Global coal production fell last year by a bigger margin than in any year since records began in 1971, according to new OECD figures.

Improvements to DNA sequencing technology will be able to help researchers solve genetic problems faster in animals, plants and other organisms, a Palmerston North scientist says.

Michael Hill International’s strong full-year profit was underpinned by growth in its three key markets – Australia, New Zealand and Canada.

Dunedin’s Cadbury chocolate factory is closing soon, but the company says it will still spend $7 million developing Cadbury World in the city.

Mediawatch – Many New Zealanders willingly share things on social media, but also think media should need permission to run it. Colin Peacock asks if that’s realistic.

Rolleston in Canterbury now has an augmented reality playground.

Mediawatch – $18 cabbages? An extra $75 for wine? Eye-watering claims about the crippling costs of charging for water floated free in the media this past week – even in the rural press which should have known better.

A second building products company has felt the strains in the construction sector resulting in lower profits.

A massive upgrade of electricity wires, poles and transformers across wide areas of the North Island could add $3 to $4 per month to average consumers’ power bills.

Spark has reported an increase in full-year profit, with an improved performance in the mobile and information technology divisions.