Early Edition with Ryan Bridge

The nurses union wants the new Health Minister to intervene on delays to payouts. Te Whatu Ora owes nearly two billion dollars to nurses after failing to meet Holiday Act requirements, and its only paid roughly $250,000 back. The union says the rest of the money, owed from 2010 onwards, has been pushed back. Nurses Organisation President Kerri Nuku told Mike Hosking that they'll be writing to the minister. She says deadlines keep getting pushed back and they want clarity. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David Seymour's preparing to take a harder line on the parents of chronically absent kids. As the Associate Education Minister, Seymour's been tasked with tackling increasing levels of absenteeism in schools across the country. Regular attendance is classed as being in school more than 90-percent of a term. He says he's investigating whether the power to fine the parents of absent kids should be used more often. Chris Abercrombie, Acting President of the Post-Primary Teachers Association, told Mike Hosking that he’s not sure if fining parents is the answer. He thinks making sure that the needs of students are met would be more effective in getting students to school. Abercrombie said it could be something as simple as making sure they have a uniform or sending around a van to pick up students. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Salvation Army says lifting people off benefits and into jobs is easier said than done. The Government's looking to change benefit legislation that would see income support rise only with the rate of inflation. Under Labour benefits rose with wage growth each year, which generally rises faster than inflation. Salvation Army Head of Social Services, Lynette Hutson told Mike Hosking that many people receiving them are without any transport or education. She says it's a very simple answer to say get everyone a job and it will be okay ... it doesn't work like that. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fletcher Building's poor results are believed to be indicative of wider pain in the construction sector. The company's half-year financial results painted a dire picture, with a $120-million net loss. Chief Executive Ross Taylor announced his resignation yesterday alongside Chair Bruce Hassall. Combined Building Supplies Co-op Chair Carl Taylor told Mike Hosking that the industry is hurting. He says it is quiet out there, and their numbers are down too. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More privacy concerns for supermarket customers. It's been revealed that Woolworths will collect personal data like images, audio recordings, and license plate numbers when people sign up to their Everyday Reward cards. Privacy Commissioner Michael Webster says businesses need to be transparent with what they're collecting from people and what's done with that data once it's been collected. He says they need to make sure it isn't at risk of cyber-attacks and isn't accessible to those who shouldn't see it. It follows an earlier controversy with competitor Foodstuffs trialling facial recognition software in North Island stores. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Israel is facing pressure from various countries around their ground offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. A raft of western allies, including New Zealand, is pleading with Israel not to escalate matters. CBS correspondent Linda Gradstein told Mike Hosking that the United States has made it clear to Israel that their forces shouldn't go into Rafah without getting civilians out first. She says there're about a million and a half Palestinians living in Rafah, many of whom have already been displaced twice. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The results of decades of under-investment in Auckland infrastructure are becoming clear. Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown's demanding Auckland Transport stop all projects that were funded by the Regional Fuel Tax. The tax is being scrapped late June, and the mayor says it'll leave a $1.2-billion gap in transport funding over four years. Trains were also cancelled this week due to heat speed restrictions on the tracks. Committee for Auckland director Mark Thomas told Mike Hosking that their report found transport is almost the number one priority for the city. He says they'll be arguing for much quicker and a larger solution to Auckland's problems, because it seems to be getting worse week by week. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The possibility of future rate hikes remains uncertain. Despite ANZ shifting its forecast to predict two more rate hikes, there are economists saying that the Reserve Bank has no need. ASB Chief Economist Nick Tuffley told Mike Hosking that there is a growing chance that the Reserve Bank will get impatient and lift interest rates. However, he said, they think that they can hold off since things are going in the right direction. Tuffley said the question is whether they’re headed there fast enough. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victorian fire authorities are that warning today may pose the greatest fire risk in four years. Melbourne correspondent Donna Demaio told Mike Hosking that there’s a catastrophic bushfire danger rating for parts of the state, with high winds, heat, and the potential for dry lightning likely. She says it's going to reach 40 degrees plus, and the fire experts say these forecast conditions haven't been seen since the Black Summer of 2019. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Councils may continue to join forces to tackle infrastructure around three waters. The Government's confirmed its plan to repeal and replace the controversial legislation. It will introduce bills that attempt to make it easier for councils to determine their own water strategy, including making it easier to set up council-controlled organisations. Central Hawke's Bay Mayor Alex Walker told Mike Hosking that it makes sense for Hawke's Bay, as a region, to work together. She says communities are socially and economically connected, and this legislation could help get things off the ground for a regional model. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An Auckland business leader says nothing surprises him with the city's railway infrastructure, after trains were cancelled due to heat. Some Auckland train services were cancelled through yesterday afternoon and evening, including at peak hour. Kiwi Rail, which manages the tracks, blamed track temperatures, which reached 48 degrees in some places. Newmarket Business Association chief executive Mark Knoff-Thomas told Mike Hosking that there are other countries hotter than ours with working rail. He says southern Europe has an amazing railway network and is hotter than Auckland. Knoff-Thomas wonders if Kiwi Rail bought the tracks of Facebook Marketplace. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Emergency Management Minister says additional money for Cyclone Gabrielle recovery will help Hawke's Bay reach silt removal targets. The Government's announced $63-million for sediment and debris removal. Hawke's Bay Regional Council will get 40-million, three million of that is for removing debris in Wairoa. Gisborne District Council will receive 23-million. Minister Mark Mitchell told Mike Hosking he hopes the money solves the problem. He says the additional $40-million will help Hawke's Bay get to its target of 20 percent of silt and debris removed. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Las Vegas is in Super Bowl mode today as thousands are in town for the big game. The NFL match between the Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers will kick off at 12:30 this afternoon. Sirius XM host Ben Harlum is there, and told Mike Hosking that the streets are packed, security's been increased and the Swifties are in full force. He says he's been to Vegas many times but has never seen it like this. Harlum says the noise is insane and he's had to leave the casino just to get some peace and quiet. Taylor Swift is seeing Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Israel looks set to proceed with its ground offensive on Rafah in southern Gaza, despite a lack of support from western allies. Correspondent Gavin Grey told Mike Hosking the US wants Israel to come up with a plan for protecting the safety of the civilian population, before the military advance begins. Foreign Minister Winston Peters says our government is "extremely concerned" about the potential humanitarian consequences. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government and Auckland Council are not in agreement over the scrapping of the Regional Fuel Tax. It will be gone at the end of June, providing what the Government says is a cost-of-living relief. Auckland mayor Wayne Brown has come out swinging, saying the decision will leave a $1.2 billion shortfall in transport funding over the next four years. Ratepayers Alliance spokesperson Jordan Williams told Mike Hosking that last week, the mayor was saying Auckland Transport had lost the plot when it comes to value for money. He says this week it's a bit rich for Brown to complain we need to keep piling money into AT, which just has a long history of wasting it. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Uncertainty continues to plague Mount Ruapehu's future as a skiing destination. Whakapapa Holdings has pulled its bid on the Whakapapa side of the mountain, claiming there's not enough Crown funding. It's unclear how that part of the mountain will operate this winter. It comes as a conditional agreement for Pure Turoa to run the Turoa ski field has been signed. Former Ruapehu Snow Sports Secretary Tony Gavigan told Mike Hosking that the current-funding model needs to stay, with crown-funding. He says nobody in the private sector is going to put in the sort of capital and annual commitment required unless they have tenure. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GP advocacy groups say funding issues are approaching crisis levels. Many GPs are hiking their prices as government funding fails to keep up with rising costs. GenPro Chairman Angus Chambers told Mike Hosking that GP clinics receive different subsidies for different patients. He says one of the issues is that it doesn't take into account complexity within age groups. Chambers says he gets the same amount of money for a 65-year-old as he does a 95-year-old, and the latter requires more input. Health Minister Shane Reti agrees the funding model is not fit for purpose, and he's looking forward to receiving advice on a sustainable solution. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Young people are increasingly going on the benefit and staying on it for longer. Reports released to Newstalk ZB suggest a sharp spike in the time beneficiaries will spend on income support, with a 23% jump in the number of people staying on job-seeker support until retirement age. Youth advocate Shirley Johnson told Mike Hosking that the education system isn't adequately preparing young people for work. She says schools haven't kept up with our changing world. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Taylor Swift's lawyers are trying to put an end to public tracking of her private jet, claiming it's 'a life or death matter'. Student Jack Sweeney uses public data to track take-offs and landings of celebrity planes and posts them to Twitter. US Correspondent Mitch McCann told Mike Hosking that the 21-year-old's been issued a cease-and-desist to stop sharing Swift's plane location. He says Sweeney has responded that he believes in public transparency and hasn't promised he'll stop. Swift's team claims the data gives her numerous stalkers "a roadmap to carry out their plans". LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our latest unemployment numbers have caught some by surprise. Stats NZ figures show a 4% rise in the three months to December. That's up from 3.9% in the preceding three months but below most economists' predictions, who'd been expecting between 4.2 and 4.3%. ASB Senior Economist Mark Smith told Mike Hosking there's potential these figures are more reflective, and things may have actually worsened. He says other indicators —like benefit numbers— having been rising steadily. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Māori Development Minister has hit out at media coverage of events at Waitangi. The Coalition came under fire from Māori leaders, with both ACT Leader David Seymour and NZ First Leader Winston Peters among those heckled during speeches. Tama Potaka says he thinks most people came away feeling warm and excited for the future. He told Mike Hosking that he thinks the coverage was not comprehensive and skewed towards describing angst. Potaka says after the Government pōwhiri, it felt that while not everyone agreed with everything, everyone had the chance to present themselves. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prince Harry has arrived in the UK alone after his father's cancer diagnosis. Buckingham Palace announced King Charles cancer yesterday, which was discovered during a separate procedure. Harry was earlier photographed arriving at Clarence House. The King's now been seen for the first time since the announcement - being driven with Queen Camilla from Clarence House to Buckingham Palace, where it's believed they flew to Sandringham. UK correspondent Gavin Grey told Mike Hosking that it's not known how long Harry will stay, or if he's going to Sandringham. He says there's apparently no plan to meet with his brother, Prince William. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A spike to New Zealand's unemployment rate may be on the cards later this morning. Multiple bank economists estimate it to land at 4.3%, up from the September quarter's 3.9%. ANZ Economist, Henry Russell told Mike Hosking that he agrees. He says the key driver is the ongoing recovery in labour supply, reflecting the record net-migration we've seen. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re a generous bunch us Kiwis. It never ceases to amaze me how New Zealander’s step up when tragedy or just bad luck strikes someone or a community. In May 2023 - when every second headline was about the cost-of-living crisis - it was announced we’d given $36.6 million to charities and causes over that last financial year. It was a 38% increase on the previous year. That’s a lot of money. We’re givers and we give in good faith, but we’re not idiots and we like to know where the money is going and what it’s going to be used for. This week, a mayor hit the headlines asking why a considerable amount of money raised through Lotto to help communities affected by Cyclone Gabrielle is still in a bank account almost a year after the disaster, with no thought given to how it may be allocated. It’s not a good look. It’s not a good look for Lotto who ran the appeal, or the Department of Internal Affairs who have banked the cash and are earning a bit of interest, or the Fund’s trustees responsible for allocations, to not have a plan yet. If we want people to give when the need arises, and we do in this little country of ours, then having faith in the system is important. We don’t give with the expectation of getting anything in return - but we do hope that if we were in strife one day the same generosity would be shown. Stories like this don’t encourage giving. Hastings Mayor Sandra Hazlehurst has expressed concern over the fund and its lack of action and is using the media to get things moving, but when you’re living in an area dealing with the fallout of a natural disaster, I say go for it. Especially when other cyclone-related relief funds have been effective. The Red Cross, who faced criticism last April for being too slow to release their 27.5m in donated funds have, as of November 13, committed $24m of their fund. The Hawke’s Bay Disaster Relief Fund and the Hastings Mayoral Fund have also been hard at work. It’s worth pointing out that because it’s gambling money there are some specific criteria regarding how the money is to be used. It must go to community minded projects like fixing facilities where people come together – sports clubs, playgrounds, marae or community halls – and the Trusts focus is on medium to long-term recovery projects. So, I understand the dust must settle before communities know what they need. It was never going to handed out immediately. But, if you want to rely on the goodwill of the people then it helps to be transparent about the process and the fund’s intentions. If you’re wondering where your donation will end up, answers are apparently coming this month, when the trustees will meet to consider and decide on a timeline. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David Seymour hopes a 'peaceful debate' can come out of Waitangi - in the wake of backlash to his proposed Treaty Principles Bill. The ACT leader is being welcomed alongside the coalition at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds in the Bay of Islands today. He skipped both last month's Kingitanga's hui-a-motu and Ratana commemorations. Iwi representatives spoke at Waitangi yesterday, expressing criticism over various Government leaders, and stances, in relation to Māori. Seymour told Francesca Rudkin he hopes some of the rhetoric in recent days can be dialled down. He doesn't think it's such a bad thing to have a debate on treaty principles - saying it should be welcomed as it apparently highlights the importance of the treaty. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government is being warned that its attempts to streamline the costs of government-funded school lunches could backfire. An MBIE briefing has revealed the lunches could end this year unless the Government finds $330 million. Prime Minister Chris Luxon says his government will fund them beyond the end of the year, but he wants to optimise the programme. Health Coalition Aotearoa co-chair Boyd Swinburn told Mike Hosking that a programme which only gives lunches to poorer kids has downsides. He says having certain children line up for the lunches creates stigma for them, which can create so many issues that schools may decide not to bother. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Council of Trade Unions says it's heartless that the Workplace Relations and Safety Minister recommended a 1.3% minimum wage increase. The Government's decided to increase minimum wage by 2% to $23.15 an hour from April. Inflation is at 4.7%. Council of Trade Unions Secretary Melissa Ansell-Bridges told Mike Hosking that all New Zealanders have a right to a liveable income. She says the idea that people on low incomes should work harder, train more, and advance themselves is great, but there'll still be someone doing those jobs. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Airbnb and its rivals are warning their services may need to be suspended if the Government doesn't delay a GST law change. Accommodation providers and ride-share services such as Uber will become liable for ensuring GST is paid through services booked on their websites from April 1. Airbnb, Booking.com, Bookabach, and Bachcare wrote to Finance Minister Nicola Willis in December requesting an urgent meeting. Former Tourism Industry Aotearoa CEO Chris Roberts told Mike Hosking that the companies haven't had enough time to prepare for the changes. He said that during the election campaign National was going to scrap the idea, but are now keeping it following coalition agreements. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US has decided on their course of action when it comes to retaliating to the drone strike that killed and injured over forty US troops. Their response is likely to come in the next couple of days, officials saying that they will respond at a time of their choosing. US Correspondent Mitch McCann told Mike Hosking that while they have a couple of options, it’s likely that they will target the militia directly as opposed to launching a strike against Iran and potentially widening the war. He said that the militia responsible announced this morning that they will be suspending their operations, though it may be too late to avoid repercussions from the US. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AUKUS is expected to be a topic at today's trans-Tasman meeting. New Zealand and Australia's Foreign Ministers and Defence Ministers will meet for talks in Melbourne today. Australia New Zealand Leadership Forum Co-Chair Greg Lowe says it's certainly worth having discussions about the second pillar of AUKUS. That second pillar involves things like cyber security and AI, rather than military action He told Mike Hosking that the meeting is happening at an important time. Lowe says financial troubles following the pandemic have been followed by tough geopolitical circumstances. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An Auckland high school has placed CCTV cameras in its bathrooms in a bid to stop vaping. Green Bay High School students have taken to social media to voice their concerns, saying it's a breach of privacy. The school has also installed a glass door to a new bathroom. Auckland University senior law lecturer Nikki Chamberlain told Mike Hosking that children are vulnerable when it comes to privacy. She says schools are more likely to face scrutiny from courts for their actions because of that. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Banking restrictions are on the chopping block, in the hope to make the lending process smoother. Laws introduced by the previous government which aimed to prevent loan sharks are set to be scrapped. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayley says it had unintended consequences. CEO of Money Sweetspot Sasha Lockley told Mike Hosking that it made lending too restrictive for both lenders and borrowers. She says the prescriptive requirements took the human understanding out of lending. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Parnell Business Association wants more to be done to address what it says is a sharp rise in crime and disorderly behaviour, linked to nearby Kainga Ora tenants. It's written to Housing Minister Chris Bishop and former Prime Minister Sir Bill English who's leading a review into the agency. General Manager Cheryl Adamson says that in the last 6-8 months they’ve seen an uptick in the number of disruptive tenants in the area. She told Mike Hosking unlike in the past, the facility doesn’t currently have full-time onsite security to help pinpoint tenants who would cause trouble. Adamson said that while they do have their own security systems and hired guards, collaboration works best when they can liaise with onsite management. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s potential for a more radical leadership of the Greens in the wake of co-leader James Shaw's resignation. Shaw's announced he'll step down in March but will remain an MP for the time being to support his Sustainable Environment Bill. Green Party rules state that a woman and a Māori person must be in leadership roles, but with Marama Davidson covering both criteria, the floor is wide open. Former MP Catherine Delahunty says some members are looking for a genuinely radical approach from the Greens. She says we could see a more authentically strong environmental position, which won't be so popular with the business sector, but at the end of the day that's not the Greens job. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I have never really been able to work James Shaw out. As he quit his leadership yesterday, which made perfect sense, he waxed lyrical about the Green Party, and its achievements, and its place in the political landscape. Which makes no sense because they are a mess and no longer remotely green, and he stands out like the dogs proverbials as the one remaining environmentalist. Of course, you wouldn't expect him to bag them, but he speaks with such clarity and conviction about them. He is either a sensational performer, or he actually believes it. He must know surely, he was the last one standing. The rest are just rabid extremists. And therefore, the future of the Greens is anything but assured. And without his ballast and experience they open themselves to the ever-increasing reality of heading off down a track of performance art, complete with pro-Palestinianan flags and scarves. Rod Donald and Jeanete Fitzsimons were at least green. But your Sue Bradfords muddied the waters with their social engineering bent, which then led to your Marama Davidson years where chat about snails and national park walkways gave way to cis white males and anti-establishment fury. Before Golriz caught the attention of the retail community she too added to the Davidson view of the world: Not a lot of climate change, an awful lot of protest and left leaning angst. I suppose Julie Anne Genter had green credentials, with her Get Wellington Moving vision and her road to zero campaign, both of which you will note are the most abject of abject failures, but at least they had a tinge of the environment about them. A lot of us when it came to James sort of felt bad for him. What on earth was he still doing there? They tried to oust him as leader for goodness sake! He took no part in any of their mad cap protests, marching for causes that had nothing to do with being green. He looked like a fish out of water, and yet still he stayed for 9 long years. Until now. I always had the impression he could have done so much more if only he hadn't been hanging with the crazies. A decent bloke with his heart and intentions in the right place just hijacked by or held captive by people around him he thought were his mates. Next stop surely the full-blown freedom of the outside world; run James, run. There is a big bright world out there and you can do a lot of good in it See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

High inflation in certain parts of the economy is dashing hopes of a cut in the OCR. Reserve Bank Chief Executive Paul Conway says despite overall inflation being at 4.7 percent, non-tradable inflation is still high at 5.9 percent. New Zealand Initiative Economist Director Oliver Hartwich says that non-tradable inflation is produced in New Zealand. He told Mike Hosking that the Reserve Bank’s policy to reduce inflation needs to be in sync with government fiscal policy. Hartwich says high government spending makes it harder for the Reserve Bank to do its job. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Parliament is officially back in business, with the first sitting of the year today. The Government will resume its 100 Day Action Plan, which still includes scrapping the Māori Health Authority, Auckland Fuel Tax, and Three Waters reforms. Parliament is still under urgency when it comes to the passing of legislation. Political Editor Jason Walls told Mike Hosking this impacts things like passing the bill that scraps the Productivity Commission, which is slated to happen today. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The annual apple and pear crop is forecast to pip last year's total. New Zealand Apples & Pears estimates export volume at 21.2 million boxes, a rebound from the 2023 Cyclone Gabrielle-ravaged total. It's also a return to pre-cyclone levels. CEO Karen Morrish says there are several factors behind the recovery, including cyclone-damaged crops bouncing back. She says it's also down to a lot of hard work from growers, coupled with favourable weather. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I am assuming you got as bored as I did over the break with the obsession—or mania, as Shane Jones quite rightly called it— when it came to ACT's idea of having a chat about the way we view and interpret the Treaty. The problem with David Seymour is he is too logical, especially for nutters and extremists. He wants to debate, to toss ideas about, to —dare we suggest— act like an adult and have a discussion. Hone Harawira, I noted, in one of the alarmist gatherings just referred to the others who don't agree with him as bastards. So, you can see what poor old David is up against. In an adult world, minds can be changed through logic, and detail, and fact, and reason. In Hone’s world... well, you are a bastard. The media, I noted, started the new year as they left off: unable to comprehend the fact we’ve changed govts and therefore outlooks, and fully lined up alongside the Kīngitanga and espoused the alarm, outrage, and upset. Seymour, if you think about it logically, is to be admired. All he is asking for is a discussion. Even National who aren't supporting his plan past select committee are taking that position I suspect not because they don’t agree with him, but because its messy politics. They have bigger fish to fry like the economy which has been sinking like a stone. A to be fair to them, I’d make it my number one job as well. But it is a fair-weather approach that National has specialised in for many years; pick the stuff you can get votes on. The moment it looks a bit gnarly? Walk away. Seymour to his credit, and the end-of-life choice work he did was an excellent example, picks issues and runs with them with no fear, no favour. It is a laudable approach driven by principle, something more of us should aspire to. There is no doubt the Treaty has been interpreted many a different way. The document is not prescriptive, nor that descriptive. It is open to a multitude of reactions. That’s why we have seen the Māori Party formed and reformed, any number of court cases enacted, and lord knows how much activism from the Waitangi Tribunal. Mostly its caused angst, if not upset. We are not a harmonious nation when it comes to race relations and ACT and Seymour want to talk about it. If only more were mature enough to give that a crack. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Decades of underinvestment are to blame for Wellington's water crisis, according to infrastructure experts. Wellington is facing tightening water restrictions as more than 40% of treated water is lost due to leaks and burst pipes in the region. Infrastructure New Zealand Policy Director Michelle McCormick told Mike Hosking that the whole country is facing water issues, and we need to better prioritise infrastructure spending. She says the chickens are coming home to roost. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A political commentator says the Prime Minister is continuing to distance himself from ACT's Treaty Principles Bill. The bill featured heavily in ACT Party leader David Seymour's State of the Nation speech over the weekend. Brigitte Morten says the move to make Seymour Associate Justice Minister, reinforces that it's ACT Party, not National Party policy. She says the appointment has some practical aspects too. Morton says it will allow Seymour to talk more directly to officials on the bill, and will mean he gets to introduce the bill to parliament. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The famous Mona Lisa painting has fallen victim to yet another protest attack, with activists hurling pumpkin soup over the 16th century masterpiece. The protestors, who represent a French environmental protection group, took to the painting to raise awareness for the issue of sustainable food. Newstalk ZB Europe correspondent Gavin Grey says the group is calling on food to be more accessible. "Basically, what the want is a food card worth roughly $270 NZD to be given to citizens each month to be used on food." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's the first day schools can go back for term 1. The new Government's making compulsory an hour each of reading, writing and maths at primary school. Next term schools will be required to have cellphone policies in place, but it's expected most schools will implement them this term. NZEI president Mark Potter says there's a lot of things competing for children's attention these days. He says teachers have the added battle of making sure they stay engaging for children, which is one of the most important things for them. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand needs a great deal in order to get back on track, printing money and once again becoming an almost first world nation that the rest of the world wants to come and see, travel and enjoy. The Tourism and Hospitality Minister is Matt Doocey and yesterday, he came out saying that nothing is off the table when it comes to helping fund the industry and the vital infrastructure it needs. Nothing? Really? That sounds like a giant blank cheque for the tourism industry to sink their teeth into right? Minister Matt Doocey has been touring the country, meeting with regional tourism operators in the past few weeks and listening to what they want, and their concerns. That’s great… I’m sure this is great news for anyone with a wale watching venture, a bungy jumping business or sight seeing bus for the vineyards of Martinborough. Minister Doocey says he wants to find out how his ministry can support the tourism sector grow and become a big part of the economic success of Aotearoa. Now doesn’t that sound like the ideal path forward for anyone looking to swing the spotlight upon this great nation? Some parts of the country are already seeing the numbers or tourists getting back to the numbers seen before the world screeched to a halt with the COVID pandemic. Queenstown is one center luxuriating in high numbers of tourists. Other areas that once enjoyed high numbers of sheepskin slipper and stuffed kiwi purchasing pundits – like Rotorua and Dunedin, are not faring so well. The key to getting tourism booming here once again, is funding. That was the key message that The Tourism Minister heard on his road trip around the county. Another aspect that he’s taken back to The Beehive is just how crucial it is for the regions to have the visitor infrastructure necessary to accommodate our overseas friends and to put less strain on communities. Minister Doocey is spot on. The infrastructure of the country is pretty good in some places and completely woeful in others. Anyone who’s had conversations with tourists over the past few months will know that one of the most common complaints they have, is the inability to get anywhere with public transport. We’ve been here a million times haven’t we? New Zealand can’t afford to run trains and busses to all points of the compass at all times. New Zealand doesn’t have the population to sustain the level of infrastructure required to keep you and me happy – let alone the swathe of tourists who arrive here expecting more. They expect more – because largely speaking, they come here from countries that are light years ahead of us. Here; we continue to be hamstrung by our inability to see the rails for the sleepers. I sincerely hope that The Minister for Tourism can convince this coalition government to find the money to build what we need in order to make New Zealand a first class, top-notch destination for all tourists. God knows we need them.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The UK is sending back Ghana's 'crown jewels'. The long-term loan deal will see the artefacts returned 150 years after they were looted from the court of the Ashanti Empire. UK Correspondent, Vincent McAviney, told Roman Travers that it consists of 32 pieces from the British and Victoria & Albert Museums. He says Ghana's chief negotiator is hopeful for a 'new sense of cultural co-operation' after generations of anger. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Other banks might be following ASB in dropping interest rates. ASB is dropping its rates on its three, four, and five-year home loan terms. Westpac Chief Economist Kelly Eckhold says that last year the Reserve Bank warned interest rates may have to rise. He told Roman Travers that recent developments have likely flipped that around. Eckhold says low GDP figures signal further rates drops are likely this year. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An NGO is alarmed by data issues at Oranga Tamariki. An Independent Children’s Monitor report has revealed gaps in information about whether children in state care are receiving medical and dental checkups. Voyce National Care says it's state negligence, which can't be ignored. Youth Participation Advisor Mary-Lynn Huxford told Roman Travers that this can have long term effects. She says the group works with young people footing big medical bills because of earlier negligence. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the record, New Zealand doesn’t have a minister for the tobacco industry. Or does it? The Associate Health Minister, Casey Costello is being labelled by some as the Minister for the Tobacco Industry, based on a proposal that’s yet to be confirmed by Casey Costello, that she wants to see a 3-year freeze on the tobacco tax. What this means is that cigarettes would be insulated from the full impact of inflation under a proposal from the New Zealand First Associate Health Minister. At the moment, tobacco excise is increased each year in line with the Consumer Price Index. Apart from gathering a swag of tax, it’s a way to encourage smokers to give up. Health Coalition Aotearoa co-chairperson, Boyd Swinburn has come out all gun’s firing and smoking, saying that Casey Costello needs to be stripped of her duties and that she’s lost all credibility as an Associate Minister of Health. After all the work done over the decades to encourage smokers to give up the darts, after all the hard work by previous governments and former iterations of The Ministry of Health, why on earth would you give smokers a tax cut now? This kind of idiotic, retrospective policy change, ties in quite nicely with this Governments position on ‘Smoke Free New Zealand’ by 2025. It’s all too hard, so why bother? Governments have acknowledged that smoking is an important aspect of tax gathering. So where would this government look to recoup the loss on this proposed, preposterous policy? The Director of Action on Smoking and Health, Ben Youden, also says that this proposal simply doesn’t make much sense. There’s a problem here with addiction, I realise that; but it seems that under this proposal, we’re just aiding and abetting those on the fags, to keep incinerating precious money that’d be better spent elsewhere. Smoking related experts say that prices on tobacco need to walk a fine line between deterring smokers and not financially hindering those addicted. Surely Casey Costello can see that all this does is incentivise more smokers to smoke more, for longer. Costello has also proposed removing the excise tax from smokeless tobacco products, where the tobacco is heated to a vapour rather than burned. It would appear to me that The Associate Health Minister has completely lost the plot. If this policy goes ahead there’ll be more outrage from those healthcare professionals who deal with smoking related diseases each and every day. What a kick in the toolbox for all of them. What possible motivation could an Associate Health Minister have for such mindless proposal? I also wonder just how many focus groups Casey Costello held with healthcare professions around the county to get their input on this proposal? I can almost certainly guarantee that the answer to that – will be absolutely none. No one in their right mind would ever suggest that effectively encouraging more New Zealander’s to continue smoking, is ever going to be a good idea. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government faced some heat yesterday at Rātana. NZ First’s Winston Peters and Shane Jones were both booed by some in the crowd, and the Prime Minister himself faced a frosty reception. Christopher Luxon used his address at Rātana to assure he wants progress for Māori, promising the crowd his Government had no plans to meddle with the Treaty, and wants to partner with Māori to achieve better outcomes. Political Editor Jason Walls told Roman Travers that the reception they received feels appropriate considering some of the rhetoric that had been seen prior to the event. Rātana, he said, normally has a quieter, more respectful crowd, so this level of response was quite telling. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand's average rent has gone through the roof and is sitting at an all-time high. Latest Trade Me figures show the national median rent is $625 a week, about 7.8% percent higher than this time last year. For the first time, the Bay of Plenty is the most expensive place to rent a home, at $670 a week. Property Commentator Ashley Church told Roman Travers that when the cost of owning a property is weighed against the rent taken, most property investors have been running at a loss for about a decade. He said that the market is rebalancing with the change in Government, and a dramatic rent reduction is expected over the next few years. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.