Politics
Morning Report Essentials for Monday 16 February
This morning we spoke to the Prime Minister after he confirmed Eden Park will host a State of Origin match next year. We also spoke to Sir Graham Lowe about the announcement; The Vaping Industry… Audio
Calls for vaping shop loophole to be closed
The Vaping Industry Association says a loophole that lets vape shops set up within dairies and petrol stations should be closed. Associate Health Minister Casey Costello spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss. Audio
Seymour campaigns for smaller govt in blunt 'State of the Nation' speech
In Christchurch, the ACT leader pushed for a smaller state, rejected Treaty "division" and vowed to keep Labour, Greens and Te Pāti Māori from power.
Migrant worker protection key in free trade with India - Labour
Labour leader has written a letter to the Prime Minister outlining the conditions National must meet before the party will consider supporting the deal.
Ministry advisory group rented expensive Symonds Street space against advice
The group is paying $119,000 for the 2025/26 year.
'We had to intervene': Govt bans taking shellfish from Auckland rockpools
The ban is for all of the Whangaparāoa Peninsula, and further north at Kawau Bay and Ōmaha Bay.
Employment relations and speedy, lopsided debates
The government continues legislating apace, with frequent extra sittings. Among the priorities this week was a bill to "rebalance" employee-employer rights. The debate was lopsided.
Auckland Mayor slams Kaipara-Rodney breakaway pitch
Wayne Brown says splitting off north Rodney would require law changes and risk major investment.
Russia, Ukraine to hold talks in Geneva next week
The announcement by both countries signals the next leg in fraught US-brokered negotiations seeking to end the four-year war.
Ditch NZ Super entirely, minor party says
The Opportunity Party says New Zealanders would be better served by dropping NZ Super and replacing it with an entirely new support system. Audio
Relying on tug boat from Australia risks lives, council leaders say
Leaders on both sides of Cook Strait say lives could be put at risk due to its emergency tug being off-contract from this month.
Should the retirement age be raised to 72?
We're starting today's show with a discussion on retirement age and would as always, love to hear your thoughts. The issue is back in the news thanks to the Chief Executive of Milford Investments… Audio
The Opportunity Party calls for rethink on retirement policy
With dire warnings that New Zealand can't hope to continue to fund super with its ageing population, coupled with concerns that AI will lead to major job displacement the Opportunities Party says it's… Audio
Patrick Gower, Guyon Espiner on the week in politics
Patrick Gower joined Guyon Espiner for their weekly political chat. Audio
New health and safety laws won't keep workers safer - experts
Experts warn proposed changes to health and safety laws won't shift the dial on the country's dire death and injury statistics. Audio
What imported gas will mean for homes and businesses
The government's plan has triggered an explosive row over the difference between a tax and a levy.
'Nakedly political': No rivals considered for Collins' new job
The outgoing minister was the only person considered for Law Commission president - with no recruitment process and no other candidates. Audio
Government increases number of space launches to 1000 per year
The government is increasing the number of space launches allowed from 100 to 1000. Space Operations New Zealand CEO and Aerospace New Zealand committee member Robin McNeill spoke to Corin Dann. Audio
Questions over appointment of Judith Collins to Law Commission
Judith Collins' appointment as President of the Law Commission was waved through by Cabinet - with no recruitment process, no selection panel and no rival candidates. Acting political editor Craig… Audio