$2b for NZ Defence helicopters, Trump’s influence on global elections, and Parliament tackles alcohol and mental health.

The Prime Minister joins Mike Hosking in the Newstalk ZB studio to talk all the big politicial issues.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon was joined by Deputy PM Winston Peters and Minister of defence Judith Collins to make a pre-budget defence announcement. Video / Alex Burton

Albanese wins Australian election, Kiwis worry about wild weather, and 3D-printed limbs help child amputees in Gaza.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is expected to be joined by Defence Minister Judith Collins and deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters make a pre-Budget defence announcement.

Neighbours heard explosions as a fire ripped through a Mt Roskill house. Video / supplied

Mum pays tribute after Auckland bus stop killing, Australians vote early and insurance companies brace for claims.

Megyn Cordner and Lucas Prince started their business from the back of a van in 2022. Video / Brodie Stone

Andrew Che Sit Bong lost his life savings after sending it to the wrong account. Barclays Bank refunded his money after a prolonged battle. Video / Jason Dorday

North Shore real estate agency chief responds to a Real Estate Disciplinary Tribunal decision. Video \ Supplied

Christopher Luxon speaks to media

Mark Mitchell provides an update on the state of emergency in Christchurch and Selwyn

A possible mini tornado was spotted about Auckland Harbour as the latest band of wild weather hits the city.

Tanya Winson was made redundant by her employer while on maternity leave. Winson claims the redundancy process was unfair and is seeking legal advice.

Fire and Emergency NZ said it responded to more than 30 callouts overnight, mainly in the Wellington area.

The worst of the weather is over, more Kiwis turning to methamphetamine and Drs are back at the negotiating table.

NZSA chief executive Oliver Mander speaks about CEO pay in 2024. Video / Dean Purcell

Waiwhetu woman Julie Paterson heard 'a loud cracking', looked up, and saw a tree branch falling towards her during Wednesday's storm. Video / Julie Paterson

Hon Mark Mitchell, Deputy Mayor Malcolm Lyall, and Local MP Hon Nicola Grigg speak to the media on the local state of emergency in Selwyn

Gisborne locals and health workers marched to Heipipi Park, where speakers highlighted what they say is a regional health crisis.

NZ Herald Live: Simeon Brown talks to media

Senior doctors and nurses protest outside Auckland Hospital during a nationwide strike over pay and staffing shortages. Video Jason Dorday

A person has sustained critical injuries after a high-speed crash on Tiverton Rd, Avondale at 2.14am. Video / NZ Herald

Floodwater has inundated homes and roads as heavy downpours, damaging wind gusts and 7-metre swells smash the country’s east coast.

Severe weather hits New Zealand, Kiwisaver cuts not ruled out and senior doctors on strike.

Auckland commuters are being warned of potential speed restrictions and closures on the Auckland Harbour Bridge when severe weather strikes during rush hour. Video / NZ Herald

The gloves are on the other fists! Reporter Lachie is ringside in Gore as Mea Motu’s 10-year-old coach Zen Peach warms up for his own first official boxing match.

MetService head of weather news Heather Keats updates as the country braces for severe weather, including high winds and snow. Video / Marty Melville, Cameron Pitney, MetService

MetService Severe Weather Update: April 30 - May 3. Video / MetService

Inquest into Juliana Herrera’s murder continues, more tariff developments and Mark Carney is elected in Canada.