By HOYLE, Jon SIX MONTHS after baulking at investing in a faster broadband network, Telecom has announced it will spend $1.4 billion delivering quicker broadband to every New Zealand town and city.

By TACON, Terry By Terry Tacon Farming Editor AFORMER Taranaki couple who last year toured New Zealand showcasing dairying in Australia for a Warrnambool company have sold their farm -- but it has nothing to do with the drought or disillusionment with dairying.

Many New Zealanders will recall the oil shocks of the 1970s, when the naive belief that cheap fuel was the motorist's birthright evaporated. Instead, motorists were confronted with the reality of carless days and the entire nation bore the cost of the subsequent Think Big projects.

Five New Zealanders have been chosen to join 140 young Australians at the 33rd Harry Messel International Science School in Sydney from July 3 to 16.