Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

The US vice-president is back-pedalling over a comment he made - thought to be in relation to key allies, the UK and France. JD Vance said a US stake in Ukraine's economy is a better security guarantee than 20,000 troops from 'some random country' that hasn't fought a war in 30 or 40 years. UK correspondent Gavin Grey says Vance has denied this statement was targeted - but didn't elaborate which countries he was referring to.  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's a big week for the New Zealand stock market, and one expert is taking a look at the highest performers. As results reporting continues, some companies are bringing in more for investors than others. Milford Asset Management's Sam Trethewey explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Major question marks over the shock-resignation of Reserve Bank Governor Adrian Orr. Orr's laid out areas of his work he's proud of, but gave no reason for quitting almost half-way through his second, five-year term. NZ Herald Wellington business editor Jenee Tibshraeny unpacked the reactions to this announcement. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Wednesday March 5 2025, Former Reserve Bank economist Michael Reddell joined Ryan Bridge to discuss Adrian Orr's shock resignation as Reserve Bank Governor. Trade Minister Todd McClay has also confirmed he's keeping a close eye on potential trade disruptions that could impact New Zealand as Trump's tariffs kick in. Former ACT leader Richard Prebble also unpacked the combination of factors that led to him stepping down from the Waitangi Tribunal. Plus, The Huddle wonders if body cameras for bin inspectors will do more harm than good. Get the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast every weekday evening on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tonight on The Huddle, Tim Wilson from the Maxim Institute and AUT chancellor Rob Campbell joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more! Reserve Bank Governor Adrian Orr stunned the country by announcing a shock resignation earlier today. What do we think caused this? Did he want to leave - or was he pushed out?  Recycling bin inspectors will be fitted with body cameras in a bid to reduce abuse on the job. What do we make of this? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One expert has delivered a grim outlook for share markets around the world.  Stocks have tumbled after US President Donald Trump slapped tariffs on Canada, China and Mexico.  Infometrics Chief Forecaster Gareth Kiernan says markets surged after the election with thoughts that Trump might promote growth.  He says there might not be a quick fix for the issue.  "I suspect it's going to be something that could last a lot longer, and we could be in a more serious downward trend that lasts for up to 12 months." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A combination of factors led to former ACT Party leader Richard Prebble stepping away from the Waitangi Tribunal. He's resigned after being appointed in October. The tribunal was established in 1975 in a bid to deal with unresolved Treaty grievances. Prebble claims the Tribunal doesn't take any notice of Parliament - and says it believes there's two Treaties. He says it's creating more grievances. "It's a rewriting of history - and I know historians do re-interpret history, but one thing you can't do is you can't bend facts." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Auckland has expressed interest towards Emirates Team New Zealand around returning the next America's Cup defence to the City of Sails. Tataki Auckland Unlimited have confirmed they are in talks around potentially hosting the 38th edition, likely to be held in 2027. Sailing professor Mark Orams says the interest is there, but it requires investment from multiple key partners.  "What is the return on investment - and can we be confident that it's worth the investment for the greater good of New Zealand, and Auckland, specifically?" LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Trade Minister says he's taking potential disruption to trade very seriously.   US President Donald Trump has sent stocks tumbling across the world after lumping tariffs on China, Canada and Mexico, who are promising retaliation. Todd McClay says it'll directly affect New Zealand companies in those countries - such as Fisher and Paykel in Mexico. He says it could move us even closer to China, especially for products like beef.  "They will still need the beef that they're bringing from the rest of the world from the US on the restaurant table or the supermarket shelves." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's surprise among economists and industry experts after Reserve Bank Governor Adrian Orr abruptly resigned today.   Orr was almost halfway through his second five-year term. Former Reserve Bank economist Michael Reddell says no one's received an adequate explanation as to why Orr chose to depart today - and it's not good enough. "Maybe he really is just exhausted - but still, you don't just walk out on the same day, on the eve of a really big conference being hosted tomorrow." LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's surprise resignation by Reserve Bank Governor Adrian Orr has left experts with plenty of questions. Neither the Prime Minister nor Finance Minister are giving any details of why the most powerful, non-elected person in Government has abruptly quit.  Not only have Nicola Willis and Chris Luxon gone to ground - the Reserve Bank will not answer media questions about the departure.  ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper suspects Adrian Orr may have found other opportunities elsewhere - and aimed to leave while the economy was recovering. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump says tariffs will make the US rich again.  The President's been delivering his first Congress address since commencing his second term.  He's talked up the 119 sweeping changes he's already pushed through - drastically reshaping domestic and foreign policy.  He says the US has been ripped off for decades by nearly every country on earth - and he won't let that happen any longer.  US correspondent Jonathan Kearsley says Trump was also quick to fire back at the Democrats in the audience who didn't clap for him. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Black Caps coach Gary Stead is adamant South Africa will be unfazed by a pointless trip to Dubai heading into tonight's Champions Trophy semifinal in Lahore. South Africa flew to Dubai in case they played India in the semis but instead boarded a plane back to Lahore after the Black Caps lost to India to finish second in their group. Sportstalk host D'Arcy Waldegrave explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new report shines a light on the balance of power gangs hold in prisons - and how it impacts other inmates.  A Corrections-commissioned study, chiefly authored by criminologist Jarrod Gilbert, shows gang-affiliated prisoners has doubled over the past decade.  Corrections deputy director for men's prisons, Neil Beales, says there's been a noticeable increase in violent acts carried out by prisoners connected to the gangs. "What we are seeing is an increase in violence, particularly in some of the newer gangs...also, there's the resources and the money that they have to carry out some of their criminal activities." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's uncertain how Ukraine can fare against Russia as the US pauses military aid and stops all equipment destined for Ukraine. Europe's been scrambling to pick up the pieces since Donald Trump began talks with Russia.  UK correspondent Enda Brady says Friday's outburst was a clear warning for Zelenskyy by Trump. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Economists are outlining their predictions as Australia prepares to release a GDP update tomorrow. The Australian economy is predicted to have grown faster over the December quarter, but the effect of inflation still linger. HSBC chief economist Paul Bloxham explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US President Donald Trump has indicated tariffs on imported agricultural products could take effect as soon as April. This announcement has generated concern among Kiwi farmers, who export billions of dollars worth of meat and dairy to the US every year. The Country's Jamie Mackay unpacks what this could mean for the nation's primary sector. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The coalition Government wants more homes to be built cheaper and faster, yet official data shows an annual 7.2 percent drop in the sector. New data from Stats NZ shows that in the year ended January 2025, there were 33,812 new homes consented, down 7.2 percent compared with the year ended January 2024. Infometrics Principal Economist Brad Olsen explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Tuesday, 4 March 2025, Ryan Bridge talks to Malcolm Nance about Donald Trump pausing military aid to Ukraine. Associate Education Minister David Seymour discusses why he didn't attend a meeting with Erica Stanford over the problematic school lunches. Nathan Guy from the Meat Industry Association talks about whether New Zealand's agriculture sector should be nervous about possible tarrifs from the USA. Plus, the Huddle discusses who still uses chewing gum - is it a big ick? Get the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast every weekday evening on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tonight on The Huddle, Ali Jones from Red PR and Newstalk ZB Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more! The school lunch saga carries on, with David Seymour stepping up to reassure Kiwis the programme's problems are being dealt with. What do we make of this? Congestion charging appears to be getting closer, as a new bill allowing local councils and authorities to charge users for busy routes during peak hours has passed its first reading in Parliament. Do we think this is the way to go?  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Hyundai is back on the table for a potential Cook Strait ferry deal, Winston Peters is reiterating his view that the previous deal wasn't a good one.  The Government set aside $300 million to resolve all exit costs for the deal. Peters says the idea that breaking the previous deal with Hyundai alone will cost $300 million is 'just wrong'.  "We cannot afford this blowout in costs for both the ferries and the infrastructure that went with the ferries that were ordered. It costs us way less than $300 million." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Associate Education Minister claims problems with school lunches are being addressed. David Seymour's revamped programme, delivered for millions-of-dollars less than Labour's, has been plagued by complaints of late deliveries and sub-standard food.  Seymour claims lunches are now delivered nearly 100 percent on time.  He says he's committed to fixing the other issues. "I think we will be delivering something that everyone's going to be very pleased with - as we iron out problem after problem. That's all you can do."  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Congestion charging is expected to trigger a change in driver behaviour.  A bill allowing councils and local authorities to set charges for people using busy routes during peak hours has passed its first reading in Parliament.  A report released today revealed congestion costs Auckland $2.6 billion a year.  Infrastructure New Zealand policy director Michelle McCormick says people need to change their thinking around transport.  "We're quite often lazy and we just jump in the car without a thought about alternatives. But if there's a charge to it, we're paying directly - it might just make us stop and think." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's a waiting game for our meat industry - with US tariffs looming large.  President Donald Trump has confirmed tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China will begin in the coming hours.  He's recently claimed agricultural products are next in the firing line for tariffs as early as April.  Meat Industry Association chair, Nathan Guy, says our industry's ridden the wave of geopolitical uncertainty before. "We export to about 120 countries around the world and we're very agile and nimble - I guess I'd like to think that our relationship is very strong with the US."  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's belief from some that Europe can fill the gaps in support for Ukraine. The US is pausing all military aid to the country - including weapons in transit and waiting in Poland.  The Presidents of America and Ukraine had a heated exchange at the White House over the weekend. Former US Navy Senior Chief Malcolm Nance says only 20 percent of weapons and equipment in Ukraine come from the US. "Where they will lack, initially, will be some of the more advanced technologies - but Europe can backfill all of that."  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Opposition's sharpening its knives, as MPs continue to call out the Government over its school lunches programme. Labour, the Greens and Te Pati Māori weren't pulling their punches in the House today, taking aim time and time again over the issue. Education Minister Erica Stanford has called on David Seymour to explain some of the scheme's shortfalls. Newstalk ZB political editor Jason Walls says Seymour missed the meeting with Stanford yesterday.  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Supermarket shelves in Queensland are being stripped as locals prepare for Cyclone Alfred. The category two storm is brewing off Australia's coast, causing heavy surf and high tides.  It's expected to hit at the end of the week, bringing winds up to 120 kilometres an hour. Australian correspondent Murray Olds says heavy rain, erosion and flash flooding are expected to batter the Sunshine Coast by Friday. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hoskins Sotutu has been handed a three-week ban, which can reduce to two with a stint at tackle school, for a dangerous tackle in the Blues Super Rugby win over the Hurricanes in Wellington. The number eight was shown a red-card for shoulder-to-head contact on loose forward Peter Lakai. Sportstalk host D'Arcy Waldegrave explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's hopes new Cook Strait ferries will be rail-enabled. Minister for Rail Winston Peters is promising more details by the month's end. He's confirmed Hyundai - the company whose ship and infrastructure deal was dumped by the Government - is in the running for a new contract. The break fee on the original canned deal is $300 million. Maritime Union national secretary Carl Findlay says the cancellation was silly. He explained getting world-class builders to make the ships as close to the original plan would be ideal. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has stressed the importance of needing the US for supporting Ukraine. European and Canadian leaders have held an emergency summit in London, to discuss a new plan to guarantee peace in Ukraine. UK correspondent Gavin Grey says more meetings are set to take place this week - but it's unclear if all the EU nations will be on board.  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over in the US, there's plenty of speculation as to what will happen with Trump's proposed tariffs on Canada and Mexico.  The proposed tariffs aren't set to kick in until April, but there's theories Trump may alter the tariffs - and put a higher one on China. Harbour Asset Management's Shane Solly explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Plans to expand salmon fishing and push it further out into the open ocean have moved forward after the Government announced a cash injection into the aquaculture sector. The Government will invest $11.72 million in salmon farming over five years, as part of a $29.3 million programme led by Salmon King. Salmon King CEO Carl Carrington says their product is in demand all over the world - and there's room for the sector to boost exports. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Monday 3rd of March 2025, Wellington Water Chair Nick Leggett has revealed he may step down after the release of a a scathing report uncovering more organisational failures. The Government is setting up 24-7 digital healthcare in a package announced today to make it easier for Kiwis to see a doctor. Health Minister Simeon Brown joined Ryan Bridge to discuss. The 2025 Oscars took place today - and low-budget hit Anora swept the ceremony. Later, The Huddle debates what could happen after the weekend's infamous Trump-Zelenskyy conflict. Get the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast every weekday evening on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Finance Minister has acknowledged the Government's new cut-price regime for school lunches has issues - but indicated parents can also step up and contribute. A number of schools throughout the country have complained about late deliveries and sub-standard offerings under the new system. Nicola Willis says she expects the contractors to improve their service, but she's also reminding mums and dads that they can do their part.  "There's nothing to stop them from putting a Vegemite sandwich and a banana in their children's school bag. Actually, that's why we have a welfare system in this country - so that every family raising children has a minimum level of income needed to deliver their needs. I think we do need to get away from the idea that the Government does everything." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tonight on The Huddle, journalist Clare de Lore and Child Fund CEO Josie Pagani joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more!  There's a lot of changes on the Ukraine front after Donald Trump's weekend altercation with President Zelenskyy - what do we think will happen next? New reports show Kiwis love their pets, with two-thirds of New Zealanders sharing their homes with a pet or companion animal. What do we make of this? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This weekend's Vegas venture couldn't have gone worse for the Warriors, as the NRL looks to launch an assault investigation into assistant coach Richard Agar. According to new reports, Agar allegedly grabbed a British journalist by the throat - and also reportedly verbally abused him in the press box in Allegiant Stadium. Coaching expert Wayne Goldsmith says it's expected this investigation will be followed on properly, rather than just falling back to the court of public opinion.  "I'm sure they're a very professional organisation and I'm sure that they're doing all of those things really well. And the important thing is to make sure this is played out correctly, properly and in time - it's easy to hang people in the court of public opinion."  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Europe could be stepping up to the plate, but it's unclear if it will go the full mile in supporting Ukraine against Russia.  A 'coalition of the willing' has formed - alongside a fractious interaction between the US and Ukrainian presidents. Centre for European Policy Analysis senior fellow, Edward Lucas, says a partial truce could be the first step.  But he warns protecting Ukraine further could prove tricky, especially if Russia attacks deployed European troops.  "If a drone hit British or French or German barracks and killed a few people, what do we do? Send a cross-press release - or do we fire back and hit something inside Russia?" LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anora was the big winner at today's Oscars - triumphing despite a low budget. The film won five Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Actress. Creator Sean Baker won for director, editing and original screenplay, tying with Walt Disney for the record of four wins in one night. LA-based entertainment reporter Sean Mandell says it's a true independent film.  "It was made for $6 million - which sounds like a lot of money, but to make a movie, it's not a lot of money at all." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government is setting up 24-7 digital healthcare in a package announced today to make it easier to see a doctor. Providers including GPs getting incentives for supporting graduate nurses - capped at 400 annually for three years. Health New Zealand is also putting up $285 million to incentivise GP clinics to open their books to new patients, and hit Government targets. Health Minister Simeon Brown says they're also introducing a two-year programme to train up to 100 overseas doctors as GPs. "Many of these people are doing jobs which are not related to their qualifications - you hear stories where some of them are driving Ubers. Actually, we want them in GP practices."  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump's tension-filled meeting with Volodymyr Zelenskyy made headlines all over the world after Trump and VP Vance showed noticeable hostility to the Ukrainian President. Zelenskyy left the US early to join leaders from Europe and Canada in a meeting in London - to agree a four-step plan to end the war with Russia. NewstalkZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper unpacked Trump's 'bullying' behaviour during the meeting directed towards the Ukrainian leader. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A category 2 cyclone is set to hit Australian shores, with its outer edges sending heavy surf and high tides to Queensland's beaches. Tropical Cyclone Alfred is expected to send rain and strong winds to Brisbane when it makes landfall, and authorities are warning residents to be prepared. Australian correspondent Oliver Peterson says it's looking likely that the AFL season opener set to be played at the Gabba on Thursday will be cancelled. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Warriors are shifting their focus to round two after their recent loss to Canberra. The Kiwi side hopes what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas after a 30-8 drubbing by the Raiders. Sportstalk host Jason Pine explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Chair of Wellington Water says he's considering stepping down, after a scathing report uncovered more organisational failures. It highlights a lack of oversight in contracting work, with pipe maintenance work paid at nearly three times the comparable council rate. Nick Leggett says he'll step down if the region's mayors want him to but he has acted on the issues in question. "What we've tried to do is lift the lid on that - be honest and upfront. There wasn't the right competitive tension to get the best value for ratepayers, the internal systems for the organisation, the financial checks - those kind of processes were appalling."  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Friday 28 February. Get the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast every weekday evening on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Senior Political Correspondent Barry Soper joins Ryan Bridge to wrap the political week, from citizens arrests, to Andrew Bayly falling on his sword.  LISTEN ABOVE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

UK Prime Minister Sir Kier Starmer has put on a 'sceptical' during his meeting with US President Donald Trump.  The pair met for nearly thirty minutes, speaking about Ukraine and trade agreements.  What would the UK have to give for a successful trade deal?  UK Correspondent Gavin Grey discusses this, Gatwick airport expanding to two functioning runways, and a Columbian man who flew through Europe with drugs taped to his wig.  LISTEN ABOVE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Indonesia and Apple are finalising an agreement to lift an iPhone 16 ban. The ban came after Apple failed to source 40 percent of their products content locally in Indonesia, a regulation required by the country's government.  Asia Business Correspondent Peter Lewis explains the multimillion dollar agreement, Taiwan catching a Chinese owned ship cutting a subsea cable, and Trump taking aim at Chinese trade and investment.  LISTEN ABOVE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sports Journalist Nicky Styris and Oceania Football Confederation Media Manager join Ryan Bridge for the Sports Huddle. Should Caleb Clarke be afforded a discharge without conviction? The Blues and All Blacks star was followed by a Police helicopter while he rode his motorbike more than double the speed limit in a residential area. Sky TV has said they won’t buy the rugby rights “at any cost.” But what will happen if DAZN outbids them? The NRL season begins on Sunday – is this the Warriors year? The team is headed to Las Vegas for the season opener where they will take on the Canberra Raiders. The Huddle discuss whether Rugby League can take off in the US. LISTEN ABOVE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It has been a profitable first half performance for TVNZ, as the state-owned broadcaster has returned to profit. The company has announced a total Net Profit After Tax of $53.1 million, as well as operational earnings of more than $11 million, for the six-month period ending December 31st. Despite this, TVNZ can’t predict whether the full year result will deliver the same good news.   LISTEN ABOVE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The NRL season is kicking off this Sunday in Las Vegas.  The Warriors are one of four teams playing in the American city this weekend as the NRL is looking to expand the game into America. Rugby League journalist Brad Walter is in Las Vegas and joins the show. LISTEN ABOVE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.