Early Edition with Ryan Bridge

As you know I’ve been saying for some time this election is National’s to lose.  The economy will pick up, this government’s only two years in and kiwis like to give incumbents the benefit of the doubt. I still think this holds true. But, as we’ve been reporting since April, Trump’s tariffs - which took everybody (including the markets) by surprise, making a bear of a bull - hammered business and consumer confidence just as we were showing signs of those green shoots the pundits love talking about. This has shortened Luxon’s window for a real economic recovery, which is the platform he’s relying on for re-election. Talk of a leadership coup by Christmas is in my view daft.  Any National MP who thinks they can outpoll Luxon in the current climate’s got to be dreaming. A short-term bump, maybe. But there are political costs - namely - instability. Remember Muller? Then this newly elected Leader must go to Winston and David and no doubt relitigate all and sundry just as the later begin firing up for a showdown. Winston and Shane were in full flight at the weekend. And it’s only September 2025. Timing is everything and that’s Luxon’s card to play - in 12 months from now the country will (likely) feel a much different place to live. That means a late election. If National are smart they’ll stick with the devil they know and wait for brighter days ahead. The risks outweigh the benefits at this point in the cycle.  If needs be, a transition can happen in pretty short order… Jacinda Ardern is proof of that. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s world No 1 v No 2, a repeat of the World Cup final, two of the great sporting rivals squaring off once again. It might just be the biggest test for the All Blacks this year.  Scott Robertson’s side look to continue a proud record at Eden Park stretching back to 1994, while also needing to bounce back from a defeat to Argentina.  The All Blacks have remained undefeated at the Fortress for over 30 years – a record that could be tested tomorrow.  Eden Park CEO Nick Sautner is nervous about the record being broken, telling Andrew Dickens that they want it to continue, and are confident it will.  LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Truck drivers are feeling increased pressure to deliver on time – even breaking the law to do so.  The Workers First Union believes the timeframes set up for drivers to complete jobs within allocated driving hours is unachievable.  The union signed up to support the Safe Rates international labour campaign, which makes employers and customers responsible for the financial pressures put on drivers.  Union organiser Lance Gush told Andrew Dickens the campaign makes a level playing field for those fighting for contracts.  He says companies are dropping vehicles out of their fleets in order to try to keep up with contract costs.  LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Andrew Dickens Full Show Podcast 2025, criminals with New Zealand residency could now face deportation for up to 20 years after arriving, immigration lawyer Simon Laurent shares his thoughts.  The All Blacks will be taking on the Springboks at Eden Park this Saturday, Eden Park CEO Nick Sautner tells Andrew what they're doing to prepare for the big match.  Truck drivers say they’re being pushed to speed, skip breaks, and bend the law just to keep freight moving, Workers First Union organiser Lance Gush tells Andrew the impact it's having on drivers.  UK/Europe Correspondent Vincent McAviney has the latest on a Portuguese funicular crash and the possible digital ID scheme to combat illegal migration.  Get the Early Edition Full Show Podcast every weekday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.           LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What could be a reactive move - as Immigration Minister Erica Stanford sends a clear message to immigrants, to obey the law. Criminals with New Zealand residency could now face deportation if they've been here for less than 20 years. That's double the current limit of under 10 years.  Immigration lawyer Simon Laurent told Andrew Dickens this is a response to an overall mood that's surfacing, particularly in the UK and Australia. He says it's an approach that's been sweeping through other democracies, for the past few years. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Now seeing as I am a 60 year old white guy, some will consider my comments inherently racist, but I am allowed my opinion just as you are allowed yours.  Opinions are like bums - we all have one, so why fight it? Firstly, the coming out of the Māori Queen.  One thing is for sure, Māori do this customary and ceremonial stuff well. The attendees are seeing history, a young Queen about to take leadership.  But I’m always amazed at the one year silence thing. Sure you’re getting the lay of the land and forming your ideas for your reign and paying respect to your predecessor, but come on.  It seems to me that the year's silence gives the courtiers more power over affairs of state. When the cats away the mice will play.  Now to the Tamaki Makaurau by-election.  I couldn’t believe how many voters got the City Council Elections and the by-election to be a Member of Parliament confused.   One person on telly wondered if Oriini Kaipara was running for Mayor. And you wonder why we get strange governments and councils.  The candidates also ran chaotic campaigns.    Oriini Kaipara had a shocker. Claiming her party, who have not been in government since 2017, had repealed laws. No they did not - back then they were support partners and so not able to repeal laws.  Then she had to grab her phone to check policy while Jack Tame looked on quizzically.  Then she said her Labour opponent should be Prime Minister of New Zealand, which must have raised the eyebrows of Rawiri and Debbie. I understand Oriini's appeal. She’s young and smart. She was a respected journalist, and she has the Māori Party sartorial style. Fine alternative statement clothes - they always looked like they’ve been styled by Zambesi. But it’s not what you look like or seem, it’s what you say. She seems underdone and would get better with more time.  Then there’s Peeni Henare. A product of Māori's hierarchical society where a lot of weight is given to your family, your whakapapa, and your journey.  He’s always been mentioned as a future Prime Minister. It seems like it’s owed and not to be earned. If he loses this one it’s over, because you can’t be a Prime Minister if you couldn’t win a Māori electorate. Twice. He also had a shocker going against the gang patch law having to be corrected by Chippy. Also I didn’t need to see him working out with David Letele, I want to know what he thinks, not how he sweats  You know I don’t think I could vote for either if I could.  But I can’t. I’m not allowed to. And that seems to be how the electorate feel with indications of a terrible turnout this weekend.  And that’s a bad thing. If you respect the treaty, if you’ve chosen to be on a Māori roll, then you owe your people to use that privilege, or right if you prefer. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A separate argument against major tech firms paying more tax.  A report from tax expert Nick Miller says companies like Google are able to skirt their dues by taking payments from New Zealand subsidiaries, listed as service fees.  He says they could be seen as royalties, which come under a withholding tax.   However, another independent expert in the field, Geof Nightingale, told Andrew Dickens the Trump administration would push the cost back onto New Zealand businesses and consumers.  If we were to tax the US tech giants more, we'd be slapped with a higher tariff on exports.  LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Optimism in the education sector as the number of people studying to be a teacher rises.  There's been about 3,500 new domestic enrolments to initial teacher training this year – up 30% on the same time last year.  Primary education's grown by 31%, while enrolments in secondary are up 28%, and 24% for ECE.  PPTA President Chris Abercrombie told Andrew Dickens that doesn't reflect the need, in terms of shortages.  He says in secondary education, they are often short of subject specialists.  LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Andrew Dickens Full Show Podcast Thursday 4th of September 2025, a report from the Chief Justice says trials are becoming longer, more complex and it's clogging up the system, former high court judge and former Chair of the NZ parole board, Sir Ron Young shares his thoughts. Independent tax expert Geof Nightingale gives his take on how big tech pay their fair share to our economy. Data from the Ministry of Education show enrolment numbers are up 30%, PPTA President Chris Abercrombie tells Andrew how big of a difference it'll make to our teacher shortage. Plus US Correspondent Mitch McCann has the latest on Trump hitting out at President Xi and other leaders during China's military parade. Get the Early Edition Full Show Podcast every weekday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.           LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Complex cases appear to be clogging up our justice system, with manslaughter and murder offences making up more than 70% of all High Court trials. Chief Justice Dame Helen Winkelmann says the system is struggling to keep pace, in her latest Annual Report. Her report reveals a mix of delays, burnout, safety issues, and under-funding. Former High Court Judge and Parole Board Chair Sir Ron Young told Andrew Dickens it's horrifying that manslaughter and murder trials are taking 17 days or more. He says in the 1970s and 80s, murder trials took about three to five days.  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The game of rugby this weekend is starting to take on a life of it’s own.  Some have called it the biggest game of rugby since the last World Cup Final featuring the same two teams - and this is even though the Lions have just toured Australia in a record-breaking financial success.  But it is going to be a cracker. It’s been fortified by Eden Park’s record as a fortress - 30 years and 50 games where the All Blacks have not been defeated.  We’re vulnerable as the last test against Argentina showed, meanwhile the South Africans seem genuinely inspired by playing at Eden Park.  It’s been 8 years since they have done that. The revenue is generated by them, and I wonder if it's been purposeful to keep them away from it for so long.  And the French have been in the media as they were the last to beat New Zealand at the Garden of Eden way back in 1994. Interestingly the first time I went to an All Blacks game, only to see them lose.  They too have been rhapsodising about the mythical qualities of what is a pretty patchy stadium.  There’s a very real chance we’re going to lose this one. Graham Henry has been quoted as saying there’s something not quite right with the team’s mentality.  Yet it’s a reminder that if the biggest game of rugby in the world is to be played, it had to played at Eden Park.  The good people of Christchurch who are about to take possession of a spiffing new stadium will argue that Eden Park’s self declaration that the park is our national stadium is misplaced.  But that’s not true. Eden Park is sacred ground and Auckland still needs to figure out how to make it better, because it’s the best place for what is about to happen this weekend. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government's tertiary refresh has sparked conversation around whether the country's dumbing down the sector.  Universities Minister Shane Reti's announced a package of initiatives, including a new education strategy and updated governance rules.  He decided against making university entrance harder.  Universities NZ chair Grant Edwards told Andrew Dickens there's no need for more limits on who can hand out the top academic qualifications.  He says universities are the only institutions to do research-led teaching in the country, so research-led Masters and PhDs should be awarded within them.  LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Farmers are pushing ACT and New Zealand First for less politicking and more action.   The two parties have expressed interest in withdrawing from the global Paris Agreement unless more realistic emissions targets are produced to fight climate change.   But Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford says they're in government and could be resolving the problems creating uncertainty for farmers now.   He told Andrew Dickens the Paris Agreement in itself isn't necessarily the problem.   Langford says we need to dig deeper and look at what's setting Paris back, because it's actually what we're setting on ourselves as a government.  LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Andrew Dickens Full Show Podcast Wednesday 3rd of September 2025, Should we pull out of the Paris Climate Accord? Federated Farmers National President Wayne Langford makes his case.  A international visitor survey shows there was a 5% increase in visitors over the last year, Hospitality NZ Head of Advocacy Sam Mackinnon shares his thoughts. The Government’s rejected tougher entry rules for universities, Grant Edwards Vice Chancellor Lincoln University tells Andrew whether or not we need tougher restrictions.  Plus UK/ Europe Correspondent Gavin Grey has the latest on the UK government long-term borrowing costs reaching their highest level since 1998. Get the Early Edition Full Show Podcast every weekday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.           LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pulling out of the Paris Climate agreement has got the backing of ACT and New Zealand First, who say we're overdoing it. And my first reaction is yes. The thing isn't working. It's never worked.  It has always felt like something the world does to make itself feel like it's doing something, even though it's doing nothing When you combine it with the Emissions Trading Scheme —which is a giant Ponzi scheme made to make Coldplay feel better about touring the world in jet planes, meanwhile filling our pastures with trees— then the whole thing seems useless, so why be involved? And we're so little. New Zealand's biggest contribution to CO2 numbers is our farming, which is fairly benign polluter, because the world needs food.   The world doesn't need more cheap jeans and plastic crap, but the people who make that stuff are merrily pumping rubbish into our atmosphere. So why should we be punishing the cornerstone of our economy when in the scheme of things, it contributes so little while the real polluters keep on polluting? So yeah, let's stand up. Tell the world they're in a fool's paradise of virtue signalling and get on with feeding the people we can. But. The rest of world, with the exception of the United States, still believe in this mirage.  And they're the ones buying our food, and they're also the ones who will find any way to blacklist our awesome agricultural products. So pulling out of the charade may see us cutting our nose off to spite our face.  It may reduce the compliance costs on our farmers in the first instance, but what's the point of that if it makes the rest of the world turn their back on our milk and butter and meat? ACT and New Zealand First may think that this posturing is helping our farmers, but in fact it could be penalising them even more heavily And maybe ACT and New Zealand first are playacting this for votes just as much as the Paris Climate Accords are playacting for the environment So let's call this thing for what it is, and rather than just pulling our in a flounce, advocate for real change to the Accords and the policies and actually get on with helping the environment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Overseas visitors are back and here to spend, with tourism hotspots like Queenstown reaping the benefits. The latest International Visitor Survey results show a 5% increase in international tourists over the past year. Spending has increased by more than 4%, but still remains at 86% of pre-pandemic levels.  Hospitality New Zealand spokesperson Sam Mackinnon told Andrew Dickens he's hoping the spending will soon become more regionally dispersed. He says councils across the country are working on their destination management plans, so they can get a slice of the tourism pie. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A push to slim down New Zealand’s unusually large number of ministerial portfolios is being met with caution.  A report by the New Zealand Initiative's found comparable countries have a third of our 81 portfolios and is calling for a cull.  PSA's national secretary Fleur Fitzsimons says they don't object to a discussion around this.  But she told Andrew Dickens it's taking place in a political context, driven by the ACT Party.  Fitzsimons says David Seymour's been vocal about dismissing more public servants and moving to a model of privatisation.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A drive to attract foreign investors could deliver more than just financial gain.  The Government’s tweaking visa rules, letting Active Investor Plus holders buy or build one New Zealand home worth at least $5 million.  This is on top of the minimum $5 million investment pledge needed to get the visa.  Former Labour Cabinet minister Stuart Nash told Andrew Dickens these investors will bring experience, contacts, and networks with them.    He says they'll bring in a whole mix of different skills and competencies - which will create a lot of value  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More people are getting mortgages approved as they prepare for the Official Cash Rate to fall further. Latest Centrix figures show mortgage enquiries are up 16% for the month of July and new mortgage lending rose almost 25%. Key Mortgages broker Jeremy Andrews told Andrew Dickens many people are getting approved and just holding off. He says there's been more activity lately - with one client of his going to auction, and nine people registered to bid. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government’s new plan for water services is called Local Water Done Well. It’s all about keeping control in the hands of local councils and communities, rather than shifting everything to big centralised bodies.  Which was what Three Waters did. Eventually Labour caved and the policy got renamed 10 Waters because there would be 10 regionalised bodies, but even that was not popular. And of course there was the troublesome identity politics around Māori co-governance that freaked a lot of people out. So now, Councils have to submit Water Services Delivery Plans showing how they’ll manage drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater safely, sustainably, and affordably.  There’s still strong oversight from regulators, but the focus is on local decision-making, community accountability, and better outcomes for everyone.  So Councils must submit their Water Services Delivery Plans (WSDPs) to the Secretary for Local Government and the deadline is the third of September. These plans outline how each council will deliver and fund water services - that’s tomorrow and it’s looking like it’s going to be a bust  And the big sticking point is funding, which was at the core of Three Waters. Three Waters was going to force water services to be amalgamated, the assets used to borrow against, and the loans paid off by water rates, not rates. Local Water Done Well allows for that to happen too, but the difference is that it has to be done voluntarily by the councils, and they don’t want to do that.  Here’s a concrete example: Thames Coromandel is a nightmare water services situation. The area is mountainous and the weather events extreme. There’s hardly any ratepayers and the population expands immensely in the summer. The Thames Coromandel Council wanted to join forces with Tauranga and Western Bays to form a bigger regional body to fund water off their existing assets.  Tauranga doesn’t want the hassle of Thames Coromandel and so the deal hasn’t happened. The estimation is that this will put 500 to 600 dollars onto the Thames Coromandel rates. We all want better water, but we all want lower rates. We’ll find out tomorrow what’s going to happen with water but at the moment it looks like the policy should be renamed Local Water, done not very well and not funded. After all the talk about water reform we’re right back at where we started from and you, the ratepayer, will have to pay for it. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Andrew Dickens Full Show Podcast Tuesday 2nd of September 2025, the government's made moves of the foreign buyers ban, former Labour minister Stuart Nash shares his thoughts.  Interest rates are softening but the property market’s still in limbo, Jeremy Andrews from Key Mortgages provides analysis on the latest Centrix Credit data. The NZ Initiative has done a report which found we have about three times as many ministries as countries we like to compare ourselves to, PSA National Secretary Fleur Fitzsimons shares her thoughts. Plus, Australia Correspondent Donna Demaio has the latest on Anthony Albanese speaking on the Nauru deportation plan.  Get the Early Edition Full Show Podcast every weekday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.           LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey reveals most violent crimes have been dropping in the past two years. It finds the number of sexual assault victims steadily increased over this time. More beat officers are being deployed in Auckland to act as a deterrent to crime. Chief Victims Advisor Ruth Money told Andrew Dickens that these numbers are highly volatile. She says there's lots of high pressure times, like Christmas which can see an uptick of crime in the community. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast for Monday 1 September. Get the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast every weekday morning on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Concern tertiary students are having to choose extra work over studying - to keep up with increased living costs. More than 34-million-dollars in hardship funds has been given out by institutions since 2020. Victoria University's Student Association spokesperson, Aidan Donoghue, says things haven't improved much since Covid. He told Andrew Dickens they received 940 applications for their Winter Energy Grant this year, compared to 265 two years ago. Donoghue says every application is limited to one address - so that's 940 households.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Neil Quigley marched off into the sunset at 5.49pm on Friday. Late enough for the news to miss the TV 6pm bulletin.  It’s an old PR trick. Leaving the shock value to dissipate over the weekend before the start of play on Monday.  It was evidence to me that successive governments and the Reserve Bank have failed to respect each other or realise that even though they are independent their actions combine and affect all of New Zealand  In the Covid years the Reserve bank reacted and made money essentially free.  But the Labour government wanted to be seen to be doing something, so they started overspending and throwing borrowed money away.  The result was a superheated economy that crashed spectacularly and spectacularly quickly  So, then the Reserve Bank made money expensive again to attack the overheating.  But the new Government, this time National, again wanted to be seen to be doing something so they cancelled government expenditure throwing us into a deeper economic funk than anyone had expected.  In both scenarios the governments didn’t seem to realise what was happening at the Reserve Bank. And the Reserve Bank was too proud to take into account the stupidity of governments.  Government’s need to heed the advice that they give Council’s.  Stick to the knitting. Their job is to do the basics.  Fund Health, Education and the Police.  And build us stuff to help us do business like roads and rail and ferries. Not to worry about the price of butter or the number of supermarkets.  And keep the borrowing as low as is reasonable Meanwhile let the Reserve Bank worry about inflation and the big financial stuff.  That’s how successful governments respected the independence of the Reserve Bank and how the last two amateur governments did not.  The saga also shows how political Treasury is.  Their advice wavers in the wind of whoever is in power and is not to be trusted. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Black Ferns’ opening Rugby World Cup win has come at a cost.   They crushed Spain at the start of the week, claiming victory 45-8, but lost loose forward Kaipo Olsen-Baker to injury.  However Back and Skills coach Riki Flutey told Ryan Bridge they’re confident Olsen-Baker, along with outside backs Ayesha Leti-I’iga and Amy du Plessis will play in next week’s clash against Ireland.   But before that is a clash against Japan, and the Ferns aren’t taking the team lightly.  Flutey told Bridge there’s threats throughout the Japanese team, but they’re confident in the team’s ability to defeat them.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ukraine has suffered its worst night of strikes in months.  Nineteen people have been killed, including four children, and dozens are injured following a bombardment of missiles and drones in the capital of Kyiv.   It marks Russia's deadliest onslaught on Kyiv since July.   UK correspondent Vincent McAviney told Ryan Bridge the strikes hit residential areas and the offices of those representing the EU and UK.   He says Britain is taking it as an attack on their presence there, and Ukraine's President Zelensky says this is evidence that Putin's not serious about negotiating a peace settlement.   LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chinese investment in New Zealand is growing, but slowly.  The New Zealand China Council’s annual report shows China ranks 12th as a source of foreign investment in New Zealand, providing less than 1% of total inflows.  Investment grew 9% a year between 2014 and 2024, but has flat lined since 2019.  NZIER Principal Economist Chris Nixon told Ryan Bridge the problem is that investment is a long-term game, so other countries have a greater advantage.   He says we've been trading with China for the last 20 years so it will take time for the relationship to build.   LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It could soon be easier to go to the pub for a big overseas sports match amid tough times in hospitality. The Government's proposing to loosen certain regulations and allow for businesses to respond to objections for them having a license. Ministers will be able to grant one-off special trading hours for businesses that stream major events.  Auckland's Kingslander Bar owner Steve Gillett told Ryan Bridge it's a time of need for the industry. He says this would be an opportunity to increase revenue streams and up total sales. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast Friday 29th of August 2025, changes to alcohol regulation laws means ministers can grant one-off special trading hours for businesses that stream major events, Kingslander bar owner Steve Gillett tells Ryan how big of a difference it will make.  Black Ferns backs and skills coach Riki Flutey catches up with Ryan on the Rugby World Cup ahead of the Black Ferns game against Japan.  China ranks 12th in direct foreign investment to New Zealand, NZIER Principal Economist Chris Nixon shares his analysis. Plus, UK/ Europe Correspondent Vincent McAviney has the latest on Ukraine suffering the worst night of strikes in months with at least 19 killed. Get the Early Edition Full Show Podcast every weekday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.           LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reading the Air New Zealand results was a bit disappointing - even more so was the commentary after.  Profit's down, demand is down, costs are on the march, capacity still buggered by engine problems.  Here's the real punch in the guts for our national carrier: they won't be back to full capacity for the best of two more years. Foran confirmed it last night.  There's something about a national carrier that should make you feel a bit proud.  When you've been overseas and travelled the world, not seen a Kiwi in ages, jumping onboard that last leg home, hearing the accent - the comfort of Kiwi service.  Foran's had a rough time in the job. Border closures and lockdowns, is there anything worse for the new boss of a global airline?  The Rolls Royce and other engine issues - again, not really his fault.  You can plan around that stuff but even those plans have had to change. The engine makers' timelines for a fit-it job have been pushed out. And then there's the prices - we all love to whine about the prices, including me.  A return weekend flight from Auckland to Wellington, for the middle of next month, will cost me close to 800 bucks! And guess what? They're going to keep going up - an extra five percent in the near future. As Foran hits the departure lounge to make way for a new Captain of our national treasure —if we'd still call it that— the question is what would or should he have done differently?   For all the faults and complaints and price hikes, is there anything anyone has suggested that could have fixed these problems while not simultaneously sinking the business, or worse, forcing it to go, once again, cap in hand to the government for another handout? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Minneapolis Catholic school's been left devastated after a gunman killed two children and injured 17 other people.  He was armed with a rifle, shotgun, and pistol, and shot through the church windows before turning a gun on himself. Annunciation Catholic School was marking their first week of school with morning mass and had highlighted their theme for the year as 'hope'.  US Correspondent Toni Waterman told Ryan Bridge the shooter doesn’t have an extensive criminal history, despite showing up fully armed.  It’s unknown what the motive was at this stage.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's positive news for hubs like Auckland and Wellington where housing affordability gains have been most visible.  Cotality NZ’s new report finds the national value-to-income ratio reached its lowest point since mid-2019 in the June quarter, at 7.5%.   One Roof Editor Owen Vaughan told Ryan Bridge buyers should target housing pockets like Auckland's Otara, where's there a lot of value.  He says prices have come down around 20% since Covid, and houses can go for around 600 thousand dollars.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Labour Party is accusing the Government of dillydallying on changes to the grocery market.   Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis announced plans to speed up the supermarket consent process.   Labour Party Commerce spokesperson Arena Williams says Labour is working on a suite of changes, but she didn't reveal what they are.   She told Ryan Bridge the consenting changes could be used by the existing players.   Williams says it could create less competition and drive more profits to the duopoly.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast Thursday 28th of August 2025, the government's fast tracking new supermarkets to boost competition in the sector, Labour's Arena Williams shares her thoughts.  Figures from Cotality show house price/income ratio his back to pre-covid levels, Oneroof Editor Owen Vaughan tells Ryan why that is. The gender pay gap is at the lowest it's ever been, Mind the Gap co-founder Dellwyn Stuart shares her thoughts.  Plus US Correspondent Toni Waterman has the latest on a school shooting in Minneapolis.  Get the Early Edition Full Show Podcast every weekday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.           LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

All good so far from Nicola Willis on supermarkets.  She's got to the nub of the problem, which is basically red tape. Governments of all stripes, including her, have been quick to point the finger at private enterprise for high prices. And there's truth in that, but most haven't looked in the mirror like Willis did yesterday and admit it's them that also has a problem. We all do, really.  Everybody moans about prices but then moans about construction of anything new - not in my backyard.  Consultation up the wazoo, committees, petitions, Duncan Webb on a soapbox - that's democracy. Like Churchill said, the lesser of two evils.  It's taken them two years to get here, but they could have just listened to our interview with the former Managing Director of Costco back in March - he told us all this then. The other big problems were real estate prices and shipping - getting goods here on their timeframes.  I predicted this (humble brag) all last week. They'll tinker round with fast-track and consumer laws and plaster their pressers with the threat of breaking up the duopoly. Divestment. Forcing Pak'nSave to sell some stores to a new entrant, forcing Foodstuffs to sell some distribution centres.  What I said last week is still true now, ACT won't go for it.  Plus, the even the Commerce Commission said it's risky as. Cost could outweigh benefits.  So, Willis should stop with the threats. If you own a supermarket right now and your livelihood is being threatened, are you going to invest? Hire staff? Plan expansions? The threat is purely political and could end up doing the opposite of what Willis wants it to.  Put it in the bin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Belief an improving gender pay gap is due to a weaker labour market. Stats NZ's revealed the difference in pay between women and men fell to 5.2% in the June quarter - its lowest point to date A year ago, it was 8.2%. Mind the Gap co-founder Dellwyn Stuart told Ryan Bridge the number will likely go back up as the economy improves and more part-time jobs become available again for women. She says they're still carrying majority of the parenting load and tend to opt for part-time roles more, which are often the ones cut first. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s a belief new tax rules will attract top tech talent to the country.  The Government's changing the rules so migrants will only pay tax on income they actually receive.   Currently new arrivals are taxed on estimated overseas income, even if that ends up being wrong.   Business NZ immigration specialist Rachel Simpson told Ryan Bridge this law would ensure people coming here for a short period wouldn't get double taxed.  She says it would make rules around people working as social media influencers clear.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More foreign investors could soon flock in to work hard on Kiwi businesses.   The Government's new Business Investor Visa will give foreign businesspeople who invest at least $2 million into an existing Kiwi business a fast-track to residency.  If a business is worth $2 million, the applicant would have to buy it, and if it's worth more, they'd have to invest at least a quarter of its total value.  Auckland Business Chamber Chief Executive Simon Bridges told Ryan Bridge this definitely justifies a fast-track to residency.  He says the person who buys will have to work on the business for a period of time.   LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast Wednesday 27th of August 2025, the government's introducing a new investor Visa, Auckland Business Chamber CEO Simon Bridges shares his thoughts.  A new Westpac report into economic conditions across the Tasman shows our growth rate may outpace Australia's in the coming years. Migrants will no longer be taxed on estimated overseas income, only on what they actually earn, Business NZ Immigration specialist Rachel Simpson shares her thoughts. Plus, UK/Europe Correspondent Gavin Grey has the latest on Nigel Farage’s new political party, Reform UK, saying it would be prepared to deport 600,000 migrants over five years if it won power at the next election. Get the Early Edition Full Show Podcast every weekday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.           LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s a very good reason National’s talking about a revamping the major events fund - or as the PM said on Monday, stuffing the pipeline with more events.  It’s the same reason you’re seeing them announce just half an hour ago they’re creating a new business investor visa - foreigners will get a fast-track to residency for chucking $2m into a Kiwi business.  It’s the same reason they’ll announce in a few weeks that some wealthy investors will be able to buy expensive houses here. From November, they're trialling visa-free holidays for the Chinese coming here via Australia. Expect to see more where this came from. The reason is to boost growth, but specifically, they hope, in our largest city. It’s all about Auckland. It’s the giant missing piece of the puzzle. Their runway for sorting the economy by election time hinges on them throwing the kitchen sink at the Jaffas. It’s 40% of our GDP but a sort of economic malaise has set in. Not everywhere and not in every industry, but the two speed recovery is real, the vibe’s off, and the numbers back it up. I asked the PM about this on Monday, he says they’re basically looking at everything and anything for Auckland. I reckon they'll campaign on a bed tax and announce they intend to that late this year or early next.  To win the next election, you don’t need to win all of Auckland, but if you lose Auckland, you're stuffed. Ask Chippy - Labour scored 29% of the party vote in Auckland.  This is increasingly a city of migrants, and these policies are aimed at them, their families, and their businesses.  42% of Aucklanders were born overseas. Along with Otago, it's where most of the expensive houses are that wealthy investors will be able to buy. To boost this economy in a short to medium term window the government’s clearly targeting migration, foreign investment (which often comes through existing connections to this city), foreign students, Chinese tourists, and big events. The question is how quickly they can give this city the tickle up in needs and whether they’ve left enough runway to turn things around. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand could see faster economic growth than Australia, but fewer jobs. In New Zealand, Westpac's now forecasting an economic growth rate will hit 2.4% this year, and 3.1% next year. In Australia, it's forecasting a growth rate of 2% this year, and 2.2% next year. Senior Economist Satish Ranchhod told Ryan Bridge we've been seeing more OCR cuts, but it hasn't flowed through to the job market. He says New Zealand's seeing high unemployment and low wage growth, and Australia hasn't seen a similar spike in unemployment. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A reassurance that banking won't be much riskier even if capital rules are changed.   The Reserve Bank's put out two proposals to loosen capital requirements after the government called for it.   One of them is reducing minimum capital requirement for deposit takers from $30 million to $5 million.   Founder of KiwiSaver provider Simplicity, Sam Stubbs told Ryan Bridge there are other rules, so it won't make it much more hazardous.   He says the Reserve Bank will still keep a close eye on any group calling themselves a bank.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Self-employed people are opting out of KiwiSaver, putting their retirements at risk.  A new report from the Retirement Commission and accounting firm Hnry's reveals only 44% of self-employed people actively contribute compared to 78% of employees.   It shows 41% of self-employed workers don't get any government contribution.   Hnry CEO James Fuller told Ryan Bridge when the Government halved KiwiSaver contributions in this year's Budget, many decided to put their money elsewhere.  He says self-employed people have started putting their money into high-risk, short-term investments, meaning they won't have enough retirement savings.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast Tuesday 26th of August 2025, The Reserve Bank’s giving capital rules a second look, Simplicity Founder Sam Stubbs shares his thoughts.  The Retirement Commission is warning that self-employed people are investing at less than half the amount into their retirement than that of employees. University of Auckland sociology of education professor Elizabeth Rata tells Ryan whether an A-grade today at university worth the same as an A-grade 20 years ago.  Plus Australia Correspondent Lesley Yeomans has the latest on Erin Patterson returning to court.  Get the Early Edition Full Show Podcast every weekday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.           LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's a view that NCEA has impacted how Universities grade their students. A report by the New Zealand Initiative has found the proportion of A grades has increased from 22% to 35% since 2006. It shows a dramatic rise during Covid - and can't be explained by academic improvement. Auckland University Sociologist of Education, Elizabeth Rata told Ryan Bridge students now expect to get high marks. She says it's what they've encountered at high school, where a high mark is guaranteed from certain subjects. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At the rate it’s going, this by-election could cost Labour the real election. Peeni Henare’s popping out policies toxic to the general electorate but popular with the 10,000 odd voters he’ll need to win Tamaki Makarau.  First it was bringing back the gang patches, which left middle New Zealand scratching their heads. We’ve been there, done that with the gangs. We’re over it. We want them sorted out.  When people started getting bullet holes through the front window on a Saturday night, kids cowering in the hallway, we all decided enough was enough. Labour lost the war on crime and with it, the mandate to govern. You might think it’s an issue they’d steer clear of, but not Peeni - Labour’s electoral kryptonite.  Last night he was back at it. I was watching the Tamaki Makarau by-election debate with Oriini and Peeni, which was a good watch. Good debate.  Peeni was asked about cost of living. He said when Labour was last in power, they were in talks with iwi to build a third supermarket chain across the country to compete with the current duopoly. Last night he said they'd support it again if elected.  So, the question is, what does support mean? Does that mean taxpayer funding?  In 2023, they were talking about dolling out loans, maybe even grants, or taxpayer support to secure land for a third entrant.  Now, there's nothing wrong with an iwi-led supermarket chain. There's nothing wrong with a third chain - hell, we'd all like to see that.  But do we want it to be taxpayer supported? If private capital can't make it work at these prices, what chance would the state have?  The problem with this stuff is it feeds the perception the only response Labour has to anything is more money. Kiwi build, anyone?  There's a philosophical question in all of this which Hipkins is yet to answer because of his no policy rule.  In the meantime, Peeni's certainly keeping us guessing and getting tongues wagging. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A clear message has been sent around driving under the influence after the jailing of a 20-year-old, who killed one of his friends in a crash.  Alexander Lucas Kerr has been sentenced to 27 months in prison after his friend died, and the other was severely injured.  Kerr had cannabis in his system when he crashed his car in a semi-rural part of Havelock North on January 2.  Criminal lawyer Steve Cullen told Ryan Bridge this is a stark warning of what can happen.  He says the starting point's four to five years imprisonment for cases like this, so it's inevitable for someone to find themselves behind bars.  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast Monday 25th of August 2025, Police Minister Mark Mitchell joins Ryan to talk about the issues with Police recruits.  Andrew Alderson has the latest on the weekend's sport.  Criminal Lawyer Steve Cullen shares his thoughts about where to draw the line on drug driving.  Plus UK/ Europe Correspondent Gavin Grey has the latest on the UK government planning an overhaul of the asylum appeals system. Get the Early Edition Full Show Podcast every weekday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.           LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Police Minister says our Police force is 'world-class' after concerns were revealed about officers' preparedness. A survey of training officers released to the Herald found 55 percent feel new cops were barely or not at all well equipped with knowledge of arrest and charge procedures.  Mark Mitchell says told Ryan Bridge this is about probationary constables, who receive two years of supervision on the job. He says policing is a unique job, and it's unrealistic to expect rookies to come out being experienced officers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.