Stories by Katie Kenny

The dominant Covid subvariant has mutated, giving rise to several new lineages, known as "FLiRT".

Explainer - The government from 2025 is mandating how state schools teach children to read. But what is structured literacy and how does it compare to other teaching methods?

New Zealanders travelling to Samoa are recommended to have comprehensive insurance as the country deals with a dengue outbreak. Audio

Smaller agencies are making deepest cuts as they look to save costs, RNZ data shows.

And how New Zealand's experience with Covid-19 was very different to most of the world.

We've been hearing a lot about anti-gang measures, with new legislation going through Parliament. RNZ is here to explain what it's all about.

It is easy to shrug off news of yet another data breach. But experts say even basic personal information can help fuel cyber crimes. RNZ explains.

A bill calling for the forced sale or ban of TikTok passed through the United States' House of Representatives. What's next, and what does all of this mean for New Zealand?

Explainer - As big banks reduce home loan interest rates, people might be tempted to shop around. But break fees can end up costing as much or even more than potential savings.

Explainer - Not long after Newshub announced it would shut down, TVNZ shared plans to eliminate jobs. Is this a tipping point?

Explainer - Despite its $37m valuation it doesn't meet healthy homes standards. But is updating it necessary during a cost of living crisis? RNZ examines its past, present, and potential future use.

Explainer - At first glance, it doesn't make sense that New Zealand's second-biggest supermarket chain had a drop in earnings. RNZ clears up the confusion.

Explainer - Fertility rates in New Zealand, and around the world, keep dropping. What does this mean?

Explainer - With all these new Covid variants, how are the old tests holding up? And what's the point of testing now, anyway?

Explainer - Warnings about an intense wildfire season seem to be coming to fruition. RNZ asks the experts what's going on.

Explainer - Every summer, misinformation about sunscreen seems to grow. A bit like cancer. RNZ asks the experts for help.

Explainer - The new government plans to pay for students' final year of tertiary study, rather than their first. RNZ analyses the impact of the current settings and the proposed change.

Explainer - Rail services are struggling to cope with middling temperatures in Wellington. What's going on?

Explainer - Some swim schools make big claims about baby and toddler classes. Here's what the evidence says.

Explainer - No, you're not imagining things. The pōhutukawa really are bigger and brighter this year. RNZ asks an expert what's going on.

Explainer: The virus is making headlines again in the lead up to Christmas. Here's what's going on, and what you need to know.

The coalition deal between NZ First and National refers to giving English official status. But what would that involve?

Explainer - NZ Post's Christmas cut-off dates are flying by. Why does it take a month for a parcel to get from Auckland to London? RNZ asks NZ Post to explain how items get from A to B.

Explainer - The approaching holiday season is a time of joy. But it also involves a few tricky questions. From family gatherings to avoiding Covid and even navigating grief, RNZ is here to help. Audio