship concernsAudio

Updated 25/03/2010 16:18:07

One of Fiji's most respected critics has used the internet to go public with criticism of the country's military-backed government.

Scientists say soil is releasing more greenhouse gasesAudio

Updated 25/03/2010 16:18:06

Research just published in the journal Nature says the warming of the earth has been accompanied by a rise in the amount of carbon dioxide that is being released from the soil.

Australian think tank recommends scrapping of NZ Maori seatsAudio

Updated 24/03/2010 08:01:22


An Australian think-tank says New Zealand's separate parliamentary seats for Maori should be wound up.

Solomon Is first Prime Minister announces retirement from politicsAudioTranscript

Updated 24/03/2010 08:01:25

Former Solomon Islands Prime Minister Sir Peter Kenilorea has announced his retirement from politics.

Solomon Islands formally reopens Gold Ridge mine after 10 yearsAudioTranscript

Updated 24/03/2010 08:01:19

Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Derek Sikua, says Tuesday's re-opening of the Gold Ridge mine is taking Solomon Islands in the right direction for economic development.

Higher leptospirosis rates recorded in French PolynesiaAudio

Updated 24/03/2010 17:22:06

Health authorities in French Polynesia have recorded a worrying increase in the number of cases of leptospirosis.

Faster internet promised for NuieAudio

Updated 24/03/2010 17:22:01


Internet speeds in Nuie are about to increase dramatically thanks to the Internet Users Society of Nuie (IUSN).

PNG urged to use geothermal reservoirs for powerAudio

Updated 24/03/2010 17:22:05

Papua New Guinea's government is being encouraged to consider using the country's geothermal reservoirs as a major source of renewable energy in the future.

Warmer waters bleach Lord Howe's unique reefAudioTranscript

Updated 24/03/2010 17:22:06

Lord Howe Island, off Australia's east coast, is home to the world's southern-most coral reef, but parts of the reef on the Island are in trouble following the largest bleaching event on record.

Fiji government crackdown on sex workers "unhelpful" in HIV situationAudio

Updated 24/03/2010 17:22:06

Sex workers in Fiji have been identified as one of the groups most at risk of contracting HIV.

Vandals contaminate water supply to major PNG cityAudio

Updated 24/03/2010 17:22:06

The water supply to Papua New Guinea's third largest city has had to be shut down, after litres of oil were found in it's main source.

Australia's seasonal worker scheme lags behind NZ'sAudioTranscript

Updated 24/03/2010 17:22:06

It appears Australia's long-awaited Pacific Seasonal Worker Pilot Scheme isn't living up to expectations.

Claims Taiwanese aid was misused mar President's visit to SolomonsAudioTranscript

Updated 24/03/2010 17:22:06

Taiwan's president Ma Ying-jeoh has arrived in Solomon Islands to claims that his aid money is being abused by politicians.

US support for Trans Pacific Partnership welcomedAudio

Updated 23/03/2010 07:56:58

Advocates of a Pacific rim free trade area, the Trans Pacific Partnership, are optimistic that a strong commitment from the U-S has given the pact a big push forward.

Allied Gold promises to help Sol Is reconciliation at mine reopeningAudioTranscript

Updated 23/03/2010 07:57:01

The Australian company, Allied Gold, has told landowners at the Gold Ridge mine in Solomon Islands that it is committed to the healing process after the ethnic violence that brought the country to a standstill ten years ago.

Solomon Islands media outlets appeal for help with election coverageAudio

Updated 23/03/2010 07:57:03

While Solomon Islanders are waiting to hear the date for the next general election, media organisations are hard at work planning their coverage.

Fiji's Ministry of health assesses Cyclone damage to facilitiesAudioTranscript

Updated 23/03/2010 07:57:09

Fiji's Ministry of Health is assessing the needs of people and tallying up the damage bill for medical facilities after Cyclone Tomas swept through the north and east.

New Zealand North Island water supplies at record lowAudio

Updated 23/03/2010 17:13:59

While most of the south-eastern Pacific has been affected by heavy downpours in recent weeks, other parts further west have been hit by droughts.

Access to clean water still an issue for Pacific IslandsAudio

Updated 23/03/2010 17:13:59

The World Health Organisation says that access to clean, safe water is still a major issue in the Pacific.

Fiji's economy relatively unscathed after cycloneAudioTranscript

Updated 23/03/2010 17:13:59

Fiji's government is annoyed at some overseas media reporting on Cyclone Tomas which it says gave the impression that the entire country was affected by the storm.

FSM unhappy Czech Power station survivesAudioTranscript

Updated 23/03/2010 17:13:59

The Minister for the Environment in the Czech Republic resigned last week.

Solomons' PM welcomes reopening of Gold Ridge mineAudio

Updated 23/03/2010 17:14:00

Solomon Islands' Prime Minister, Derek Sikua, says today's re-opening of the Gold Ridge mine is taking Solomon Islands in the right direction for economic development.

Solomons' election: Robertson Galokale to run in South ChoiseulAudio

Updated 23/03/2010 17:13:58

A record number of candidates will contest the upcoming Solomon Islands elections.

Relief supplies begin to arrive in Cyclone devastated parts of FijiAudioTranscript

Updated 22/03/2010 08:34:30

Fiji is picking up the pieces after Cyclone Tomas, and facing a race against time to prevent the spread of disease.

Anger erupts among Manam Is volcano refugees over slow resettlementAudio

Updated 22/03/2010 08:34:33


Thousands of refugees from the 2005 Manam Island volcanic eruption in PNG are still living in care centres, and frustration over Government inaction to resettle them is now erupting in violence.

Crime on the increase in Solomon Islands

Updated 22/03/2010 08:34:36


Crime is on the increase in Solomon Islands, with five murders, four reported cases of robbery and three rapes already this year.

Potent homebrew alcohol blamed for Solomon Islands rising crime rateAudioTranscript

Updated 22/03/2010 08:34:38

Home brew, known as Kwaso, is rapidly becoming Solomon Islands biggest law and order problem.

Banking by text message to be introduced in FijiAudio

Updated 22/03/2010 17:14:56

Bank customers in Fiji will soon be able to use text messaging to check their account balance and transfer money.

Chinese miner forced to stop pipeline construction in PNGAudioTranscript

Updated 22/03/2010 17:14:56

Landowners in Papua New Guinea have been granted a court order to stop a Chinese nickel miner from constructing a pipeline in Madang province.

Fiji and Wallis and Futuna still recovering after Cyclone TomasAudioTranscript

Updated 22/03/2010 17:14:57

Fiji's emergency authorities says they are confident the recovery and cleanup effort after Tropical Cyclone Tomas is in hand.

Hundreds attend reconciliation ceremony in Solomon IslandsAudio

Updated 22/03/2010 17:14:57

Ten years after the end of inter-ethnic violence in Solomon Islands, hundreds of people gathered near the Gold Ridge mine site today for a major reconciliation cermony.

Scientists develop invisibility cloakAudioTranscript

Updated 22/03/2010 17:14:56

It sounds like an excerpt from a science fiction story, but German scientists say they've created a three-dimensional invisibility cloak.

Solomon Islands school students learn truth and reconciliation lessonAudio

Updated 19/03/2010 08:04:10


The recent Truth and Reconciliation Commission hearings in Solomon Islands have left an indelible impression on the minds of some secondary students.

Vanuatu economy to recover says IMFAudio

Updated 19/03/2010 17:19:34

Vanuatu's economy is expected to slightly recover this year, according to a survey by the International Monetary Fund, which says it will grow by three per cent in 2010 and four percent in 2011.

What about the Pacific if Australi and New Zealand merge?Audio

Updated 19/03/2010 17:19:34

If Australia and New Zealand eventuially become one country, what would happen to New Zealand's Pacific dependencies?

Parents using children to beg on PNG streetsAudio

Updated 19/03/2010 17:19:34

In Papua New Guinea, many parents living in poverty are reportedly encouraging their children to beg on the streets in towns and cities.

New Caledonia asking for emergency funding from France to help WallisAudioTranscript

Updated 19/03/2010 17:19:34

The French government is being asked to declare a state of natural disaster in its pacific territory of Wallis and Futuna.

Concerns over land reform policies in MelanesiaAudioTranscript

Updated 19/03/2010 17:26:59

Ineffective land reform policies continue to cause problems for tradition land owners in Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea.

Aboriginal artifacts in Tasmania may stop roadAudio

Updated 19/03/2010 17:26:59

Archaeologists say they've found one of worlds most significant sites on the outskirts of the Tasmanian city of Hobart.

Survey of 16 Pacific nations finds alcohol and drug abuse worseningAudio

Updated 18/03/2010 08:32:33


A major new report from the Australian National Council on Drugs released on Thursday reveals the Pacific region has some real and developing problems with alcohol and other drugs.

Cyclone Ului continues to threaten Solomon IslandsAudioTranscript

Updated 18/03/2010 08:32:33

While Fiji recovers from Cyclone Tomas, outlying islands in the Solomon Islands are also picking up the pieces after Cyclone Ului.

Fiji Red Cross prepares disaster relief in wake of Cyclone TomasAudio

Updated 18/03/2010 08:32:36

Aerial surveys over Fiji show Taveuni and the south east cost of Vanua Levu have the most damage in the wake of Cyclone Tomas.

Desperate PNG cows get bullAudio

Updated 18/03/2010 17:01:31

A cattle farmer in Papua New Guinea now has a bull for his six desperate cows grazing in the rugged hinter lands of Central province to produce more calves for him.

Solomons may miss out on investment if dolphin exports don't stopAudio

Updated 18/03/2010 17:01:32

Solomon Islands could lose 20 million dollars in investment if the country doesns't stop its live dolphin export policies.

NZ Goverment defends plan for Pacific healthAudio

Updated 18/03/2010 17:01:32

New Zealand's ruling National Party has been accused of putting politics before mental health patients and their families when it voted against a bill to improve the delivery of mental health services.

PNG women's group call for early electionsAudio

Updated 18/03/2010 17:01:32

A Papua New Guinea women's group has called on the Governor General to dissolve parliament and allow the formation of a new government.

Wallis and Futuna clean up, while New Caledonia counts Cyclone costAudio

Updated 18/03/2010 17:01:32

Fiji and Solomon Islands are not the only Pacific countries affected by Cyclone's this week.

Australia aid arrives in cyclone-hit FijiAudio

Updated 18/03/2010 17:01:32

Judith Robinson from the Australian government's overseas aid program AusAID says aerial patrols over the worst affected areas have just returned to Suva.

Fiji Cyclone recovery continuesAudio

Updated 18/03/2010 17:01:32

In Fiji the first aerial flyovers of the areas hit by Cyclone Tomas have been completed.

Vanuatu has high hopes for new Kava based Lava KolaAudioTranscript

Updated 18/03/2010 17:01:30

In Vanuatu there is a new soft drink on the market - Lava Cola.

Size matters in Queensland pumpkin rowAudioTranscript

Updated 17/03/2010 08:16:48


To Australia's northern state of Queensland now, where an unseemly political row has broken out over pumpkins.

NASA researchers find creature living deep under Antarctic ice sheetAudioTranscript

Updated 17/03/2010 08:16:49

Researchers from NASA Goddard Space Flight Center have found a living creature resembling a shrimp underneath a huge Antarctic icesheet.

Winds ease in Fiji as Cyclone Tomas weakens and moves out to seaAudio

Updated 17/03/2010 08:16:52


There may be some relief from the severe weather conditions in Fiji as Cyclone Tomas moves out to sea.

State of emergency declared in Fiji's north and east after cycloneAudioTranscript

Updated 17/03/2010 08:16:54

A state of emergency has been declared in Fiji's northern and eastern areas, after category four Cyclone Tomas tore across the Lau group of islands.

Solomon Islands disaster officials yet to assess cyclone damagesAudio

Updated 17/03/2010 17:26:27

In Solomon Islands, disaster officials say several homes have been destroyed by ''Cyclone Ului'' which hit the country this week.

Pacific women entrepeneurs strugglingAudio

Updated 17/03/2010 17:26:27

Business women from 14 Pacific countries have highlighted the challenges facing women entrepreneurs in the region.

PNG League officials unhappy with newspaper reportsAudio

Updated 17/03/2010 17:26:27

The Papua New Guinea National Rugby League Bid team has slammed reports in the National newspaper that the bid faces no chance in entering a PNG team in the NRL by 2013.

Samoan churches say new denominations not neededAudioTranscript

Updated 17/03/2010 17:26:27

Samoa's Council of Churches wants to use a government review of freedom of religion to keep non-established churches out of the country.

Australia and New Zealand send help to FijiAudioTranscript

Updated 17/03/2010 17:26:28

An Australian military C-130 Hercules cargo plane is shortly expected in Suva carrying initial Australian aid to help those affected by Cyclone Tomas.

Fiji disaster official gives his assessmentAudio

Updated 17/03/2010 17:26:28

The acting director for the national disaster management team in Fiji, Patiliai Dobui, spoke to ABC Radio and gave his assessment.

Fiji cyclone recovery teams start heading into disaster areaAudio

Updated 17/03/2010 17:26:28

In Fiji disaster management teams are on their way to the northern and eastern islands, as Cyclone Tomas moves out of the area.

New technology to turn patients into doctorsAudio

Updated 17/03/2010 17:26:27

A doctor in the United States is predicting that members of the public will soon be able to use technologies like wireless internet and smartphones to monitor and even treat their own health conditions.

Cyclone Tomas pounds northern and eastern Fiji islandsAudio

Updated 16/03/2010 08:25:03

Islands to the north and east of Fiji's main island of Viti Levu are feeling the damaging force of Tropical Cyclone Tomas.

Women's health a contentious issue at UN commission in New YorkAudio

Updated 16/03/2010 08:24:57

Women's health proved to be a contentious issue at the 54th session of the Commission on the status of women which has just concluded at the UN in New York.

Bureau of Meteorology backs up climate science dataAudioTranscript

Updated 16/03/2010 08:25:00


The head of Australia's Bureau of Meteorology has come out in defence of the science which says that climate change is real.

NZ scientist develops first commercial jetpackAudioTranscript

Updated 16/03/2010 08:24:54


Almost half a century after the TV show the Jetsons, one of the most famous gadgets on the cartoon series is on the brink of becoming reality.

2.5 billion people without proper sanitationAudio

Updated 16/03/2010 18:32:36

A new report from the World Health Organisation and UNICEF has found more than 2.5 billion people live without proper sanitation.

Miss Tahiti pageant to celebrate 50th birthdayAudio

Updated 16/03/2010 18:32:36

It's been an eventful year for the team behind the Miss Tahiti beauty pageant.

PNG polytech female students security worriesAudio

Updated 16/03/2010 18:32:36

Female students at Papua New Guinea's National Polytechnic Institute in Morobe province are living in fear following frequent break-ins by criminals to steal from their dormitories.

Australian aid money for preventative healthAudioTranscript

Updated 16/03/2010 18:32:36

Tonga's Director of Health says the seven million dollars Australia has provided to the Health Ministry will be used to develop programs to reduce the level of heart disease and diabetes.

Nauru government to call fresh electionAudioTranscript

Updated 16/03/2010 18:32:37

Nauru's government says fresh elections are to be called this Saturday.

Cyclone Tomas weakens over FijiAudio

Updated 16/03/2010 18:32:37

Cyclone Tomas is expected to be over the southernmost island of Fiji, Ono-i-Lau, around midnight.

Fiji emergency assess cyclone damageAudio

Updated 16/03/2010 18:32:37

Fiji's emergency officials will conduct an aerial recce of the Northern Province tomorrow, to assess the damage from Sever Cyclone Tomas.

Hawaii violates health regulationsAudio

Updated 16/03/2010 18:32:32

Restaurants in Hawaii have been violating health and food safety regulations at a startling rate.

Two cyclones threatening PacificAudio

Updated 15/03/2010 08:24:20

Tropical Cyclone Tomas is expected to pass over the eastern half of Vanua Levu in the north of Fiji this evening.

Tiwi Bombers fairytale falls short at final hurdleAudioTranscript

Updated 15/03/2010 08:24:09

The Tiwi Islands north of Australia have produced some of the biggest stars in the Australian Football League, such as Michael Long and Maurice Rioli.

China offers seven doctors to TongaAudioTranscript

Updated 15/03/2010 08:24:12

Tonga's Director of Health says he will have discussions with the Chinese embassy in Tonga about China's offer to provide the nation with seven doctors.

NZ investors plan new high speed undersea cable through PacificAudio

Updated 15/03/2010 08:24:15

A New Zealand investor group plans to build a new undersea internet cable linking Australia and New Zealand to the United States.

Samoa to host 2010 ANZ Pacific Nations Rugby Union CupAudioTranscript

Updated 15/03/2010 08:24:18

Samoa's bid to host the 2010 ANZ Pacific Nations Rugby Union cup has been successful.

Trans-Tasman rower arrives safely in NZ after seven week solo journeyAudioTranscript

Updated 15/03/2010 08:24:09

New Zealand rower Shaun Quincey has become the second person to complete a solo journey of the Tasman, a feat equalled only by his own father.

South Korean brewery produces Guam branded beer

Updated 15/03/2010 18:11:24

Guam now has its very own locally branded beer produced by a South Korean brewery.

Fij and Solomons Tropical CyclonesAudio

Updated 15/03/2010 18:11:27

Fiji's Northern provinces are waiting for the unwelcome arrival of Severe Tropical Cyclone Tomas.

Cyclone Thomas to hit Vanua LevuAudio

Updated 15/03/2010 18:11:27

Well as you've heard, Tropical Cyclone Tomas is bearing down on Fiji's second main island of Vanua Levu at the moment.

Somare hails PNG LNG financial dealAudioTranscript

Updated 15/03/2010 18:11:28

Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister, Sir Michael Somare, has congratulated Esso Highlands Ltd for successfully concluding financial arrangements that will enable the 15 billion US dollar PNG LNG project to proceed.

Solomons TRC pleased with first hearingAudioTranscript

Updated 15/03/2010 18:11:28

The first public hearing by the Solomon Islands Truth and Reconciliation Commission in Honiara last week has been described as very positive.

Scientists investigate impact of Samoa rat eradication projectAudioTranscript

Updated 12/03/2010 08:25:24

Scientists are investigating how plants and animals were affected by the rat eradication project on the Aleipata Islands of Samoa last year.

Heightened tensions over Queensland deaths in custodyAudioTranscript

Updated 12/03/2010 08:25:28


Tensions are high in the north-east Australian state of Queensland, after another death in custody of an indigenous teenager.

Australian aid strategy aims to give better access to finance for poorAudioTranscript

Updated 12/03/2010 08:25:31

Australia's aid strategies to the region for the next five years will endeavour to give the region's poor better access to financial services.

PNG begins work on organising 2015 Pacific GamesAudio

Updated 12/03/2010 08:29:52

Papua New Guinea has established a Pacific Games Authority to oversee the organisation of the 2015 Pacific Games.

Environmental group plans to sue bank funding PNG LNG projectAudio

Updated 12/03/2010 10:05:55

An organisation fighting to protect endangered sea turtles is suing the U-S Export Import Bank for failing to analyse the environmental impacts of a Liquefied Natural Gas project in Papua New Guinea.

PNG Transparency criticises governmentAudio

Updated 12/03/2010 18:02:16

Transparency International PNG has strongly criticised the proposed changes to the Organic Law on the Duties and Responsibilities of the Leadership Code and the PNG Constitution.

President Yudhoyono leaves PNG

Updated 12/03/2010 18:02:15

Indonesia's President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has left Port Moresby after a two-day visit to Papua New Guinea.

Fiji braces for Tropical Cyclone ThomasAudio

Updated 12/03/2010 18:02:15

Fiji's Meteorological Service is warning people in the country's Northern islands to be ready for a cyclone on Sunday.

Calls for Vanuatu Police Commissioner to resignAudio

Updated 12/03/2010 18:02:15

Transparency International Vanuatu is calling on the Police Commissioner to resign and allow for an independent inquiry into the death of a prisoner in custody.

Indonesia's President asked to back Papua mediationAudio

Updated 12/03/2010 18:02:15

The International Crisis Group has called on Indonesia's President to get fully behind a mediation effort for Papua and West Papua that's being conducted through the Indonesian Institute of Sciences.

Tinian facing six months without ferry link to SaipanAudio

Updated 12/03/2010 18:02:10

The island of Tinian in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands is likely to be hard hit by the suspension of the only ferry service linking it to Saipan.

Indigenous community outrage over Queensland death in custodyAudioTranscript

Updated 11/03/2010 08:31:55


Members of Queensland's indigenous commmunity will march on the Australian State's Parliament today, enraged over the latest death in custody.

Interim Fiji PM attacks Commonwealth, silent on assassination plotAudioTranscript

Updated 11/03/2010 08:31:58

Fiji's Military backed leader Commodre Frank Bainimarama has repeated his threat to drop Commonwealth membership, if the group of nations continues to question his plans for the island nation's future.

Allied Gold announces resource upgrade in PNGAudioTranscript

Updated 11/03/2010 08:31:53

The Australian company, Allied Gold has announced another new upgrade to size of its resource at its Simberi Island mine in Papua New Guinea.

Cyclone alert for Wallis and FutunaAudio

Updated 11/03/2010 17:25:41

A tropical cyclone alert has been issued for Wallis and Futuna.

ADB warns of slowing of Pacific tourism growthAudioTranscript

Updated 11/03/2010 17:25:41

Pacific Island nations can expect a new slowing of growth in the tourist industry this year, according to the Asian Development Bank.

Pitcairn Island proclaims new constitutionAudioTranscript

Updated 11/03/2010 17:25:41

The tiny British Pacific territory of Pitcairn Island has a new constitution.

Australia and Indonesia solid relationshipAudio

Updated 11/03/2010 17:25:41

Australia's Foreign minister Stephen Smith says relations are now so solid with Indonesia that the most difficult issues can be discussed without jeopardising the entire relationship.

Aboriginals miss out on mining contractsAudio

Updated 11/03/2010 17:25:36

An Aboriginal association in Western Australia wants mining companies to be forced to engage indigenous contractors.

Trans-tasman rower expected to arrive in New Zealand on SundayAudioTranscript

Updated 10/03/2010 08:32:01

After more than seven weeks at sea, trans-Tasman rower Shaun Quincey is expected to reach New Zealand sometime after Sunday.

Fiji identifies cause of more than 100 cases of typhoidAudioTranscript

Updated 10/03/2010 08:31:54

Health authorities in Fiji have started an investigation into the cause of a typhoid outbreak in the country's Northern District.

Cane toads arrive in Australia's Kimberley regionAudioTranscript

Updated 10/03/2010 08:31:57


The Western Australia town of Kununurra has been building its defences against the onward march of the cane toad for a year now, but last weekend the invasive reptile finally arrived.

Solomon Is truth and reconciliation commission hears moving storiesAudio

Updated 10/03/2010 08:32:04

The Solomon Islands has opened its Truth and Reconciliation Commission, with moving testimony on the first day.

Potential new treatment for victims of nasty parasitic wormsAudioTranscript

Updated 10/03/2010 08:31:51

There's new hope for tackling one of the world's least-publicised health scourges, the roundworm.

Samoa's AG happy with NZBA decisionAudioTranscript

Updated 10/03/2010 18:07:34

Samoa's Attorney General, Aumua Ming Leung Wai says he is happy with the ruling by the New Zealand Broadcasting Authority.

PNG's Opposition says LNG tax exemption is badAudio

Updated 10/03/2010 18:07:27

Papua New Guinea's former Treasurer.

TVNZ ordered to pay $ 5,000Audio

Updated 10/03/2010 18:07:34

The New Zealand Broadcasting Standards Authority has ordered Television New Zealand to pay five-thousand dollars to the Samoan government after ruling it ran a story which wrongly conveyed Samoa awash with guns and drugs.

Indonesian President visiting PNG nextAudio

Updated 10/03/2010 18:07:34

The Indonesian President, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono will visit Papua New Guinea tomorrow and on Friday following his visit to Australia.

Solomons Guadalcanal disaster situationAudio

Updated 10/03/2010 18:07:35

There are concerns communities in North West Guadalcanal in Solomon Islands could run out of food due to the recent floods.

Queensland Uni's new climate change study instituteAudioTranscript

Updated 10/03/2010 18:07:35

The Director of Australia's newest climate change research institute wants to involve both the physical and social science disciplines in finding a way to deal with climate change.

Australia supports New Caledonia as Forum MemberAudioTranscript

Updated 10/03/2010 18:07:35

New Caledonia's campaign for full membership of the Pacific Islands Forum has the support of current forum chair, Australia.

NZ Trans-Tasman rower almost thereAudio

Updated 10/03/2010 18:07:23

After more than seven weeks at sea, trans-Tasman rower Shaun Quincey is expected to reach New Zealand sometime after Sunday.

Solomon Islands truth and reconciliation commission reopens old woundsAudioTranscript

Updated 09/03/2010 08:19:57

Old wounds are about to be reopened in the Solomon Islands as the country delves back into its violent past.

Fat the flavour of the month with taste scientistsAudioTranscript

Updated 09/03/2010 08:19:54


Australian scientists say they've discovered a new taste sense.

Cyclone Oli destroys part of French Polynesian reefAudio

Updated 09/03/2010 08:19:51

The coral reef surrounding the French Polynesian island of Moorea has long been one of it's main attractions.

Marshall Islands shipping problemAudio

Updated 09/03/2010 17:21:49

In the Marshall Islands there are fresh concerns about the vessels the government is using to get fuel and essential supplies to the outer islands.

Solomons unlicensed recruiters for New Zealand farmsAudio

Updated 09/03/2010 17:21:49

Solomon Islands and New Zealand have issued a warning about fake recruiters, offering people the chance to be part of New Zealand's seasonal worker scheme.

India expands its aid role in the PacificAudioTranscript

Updated 09/03/2010 17:21:49

India looks set to expand its role in the Pacific with the launch of its first joint aid project to the region.

PNG woman charged over maximum prison escapeAudioTranscript

Updated 09/03/2010 17:21:49

The Papua New Guinea woman charged over the mass escape of hard core criminals from the Bomana maximum security prison near Port Moresby is now facing a total of 14 charges.

French Polynesia hit by worst rain in 10 yearsAudio

Updated 09/03/2010 17:21:26

It's business as usual in French Polynesia today, despite a weekend of torrential downpours.

Greenpeace report targets destructive tuna over-fishingAudio

Updated 08/03/2010 08:13:42

Destructive tuna fishing practices used for the tuna in our cans is a contributing factor to the shortage of tuna in our seas.

Proposed northern bluefin tuna ban may pressure southern fisheriesAudio

Updated 08/03/2010 08:13:44

Sushi-lovers in Japan could be in for shock if a proposed international trade ban on Northern, or Atlantic, bluefin tuna goes ahead.

Men convicted of Fiji PM assassination plot avoid maximum sentencesAudio

Updated 08/03/2010 08:13:47

The Fiji High Court has sentenced the eight men found guilty of conspiring to murder military leader Commodore Frank Bainimarama, to serve three to seven years in prison, avoiding the maximum penalty of 14 years jail.

New tsunami warning systen '85% accurate' in predicting wave sizeAudio

Updated 08/03/2010 08:13:50

A new tsunami warning system is being phased in that will give forecasters a better idea of how big a wave is likely to be.

Climate change scientists hit backAudioTranscript

Updated 08/03/2010 08:13:39


As scepticism about climate change gains traction around the world, a group of international scientists is trying to hit back.

Cook Islands five member cabinet wants to return to Democratic partyAudio

Updated 08/03/2010 09:23:58


The Cook Islands' five member cabinet has approached the Democratic Party asking to be accepted back in.

International Women's Day marked across the PacificAudio

Updated 08/03/2010 09:25:53

Monday is the United Nation's 'International Women's Day', and the theme for this year is 'Equal Rights, Equal Opportunities: Progress for All'.

Australia Week opens in Port Moresby.Audio

Updated 08/03/2010 17:58:08

Australia and Papua New Guinea have today launched their annual week-long event in Port Moresby to celebrate their relationship as neighbours.

Clean-up Samoa Day attracts good turn outAudio

Updated 08/03/2010 17:58:08

A clean up operation of reefs and lagoons in Samoa damaged by last year's tsunami has attracted a big turn out.

New Malaysian High Commissioner for the SolomonsAudio

Updated 08/03/2010 17:58:08

The Solomon Islands has a new Malaysian High Commissioner.

PNG seafloor mining gets boost with new resultsAudioTranscript

Updated 08/03/2010 17:58:08

Nautilus minerals, the company that hopes to be the first in the world to begin commercial mining of the sea floor, has released the final results of its 2009 exploration program in Papua New Guinea.

Solomons Truth and Reconciliation Commission startsAudioTranscript

Updated 08/03/2010 17:58:08

The first public hearing by Solomon Islands' Truth and Reconciliation Commission will be held tomorrow and Wednesday.

PNG Stock exchange tops 50 billion Kina in market capitalisationAudioTranscript

Updated 05/03/2010 07:32:15

The market capitalisation of the Port Moresby Stock exchange reached 50 billion Kina during 2009, or just over $20 billion Australian dollars.

Sterilisation, police assaults and weight watchers lead our NZ wrapAudio

Updated 05/03/2010 07:32:18

To Auckland in New Zealand now for our weekly roundup of stories making the news there.

French Maritime officials address Clipperton Is Xylene spill riskAudio

Updated 05/03/2010 07:32:22

Efforts are underway to remove 10,000 tonnes of toxic Xylene from a ship that ran aground on the uninhabitated atoll of Clipperton Island earlier this month.

Clipperton Island wildlife threatened by grounded chemical tankerAudio

Updated 05/03/2010 07:32:26

The French High Commission in French Polynesia says it hopes to have dealt with a chemical tanker that ran aground Clipperton Island by the weekend.

Retirement age of 55 leads to chronic teacher shortage in FijiAudioTranscript

Updated 05/03/2010 07:32:10

The Fijian Teachers Association claims there is a shortage of teachers in the classrooms.

55 Pacific Island birds added to US protected listAudio

Updated 05/03/2010 07:32:32

The United States Fish and Wildlife Service has updated its list of protected bird species for the first time since 1985, adding 55 Pacific Island birds.

Whaling commission debates 'dead rat' compromiseAudio

Updated 05/03/2010 07:32:36


The International Whaling Commission is meeting behind closed doors in Florida this week to discuss a proposal that would see whaling countries allowed to openly hunt whales in exchange for reducing the total number of whales killed over the next 10 years, with the IWC monitoring the haul.

NZ politician calls for unfit parents to be sterilisedAudioTranscript

Updated 05/03/2010 07:32:29


In New Zealand, a politician has outraged child protection groups by suggesting that the Government should pay for some people not to have children.

PNG women overwhelmed from LNG projectAudioTranscript

Updated 05/03/2010 18:06:10

An Australian academic says she's concerned Papua New Guinean women may be overwhelmed with extra family responsibilities as the boom from the L-N-G project has it's impact on the country.

PNG inquiry reveals Finance Department corruptionAudioTranscript

Updated 05/03/2010 18:06:10

An inquiry into Papua New Guinea's Department of Finance, which has been tabled in Parliament has identified improper procedures occurred in the department between 2000 and 2006.

Vanuatu firm on West Papua decolonisationAudio

Updated 05/03/2010 18:06:10

The Vanuatu government has assured that it maintains its stand on the decolonisation of West Papua from Indonesian rule.

Eight men sentenced over Commodore Assassination conspiracyAudioTranscript

Updated 05/03/2010 18:06:10

But first to Suva where the Fiji's High Court has sentenced the eight men found guilty of conspiring to murder military leader Commodore Frank Bainimarama, to between seven and three years in prison.

Solomons students late for PNG universitiesAudio

Updated 05/03/2010 18:05:16

It's almost five weeks after classes have started and about one hundred Solomon Islands students attending tertiary institutions in Papua New Guinea are still in Honiara.

Taiwan President's visit shows new approach to regionAudioTranscript

Updated 04/03/2010 07:26:11

Taiwan's President, Ma Ying-jeou, will make his first tour of the Pacific, later this month.

Vanuatu business environment gives it the edge in PacificAudio

Updated 04/03/2010 07:26:15


In the Pacific, negotiations for the trade and economic agreement known as PACER are moving slowly.

Mining boom in Australia to increase demand for workersAudioTranscript

Updated 04/03/2010 07:26:19

With commodity prices on the increase again it appears the mining boom is back.

Eight found guilty of plotting to assasinate Fiji's interim PMAudioTranscript

Updated 04/03/2010 07:26:08

The eight men involved in the plot to assassinate Fiji's interim prime minister Commodore Frank Bainimarama in 2007 have been found guilty.

UNESCO says Pacific literacy rates are inaccurateAudio

Updated 04/03/2010 08:21:48

Thursday March 4 has been designated as 'World Book Day' by UNESCO.

Samoa govt denies slow post tsunami rebuildAudio

Updated 04/03/2010 18:27:29

The Samoan government has defended itself against complaints that its acting too slowly in helping to rehouse people left homeless by last September's devastating tsunami.

Fiji defends its tourism numbersAudio

Updated 04/03/2010 18:27:29

Fiji's tourism authorities have rejected forecasts from the Asia Development Bank that its industry will see further decline over the next 12 months.

PNG University boycott into 5th weekAudio

Updated 04/03/2010 18:27:30

The University of Goroka administration in Papua New Guinea is seeking a court order to force nearly one thousand students to attend classes.

Pacific nations want sustainable tuna fisheries.AudioTranscript

Updated 04/03/2010 18:27:30

Parties to the Nauru agreement have agreed to explore ways to maximise economic returns from their tuna fisheries while also protecting stocks.

Nauru water quality testsAudioTranscript

Updated 04/03/2010 18:27:26

The Pacific Island Applied Geoscience Commission also known as (SOPAC) will be testing the quality of groundwater in household wells throughout Nauru.

Opposition to Fiji decree decriminalising homosexualityAudioTranscript

Updated 03/03/2010 08:18:45

Former President of the Methodist Church in Fiji, Reverand Tomasi Kanailagi says he is opposed to the interim government's decree decriminalising homosexuality.

GM mosquitoes could curb dengue feverAudioTranscript

Updated 03/03/2010 08:18:48

Scientists hope a new breed of mosquito could curb the spread of Dengue Fever.

Tonga and France sign defence agreementAudio

Updated 03/03/2010 08:18:51

The Tongan and French Government have signed a defence agreement formalising their military relationship.

Tongan womens NGO criticises PM for hiding behind cultural excusesAudioTranscript

Updated 03/03/2010 08:18:54

A prominent Women's NGO in Tonga has criticised prime minister Fred Sevele for his outburst directed at Manuel Varitimos counsel assisting the Princess Ashika Royal Commission of Inquiry.

ADB calls for faster reform in VanuatuAudioTranscript

Updated 03/03/2010 08:18:45

The Asian Development Bank is calling on Vanuatu to speed up its economic reforms, despite Vanuatu's stellar economic performance which has seen it emerge from the global economic crisis as the best performing Pacific Island nation.

Chile earthquake increases Earth's rotation shortening the dayAudioTranscript

Updated 03/03/2010 08:28:52

Now if you feel like there's just not enough time in a day, you may well be right.

Samoa continues tsunami recoveryAudioTranscript

Updated 03/03/2010 18:36:15

Residents along the South Coast of Samoa are reporting a significant improvement in living conditions, less than six months after the area was devastated by a tsunami.

Israel to support Solomon's Malaita ProvinceAudio

Updated 03/03/2010 18:36:15

The province of Malaita in Solomons Islands will benefit from a proposed technical assistance program between Israel and Solomon Islands.

Fijian dancer denied visa for New ZealandAudioTranscript

Updated 03/03/2010 18:36:15

The lead dancer for a Fijian dance group has been denied a visa to perform in New Zealand.

Vanuatu West Papua independence marchAudio

Updated 03/03/2010 18:36:16

The Vanuatu capital will mark the nation's Chiefs Day this Friday with a march through Port Vila to highlight the issues of West Papua.

Sir Allan Kemakeza to contest Solomons electionAudioTranscript

Updated 03/03/2010 18:36:16

Former Savo-Russells M-P, Sir Allan Kemakeza has confirmed he will be contesting the Solomon Islands general elections this year.

Meat ants could solve cane toad problemAudio

Updated 03/03/2010 18:36:12

An answer on how to deal with one of the region's most notorious pests, the cane toad, may have been found.

PNG Ombudsman wants PM investigatedAudio

Updated 03/03/2010 18:40:03

Papua New Guinea's Ombudsman Commission has recommended police should investigate the country's Prime Minister over his role in the Julian Moti affair.

Break in rain for flooded parts of FijiAudio

Updated 02/03/2010 08:04:23

Parts of Fiji remain under water this morning after more than 24 hours of downpours.

Calls for Palau to be less reliant on tourismAudio

Updated 02/03/2010 08:04:26


A Trade Policy analyst from the Pacific Islands Forum has recommended Palau needs to become less reliant on tourism and develop other local industries and services.

Concern in Fiji at relaxed response to tsunami warningAudio

Updated 02/03/2010 08:04:28

Authorities in Fiji have expressed concern at the lack of response by some members of the public to the tsunami warning on Sunday.

Pacific economies to fare better in 2010: ADBAudioTranscript

Updated 02/03/2010 08:04:31

There's a brighter outlook for the economies of the Pacific for 2010, after a difficult 2009.

Solomon Islands women tell own stories in new bookAudioTranscript

Updated 02/03/2010 08:04:20

A new book is being published about Solomon Islands women, called 'Being the First'.

More cases of Typhoid reported in Fiji

Updated 02/03/2010 11:05:54

Reports from Fiji suggest the typhoid outbreak is worsening.

Prominent Fijian oppose decriminalising homosexuality.Audio

Updated 02/03/2010 17:28:07

A Former President of the Methodist Church in Fiji, Reverend Tomasi Kanailagi says he is opposed to the interim government's decree decriminalising homosexuality.

PNG Customs wants higher penalty legislatedAudioTranscript

Updated 02/03/2010 17:28:07

Papua New Guinea's Customs Services Commissioner, Gary Zuffa says the penalty for illegal entry into the country should be around 20 thousand US dollars.

Fiji to ban established politicians from electionAudioTranscript

Updated 02/03/2010 17:28:08

Fiji's military backed regime has announced that any politician who has played a role in the country's politics, since 1987, will be banned from contesting the promised elections in 2014.

Fiji group hails homosexuals decree changeAudio

Updated 02/03/2010 17:28:03

The Women's Action for Change in Fiji has been working on a Gay Rights project and says the Crime Decree is a step in the right direction when it comes to recognising the rights of homosexuals.

Shock after deadly blast in PNGs HighlandsAudio

Updated 01/03/2010 10:07:58

Mount Hagen in Papua New Guinea's Highlands has a reputation as a tough town but even its crime-hardened residents have been shocked by the latest violence to hit the community.

PNG Superfund pays 15 per cent interest to membersAudio

Updated 01/03/2010 10:07:58

One of Papua New Guinea's best performing superfunds, NASFUND, has announced a 15 per cent interest to be credited to more than 300,000 members.

Central Banks move to increase banking accessAudio

Updated 01/03/2010 10:07:58

About 70 per cent of Pacific Islanders do not have access to a bank or financial institution so saving money or getting a loan can be difficult.

Still no date for Solomon Islands electionsAudioTranscript

Updated 01/03/2010 10:07:58

Candidates for Solomon Islands' general election have been told not to start their campaigns until a date has been set.

Public hearings into Tonga's Princess Ashika sinking endAudio

Updated 01/03/2010 10:07:58

The Commission of Inquiry into the sinking of the MV Princess Ashika ferry in Tonga wrapped up over the weekend.

Cook Islanders quick to act on tsunami alertAudio

Updated 01/03/2010 10:07:58

A tsunami alert was issued across the Pacific Islands following the earthquake in Chile.

Pacific escapes worst after Chile earthquake tsunamiAudioTranscript

Updated 01/03/2010 10:07:58

Island nations in the Pacific have been spared the worse affects of a tsunami, following the powerful earthquake that struck Chile over the weekend.

Melbourne Storm wins rugby World Club ChallengeAudio

Updated 01/03/2010 10:07:58

Australian side, Melbourne Storm, has won the 2010 World Club Challenge in Leeds, becoming the first Australian side to win the trophy twice.

PNG and Australian company to extract native tree oilAudio

Updated 01/03/2010 18:40:32

Papua New Guinea's Sustainable Development Program Company, P-N-G-S-D-P - and an Australian company have signed an agreement to extract a native tree oil which could have medicinal properties.

Heavy rain causes flooding in FijiAudio

Updated 01/03/2010 18:40:32

A trough of low pressure is causing heavy rain across Fiji with flooding in Eastern and Northern Viti Levu.

Nauru government loses referendumAudioTranscript

Updated 01/03/2010 18:40:32

The government's attempts to amend Nauru's constitution has failed.

Sir Allan is free to contest againAudioTranscript

Updated 01/03/2010 18:40:32

The Chairman of Solomon Islands' Electoral Commission says disqualified former Solomon Islands Prime Minister Sir Allan Kemakeza is free to contest future elections.

Pacific Islanders needed to recreate Polynesian migrationAudio

Updated 01/03/2010 18:40:29

In French Polynesia, a traditional ceremony to bless a traditional outrigger canoe this weekend's went ahead, despite the tsunami warning.