New Zealand has lost a remarkable man with the passing of Sir Ian Axford, Research, Science and Technology Minister Wayne Mapp said today.

"Sir Ian had an outstanding international reputation in astrophysics and space science.

It is with great sadness that Victoria University learnt of the death of Sir Ian Axford FRS, Hon FRSNZ, a former Vice-Chancellor and an honorary graduate of Victoria University, and one of New Zealand's most distinguished scientists with an international reputation in astrophysics and space scien

Victoria University's 2010 JD Stout Fellow will explore the contribution of Jewish refugees from Hitler's Germany, among other war-time immigrants, to New Zealand's national identity and culture.

Some of Australasia's leading experts on imprisonment and justice are to debate the issues as New Zealand looks for new approaches to incarceration.

"Victoria University is proposing to cut four academic staff positions from its flagship School of Government - while failing to consider the impact on students, the public sector and the School's future," said Tertiary Education Union organiser, Michael Gilchrist, today.

Massey University has announced the appointment of Cas Carter as the new Assistant Vice-Chancellor (External Relations).

What the Maori Battalion achieved in battle, their mokopuna are emulating in classrooms, laboratories and lecture halls and marae all over New Zealand, according to Associate Education Minister Dr Pita Sharples.

What kinds of organisms lived on New Zealand's rocks around 48 million years ago?

That was the focus of research by Victoria University PhD graduate Dr Chris Clowes.

Chris Gendall, who counts stand-up comedy, sports events and composers of the 60s and 70s as some of his musical influences, returns to Wellington as the Creative New Zealand/Jack C. Richards Composer-in-Residence.

Kia ora Mr Speaker.