Early Edition with Ryan Bridge

Another poll. Another rush of fevered opinion, and yet still so far away from an election.  The poll business is booming. Once upon a time we had just the two TV networks in the game, but now they’ve been joined by others.  Keeping the opinion writers in business and politics as the leading news driver in this country.  So this one was paid for by the Taxpayers Union and it breathlessly reports that New Zealand First is on the rise and is now the third most popular party.   Winston may be 80, but it looks like he’s here to stay. And the two major parties are pretty equal at 30 odd each - there is no dominant party right now in New Zealand.  Other than that, the other take away is that we don’t like the leaders of the major parities.   Both leaders have popularity rankings less than 20%, and that’s because they’re both demonstrably a bit average.  That’s particularly concerning for National and the Prime Minister, who learned that 80% of New Zealanders don’t rate him as PM.  It reflects a deep dis-ease about where the country finds itself.  In a week where we found that we grew not one jot in the last financial quarter, people are wondering why we’ve got so stuck in the mire.  National’s easy answer at the last election was that Labour was useless.   But 18 months into National’s governance I feel people are still wondering where we’re going and whether, maybe, they’re a bit useless too.  I blame politics and the urge to politicise every issue and polarise the voters. Our current default position from our politicians is the other side is crap. Vote for us.  But the country is saying you’re both crap. There is no truth teller out there leading the way through the murk.  And in this vacuum of leadership Winston shines by just doing the basics as a Foreign Minister well and not being useless. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mortgage-holders will be holding their breath in after yesterday's OCR announcement. The Reserve Bank's opted to keep the Official Cash Rate unchanged at 3.25% while signalling the possibility of further cuts.  But new ASB research suggests interest rates remain volatile, with several opposing forces at play.  Finance and Mortgage Association Country Manager Leigh Hodgetts told Andrew Dickens that they’re holding out hope for a cut in August.  She says that people are looking for a bit of relief in their household spending, which would come from interest rates coming down.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A tax rebate scheme's helped boost the number of people employed in the video game sector by more than 20%.  The four-year, $160 million Game Development Sector Rebate allows eligible studios to claim back 20% of their spend.   Forty studios will receive a share of $22.4 million this year, for its second year.  Game Development Association Executive Director Joy Keene told Andrew Dickens the sector's booming compared to a few years ago.  She says it's been a game-changer, as a lot of New Zealand studios were looking to move to Australia because of their rebate.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Andrew Dickens Full Show Podcast Thursday 10th of July 2025, the Reserve Bank kept the OCR at 3.25%, Finance and Mortgages Association country Manager Leigh Hodgetts tells Andrew Dickens what this means for mortgages.  Our video game sector is having a major boom due to a government tax rebate, NZ Game Developers Association Executive Director Joy Keene shares his thoughts.  Some Jobseeker beneficiaries are being sent to Tasman and Marlborough to help with the clean up of flooding, Rural support trust top of the South Chairperson and Former Tasman District Mayor Richard Kempthorne tells Andrew how much of a difference they're making for clean up support.  Plus, US Correspondent Mitch McCann has the latest on the Texas floods and President Trump meeting with African Leaders Following USAID Cuts. 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 Rural Support Trust believes beneficiaries will make a difference to the flooding clean-up in the upper South Island. The Government's activated a beneficiary task force in Tasman and Marlborough, to support those affected by severe weather. Tasman has 600 work-ready beneficiaries. Rural Support's Top of the South chair, Richard Kempthorne told Andrew Dickens the initiative's worked well before. He doesn't know what happens if people are physically and mentally capable and refuse to do the work. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For a while now I’ve been thinking that the Reserve bank and the Government are working at cross purposes for the country.  Yesterday the Reserve Bank kept the OCR at the same rate it’s at. The reason: increasing inflation and little or no growth in GDP. Now the Government has an agenda of growth, growth, growth.  So reduced interest rates could help stimulate the economy that has some very flat spots in between primary produce and tourism.  But the Reserve Bank's purview is inflation, and low interest rates fire on consumerism and inflation. So, the rate isn't lowered. It's fair to say the Reserve Bank won’t do what the Government would like it to do.  Meanwhile, the Government pulls back on all government spending, including stuff that fires on an economy, like construction, public builds, roading, and more.  If you want proof: Government accounts in the 11 months to the end of May for investing and operational activities was $3 billion less than forecast and $6.4 billion less than the same 11 months a year ago.  So, the money isn’t stirring.  And as the interest rates have fallen, we’re not using the cheaper cash to spend. Our farmers and our businesses and households are choosing to pay back debt instead.  The Government wants private capital to invest in this country, but the cash isn’t cheap, and the investments aren’t coming, and as I said before why would anyone want to invest in this country when even the government is keeping it's wallet shut? So welcome to year three of recession with no change in sight unless the policies of the Reserve Bank and the Government work in tandem.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris Hipkins was on with Kerre Woodham yesterday, as well as with Ryan Bridge on Herald NOW, and he talked about the Covid inquiry – insinuating it was slanted against Labour because New Zealand First is now part of a National government and had drawn up the scope of the inquiry to benefit them.   It also came out that he has drafted written responses to the questions the Commission might ask of him, but he is non-committal about fronting up for a verbal grilling – a good cross examination. Now also on the table is Jacinda Arden, who doesn't look like showing despite the wish of many for her to be held to account.   But the thing about this Commission is that it is not a trial, it's an inquiry. It's a show trial, really. It's a political thing and Chris Hipkins is still in the political game, unlike Jacinda Ardern. So he needs to handle this thing well.   He was the Minister of Health during the pandemic. In fact, he was the Minister of just about everything, because he was the most competent in his party. So if he wants to be the leader of this party going into the next election, he really must turn up and face that cross examination of what he was part of.   But we know what he did – it's already there and black and white. But what we don't know is the thought processes that drove his actions, and we haven't had the chance to question him. And what we don't know is his thoughts, with hindsight, as to what he might have done better. So if he's honest about learning lessons about pandemic management because there's gonna be another pandemic in the future, then he really must turn up and face the heat.   It'll be good for him. It'll be good for us. If he doesn't, the conspiracy theorists that he mentioned yesterday will bring all their bias to bear against him next election.   Chris Hipkins has choices: face up and tell the truth, stand apart and let speculation by what he calls “conspiracy theorists” run wild, or just quit. Quit his aspiration to become Prime Minister one more time and enjoy a retirement from public life.   It's in your court, Chris. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hopes a move to boost New Zealand's use of AI will get small businesses on board.   Science Minister Shane Reti's announced the Government's first strategy for using Artificial Intelligence to reduce barriers to adoption and promote responsible use.   He says it could lift our GDP $76 billion by 2038.   BusinessNZ Advocacy Director Catherine Beard told Andrew Dickens AI use for Kiwi small businesses is currently well behind Australia.  She says to boost their productivity they need to embrace it, and there are plans to help support them.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hamilton's not losing sleep over the French rugby team's decision to snub the city.  The Les Bleus are basing themselves in Auckland for as long as possible before the third test against the All Blacks in Waikato next week.  A spokesperson says the team prefer the facilities in Auckland.  Hamilton Mayor Paula Southgate told Andrew Dickens the city does sporting events very well, using its co-hosting of the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup as an example.  She says the event was very pleased with the facilities at FMG Stadium and believed Hamilton's hosting was some of the best.  The Mayor says thousands of visitors are heading to the city for the game.  Southgate says they're going to pack out local business and accommodation and thinks it's the French team's loss.  The second test is on Saturday night in Wellington.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Reserve Bank's expected to press pause on the Official Cash Rate this afternoon, but that's not it's only option.    The OCR's sitting at 3.2% after six consecutive rates reductions since last August.   Mortgage rates have followed it down over that time, falling to about 5%.   ANZ Chief economist Sharon Zollner told Andrew Dickens a 25-basis-point cut wouldn't be a bad idea, given GDP may have gone backwards.   She says that more than offsets the fact that GDP in the first three months was stronger than expected.   Zollner says it matters quite a bit that momentum's flagging at the moment.   LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The red carpet's been rolled out for French President Emmanuel Macron for his first visit to the UK since Brexit.  The three-day visit marks his first time there since 2008.  Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer are set to hold meetings this week, expecting 'good progress' on issues like illegal migration.  UK and Europe correspondent Gavin Grey told Andrew Dickens the UK wants to be more welcoming towards Europe.  He says UK dignitaries have shown a great deal of warmth towards Macron.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast for Wednesday 9th of July, the OCR has been cut six times in a row... what will happen today? ANZ Chief Economist Sharon Zollner joins Andrew Dickens to discuss why a cut should happen, but probably won't.  Business NZ Advocacy Director Catherine Beard explains what the Government's new AI strategy means for business.  And Mayor of Hamilton Paula Southgate reacts to Les Bleus snubbing a stay in the Tron for the final test in the series.  Get the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast every weekday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iwi-owned entities have emerged in good shape following the country's economic downturn.  ANZ’s annual Te Tirohanga Whanui report reveals iwi surveyed saw asset values grow a median 4.1% in the 2023-2024 year.   Auckland University Professor of Māori Management Jason Mika told Andrew Dickens iwi have focused on being prudent when it comes to treaty settlements.  He says they only get one shot, so they're doing all they can to be careful while also being innovative with how they manage these assets.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Belief changes to child banking requirements will affect teens the most.  The Government's making it easier to sign children up for a bank account, saying the current laws are unnecessarily difficult, in an attempt to prevent serious crime.   It's one of the first steps in Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee's revamped anti money-laundering regime.    MyMahi founder Jeff King told Andrew Dickens New Zealand would be in a good place if all young people had a bank account.  He says those aged 15-to-16 are looking for their first part-time job and need an account.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia's mushroom murder trial is set to go down in the history books.  Erin Patterson was found guilty of murdering her estranged husband's parents and aunt and attempting to kill his uncle with a beef wellington with death cap mushrooms in it.  Newstalk ZB's Donna Demaio is in Victoria, following developments.  She told Andrew Dickens hundreds of people have been descending on the small town of Morwell for the trial.  Demaio says people took time off work and arrived early each morning for a chance to be in court.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Question: should Jacinda Ardern come home and appear before the Royal Commission into our Covid response? I think she should.   I could understand though if she doesn't. Because just as she became the symbol of our successful response to the pandemic, which we rewarded with a supermajority in Labour's second term, she also then became the symbol of everything that we did wrong.   And there's a significant number of people who have been weaponised against the former Prime Minister because of the things they resent, and they want a holding to account. They want a Nuremberg trial, as you heard from my texts, you know, they want fines, they want jail.   But they won't get that, even if she did come back. This is an inquiry about Covid to understand everything they got wrong as well as everything they got right. Now, I'm sure Jacinda Ardern, even if her conscience is completely clear, she would be worried about the consequences of coming home and being at the front of this investigation for her family, for her personal safety, for her own mental health.   And the feeling is that she won't – you can read between the lines in the recent Women's Weekly interview that home is not on the radar.   But remember, she will not escape the inquiry. No one will. There are enough people being called to give us the full and frank dissection of everything that happened at the beginning of this decade, and that is important because there will be another pandemic one day.   So let's get into it with or without former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast for Tuesday 8th of July, mushroom cook Erin Patterson has been found guilty on all charges in her murder trial. Australia correspondent Donna Demaio is in Victoria following the developments.  MyMahi founder Jeff King joins Andrew Dickens to discuss changes to the anti-money laundering act that will make it easier for parents to open bank accounts for their children.  And Māori enterprises are outpacing some of the country's largest corporations - what is setting them apart?  Get the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast every weekday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast for Monday 7 July. 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.

A youth charity believes the Government's taking courageous steps, to tackle chronic school absence. Ministry of Education data shows more than one thousand students weren't enrolled in school for more than a year in 2024 - a 576 percent increase on a decade ago. Graeme Dingle Foundation CEO Jo Malcolm-Black told Andrew Dickens it's good to see the Government is wanting to tackle the problem. She says early intervention and consistent support reduces the risk of disengagement. Malcolm-Black hopes schools, social services and community organisations will support the Government's approach.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop is into the US for a range of meetings across housing, planning, development and transport.  Notably - he's visiting New York to speak to city officials about their introduction of "CONGESTION PRICING" and how its faring.  Over there - the results of charging people to use the roads in peak times have looked promising so far, and Bishop says he wants "to learn some lessons he could take back here"  it appears congestion charges are inevitable.  And not just for the basket case that is Auckland.  Tauranga and Wellington are in the firing line. And the point about them is not just to ease the congestion on our roads but it would be a white lie to assert that it's not a money maker.  So when, not if, Chris Bishop comes back and pulls the pin on congestion charges in this country the question is who gets the money?  I think it's a no-brainer that any money raised in a district should be reinvested in that district. That is Wayne Brown's position on the matter. The government's own the State Highways in our cities and so if money is collected from them, it will go back to the government.  But it has to then find its way back to the cities and not be lost in the consolidated fund. The legislation that has already been proposed to do that but never underestimate the Government’s ability to hold onto any revenue if they can so stay vigilant. The other thing to note about congestion charges overseas is that the cities have alternative transport options.  in New York and London it’s the underground and the subway.  Auckland’s CRL rail project means that the city will have an alternative.  But introducing it elsewhere would be unfair.  It’s an irony that the electorate’s unwillingness to invest tax money into public transport means that pressure is now mounting to take money off them for congestion. You can’t escape tax. And make no mistake about congestion pricing this is a tax.  Not technically. Taxes are generally used to raise revenue for broad public spending. Congestion pricing is designed primarily to manage demand and change behaviour.  But it’s the government taking money off you and spending it for everyone. That's a tax. So it would be very rich for a National party to claim that they're not a party of taxation and that dishonour rests only with the left wing.  I haven't met any politician who doesn't like a good tax but some are too shy to admit it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are new faces across the board for the first All Blacks test of the season.  Four uncapped All Blacks will be unleashed in Dunedin, with number 8 Christian Lio-Willie and lock Fabian Holland starting, while prop Ollie Norris and flanker Du'Plessis Kirifi will storm off the bench.  On the French side of things, with five debutants featuring in the run-on side and three in the reserves.  Newstalk ZB’s Voice of Rugby Elliott Smith told Ryan Bridge this feels like more of a team Scott Robertson wants to pick and unleash on the world, as opposed to trying specifically to win.  He says it feels a sea change in the All Blacks selection philosophy.   LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Franchises could soon have the ability to trespass someone across multiple sites.  Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith is beefing up the current laws, calling them no longer fit for purpose.  He's also proposing doubling the maximum fines for trespassing on businesses, and increasing the maximum period to three years.  Franchise New Zealand Chairman and Coffee Club Director Brad Jacobs told Ryan Bridge there's currently no way to block someone across several sites.  He says there's a lot of repetition with multiple franchises doing the same work to get the same outcome.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast 2025 Friday 4th of July, the Government's given businesses the power to trespass people from multiple locations, Franchise NZ Chairperson Brad Jacobs tells Ryan about the difference this will make.  It's the first All Blacks test of the year, Newstalk ZB voice of rugby Elliot Smith joins Ryan from Dunedin ahead of Saturdays game.  It's thought changes to insulation rules could save up to $15,000 per new build, Far North District Councillor Felicity Foy shares her thoughts.  Plus UK/Europe Correspondent Vincent McAviney has the latest on Liverpool forward Diogo Jota tragically dying in a car crash in Spain with his brother. 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.

Changes to rigid insulation standards are predicted to cut new-build costs by an average of $15 thousand. They'll give more flex to requirements in the building code by the end of the year, in a bid to cut down rising construction costs.  The Government's also looking to make the Far North a separate 'climate zone', stating the region’s warmer climate allows for a more tailored approach. Far North District Councillor Felicity Foy told Ryan Bridge current rules add a significant chunk to building costs.  She says the difference in cost between double glazing and low-E glass is significant.  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The award for most press releases and announcements on a single issue must got to National this week. Law and Order was front and centre - announcements about everything from first responders to coward punches. It was an assault of announcements.  Now, announcements don't make streets safer. Announcements don't fix problems on their own.  This was a targeted campaign to reinforce the idea their tough on crime. That they're on the side of the victim.  Why are they doing this? Because it's one of the now minority of issues on which they outpoll Labour - from the last Ipsos survey.  So, they've been going health for leather on law and order. Meanwhile, Labour's overtaken the right for the party most trusted to fix the economy.  I know for a lot of you listening, this is laughable. They got us into this mess, etc, etc.  And I agree with you - I think it's like a protest vote against the incumbent when cost of living is high. Would you actually go and vote for that person tomorrow? Or are you just sending a signal of unhappiness?  You never truly know, but National's clearly alive to the fact it's becoming an Achilles' heel.  The actual numbers are in range: OCR nearly neutral at 3.25%, inflation at 2.5%.  But there's a politically painful time lag between numbers getting into band and voters feeling it in their pockets.  Luxon's team have identified this problem. Their short-term solution is to bash the supermarkets. Hard. And repeatedly.  It's almost like they've finished with the mongrel mob so now they're taking on the other gangsters - Woolworths.  An announcement on "next steps" is already being touted, months out.  So, Labour bashes National on cost of living, National will bash the supermarkets.  And guess what? Nothing will happen to the prices you pay at the weekly shop.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government's one step closer to reaching long-term agreements on the future of some of our fastest-growing areas.  It's agreed to negotiate with councils in Auckland, Western Bay of Plenty, and Central Otago, on 10-year deals to boost economic growth, housing and infrastructure.  Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown says "small decisions" should be kept with councils.  Central Otago Mayor Tamah Alley told Ryan Bridge the agreement could cover everything and anything.  She says they’ve put together a list of priorities for the region, and it will be up to them to negotiate with the government and see where their priorities align.   LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A former Finance Minister believes there's a need for a publicly funded body to find out what election promises would cost.  Act and New Zealand First have shot down current Finance Minister Nicola Willis' proposal, which would have allowed resources from the public sector to cost policies of political parties up to 10 months before an election.  Ruth Richardson was the Finance Minister in the 1990s and told Ryan Bridge Willis is on the right track, but the proposal falls short of what's required.  She says we want a publicly resourced body, independent of the executive to ensure more informed public and parliamentary debate.  Richardson says the UK’s Office for Budget Responsibility is a gold standard example of what we should be creating.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Minister for Children's $41 million workforce investment is expected to train and retain youth care staff.  Karen Chhour says her new funding follows a 2023 Oranga Tamariki review, which found many workers weren't equipped to deal with the high needs of some kids in care.  The boost will qualify more staff, recruit capable workers to vacant positions, and establish clinical roles in each residence.  Child Matters CEO Jane Searle told Ryan Bridge dealing with high-risk kids takes a level of expertise.  She says they were having staff who didn't have that level of training and struggled, causing high turnover.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People are swarming outside a New York courthouse following Sean “Diddy” Combs' conviction. The 55-year-old hip hop mogul's been found guilty of transportation to engage in prostitution. But he's been acquitted of his more serious charges, of racketeering conspiracy and two counts of sex trafficking. US Correspondent Mitch McCann is outside the courthouse and told Ryan Bridge social media influencers are everywhere, streaming live from outside. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yesterday was a bad day for some of my pet peeves.  I couldn't find a carpark in town, I had to visit a supermarket, and Qantas suffered a data hack.  Nothing drives me more crazy than a business —big or small, although in this case very big— asking too many personal questions and getting too many personal details about their customers.  Unnecessarily so.  Now. There's a good argument for why Qantas needs your details - if you're flying then they require your passport number, your date of birth, your addresses in case things go wrong, etc.  I get that. But if they are collecting such sensitive information —our secrets and the secret to our identity— then can they not keep it safe?  No, they can't.  Yesterday, 6 million Qantas customers had names, email addresses, phone numbers, birthdates, and frequent flyer numbers stolen. They reckon no credit card data was taken.  But honestly, who cares? The information that was taken is bad enough.  And what will they do? Apologise, send a letter, and then move on till it happens again.  We should have instant and aggressive fines. Once your private data is hacked from your third-party customer service centre, there's no getting it back.   It can and will be used, sold on the black-market to gangs of losers wanting to rip you off.  They've opened a can of worms.  The sooner these guys get properly punished for being so cavalier with our information, the sooner it stop it getting stolen.  And then they might also start asking themselves whether they really need our data in the first place. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast Thursday 3rd of July 2025, the government's ready to start negotiating with councils on regional city deals, Central Otago Mayor Tamah Alley shares her thoughts.  Minister for children Karen Chhour yesterday announced more money for Oranga Tamariki staff's professionalism training, Child Matters CEO Jane Searle tells Ryan Bridge how big of a difference it will make.  The Government's voted against setting up an independent costings agency former finance minister and Taxpayer's union chair Ruth Richardson tells Ryan what the outcome means.  Plus US Correspondent Mitch McCann has the latest on the Sean 'Diddy' Combs sex trafficking trial from outside the court room.  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.

Books written by artificial intelligence have been finding their way onto local library shelves, and they could become more common in the future.  Newstalk ZB can reveal most libraries avoid buying AI-written books, but don't ban them, and some have added them to their collections by accident.  Laura Marshall, Library and Information Association of New Zealand Executive Director, told Ryan Bridge there’s not that many AI books currently available in New Zealand.  She doubts they’re going to fill an entire library with them, and she doubts in five years there will be many AI books that are good enough to pass the test to get into the library.  However, most libraries are open to stocking AI books in the future if there’s customer demand.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Defence Force is keeping details of its cost cuts secret.  But Newstalk ZB can reveal NZDF admitted, in internal communications, that it would have to scale back or cut programmes that impact how people view the force, and New Zealand's reputation.  The defence force also noted the sinking of the Manawanui added to its financial struggles.  Retired Lieutenant Colonel Hayden Ricketts told Ryan Bridge that since there’s going to be a $12 billion investment over the next four years, they’re unable to cut what is normally one of the first things to go: personnel.  He says that NZDF is going to need civilian workers to do the introduction of service, to do the staff work, to do the business cases and the papers for cabinet that comes with that money.   LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast Wednesday the 2nd of July 2025, the government introduces tougher penalties for crime, Woolworths director of retail Jason Stockill shares his thoughts.  Quite a few of New Zealand's libraries either already have or are open to stocking books written by AI authors, Laura Marshall from the library and information association tells Ryan Bridge what this means. We’ve got fresh warnings this morning of reputational damage to our defence force if planned cost-cutting goes ahead, Hayden Ricketts retired Lieutenant Colonel from Mission Homefront, tells Ryan Bridge where the issue lies.  Plus UK/Europe Correspondent Gavin Grey has the latest on a new twist in the story of Britain’s most prolific child killer in modern history. 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.

Woolworths says it takes a community effort to curb retail crime.  Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith has unveiled the plan for Police to issue infringement fines for people stealing - similar to speeding tickets.  It is based on suggestions from the Retail Crime Ministerial Advisory Group.  Woolworths Retail and Franchise Director Jason Stockill told Ryan Bridge the announcement is an example of collaboration across the sector.  He's hoping for more initiatives which will help deter shoplifting.  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You know immediately when something makes good political sense.  You can usually tell, not by listening to the Minister announce it, but by listening to the Opposition oppose it.  Crime is topic du jour as the Government's rolling maul of thundercloud announcements continue.  It's one of the party's strongest, biggest levers to pull - it's one of the few election issues on which the Nats outpoll Labour. So it's no wonder they've pulled out all the stops this after a few weeks of shaky polling and being on the defence.  The problem for Labour with crime is simple: nobody trusts them.  The facts are as follows: crime went nuts. Labour's policy was reduce the prison population.  Which is what makes this such a hard week for Labour, not the Greens and TPM who sing a different song on law and order, but for Hipkins.  How do you credibly stand up and argue against longer sentences for thugs who bash first responders? How do you oppose getting tough on coward punches? How do you oppose fines for people stealing cuts of meat or booze from the supermarket?  The answer for Labour so far has been, you do oppose these things. They have come out against almost every single change.  And that plays into the perception they're still weak on crime.  That they haven't been to the gym to get stronger, tougher on crime, they've instead further withered.  Of course, this problem could be solved if we knew anything about what Labour is planning, policy wise.  But Chippy' strategy is shock and awe - they're holding cards very close to the chest until the election. In the meantime, they do the run the risk of looking weak while the Coalition steals the thunder.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Businesses still seem to be doing it tough.  The latest Centrix data for June shows the number of people behind on payments is down on last year, for the fifth consecutive month in a row.  At the same time, company liquidations have risen 27% year-on-year.  BWA Insolvency’s Bryan Williams told Ryan Bridge he expects it to start falling again later this year.  He says people will have a more enlightened view of their future and will likely have greater discretionary funding to spend as we head towards Christmas.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Business NZ's Advocacy Director says Invest New Zealand is looking to hire people with an array of international connections.  The government organisation's been given $85 million over four years to work with global investors to create jobs, boost innovation, and lift productivity.  Catherine Beard told Ryan Bridge potential employees should be well-connected around the world.  She says they should be looking at where the opportunities and gaps are, and where we actually need investment.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government's introduction of new sentences for coward punches is being described as merely cosmetic.  It's announced specific offences for striking a distracted victim - which could carry a sentence of life imprisonment, if fatal.  But Law Association Vice President Julie-Anne Kincade told Ryan Bridge she understands people have been looking for reform in this area.  She doesn't think it will make a huge impact, as the changes will add one year to the maximum penalty of offences which already exist. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast Tuesday 1st of July 2025, the Government's announced coward punches will now be a specific offence, Vice President of the Law Associaiton Julie-Anne Kincade KC tells Ryan Bridge the difference it will make.   Bryan Williams, Principal at BWA Insolvency, shares his thoughts on new data from Centrix around business liquidations.  From today we officially have a new regulatory body for overseas investment, Catherine Beard, Business NZ Advocacy Director tells Ryan what she wants to see come from it.  Plus Australian Correspondent Donna Demaio has the latest on a jury beginning deliberations in the mushroom murder trial.  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 robots are coming, and they reckon they'll be better than us humans at doing difficult, complex stuff - like being a doctor.  Microsoft announced overnight "an artificial intelligence system that performs better than human doctors at complex health diagnoses".  That's according to the Guardian, who say the company's AI unit is creating a “path to medical super-intelligence”. So, Microsoft reckons their robot system “solved” more than eight of ten case studies. The question you then start asking yourself is: do you trust AI to make important health decisions like that? Even though doctors don't always get it right, the thought of a computer deciding my fate is just weird.  But if it's shown to work reliably, and it's accurate, I suppose why not?  China meanwhile is into the robots, big time.  A company there wants a humanoid robot cleaning our dishes and washing our clothes in a matter of years. They want one robot for every home.  This, I can get onboard with.  But you've got ask, with the robots apparently taking over lots of jobs, what are we going to do once they've completed their mission? 77% of companies are either using AI in business or actively trying to. Year-on-year growth of more than 100%. 77% of all devices being used have some form of AI.  I get why it's happening in everything from health to housework, it's far more efficient. But with all the work being done by others, what's left to occupy our time? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From tomorrow, all rental properties in New Zealand will have to meet the healthy home standards.  The Healthy Homes Act brought in stricter rules around heating, insulation, ventilation and draft stopping.   Despite the long notice period and extensions, Advocacy manager at the Property Investors Federation Matt Ball says some homes are still not up to standard.   In a recent sample of 1000 homes, only 23% were found to be fully compliant.   LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast for Monday 30 June. 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.

Shoplifting and trespassing laws are expected to get a revamp this week.  Newstalk ZB understands policy changes relating to Retail Crime Ministerial Advisory Group recommendations are imminent. Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith's previously labelled current trespassing laws as not fit for purpose.  Retail NZ Chief Executive Carolyn Young told Ryan Bridge the changes should deal with recidivist offending.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government's so-called crackdown on crime is more than just tough talk but that doesn't mean it'll make much difference to crime.  That's not for want of trying. It's because the Courts are a law unto themselves.  They apply sentencing discounts like they're Briscoes Sales - 90% off for remorse. 10% of for your family report. You're free to leave the dock with time served on that murder charge! We look forward to welcoming you back to Court again soon!  We all know the story - Covid lockdowns happened, communities fell apart, lives were thrown off kilter, crime spreads. Police HQ, the Courts and the government went softer on crime. Wraparound services trumped a good ol' whack around the back of the ears.  The authorities lost control of the streets. We lost faith in the authorities. And now here we are, having elected a government to do something about.  Couple of their new laws come into force yesterday - including caps on sentencing and new aggravating factors.  These are real changes. Not just rhetoric. But... whether they actually make a difference or not will depend on whether the Courts get the message - they're the ones with the real power here.  Look no further than the current aggravating factors they're not using properly.... assaulting a first responder, ambulance paramedic, ought to get you a tougher sentence.  But, the ambulance staff and first responders say it's fallen by the wayside. The Courts weren't focussed on that when making decisions.  They have a lot of leeway and a lot to weigh up. So now the government's had to step in again to extend and expand this provision to include more first responders and up the penalties.  Assaulting a first responder with intent to injure could get you up to seven years.  BUT is just like the ads you see on TV selling TVs and Sofas - up to 80% store-wide is not the same as 80% store-wide.  There's big enough leeway to drive a truck through... and enough to ensure the application of this law may not match is intentions. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There'll be a by-election in Auckland in the coming weeks, following the death of Te Pati Māori MP Takutai Tarsh Kemp early yesterday.  She was 50 and had been battling kidney disease.  Kemp's body has arrived at Hoani Waititi Marae this morning, where she will lie in state for mourners to visit, before her tangi on Tuesday.  Newstalk ZB’s Jason Walls told Ryan Bridge it’s almost certain Labour’s Peeni Henare will run for the seat, and would be likely to win.  He says Te Pati Maori would need to find a new candidate and would be hard pressed to find someone with better name recognition than Henare – unless John Tamihere himself ran.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Access is opening up for Kiwis to a weight loss drug described as a game changer.   Wegovy, made by pharma-co Novo Nordisk, will arrive in pharmacies next week.   It's not funded by Pharmac, so users will have to pay and get a prescription for the weekly injectable.  Calocurb CEO Sarah Kennedy told Ryan Bridge that people need to be aware of both the cost of the drug and the side effect.   She says that over 70% of people using Wegovy will have gastrointestinal problems that range from nausea to diarrhoea, and over 70% of people regain the weight within a year.  Kennedy says lifestyle changes need to be made as well as taking the drug.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Auckland's City Rail Link is expecting 19 thousand peak passengers after opening day, a sharp drop compared to earlier forecasts.   In 2022, it was reported 27 thousand passengers an hour would be using the rail link at peak times when it opens next year.  Auckland Transport says it's increasing the train fleet by about 30% to make 19 thousand passengers possible.  Heart of the City CEO Viv Beck told Ryan Bridge the drop in numbers is a major problem.  She says people need to be able to travel through Auckland easily, without cars or taxis.   LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast Friday 27th of June 2025, Ozempic style weightloss drug, Wegovy is coming to New Zealand, Sarah Kennedy CEO of Calocurb tells Ryan Bridge about the benefits it'll bring.  The number of commuters using Auckland's new city rail link could be much lower than first thought Heart of the City CEO Viv Beck shares her thoughts.  Tributes flow following the death of Te Pati Maori MP Takutai Tarsh Kemp, Newstalk ZB Political Editor Jason Walls has the latest.  Plus UK/Europe Correspondent Gavin grey gets you across Palestinian supporters furious at EU inaction against Israel for alleged human rights breaches in Gaza.  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.

If you've got a health problem, if you've got a mental problem, if you can't sleep, if you're fat, enormous, obese, don't worry.  All your problems can be solved with a pill, an injection. a prescription - or even no prescription.  That's the clear message we've been getting from regulators.  From Tuesday, the Hollywood weight-loss drug Weygovey, like Ozempic, will be available here, not for diabetes, but to shift weight.  People aren't being told to not get fat, they're being told once they get too big, a drug will make them small again.  Melatonin will now be available over-the-counter for those who can't sleep. Forget counting sheep, or wearing yourself out with exercise, pop a pill and go to sleep.  You can now get an ADHD diagnosis from your GP or nurse practitioner - usually, you'd need to see a psychiatrist.  We're prescribing ten times the amount of meds than we were 15-odd years ago.  We spoke to a guy this week on the show with ADHD who said the law change is a good thing, but he also warned about TikTok - lots of young people are getting diagnosed by TikTok and running around telling everyone they've got a neuro disorder when, actually, they're just spending too much time on their phones and hunting for likes. The question is whether as a society, as a species, all this pill popping medication is evolution or insanity.  Is the fact we've we're wealthy enough to eat ourselves half to death then fix it all with a simple twice-weekly injection a sign we're smart, or incredibly stupid?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.