The lack of progress in reducing child poverty in New Zealand is both "hugely disappointing" and "unacceptable", the Children's Commissioner says.

Women - particularly younger women - are being left behind in the property market, a situation that could exacerbate wealth gaps over time.

The Reserve Bank says the banking industry should be forced to provide basic cash handling services to consumers and businesses throughout the country.

Cuban forces killed four people and wounded six others aboard a Florida-based speedboat that entered Cuban waters and opened fire on a Cuban patrol.

Bill Gates "took responsibility for his actions" over ties to late financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in a meeting with employees of the Gates Foundation, a spokesperson says.