15 Nov 2015

Riots to sacked receptionists: the best reads

8:35 am on 15 November 2015

From the volatile situation on Christmas Island and its fallout in New Zealand to payouts for underpaid beneficiaries; radionz.co.nz put its stamp on some of the week's major stories.

'Volatile' situation on Christmas Island

A riot in Australia's Christmas Island detention centre has left an estimated $NZ11 million worth of damage. After the riot detainees were crammed into holding cells and left without enough food or water say their families and lawyers.

A supplied image shows damage following unrest at the Christmas Island Immigration Detention Centre. The photo was supplied on 11 November 2015 by the office of Australian MP Peter Dutton.

A supplied image shows damage following unrest at the Christmas Island Immigration Detention Centre. Photo: Supplied

Mass walk-out over 'rapists' comment

There was a mass walk-out by Labour MPs in Parliament after Prime Minister John Key said that the Labour Party was "backing the rapists" in regard to its support of Christmas Island detainees.

Payouts for underpaid beneficiaries

Beneficiaries who were underpaid a day's worth of benefit are finally getting the money back.

Māori TV staff to be sacked over Te Reo ability

Two Māori receptionists are losing their jobs at Māori Television because they cannot speak Te Reo Māori.

How reliable are NCEA exams?

Education Correspondent John Gerritsen asks just how accurate NCEA exams are at measuring students' capabilities.

Teen wins $50,000 for scientific invention

Young scientists and their mentors were recognised at this year's Prime Minister's Science Prizes.

Public support growing for Parihaka Day

The debate over whether to have Parihaka day continues on social media.

Labour ditches old campaign policies

The Labour Party clears the decks of policies that proved to be unpopular and too complicated to explain at last year's general election.

TPP critics have it wrong - Joyce

Newly-released details about the controversial Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) prove the deal's critics have got it wrong, Acting Trade Minister Steven Joyce says.

Super city seeks supremo

Toby and Toby look at the pending changes in the leadership of the super city.