It's being reported the UK Government considered using Iraq to process asylum seekers - similar to the Rwanda scheme.

This move could have seen people sent from the UK to a country the Government advises against travel to.

UK correspondent Gavin Grey says Iraq was willing to move forward without a formal or public agreement, according to leaked documents.

LISTEN ABOVE

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand universities are urging Immigration to figure out a quick solution to approving student visas.

18 percent of student visas remained unconfirmed by the time universities started for the 2024 year.

Immigration NZ visa director Celia Coombes says a number of student visa applications were sent in too late to process.

"We provided advice recommending people apply 3 or 4 months ahead of travel, but we were quite clear over the summer period to please allow for at least 8 weeks."

LISTEN ABOVE

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's hopes Auckland's water deal with the Government can be replicated in the Wellington region.

The Government and Auckland Council yesterday announced an agreement to help Aucklanders avoid a previously-signalled 25.8 percent water rates hike.

Carterton mayor Ron Mark says they've agreed to working collaboratively to producing a regional water plan.

LISTEN ABOVE

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.