Early Edition with Ryan Bridge

The first exit polls in Germany's snap election have been released.  Centre-right CDU tops votes so far, with leader Friedrich Merz likely to be the next chancellor.  Alternative for Germany AFD sits at just under 20-percent -- the best showing for a German far-right political party since the end of World War Two.  Correspondent Gavin Grey told Andrew Dickens immigration is a major concern, following multiple terrorist attacks in Germany.  He says recently, the person responsible has either been seeking asylum, or facing deportation.  Grey says there's big question marks about Germany inviting in more than one-million people from Syria and Afghanistan. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Building costs have gone through the roof.  A new QV CostBuilder survey revealed a significant increase to costs over the last four years.  It looked at the comparative costs of a standard 150m square home over six main centres, and revealed an average increase of 44%.  The biggest increases were seen in Palmerston North, Dunedin, and Wellington.  Blackburn Management’s Mike Blackburn told Andrew Dickens that most of the increase would have occurred during the 2021/22 period when the pandemic was causing problems with the supply chain.  The good news, he says, is that in the last 12 months, the average cost increase on a square metre basis was on 3% across the entirety of New Zealand.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s a sign of heightened tensions as China deploys warships off the coast of Australia.  Three Chinese warships have been seen sailing around 280 kilometres off Sydney, in the Tasman Sea.  Defence Minister Judith Collins says the Chinese Government hasn't told us what they're doing there.  Foreign policy analyst Geoffrey Miller told Andrew Dickens it's significant, and tensions are not getting any better in the Indo-Pacific.  He says we need to be careful not to overreact, as they are quite entitled to be there.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There has been no change to child poverty in the last year. That's according to data released yesterday by stats NZ which shows 17.7% of all children are in poverty.  That's based on household income after housing costs have been paid.  Save the Children NZ's Advocacy and Research Director Jacqui Southey says we need to start looking at how we can build more affordable homes and lifting incomes for sole parent families. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Full Show Podcast for Friday 22nd of Feburary 2025, There has been no change to child poverty in the last year, Save the Children Advocacy and Research Director Jacqui Southey tells Andrew Dickens how the Government can change that.  A new QV CostBuilder study shows that there has been a huge increase to building costs over the past four years. The New Zealand Defence Force is monitoring activity by a chinese naval taskforce, located 150 nautical miles from the coast of Sydney, Foreign Political Analyst Geoffrey Miller tells Andrew whether New Zealand needs to worry. 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.

Can we get Parliament back to work? At a time when the Prime Minister is urging us to work work work for growth growth growth, Parliament is playing around with unproductive publicity stunts.   Winston is still banging on about using Aotearoa in the house. 10 minutes debating time was spent on the topic.   There is no bill on the floor asking for a name change. We know the sorts of people who like to say Aotearoa New Zealand to make them feel good.   And whatever happened to free speech? No bill, no story, but Winston’s voters are lapping it up.   Glad you’re entertained.   Meanwhile the Treaty Principles Bill continues to frustrate.   Yesterday Jenny Shipley and Chris Finlayson turned up to rail against the law, earlier Hekia Parata.   It’s quite amazing the parade of National Party grandees who have been so keen to come out against the bill.   It shows the bill is not part of the National party DNA. It never has been.   It’s the plaything of Act and it’s 8 per cent support.   And no disrespect, I know you care deeply about the general idea, but the bill is a dog. It’s sucking up valuable time and energy and money.   It’s doing nothing for our productivity or our economy.   It’s not going to happen and yet the farce rumbles on.    Glad you're entertained.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Foreign Minister says New Zealand is officially resetting its relationship with the Cook Islands.   Tensions have continued to escalate between our Governments as the Cooks inked in a new partnership with China.   In a speech yesterday, Winston Peters has reiterated his concerns New Zealand was in the dark about this agreement, and is yet to see key details.  Newstalk ZB Political Editor Jason Walls told Andrew Dickens it’s clear Peters is well past fed up at this stage.   Walls says it’s no small feat to completely snub New Zealand in a sense, and sign such a major agreement with China without giving us a heads up.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's frustration about rubbish dumping along the Desert Road detour.   State Highway 1 between Tūrangi and Waiōuru closed in mid-January for about two months of roadworks.  The detour, which runs through State Highways 41, 47, 4, and 49 has seen a noticeable rise in rubbish.   Ruapehu District Councillor David Nottage has been picking up the rubbish himself.  He told Andrew Dickens it's more than people throwing a few things out the window.   Nottage says it's hard to believe people are carrying that much around while they travel, so they may be taking advantage.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Banks could soon be competing a bit harder for our business.  The Reserve Bank's signalling yesterday's double cut to the OCR will be followed by at least two more single cuts at the next reviews in April and May.  Finance Minister Nicola Willis told Andrew Dickens that's going to drive banks' rates down.  She says mortgage-holders and small businesses should be expecting to see their interest rates keep dropping.  Governor Adrian Orr says banks that don't cut their rates enough could lose market share to their competitors.  He says banks will be "sniffing and hunting" for business and may even have reduce their profit margins.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tensions are rising between the US and Ukrainian presidents.  In a post on social media network Truth Social, Donald Trump has labelled Volodymyr Zelensky a dictator without elections, who's duped the US into spending billions of dollars in defence against Russia.   It comes hours after Zelensky accused him of repeating Russian disinformation.  US correspondent Mitch McCann told Andrew Dickens this comes at a delicate time. He says the US is looking to negotiate with Russia without Ukraine at the table and Ukraine is getting impatient. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Full Show Podcast for Thursday 20th of Feburary 2025, Finance Minister Nicola Willis reacts to the Reserve Bank cutting the OCR by 50 basis points.  Roadside dumping is an increasing problem along the Desert road detour Ruapehu District Councillor David Nottage tells Andrew Dickens, it's disgraceful. Winston Peters delivered a speech calling to 'reset' our relationship with the Cook Islands, Newstalk ZB Political Editor Jason Walls shares his analysis.  US Correspondent gives the latest on Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky responding to President Trump’s suggestion that Ukraine started the war. Get the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast every weekday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

So yesterday I outlined the reasons why the Reserve Bank might not cut interest rates.   I got that wrong.   They chopped the rate by the expected half a percent with immediate relief for mortgage holders.   What we try to do with the Reserve Bank is read behind the lines and figure out what they freely mean for our day-to-day life.  This is what I think they’re saying, times have been tough.   But you’ve been sitting on that couch for 15 years.   You wanted to replace it 5 years ago, but everything went so crazy that you called tai hoa until times were better.  The Reserve Bank then says times are as good as you’re going to get anytime soon so buy that couch.   But please buy a New Zealand made one.   They admit there are future risks, but they promise to keep a close eye on it.   We’ve got a furlough. So, let’s get cracking.   We can wait for the government to tell us what to do.    But that’s not the New Zealand way.   We need to work for every dollar we can find but we must also realise that the dollars we’ve got need to be in the washing machine, that is our monetary system.   And that's exactly what the Reserve Bank is hoping for.  That we will loosen the strings around our purse book and spending will increase as the year goes on.  Meanwhile we hope and pray that global conditions treat us kindly.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New medical tests have shown further complications in the condition of Pope Francis.  They reveal the 88-year-old pontiff has developed bilateral pneumonia.  The Vatican says laboratory tests, chest X-ray, and the Holy Father's clinical condition continue to present a complex picture.  Europe Correspondent Gavin Grey told Andrew Dickens that he’s being described as in stable condition and doesn’t have a fever, but nevertheless, his state is worrying.   Nevertheless, the pope is in good spirits and is grateful for the prayers for his recovery.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Economists are very confident in a 50-point cut to the Official Cash Rate today.  The Reserve Bank is expected to drop the OCR from its current 4.25% to 3.75% at 2pm.  That would follow a 50-basis point cut at the bank's last meeting in November.  ANZ Chief Economist Sharon Zollner told Andrew Dickens the data has fallen in line with the Reserve Bank’s forecasts. He says it’s reasonable for the Reserve Bank to expect domestic inflation will continue to fall, and while they don’t want to cause unnecessary pain, they also don’t want inflation to leave the bottom of the band.  Zollner says that’s why they’re comfortable cutting now.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's an expectation Ukraine won't be left out of peace deal negotiations.   US and Russia have agreed to appoint teams to negotiate ending the war following high-level talks in Saudi Arabia, to which neither Ukraine nor Europe were invited  Russia says it will talk with Ukraine if "necessary".  US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's former chief of staff Matt Terrill told Andrew Dickens the meeting in Saudi Arabia was just a first step at getting Russia to the table.  He says ultimately Ukraine, Russia, and other key players will need to be there too.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Full Show Podcast for Wednesday 19th of February 2025, the inquiry into steps government agencies took to ensure personal Census and Covid vaccination data collected at Manurewa Marae could not be misused has found the agencies failed to put appropriate safeguards in place.   Marco Rubio's Former Chief of staff Matt Terrill shares his thoughts on the crucial meeting between the US and Russia on the future of the war in Ukraine.   It's OCR day, ANZ's Sharon Zollner tells Andrew Dickens she expects the Reserve Bank to cut by 50 basis points.  Lydia Ko won her second supreme award at the Halberg Awards last night, and Hamish Kerr won Sportsman of the year, Andrew believes they are both deserving of their titles.   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.

Vindication for whistleblowers, following revelations officials lack census data safeguards, when sharing with third parties.  An inquiry shows multiple data-keeping failures from Stats NZ, Health NZ and the Ministry of Health, and has led to the head of Stats NZ stepping down.   Employment Advocate Allan Hulse told Andrew Dickens all whistleblowers faced retaliation during this process.  Hulse says they stood up and told the truth, and without them, the report wouldn't exist.  An investigation was ordered following claims Manurewa Marae misused Census and Covid-19 vaccine data.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A mate and I have a little joke.   Whenever we screw up. Either big or small.  We’ll look at each other and say, “it only took one goat”.   It acknowledges that it takes forever to build up a good reputation and all it takes is one misstep to immediately undo all that good work.  New Zealand was recently told it had slipped a place in the world reputational survey around fraud and corruption.  We’re now 4th in the world. Which is still very good but not as good as we were before.  The news that confidential data held by a government agency was inappropriately given to a third party is a very serious one.  Maybe it wasn’t misused but it shouldn’t have been released.   And maybe this was not as dodgy as it seems but if we let standards slide then the next time could be even worse.   This is not the right time to be seen as a wink wink nudge nudge country. There’s more than enough third world metrics in play as it is.   When combined with Brian Roche’s report on the civil service that shows us to be over governed and below standard then the slow degradation of New Zealand’s reputation is underway.   We have too many Public Servants and the ones that are there make either stupid mistakes or dodgy decisions.   New Zealand can do better is the report card. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia’s next tropical cyclone is getting a name change.   Cyclone Zeila’s dissipation has brought the Australian Bureau of Meteorology to the end of an alphabetical list, alternating by gender.  The next cyclone was due to be named Anthony, but since Anthony Albanese is the current Prime Minister, the decision was made to jump to the next a-initial on the list.  Australian Correspondent Donna Demaio told Andrew Dickens that when the name matches that of a prominent person, they reorder the name to avoid confusion.   She says the next name will be Alfred.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Waikato high schoolers can earn a qualification and a paycheque with a pilot programme supporting manufacturing.  The Government's teamed up with Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa to give students three days work a week with a local business.  Small Business and Manufacturing Minister Chris Penk says the industry contributes about 8.4% of our GDP, but skill shortages are slowing productivity.  Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa CEO Catherine Lye told Andrew Dickens the idea of the programme began a couple of years ago between Waikato manufacturers to address their biggest challenge: the attraction and development of the workforce.   She says the students will gain experience and exposure to three different manufacturing businesses over the 30 week programme.   LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Genesis Energy says it's doing what it can to ensure Huntly Power Station helps the country avoid another generation shortfall this winter.   More than 500,000 tonnes of coal was restocked earlier this month, with another 500,000 tonnes on the way before September, in anticipation of demand.   Genesis Chief Executive Malcolm Johns told Andrew Dickens Huntly's units ran at full capacity last winter, working their way through 800,000 tonnes of coal.  He says a million tonnes is about appropriate for what he believes can be put through the machines.  Johns says this kind of preparation will still be needed in the future, even with 95% renewable generation in New Zealand in 2035.   He says 100% renewable can't genuinely be reached, and back up is needed for when the rain doesn't come and the wind doesn't blow.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

European nations are expected to show a united front regarding discussions on ending the war in Ukraine.  An emergency summit of European and NATO leaders is being held in Paris, after being excluded from peace talks between the US and Russia in Saudi Arabia.  Russia says Europe will have no role in talks with the US.  EUobserver Foreign Editor Andrew Rettman told Andrew Dickens a number of things will come out of this summit.  He says they're trying to show they're relevant, that they're stakeholders in this and have some answers on what's next. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

So, the Government thinks they’re all about growth.   So why in the weekend was Radio New Zealand reporting that engineering New Zealand was calling the Government out for gaslighting about it’s going for growth strategy.  They accuse the Government of talking up infrastructure development.  And yet in the last 15 months since the formation of the Government they have stalled, frozen and dumped various state-funded building plans with the aim of deficit and debt reduction.   It’s the cancellation of education rebuilds, the shutdown of hospital builds and upgrades, the slow down on roading, the changes in the three waters spac.  It's all meant that New Zealand engineers and New Zealand constructors, the people who build the roads, waters network and buildings, have all had to look for work elsewhere and that has seen people heading overseas or contracting to work overseas and significant numbers."   Large infrastructure firms" in Australia are rapidly hiring large numbers of New Zealand engineers".   Other engineers have been lured to California to help with the rebuild after last month's devastating wildfires.   Engineering New Zealand urges the Government to free up funds for delivery and firm up the infrastructure pipeline.  Or in the immortal words of Mike Hosking - just do something. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition Full Show Podcast for Tuesday the 18th of February, the European Union holds an emergency national security summit with top officials in Paris, Euobserver Foreign Editor Andrew Rettman shares the latest. Genesis Boss Malcom Johns tells Andrew Dickens, how Genesis plans for any potential energy shortfalls this winter.   A new programme has launched directly connecting high school students with the manufacturing industry.  And Andrew believes the Government needs to act fast to save our engineers from leaving the country.  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 Government’s new tourism campaign targeted at Australians is a no brainer.  A simple test is comparing how many New Zealanders have visited Australia compared to how many Australians have come here.  I remember being at a conference in Sydney and asking around the room how many had been to New Zealand. There were none. Yet all had been to Queensland. including me.  It’s a right of passage to visit Aussie.  But it’s not a right of passage for Aussies to come here.  So imploring everyone must come here is a good thing.  Shame on the Labour spokesperson who seemed to think such a plea was desperate.   If we can imbue the belief in Australia that a visit to New Zealand is a must then that will continue to pay it’s way for generations. It’s the same with European visitors.    The people I know who came here from Europe for their OE are now the families who return. Their kids having heard the legends form mum’s OE in New Zealand are the ones who come back.  My partner’s OE was in Germany and her friend’s children are the ones who have come to New Zealand to find out more about the exotic foreigner who landed in their parents midst. It’s important to remember that every time we go overseas and meet others we go as ambassadors.  But for everywhere aside from Australia we are still a major trip with a big journey and bib bills.  For Aussies we’re a 3 hour flight, we’re just like them but exotically different, our scenic delights are delightful and thanks to our stuttering economy and dollar we’re relatively cheap as chips. Of course everyone there must come here. And their children and their children’s children and so on. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government has announced a new campaign for encouraging Australian's to come here for their next holiday. The campaign is being funded through the International Visitor Levy, costing $500,000, and will be followed by further campaigns targeting other places.  Marketing for the campaign, 'Everyone must go,' will go live across the ditch next week.  Tourism Minister Louise Upston joins the show.  LISTEN ABOVE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

European leaders are set to gather this week for an emergency summit on the war in Ukraine. This comes as concerns are growing that the US is moving ahead with Russia on peace talks that will lock out the continent.  UK PM Sir Keir Starmer says it is a "once-in-a-generation moment for our national security."  UK Correspondent Gavin Gray joins the show to discuss the summit, as well as the adventurous cat that had to be collected from London Waterloo station after tripping 30km away.  LISTEN ABOVE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newstalk ZB's Andrew Alderson joins the show to discuss what happened over the weekend in sport.  What has been the reaction to Jannik Sinner's three month doping ban?  Shane van Gisbergen has entered his maiden Daytona 500, and it was a busy few days with Super Rugby officially underway. LISTEN ABOVE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The war in Ukraine is top of mind for European leaders.  France is set to host a summit to discuss the situation and European security.  It comes as the continent tries to respond to US President Donald Trump's unilateral approach to the conflict.  UK correspondent Gavin Gray told Andrew Dickens European leaders are worried about being left out of negotiations to end the war.  He says they fear it will be put together by America and Russia - without even involving Ukraine. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition Full Show Podcast for Monday 17th February 2025, Tourism Minister Louise Upston talks about the Government's new campaign enticing Australians to visit New Zealand.   Andrew Dickens thinks the Government’s new tourism campaign targeted at Australians is a no brainer.   Andrew Alderson shares all the excitement from over the weekend at the Super Rugby Pacific games.  European leaders are set to gather for an emergency summit on the war in Ukraine, UK Correspondent Gavin Gray shares the latest.   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 Government’s new tourism campaign targeted at Australians is a no brainer.   A simple test is comparing how many New Zealanders have visited Australia compared to how many Australians have come here.   I remember being at a conference in Sydney and asking around the room how many had been to New Zealand. There were none. Yet all had been to Queensland. including me.  It’s a right of passage to visit Aussie.   But it’s not a right of passage for Aussies to come here.   So, imploring everyone must come here is a good thing.   Shame on the Labour spokesperson who seemed to think such a plea was desperate.    If we can imbue the belief in Australia that a visit to New Zealand is a must then that will continue to pay it’s way for generations.  It’s the same with European visitors.     The people I know who came here from Europe for their OE are now the families who return. Their kids having heard the legends form mum’s OE in New Zealand are the ones who come back.   My partner’s OE was in Germany and her friend’s children are the ones who have come to New Zealand to find out more about the exotic foreigner who landed in their parents' midst.  It’s important to remember that every time we go overseas and meet others we go as ambassadors.   But for everywhere aside from Australia we are still a major trip with a big journey and bib bills.   For Aussies we’re a 3-hour flight, we’re just like them but exotically different, our scenic delights are delightful and thanks to our stuttering economy and dollar we’re relatively cheap as chips.  Of course, everyone there must come here. And their children and their children’s children and so on.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The troubled curriculum rewrite has hit another snag.  The Ministry of Education’s new English curriculum has been described as “shambolic” by the English Teachers Association, who have walked away from the rewriting process.  They say it’s too complex and has unrealistic expectations of what teachers can fit into a single year.  Association President Pip Tinning told Francesca Rudkin that the Ministry is expecting teachers to fit a significant amount of work into a single year, with the curriculum document currently sitting at 120 pages.  She says they’re concerned about the ability to meaningfully engage with the content, and the idea of leaving students behind becomes increasingly concerning if they’re trying to get through everything.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

German officials are on high alert after an attack in Munich ahead of a big few weeks in national and global politics.   It's believed 28 people —including children— have been injured after an Afghanistan asylum seeker allegedly drove into a crowd of demonstrators overnight.   European Correspondent Vincent McAviney told Francesca Rudkin the city is about to host the high profile Munich Security Conference, with US Vice President JD Vance having already arrived.   He says Germany has had several of these attacks over recent years, and have election just over a week away which could have something to do with it.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It could be too little too late when it comes to encouraging a third supermarket to New Zealand.  The Government's repeated the call that we need more competition - to pressure prices.  It's laying out plans to challenge the incumbents, Foodstuffs and Woolworths - and remove regulations discouraging competition.  Former pre cursor to the Food and Grocery Council chief executive Ernie Newman told Francesca Rudkin the time has past and the focus should be on breaking up the existing sector.  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition Full Show Podcast for Friday 14th of February 2025, the Government's hinted at a plan to encourage a third player into the grocery sector. There's credibility issues for the ministry of education's new English curriculum after the English teachers association walked away from work on the draft, pip tinning resident of New Zealand association of teachers of English, shares her thoughts.  A 24-year-old Afghan asylum seekers has purposefully driven into a crowd in the German city of Munich, Uk Correspondent Vincent McAviney tells Francesca Rudkin the latest.  And the Super Rugby season kicks off today, rugby commentator Tony Johnson gives his take on the teams to watch.  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.

A lovely tease yesterday from the government, aimed at those of us still hurting at the cost of putting food in the supermarket trolley.   The government wants more competition in the grocery sector.   It was a nicely timed message – despite all the big picture talk of foreign investment, a new economic ministry, and a focus on growth, growth, growth, the government has not forgotten that most Kiwis are dealing with simpler day to day challenges, like affording groceries.   But the announcement by Finance and Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis at the University of Waikato Economics Forum in Hamilton was very much connected to the Government’s economic growth plan.   And look that’s not a bad thing. Got to love a government with focus, or at least messaging focus. The issue is – there isn’t really a plan here at all.   The Government's has said it’s receptive to cracking down on pricing and helping new entrants access land and properties. Willis said that if a new competitor presented a proposal to her she would be willing to “do a deal”, and give them the VIP treatment through a bespoke arrangement.   There was a mention of existing proposals – that Willis knew of companies possibly interested, but for commercial reasons she wouldn’t disclose who they were.  Who knows how serious these contenders are? Do they have a well considered proposal, or was it a conversation in a Koru lounge? It all sounds quite hypothetical.  Those with knowledge of the grocery industry will tell you that the only way a third party could make a go of it here, they would need roughly 140 outlets, set up a billion-dollar supply chain, and would require the big players to be broken up for any competition on price or sustainability. It’s a lot.  Willis says she’s up for the fight, but if forced divestment of some properties by incumbents is needed it will be some scrap - one the previous government did not push ahead with.   So I'm not entirely sure what this tease has accomplished other than some friendly headlines, a gentle poke at Foodstuffs and Woolworths, and to continue the Kiwi distant dream of lower prices if a third party entered the New Zealand supermarket scene.  So, the great supermarket talkathon continues.... See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Screen Producers guild —SPADA— says overall, it's pleased with proposed changes for media.  The Ministry for Culture and Heritage has released a discussion document with five proposals.  They include the possibility of requiring platforms to invest more in local content and a suggestion New Zealand on Air and the Film Commission could be merged.  SPADA President Irene Gardiner told Francesca Rudkin the document's considered and detailed.  She says it shows the Ministry's listened to what they're saying and has taken it on board.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tenants and landlords might not always be on the same page when it comes to privacy rights.  Privacy Commissioner Michael Webster's reminding tenants they legally don't have to disclose their personal information to find a flat.   He says it can be tempting for landlords to collect this information when considering applications.   Auckland Property Investors Association's Sarina Gibbon told Francesca Rudkin the rules are pretty clear, but having separate documents for tenants and landlords could be part of the problem.  She says the language and the approach are very different, which could end up setting very different expectations.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A seafood company says new fishing regulation proposals will hopefully reflect the leap in the industry's technology.   The Government's wanting public consultation on changes to the Fisheries Act.   It would allow catch limits to be more readily extended or reduced, and let boats with cameras installed, dump unwanted catch at sea.  Egmont Seafoods owner Keith Mawson told Francesca Rudkin parts of the system haven't changed for 40 years, but their technology's come a long way since then. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s a Dominos and a Subway, but there will be no McDonald’s in Wānaka - at least at the currently proposed site. Yesterday, Commissioners declined to grant consent for a McDonalds restaurant, largely due to the location.  The proposed location was at the edge of town - where urban meets rural living. It is regarded as outside the urban growth boundary for Wānaka, at one of the town’s entrances, directly underneath magnificent Mt Iron.   A McDonalds was deemed to be at odds with rural living, the design of the building and surroundings not consistent with the landscape values of the site and its wider context. Commissioners considered reports and findings about the architecture, noise, traffic and future planning.   Queenstown Lakes District Council opened the proposal up for public submissions and of the 367 made, 340 opposed the development and 21 supported it.  While there were some who would have liked the opportunity for a Big Mac for dinner, many locals thought it would increase traffic, drink driving, litter, take business away from existing local businesses, stand out like a sore thumb, and have a visual and aesthetic impact on the town.   Their issue was – was this really a fitting gateway for a town all about healthy living and the environment, yoga and wellbeing, ditching disposable coffee cups, and slashing waste?  Or has the horse already bolted when it comes to Wānaka’s image and culture? The town’s population has increased from 10,000 to 18,000 in a decade, it's surrounded in subdivision development, and then there’s the Three Parks development not too far down the road from the proposed McDonalds site - which is home to a Mitre 10 Mega, Warehouse, and numerous other outlets.   Last night Queenstown District Deputy Mayor Quentin Smith told Andrew Dickens on Newstalk ZB’s Drive the proposed setting and McDonald's wasn't a good fit.   So did McDonalds just get it wrong – did they not read the room? Being tucked away in the Three Parks Development or the centre of town might have made it easier to gain consent. But would even that be acceptable for locals?   I say good on the folks of Wānaka – who doesn’t love a David and Goliath battle?   There are apparently over 41 thousand McDonalds in the world. There is one about an hour away from Wānaka. Does another small town need a golden arch? I personally love rolling into New Zealand towns, exploring what’s on offer, finding the best homemade pie (should out to Miles Better Pies in Te Anau), and having a chat with locals. It’s good to get away from the familiar.   Tourists don’t visit a stunning place like Wānaka because it has a McDonalds, so it comes down to the community. If the community feel it doesn’t reflect their values for whatever reasons —protecting the vista, their brand, local businesses or just plain old snobbery— then I say go for it. Fight the fight. Just like magnificent Kaikoura did. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition Full Show Podcast for Thursday 13th February 2025, The fishing industry is welcoming a proposed major shake up of the Fisheries Act.  Local media may soon be on a more level playing field with proposed changes suggesting global streamers could be required to invest in local kiwi content, NZ's Screen Producers guild President Irene Gardiner told Francesca Rudkin the industry has been lobbying for the change for some time.  McDonalds isn't coming to Wanaka after all, would it have ever been accepted? Francesca shares her thoughts.  Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth appeared at his first meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group on Wednesday to tell allies that the liberation of all Russian-occupied Ukrainian territory "is an unrealistic objective." US Correspondent Mitch Mccann shares the latest.  (Something from Contributors)  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.

One of New Zealand Rugby's major sponsors has found itself offside with the national body.  NZR has confirmed they're launching legal action against petrochemical company INEOS for breaching a deal worth $8 million a year.  The petrochemical company hasn't paid its first 2025 instalment to have its logo on various All Blacks attire, making NZR believe they have exited their arrangement early.  INEOS claims they tried to negotiate a solution before the legal action came.  Newstalk ZB Rugby Journalist Elliott Smith told Francesca Rudkin that the company is blaming the decision on a commercial downturn in Europe.  He says they’re looking for a way to save costs, and that between their new America’s Cup team and recent acquisition of Manchester United, it’s likely they felt the NZR contract would be easiest to ditch.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A group fighting youth homelessness says Kainga Ora's crackdown on rent debt will exacerbate housing insecurity.   The housing provider's announced it will terminate tenancies with people who skip rent and don't attempt to get back on track.   It says the new policy will also help it engage with tenants when rent debt is beginning to mount.   Manaaki Rangatahi Spokesperson Brooke Stanley told Francesca Rudkin they’re worries about the lack of alternatives to emergency housing that the Government is putting forward.  She says they’re also worried about the lack of strategy for addressing homelessness, as the previous plan ended in 2023 and there’s nothing in place to ensure that the work is continued.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An Australian football player is walking away from jail time after being accused of racially harassing a Metropolitan police officer.   Sam Kerr was found not guilty by a British jury over an incident two years ago where she called an officer stupid and white.   UK Correspondent Gavin Grey told Francesca Rudkin the charge could have lead to two years in prison.  He says the 31-year-old has always claimed she was antagonised by officers when she was taken to the police station following a dispute with a taxi driver.   The driver wanted clean up compensation from Kerr and her partner, for vomit and a broken window.   LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Whangārei Mayor believes more people will accept a decision around water fluoridation - if it comes from councils. New Zealand First's new Members Bill seeks to remove the Director General of Health's central authority on fluoridation - and mandate binding local referendums. It comes as Whangārei District Council's under fire - as the only council refusing to fluoridate under current mandates. Mayor Vince Cocurullo says told Francesca Rudkin Whangārei's never fluoridated and is probably due for a referendum. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast for Wednesday 12 February. 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.

Kainga Ora is taking a step in the right direction. They have announced a tougher approach to rental debt, but they’re doing it in a fair way which hopefully gives people who intend to pay their rent, but have hit a hurdle, a chance to get back on track.   The debt was kinda crazy. Between 2017 and 2023 the total debt owed to Kainga Ora by its tenants increased from $1million to $21 million.   Now, obviously this period included the Covid days and cost of living crisis, and it would be a little heartless for the government to kick people out of homes during a lockdown, or due to a job loss caused by an unprecedented event like a pandemic. But $21 million - it's a big number!  Kainga Ora has worked hard to reduce the debt. It’s now down from $21.6 million in January 2024 to $16.1 million this January.  It’s a good effort, but clearly things have got out of control, and we're never going to get on top of the numbers.   So the Board of Kainga Ora has decided to help some tenants with significant rent debt get on top of their debt faster. They will reduce the amount they owe down to 12 weeks’ worth of rent, and forgive the rest, if the tenant has been consistently paying rent and making reasonable payments to reduce what they owe.   This will wipe $8 million off the debt number. Which is a quick way to make the numbers look more appealing; but were they really going to recoup the money from the 2000 tenants owing more than 12 weeks? No. So, why not give people an incentive to pay.  This is a pragmatic decision, but it raises the question - what’s stopping tenants just clocking up the debt if they know it will be reduced back to 12 weeks?   Well, this is a one time offer, because from now on tenants won’t get to the point of owing more than 12 weeks’ rent.  Kainga Ora states they will be in touch much earlier if rent is missed, to have a chat and work out a payback plan.   If this doesn’t happen, if there is no intent to pay off debt, then eviction processes will begin – which could happen well before reaching the 12 week mark.   The clear message here is that the Sustaining Tenancies Framework is coming to an end. It is going to be easier to evict people, but they’ll be closely managed to prevent things getting to that point, if possible.  I think we’d all agree people deserve an opportunity to get back on track, and the last thing we want to see is an unnecessary increase in homelessness.    As Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka said yesterday “While most Kāinga Ora tenants are great tenants who respect the properties, are good neighbours and pay their rent on time, some need a little more tautoko and encouragement to do the right thing.”   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is set to speak with Donald Trump as tariffs loom.  The US President has said he will announce a 25% import tax on all steel and aluminium entering the country, on top of already existing metal duties.  He implemented a similar policy in his first term, but later granted partners like Australia duty-free quotas.  Australia Correspondent Donna Demaio told Andrew Dickens the Albanese Government has been preparing for such a decision.  She says it’s been reported that attempts to secure exemptions have been developed behind the scenes.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A greater push for foreign investment in national infrastructure is being warmly received by the sector.   The Government's unveiled plans for a two-day international summit next month where it's inviting 100 global investment leaders.   It plans to highlight investment opportunities, hint at policy changes, and market growing industries.   Infrastructure New Zealand Chief Executive Nick Leggett says the Government's aware it can't fill the infrastructure deficit on its own.   He says foreign investment is a way of helping while making infrastructure perform better.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A banking expert believes New Zealand First's move to fine banks for withdrawing services on environmental or social grounds misunderstands the situation.  MP Andy Foster has introduced a bill to the members' ballot in a bid to ensure banks make withdrawal decisions on a purely commercial basis, with fines of up to half a million.   Massey University banking expert Claire Matthews told Andrew Dickens the move is not surprising but misses the point of why banks are making these choices.   She says the banks decisions are based on risk management, which under the introduced legislation would still be possible, meaning it won't make the difference the party's looking for.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.