Five Big Things: Friday, January 26

Former Justice Minister Kiri Allan has broken her silence, a person has died after jumping from a crane into Wellington Harbour, and MBIE is set to axe 40 jobs.

Former Justice Minister Kiri Allan has broken her silence, detailing what led to the moment that cut her political career short.

Allan crashed her car and was charged with careless driving and failing to accompany a police officer.

She has pleaded not guilty to the charges and will face a judge alone trial on May 22.

Now, she's revealing in an exclusive TV interview with Breakfast the moments that led up to the car crash that would end her political career.

A person who jumped from a crane into Wellington Harbour earlier this afternoon has been found dead.

Divers found the person's body in the water at about 2.35pm, a police spokesperson said.

They said a rāhui will now be put in place, with further details to be provided soon.

Forty jobs are to go at the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment as the Government pulls funding for 15 Regional Skills Leadership Groups.

The RSLGs — set up under the previous Labour government in 2019 — are independent advisory groups that include people from business and industry, local government, worker, iwi, community and the public service.

Dental professionals are warning of the "irreversible risks" of attempting at-home dental work after a concerning trend has more Kiwis resort to drastic measures amid rising cost pressures.

New Zealand Dental Association's chief executive Dr Mo Amso told Breakfast it is "absolutely awful" that some Kiwis are choosing DIY solutions because of the expense.

Some members of Far North iwi Ngāti Kahu have blocked the access road to the Taipa boat ramp, one day before the annual Doubtless Bay Fishing Classic is scheduled to begin.

Wikatana Popata, who is leading the blockade, said the event is peaceful. Around 50 people were in attendance this morning, with five police officers onsite.

Find the full story here.

Why is Australia Day controversial?

Australia Correspondent Aziz Al Sa’afin explains why the country’s national day has become a heated topic of conversation.

Australia, much like its neighbour New Zealand, has a national public holiday that recognises the founding of the country.

Officially, it’s known as Australia Day. But some prefer to call it “Invasion Day”.

The number of Kiwi employers offering workers free counselling sessions and other well-being help, known as EAP, has been on the rise.

1News speaks to industry representatives and an union organiser about what the benefits for employees and workplaces are, and a few important things those taking up the services should know.