By Martin Davidson of NZPA

Christchurch, Feb 9 NZPA - Like the rest of us Andy McKay is reserving judgment on his initial foray into international cricket.

The countdown has begun for Winter Olympic hopefuls backed by the NZ Academy of Sport Winter Programme.

Nine of the NZ snowboard, skier cross, skeleton and skating athletes named in the 16-strong NZ Winter Olympics team 2010 are supported under the South Island-based Winter Programme.

ACC levies for workers, employers and motorists will increase next year but less than those recommended by the ACC Board, ACC Minister Nick Smith says.

ACC has today made public the 2010/11 levy rates it has recommended to the Minister for ACC.

The Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind's (RNZFB's) Chairman Don McKenzie has retired from his role as Chair of the Board of Directors. He stepped down from his position formally at the Foundation's recent Annual General Meeting.

16 NOV 2009 - BLACKCAPS captain Daniel Vettori has been cleared to play in the three-match Test series against Pakistan beginning on 24 November.