Duncan Garner - Editor In Chief

Ok I don’t want to get into a rant about how useless Air NZ is because it’s our airline and it’s largely pretty good. But what happens when there is no competition, you’re the only one flying in and out of smaller destinations and things go wrong? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guests are business owner, libertarian and Stuff columnist Damien Grant, and media personality, podcast host and our favourite Californian Cassie Roma. 'Placement poverty' and working for free. Tech giants paying for news. Wasteful government spending. And resourcing charities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I think it’s well past time people in public office who clearly demonstrate they have wasted vast sums of taxpayers or rate payers money with no result should be held accountable. Let's come up with new approach and get them to understand the value of our money. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the dusk settles over the serene beaches of Piha, an ominous question hangs heavy in the salty air: Is there a serial killer at large? Sir Bob Harvey, former mayor joins me to share his theory on the unexplained disappearances that have cast a long shadow over this picturesque New Zealand community. Weaving through a tangle of abandoned cars and undisturbed personal effects, Sir Bob calls for a renewed investigation into these cold cases that continue to baffle locals and authorities alike. Life is a multifaceted journey, and this episode is a testament to that complexity, as Bob shares the transitions and transformations that come with public service and leadership. From the poignant realization of adoption at 50 to the embrace of a new identity in serving the community, this conversation is a reflection on how unexpected turns can redefine our purpose. Sir Bob Harvey shares with us the nuanced parallels between the vigilance required on the sands and the humility essential in the corridors of power. As he reflects on a political career marked by service, we are reminded of the quiet strength that comes with knowing when to take a bow, offering listeners a narrative imbued with wisdom, grace, and the unwavering love for a life spent safeguarding others. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As we record this podcast it’s the anniversary of the hugely violent and destructive Cyclone Gabrielle, that wreaked havoc across the North Island of New Zealand. On those fateful days I was hosting my 'Duncan Garner Today' radio show on Today FM. What happened still causes the hairs on my arms to stand up when I think about it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us for a powerful discussion with Josie Pagani, the Chief Executive of ChildFund New Zealand, whose unwavering dedication to improving the lives of children across the Pacific and beyond is nothing short of inspiring. We take a look at the essential work being done to bring clean water, educational opportunities, and vital resources to communities where children's futures hang in the balance. From the challenges facing Kiribati and the Solomon Islands to the complexities of delivering aid in conflict zones like Gaza and Ukraine, Josie shares invaluable insights on the importance of local collaboration and sustainable support systems in crisis-stricken areas. Navigating the undercurrents of politics and social accountability, this episode dissects the intricate relationship between public sector reform and the effectiveness of charity work. The delicate balance between global community support and robust domestic policy is a balance that could very well dictate a nation's prosperity. https://childfund.org.nz/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Large sections of our critical healthcare workforce are expected to essentially work for free while they are 'training'. It is referred to as 'placement poverty'. These are key sectors where we are desperate to attract and retain staff, yet all we are doing is incentivising them to jump on a plane. And as much as I hate to admit it, I can't blame them. This is deeply concerning, and is one of the most important issues I have covered in recent times. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Faced with the stark decision of nourishing her dreams or her stomach, Bex made the gut-wrenching choice to step away from her social work program. Her story, indicative of the 'placement poverty' epidemic gripping New Zealand's essential sectors, is the catalyst for our latest conversation. As students like future nurses and social workers clock in millions of unpaid training hours, the financial distress mounts, leaving many teetering on the brink of giving up their aspirations for mere subsistence. With a spotlight on this harrowing reality, we traverse the rocky landscape of financial hardship, where survival often clashes with the pursuit of education. The path to making an impactful difference in the lives of others shouldn’t come at the cost of one’s livelihood. From the shadowy corners of salary cuts to the hefty price tag on mandatory placements that include everything from immunizations to travel expenses, we lay bare the systemic hurdles that push many to pivot away from their calling. These stories serve as a rallying cry for governmental support to acknowledge and invest in these critical public service roles, and this episode is a testament to the power of unity and action in the face of societal challenges. https://our.actionstation.org.nz/petitions/grow-the-workforce-paid-training-in-healthcare-education-and-social-work-professions?just_launched=true Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you have listened to this podcast, my radio shows before this, or the AM Show before that, you may have heard me mention a place called Viv's Kitchen. You could be forgiven for not having heard of them, or Sanson, a tiny Manawatu town of 600 or 700 where Viv's is, before. But I believe they should be held up as a shining light of small business success in New Zealand. Here's why... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unlock the secrets of staying safe in the water with Daniel Gerrard, the Chief Executive of Water Safety New Zealand, as we tackle the harrowing statistics of drowning in our nation. We don't just crunch numbers; we delve into personal stories and the heartache behind each loss, bringing to light the impact on families and communities. It's time to re-evaluate our relationship with water, and this episode serves as a compelling call to arms, urging a shift in the Kiwi attitude towards aquatic safety and a stronger push for life-saving education in schools. We zero in on the pressing need for better boating practices and contemplate the consequences of current lax maritime regulations. Daniel highlights the vital role that education plays – extending far beyond the ability to swim – in preventing water-related tragedies. As we navigate the powerful forces of the sea that so many of us hold a deep spiritual connection to, we shed light on the cold, the currents, and our own complacency, and how these factors intertwine to lead to accidents. Join us in making a difference, as we strive for a nation where every person can return home safely from the embrace of the ocean. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I think you may consider this Slam Dunc to be my most sceptical and cynical yet, as I draw on 30 years of seeing how the housing decision makers screw first home buyers while feathering their own nest and then unceremoniously pulling the ladder up, flipping the bird and saying f**k you at the same time. And where is Kiwisaver while all this is going on? Missing in action.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

'The Week That Was' this week is something a bit special. I am joined by not one, not two but three of the smartest housing brains in the business as we discuss all things housing in Aotearoa. Is it a buyers or a sellers market at the moment? What will happen to interest rates? Are first home buyers being adequately catered for? How do our banks stack up as lenders? And is buying a house still a safe bet? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The amount of time our kids are spending on their devices, their phones in particular, is reaching epidemic levels. The research data from the experts continues to pile up - our kids are spending too much time devices and not enough being physically active. I am not sure how we redress the balance. Help. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My heart swelled with pride as I reconnected with Cassie Roma, an American Kiwi whose advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community knows no bounds. During her return to New Zealand amid the colourful whirl of PRIDE, Cassie sat down with me to reveal her tapestry of experiences—ones filled with both the vibrancy of acceptance and the gray shades of challenge. She recounts the profound influence of urban versus rural attitudes, the search for safety in unwelcoming territories, and the impact a shifting political landscape has on the lives and freedoms of LGBTQ+ individuals. Her powerful narrative reminds us of the resilience needed to navigate these complex terrains. We unmask the sincerity behind corporate rainbows, questioning whether solidarity extends beyond the month of February. From the living rooms that transform into sanctuaries for queer youth, to the corridors of power where former corporate leaders now shape national attitudes, our conversation shed light on the intricate dance of representing LGBTQ+ narratives amid adversity. Cassie's insights offered a fresh perspective on the delicate balance between authenticity and the pressures from family, faith, and the workplace. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DGEIC has learned that it appears the government is cutting critical and crucial funding in the science area. DGEIC would like to know why..., Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover the untold challenges and opportunities within New Zealand's aging population, as Karen Billings-Jensen from Age Concern joins us for an enlightening conversation. We take a deep look into the lives of our elders, from the increasing number of senior renters to the crux of remaining socially connected in their golden years. The core issues of housing, income security, and the healthcare infrastructure, underpin the need for aging-friendly communities and the concept of aging in place, all while providing a voice for our most experienced and oftentimes, most vulnerable citizens. Elder abuse is also a growing concern within familial circles. With Karen's expertise, we shed light on the psychological, financial, and emotional ramifications of this hidden epidemic. Furthermore, we unravel the complexities seniors face in the digital age, discussing the gap in digital literacy and the initiatives aimed to equip our elder community with the necessary tools to thrive in an increasingly online world. Age Concern plays a pivotal role in championing community connections and ensuring our seniors are not left behind. The organization's efforts in bringing people together are a testament to the compassion and support available within our society. Join us for a poignant journey through these pressing issues, leaving you with a renewed appreciation for the resilience and contributions of our elders and the organizations that stand with them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s policies have unified Maori as a group of people for the first time in 30 years. He agreed to opening up a tinder dry Pandora's box on race relations and handed the matches to David Seymour and an only too willing Winston Peters, who had just realised they had captured the PM and were now holding him as their captive... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's something incredibly humbling about standing at the foot of the world's tallest peak, feeling the bite of the cold Himalayan air and knowing you've walked the same path as legends. We felt that awe with Rob Bruce of Got to Get Out, who joined us to recount tales of guiding groups through the trials of Everest Base Camp during winter's sting. His stories aren't just about the physical endurance required to brave such extreme conditions, but also about the mental fortitude that comes from pushing past boundaries and emerging, transformed on the other side. This episode gives an insider's look into the life-altering effects these journeys have on those who dare, as well as the reverence for Sir Edmund Hillary's legacy. Rob tells us how he traded boardroom buzzers for the serene silence of snowy peaks, and how the Sherpa people's culture and heritage are as integral to the Everest experience as the climb itself. We also discuss the importance of fostering a love for the outdoors in children and the role that modern technology plays in shaping—or inhibiting—the spirit of exploration. So join us for this soul-stirring conversation that celebrates the power of adventure to redefine our limits and the enduring call of the wild that beckons us. https://www.facebook.com/gottogetout Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

So James is going and Chloe has thrown her hat into the Green Party leadership ring. She seems the natural choice - if not now for her, then when? But would potentially having two women leading the party significantly change things? If so, would it be for the better or worse? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The great guests on 'The Week That Was' continue as this week I am joined by former Auckland mayoral candidate and current Green Party MP Efeso Collins, and engineer and nanotechnologist, bestselling author, television presenter and creator of Nanogirl Dr Michelle Dickinson. The future of the Green Party Government funding in the tech space. Drugs and the dark web. Domestic violence. And Waitangi Day and what it means to be a New Zealander. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In places like Europe and South America the people rise up and protest when those in power abuse their positions, or let public infrastructure and assets fall in to disrepair. I fear Kiwis are too apathetic in this area, with the increasingly serious problems with Auckland and Wellingtons water systems becoming critical right under our eyes. It is time as citizens that we woke up and challenged those in power to get things done. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is an in depth look at our drug landscape with associate professor Chris Wilkins, lead researcher of a ground-breaking survey of 13,000 drug users in Aotearoa. Discover the undercurrents shaping the nation's substance use, from the prevalence of vaping to the rise of methamphetamine in rural regions. Experience the gritty reality as we peer into the urban strongholds of cocaine and the unsettling ease of drug procurement via the darknet and social media—a new frontier for the tech-savvy youth. We look at the medicinal and recreational cannabis markets, probing the efficacy of current laws and contemplating the ramifications of potential legalization. Times have changed, and the uncomfortable truth is that corruption in small communities exists, driven by gang influence. Chris' research and expertise highlights the urgent need for proactive measures, informed dialogue, and a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to recasting the drug narrative in New Zealand. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As it stands Auckland city is a dog. The downtown is an international embarrassment with a mix of undesirables that the council does nothing about, preferring instead to target good citizens with over the top enforcement of stupid uptight rules that threaten to strangle the city. Auckland Council officers need to look at the way they interpret situations. Kiwis have had enough of rules that strangle them. Well, at least this Kiwi has. It’s time we challenged the ones that make no sense at all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My dear mother continues to get almost as much fan mail as I do, so I thought I would get her on the poddy again to check in with her at the beginning of the new year. How is she feeling, what plans does she have for 2024, will they involve her gentleman friend, will they involve her favourite son?! and of course I put everyone's hot button topic question of the moment to her - are Kiwis not very good looking? Some of her thoughts may well surprise you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Over the weekend my son and his mates said goodbye to a good friend. His family were heading across the Tasman chasing the promise of a better life and higher wages. So how do we keep an increasing number of Kiwis from following what has become a well-worn path? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Imagine a New Zealand free from the dark shadow of family violence. This episode promises to take you through a landscape of hope and transformation, as I am joined by Ang Jury, CEO of Women's Refuge. Ang opens up about the harrowing escalation of domestic incidents and the imperative shift from reactive to preventative strategies. Learn how historical public health initiatives can serve as blueprints for societal change against family harm, and why embracing technology and communication within families could be the key to reconnecting and fostering healthy relationships. The heart of this episode pulses with the story of evolution and partnership—a narrative of how Women's Refuge has adapted over time, transitioning from immediate crisis response to proactive community involvement. We shed light on how corporate allies like Fonterra and Contact Energy have helped solidify the financial foundation of Women's Refuge. Discover how focusing on the well-being of children today can dismantle the cycle of violence tomorrow, and why the commitment to long-term strategy is the beacon guiding us towards eradication of domestic abuse. We honour the unwavering dedication of those in the trenches fighting against family violence. This episode is a testament to the power of community involvement and a reminder that the journey toward a violence-free future is paved with dedication and collective effort. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Despite all the talk of climate change and ditching gas guzzling cars, electric cars still need good roads, and our future is a mix of all transport options. But at the heart of that is a good motorway. Investing in roading infrastructure is as important as it has ever been. Don't let the greenies and the naysayers convince you otherwise.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Embark on a transformative journey with Api, a man whose story is a powerful testament to overcoming a past riddled with crime. Following his release from prison in 2008, Api has not only gained employment for the first time in his 40s but has also claimed a new identity as a trusted gardener and burger flipper. His reflections on trust, personal growth, and the pivotal moments that rerouted his life's direction are both enlightening and deeply moving. Through Api's narrative, we navigate the complex voyage from incarceration to the outside world, focusing on the profound impact that family influence and a desire for a better future can have on personal transformation. It's not every day you meet someone who has gone from convict to head of security, but that's precisely the kind of inspiring story we cover in this candid conversation. We delve into the challenges faced when re-entering society, the barriers that stand tall, and the unyielding determination needed to shatter them. This episode also presents an intimate look at surviving life's lowest points. The road to redemption is paved with respect, karma, and an unwavering spirit, proving that everyone has the potential for a fresh start and a life reimagined. Join us as we celebrate the enduring human spirit and the pursuit of acceptance after a life once confined by prison walls. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Men aged over 45 made up 60 percent of the 90 preventable drownings in New Zealand in 2023. Last night I got a first-hand glimpse as to why this is the case when I went fishing with a friend. Come on guys, lets get smarter around the water... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the first panel of the year I am joined by a couple of outstanding broadcasters, who also happen to be a couple of my favourite people. New AM host Lloyd Burr and former Black Fern and sports broadcaster Melodie Robinson. And what an entertaining panel it was... The government and the treaty. The US presidential race. Council spending blowouts. And how are ugly are Kiwis really? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It doesn't happen often but today I find myself wholeheartedly agreeing with Auckland mayor Wayne Brown. Why on earth does it cost $500k to build a pedestrian crossing? Something is seriously not right here... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Embark on a captivating journey with Nathan Fa'avae, an adventure sports icon whose three-decade career is nothing short of legendary. From the starting blocks of a small town to the podiums of international endurance sports, Nathan's story is a testament to the transformative power of passion and perseverance. As he opens up about the evolution of his motivations and the camaraderie that defines the spirit of competition, he also takes us behind the scenes of his innovative foray into the freeze-dried food market, catering to the nutritional needs of outdoor enthusiasts like himself. This episode delves into the intricate relationship between genetics and athletic prowess, highlighting the diverse challenges athletes face against the backdrop of their heritage. Nathan discusses the personal sacrifices synonymous with high-level competition and the seemingly selfish dedication required, all while maintaining the delicate balance of contributing to family and community. His personal anecdotes from participating in life-altering outdoor programs add a layer of depth, illustrating how early experiences can chart the course for a lifetime of adventure. Nathan give us a first-hand understanding of the mental and physical fortitude necessary to compete at the zenith of adventure sports. This is an episode that transcends the ordinary and ventures into the extraordinary life of a man for whom every race is an adventure, and every meal is a milestone. https://nathanfaavae.nz/ https://realmeals.co.nz/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Artificial Intelligence is getting better by the hour. Just ask Christopher Luxon and Simon Gault, recent high-profile victims of A.I created clips. But whilst an A.I generated Luxon talking about his favourite porn sites must be a bit distracting, has the government had it's attention diverted from what it really should be focusing on? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unlock the secrets to a greener, more mindful approach to menstruation with Kylie Matthews, the COO of AWWA Period Care, as your guide. Every word with Kylie is a step toward breaking the silence that shrouds period talk, as we unearth the Maori cultural influences that shape AWWA's vision and their pursuit to rewrite the narrative around menstrual health. We discuss the societal shift needed to support menstruating individuals, not just in understanding their own bodies but also in generating an empathetic dialogue among partners and families. Strap in for a candid exploration of the realities of nurturing a blooming enterprise in Blenheim—a testament to community and connection in small-town New Zealand. Plus, we tackle the 'buzz' around a bold promotion, discussing the nuances of marketing strategies that aim to empower women's health and pleasure, all the while navigating the complexities of responsible consumer engagement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whilst what happened recently with the young person dying after being involved in an accident while driving on Muriwai beach was tragic, I hope it does not trigger a knee-jerk reaction. The vast majority of Kiwis drive on our beaches in a responsible manner. Here's my suggestion on how we can continue to do this.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Banish those post-holiday blues and turn career contemplation into action with guidance from clinical psychologist Dougal Sutherland. In this episode, we unravel the complexities of easing back into work after the festive season and the crucial importance of taking small, strategic steps when considering a career shift. Whether you're dealing with Sunday night jitters or boredom in your current role, we share a slew of practical tips to help you find engagement and motivation, alongside Dougal's invaluable insights on planning for change without jeopardizing financial stability. Are four-day workweeks and nine-day fortnights the key to a happier workforce and increased productivity? How can these emerging trends play a key role in shaping a more flexible workplace? We confront the elephant in the room: burnout. Dougal helps us spot the red flags, from emotional fatigue to slumps in performance, and offers advice on early intervention. This is a discussion designed not only to inform but to reassure you that it's normal to feel apprehensive about new beginnings. Tune in and start your year with a boost of confidence and the knowledge to overcome the post-holiday challenges. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Slam Dunc returns for 2024 with a bumper edition, and there has been plenty to get stuck in to... National, Maori and white supremacy? Golriz, shoplifting and her mental wellbeing. Middle aged men continuing to do dumb things around water. And is there more to life than this?! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hi folks, it's your favourite Editor-in-Chief returning for a new year and a brand new season (apparently I have seasons now...) Expect more of the same for S2 (apparently season is just shortened to 'S'...) - more interviews with interesting Kiwis, more editorial takes from yours truly, more Producer Dave-O, more of your Letters to the Editor. In this first episode back I'll tell how I came closer than I would have liked to dying over the break, plus I'll give you my take on some of the bigger news stories so far in 2024. Let's go... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I think I've shed more tears this year than any other one I can remember. I began the year doing my dream job, and ended it having made 159 podcast episodes. 2023 has been tough but has taught me invaluable lessons... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A special panel to wrap up the first season of DGEIC where I'm joined by two of my absolute favourites to review the year that was and to look ahead to 2024. Mikey Havoc - broadcaster, legend, and Marie Dyhrberg, KC, criminal defence lawyer, also a legend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nicola Willis has so far been mostly impressive in her new role as Finance Minister. Today she delivered the so-called 'mini budget', where she has found $7.5billion in savings. What does this say about the previous government? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the holiday spirit fills the air, our thoughts turn to those who forgo the festivities to keep us safe. This episode is a tribute to the emergency service workers whose dedication shines brightest when our need is greatest. I'm joined by the Chief Executive of Wellington Free Ambulance, David Robinson, to discuss the challenges of funding for these vital services and the remarkable resilience of frontline heroes. David paints a vivid picture of the high-stakes scenarios they encounter daily, from the tension of cardiac arrests to the gentle care provided in palliative transfers. Their stories are a compelling call to action for government and community support, a reminder that behind the statistics are individuals with a profound commitment to our wellbeing. We share a collective responsibility to support these heroes. The generosity of the community is crucial in ensuring the continuous operation of these essential services. This episode stands as a celebration of achievements and a heartfelt acknowledgment of the generosity that binds the community together. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My old school, Westlake Boys High, have won rugby’s World Schools Festival in Thailand. I'm so pleased for them but in New Zealand we can sometimes be reluctant to celebrate our successes publicly, be it sporting, business or otherwise. Does the 'Tall Poppy' syndrome still exist in Kiwi culture? Should we be shouting louder about our successes? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mumsy gets nearly as much fan mail as we do, so it only seemed right to get her back in the studio one last time this year. How has her year been, what might her 2024 look like, and can I get her to sing a Xmas carol (spoiler alert - yes I can...) Oh, and Mumsy has her first fan experience. Who and where was it?! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nicola Willis is doing what every incoming government does and that is to trash the reputation of the previous government. She is basically saying they openly misled Kiwis to make themselves look like better economic managers than they were. We have a Public Finance Act, and an Auditor General. Can someone please get to the bottom of this... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Casey is a mother whose fortitude is tried and tested to it's limits as she fights for the rights of her two-year-old son, Wolf. Born prematurely and diagnosed with cerebral palsy, Wolf's journey is a complex labyrinth of disability care options and services. Casey's passion echoes through the episode as she shares her skirmishes with ACC over coverage and her trying dispute with their disability service provider. There's a profound power in claiming accountability. A disgruntled customer harnesses this power in an intense narrative, pinpointing their dissatisfaction with a company that fell short of their expectations. This story underscores the importance of standing up for one's rights and not backing down in the face of adversity. Listen and learn from the bravery of those who refuse to be undervalued or overlooked. Their determination may just stoke the fire in you to demand better. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of the last things the last government did was to bring in fair pay agreements. One of the first things the new government has done is to repeal those fair pay agreements. So, who has got it right when it comes to fair pay? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the penultimate 'Week That Was' panel for the year I'm joined by The Edge afternoon host, and greenskeeper, Nickson Clark, and radio royalty Leah Panapa. Plenty to get stuck into this week: All the things the government are repealing. What is going on with the Cook Strait ferries? Should we be allowed to drive on our beaches? And is leaving passive aggressive notes for stranger ever a good idea.. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The new government has said 'no thanks' to KiwiRail’s request for an extra $1.47 billion for infrastructure needed for Cook Strait’s new mega-ferries. There's no doubt the costs around the project have blown out, but where does this leave the vital inter-island crossing, and what does the government now do about it? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When I was their age, my biggest concerns were probably what toy I wanted for my birthday or how much more time I could spare to play outside before sunset. But, in today's episode, my young guests, Buster, Lukka, and Jarelle , show us that being 12 or 13 isn't all fun and games. As we chat about everything from school reports and math grades to the implications of climate change and lowering the voting age to 16, I'm often left in awe of their profound insights. These boys, though young, express opinions that are both entertaining and thoughtfully fresh. Engaging in a lively conversation, we try to understand their world, their favorite social platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok, encounters like tagging in school bathrooms, or even being banned from TikTok. There's something about the innocence of youth that allows these boys to view the concept of 'age' differently. From discussing politics to what they consider 'old', to sharing their frustrations about their parents, this episode is filled with laughter, surprises, and a whole lot of honesty. So join us, as we journey through the minds of these young men - unfiltered, authentic, and as entertaining as they come! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices