Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

Australian Open semi-finalist Ben Shelton has taken the Grand Slam's on-court interviewers to task for being 'disrespectful' to players. Shelton initially laughed off some divisive comments from former Davis Cup player John Fitzgerald, who interviewed him after his first semi-final at Melbourne Park - but later told reporters he was 'shocked' by how players were treated by broadcasters. Tennis commentator Craig Gabriel says some of the comments that took place after the fact may have been better left unsaid.  "With things being a little bit touchy on how things are spoken of these days - you've got to be a little bit careful." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Trade Minister says he wants deals through the door this year - with a Government goal of tempting overseas funding. A new agency called Invest New Zealand will roll out the red carpet out to foreigners with money to put into infrastructure and key sectors. Todd McClay says he doesn't want reports, he wants deals with investors. "They certainly don't invest in a country when Government agencies tell them not to - and I think that's very much been the case in New Zealand, it's harder to invest here than it should be." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Prime Minister isn't concerned opening up to more mining could harm New Zealand's reputation. More mining and drilling is on the cards under a new Government focus on economic growth, outlined today. Chris Luxon explained we need critical minerals to build more roads and he wants quarries closer to where those roads are being built. Newstalk ZB political editor Jason Walls says Luxon's committed to the development of more EVs and solar panels - and those resources need to come from somewhere.  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the Australian election year gets underway, voters appear to be looking for a change in leadership. New polling data shows Peter Dutton holds a 39–34 lead over Anthony Albanese as preferred Prime Minister, according to a new Reserve poll - after they were tied at 35 percent in December. Australian correspondent Murray Olds says it's clear voters are swinging further to the right. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Confidence snow sports will continue to thrive in New Zealand, despite the Winter Games being put on ice due to an avalanche of rising costs. CEO of Snow Sports NZ, Nic Cavanagh, admits losing the Games after 15 years is a big blow, but he's confident top athletes will still visit during the winter months.  Sportstalk host D'Arcy Waldegrave explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tourism Industry Aotearoa is excited about the Government's new growth agenda. Minister-in-charge Nicola Willis is considering visa changes, hoping to pull in more tourists. Just over 321,000 people entered the country from overseas in November - 86 percent of pre-pandemic figures. CEO Rebecca Ingram says there's lots of room to build on that.  "So as an industry, we're delighted to see such a strong focus on economic growth from the Government with the new portfolio for Minister Willis." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A huge fire killed at least 76 people as it ripped through a hotel at a popular ski resort in northern Turkey. The blaze at the Grand Kartal Hotel in Kartalkaya broke out about 3.30am (12.30am GMT), sending huge clouds of smoke into the night air and sparking panic among the guests. UK correspondent Gail Downey says several young children and teenagers were among those killed in the blaze - with forensic investigations ongoing. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump officially got the keys back to the White House earlier this week - and his return to power could have an impact on NZX-listed businesses. Fisher & Paykel Healthcare produces medical devices sold in the US, and it's likely the incoming tariffs could leave an impact. Milford Asset Management's Jeremy Hutton explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New reports indicate the Indian Government is sounding out the nation's biggest businesses to determine how they feel about a trade agreement with New Zealand. The Indian Government reportedly sent an email to members of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry asking for feedback on the idea of starting negotiations with NZ on a free trade agreement. India NZ Business Council chair Bharat Chawla explains what this could mean going forward. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Auditor-General is upping the ante, urging the Government to change the law to require departments to better report on what their spending achieves. John Ryan is worried it can be difficult to track what comes of Government policies or programmes, and wants the issue investigated by the Parliament’s Finance and Expenditure Committee. NZ Herald Wellington business editor Jenee Tibshraeny explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tonight on The Huddle, Tim Wilson from Maxim Institute and Jack Tame from ZB's Saturday Mornings and Q&A joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more!  The CEO of surveillance network Auror explained the new technology used to stop shoplifters in their tracks after the latest Golriz Ghahraman incident. Is this a step too far - or a necessary measure to combat retail crime? According to new reports, domestic inflation is still on the sticky side - what can this mean for the rest of the year? New data out of the UK reveals a concerning amount of Gen Z doesn't know how to do simple DIY tasks - and have turned to professionals to change their lightbulbs. What do we make of this? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A media commentator says cuts at NZME are just the latest in a troubled industry.  NZ Herald and Newstalk ZB owner NZME is proposing a restructure, with a net loss of about 38 roles. Spinoff founder Duncan Grieve says all around the world massive cuts are taking place while other brands disappear completely.  He says it's not a problem which is likely to go away. "It wouldn't shock me if this was just setting off another year of that - and it might not be anything like the biggest we're going to see." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Police can search the retail surveillance network that recorded a shopping incident involving former Green MP Golriz Ghahraman, even when no complaint has been made. Ghahraman was stopped and questioned by store security at Royal Oak's Pak’nSave in the weeks before her High Court case in early October. Foodstuffs says it did not complain to police. Surveillance network Auror is used by retailers - including Foodstuffs - and confirms police can access the information those clients record. CEO Phil Thompson says the system lets all the parties work closely together. "Retailers are capturing information on crimes and attempted crimes that happen in their stores and making that visible to their own head office - and also to police." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Wednesday, 22 January 2025, Finance Minister Nicola Willis on our sticky domestic inflation and why Chinese tourists could bring a quick economic boost to the country. The Spinoff's Duncan Grieve reacts to news of almost 40 newsroom roles being axed at NZ Herald publisher NZME. Education experts are calling on the Government to do more to lift NCEA achievement rates of Māori kids. Plus, Resident Builder Pete Wolfcamp on news that Gen Z are so allergic to DIY they even hire a handyman to change a lightbulb. 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 revelation that almost a quarter of Gen Z adults would rather pay a professional to change their lightbulbs has raised concerns about self-reliance among young people. According to data out of the UK, some younger people spend up to £1,300 (NZ$2830) a year paying professionals to do household tasks, citing concerns around safety - lightbulbs being too hot, falling off ladders and a reluctance to tamper with electronics. The report also states that 30 percent of those surveyed could not identify a screwdriver. ZB's Resident Builder Peter Wolfkamp says it's important to encourage some self-reliance - and there's plenty of tasks that can be carried out independently.  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Confidence another substantial Official Cash Rate cut's on the cards, with today's figures showing inflation is still under control. Stats NZ says the rate for the year to December remained unchanged at 2.2 percent. Inflation is well down from the 2022 high of 7.3 percent, but still higher than the 1.5 percent reached in 2021. Infometrics Chief Forecaster Gareth Kiernan says he's confident the Reserve Bank will slice 50 basis points from the OCR in February. "Non-tradeable inflation is still coming down - there's risks on the tradeable side, but I don't think there's enough there to sway the Reserve Bank towards going with a smaller 25 point cut." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Finance Minister's fired a warning to local councils - saying it's time for spending discipline and restraint. Stats NZ data for the year to December shows the inflation rate remains unchanged at 2.2 percent. Simon Watts has picked up the Local Government portfolio from incoming Health Minister, Simeon Brown. Nicola Willis says in too many cases, rates have been out of control. "We are looking at this concept of putting some limits on the level of rate increases that councils can do." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

National's sending a strong message about its goals for 2025 - to grow the economy.  The party's holding its annual caucus retreat today, and Prime Minister Chris Luxon earlier addressed media with his goal for growth.  Newstalk ZB political editor Jason Walls says the Government is looking to get back to basics with their latest plans. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US isn't appearing that united over new President Donald Trump's drastic reconfiguration of American policy.  He's issued dozens of executive orders since taking office yesterday, and says more changes are to come.  There's already pushback - with 22 states challenging his bid to end birthright citizenship - and many fearing for the justice system after his sweeping pardons of Capitol riot convictions. US correspondent Dan Mitchinson says American Civil Liberties Union, immigrant organizations and an expectant mother have also taken action against Trump. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz admits he was outplayed in a four-set quarter-final defeat to Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open. Alcaraz won the first set but concedes he was overpowered by Djokovic, on the hunt for a 25th grand slam and 11th in Melbourne. Sportstalk host D'Arcy Waldegrave explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Experts are urging the Government to step up and help boost achievement rates among Māori students. The latest NCEA data shows Māori students lagged 20 percent behind their Pakeha counterparts in reading, writing and maths. Education consultant Alwyn Poole says this is a huge disparity - and it's been a long-term concern.  "There are loads of examples of children from a range of situations arriving at school at 5 years old and being significantly behind - and it's been well reported on." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Business executives, academics, Government officials and civic leaders are expected to gather in Switzerland for the World Economic forum - and there's one key name on everyone's lips.  Donald Trump's return to the White House is set to be a topic of discussion, with experts set to participate in an upcoming '47th US Presidency, Early Thoughts' panel. UK correspondent Enda Brady says wars, misinformation and climate change are also expected to be discussed at length. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over in Australia, the unemployment rate increased to 4 percent in December - raising questions ahead of a potential interest rate cut next month. Unemployment is one of the key metrics the RBA uses to inform interest rate settings, and a weakening market could encourage the central bank to reduce rates. HSBC chief economist Paul Bloxham explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's been a big week for the US, with Donald Trump returning to the Oval Office for his second term as US President. His plan for tariffs has sparked concern among many key industries, with Kiwi farmers wondering what this means for one of New Zealand's biggest red meat markets. The Country's Jamie Mackay explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Economists have revealed retail spending numbers were better than expected for the month of December. The total value of electronic card spending, including in non-retail services and other non-retail categories, rose a seasonally adjusted 1.5 percent to $9.23 billion in December from November, according to Stats NZ.  That brought total spending in line with levels last seen in November 2023. Infometrics Principal Economist Brad Olsen says this is a sign green shoots are returning to the economy. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tonight on The Huddle, Jordan Williams from the Taxpayers' Union and Auckland City Councillor Richard Hills joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more! The Herald's written a list of the pickiest and most peculiar advertising complaints of 2024 - what do we make of these? Have we turned into a nation of humourless whiners?  It's a big day for the US as Donald Trump returns to the Oval Office for his second term - and he's not wasting any time, having signed off on a number of executive orders on day one. What do we make of all this?  It's a tough market for job hunters - what do we recommend Kiwi job-seekers do?  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Tuesday, 21 January 2025, Republican strategist Amy Tarkanian speaks to Andrew Dickens as Donald Trump gets to work at the White House.   Nelson mayor Nick Smith wants to call in the US ambassador over the question of who split the atom first. Should you put a photo on your CV? Recruitment expert Megan Alexander on how to stand out when looking for a new job. Plus, the Huddle weighs in on Donald Trump, and whether Kiwis have become humourless. 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.

It's a tough market for people on the job hunt in today's climate.  Seek data shows job ads fell 2 percent in December - and were down 22 percent compared to December 2023. Recent surveys also indicated at least 64 percent of employees are also hoping for a pay rise this year. Robert Half Managing Director Megan Alexander says applicants need to demonstrate proactivity and initiative - and follow through on the promises made in interviews. "You have to definitely have the full package in today's climate. You've got to have experience that is relevant for the job, you've got to articulate it really well, you have to demonstrate proactivity... all those people-skill elements." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New reports offer a look into the TV ads that struck a nerve in 2024. The Advertising Standards Authority received hundreds of complaints last year, but only accepted 100 for review. They include people disgusted about someone picking their nose, and outrage over cars not stopping at a pedestrian crossing. Chief executive Hilary Souter says they get a raft of complaints for all different reasons. "What's interesting to us about the people looking at ads is that they often pick up one issue in an ad that's running for, say, 30 seconds - it's a TV thing that pushes their buttons." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nelson's mayor is using a false claim from the new US President in his inaugural address to promote the city. Trump's list of Americans' claims to greatness included splitting the atom, which was achieved by Kiwi Sir Ernest Rutherford in 1917. Nelson Mayor Nick Smith's inviting the US Ambassador to visit the memorial to Rutherford. He says he wants to celebrate his heritage. "It was extraordinary that a small boy that grew up in a little place called Brightwater, Foxhill and Havelock who went to Nelson College went on to make some of the most amazing scientific discoveries." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump's swift actions from the day he's taken office could indicate he's learned since his first term.  The 47th President has already signed a significant number of executive orders, relating to border security, inflation, and even gender issues.  In just two orders, he revoked nearly 80 of Joe Biden's presidential actions, and he's pardoned more than a thousand convicts from the January 6 Capitol riot.  Republican strategist Amy Tarkanian says Trump's showing he's prepared and eager for change.  "Now that he also has a Republican Senate and a Republican House, the wind is at his back with making sure that everything continues to go as smoothly as possible." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As kids get ready to head back to school, educators are worried about a lack of teachers - with a shortage of about 346 full time teachers sparking concerns. The PPTA's Chris Abercrombie says New Zealand is competing with the rest of the world for staff.  He says New Zealand needs to be an attractive place for domestic teachers to stay, and for overseas teachers to move to.  "The Government could be looking at increasing pay and conditions at their upcoming collective agreement - we know that pay helps keep people in the profession." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

National's upcoming caucus retreat is set to take place tomorrow - as the Party recovers from Sunday's surprise Cabinet reshuffle. Prime Minister Chris Luxon raised a few eyebrows following his ministerial shakeup, with multiple MPs being moved down the rankings and losing their portfolios. Newstalk ZB political editor Jason Walls says Luxon cares about generating results, and he's not above chopping and changing to move forward. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Serbian Council of Australia is calling for broadcaster Tony Jones to be sacked following his comments about Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open. Representatives claimed members of Australia's Serbian community filed complaints after Jones insulted Djokovic to a crowd of fans during a live cross. Australian correspondent Murray Olds says some fans were offended by the remarks - but others believe the outrage is unnecessary.  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kiwi doubles specialist Erin Routliffe faces a gruelling schedule in the Melbourne heat on day 10 at the Australian Open. Routliffe had her women's doubles quarterfinal with partner Gaby Dabrowski earlier today, before she returns to the court for her mixed doubles last-eight match with Kiwi Michael Venus. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's a growing push to make banking more accessible for the disabled - and one major bank aims to launch a solution. A new Westpac-commissioned found nearly one in four Kiwis have a disability, and can encounter barriers to accessing accounts and services. The bank wants to introduce a new 'basic' bank account, to help reduce numbers of people not using banking. Chief executive Catherine McGrath says it matches a UK offering, with specific features. "The don't have overdrafts, the types of transactions can be a bit restricted." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The first phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire began today, with three Hamas hostages exchanged for 90 Palestinian prisoners. Emily Damari, Romi Gonen and Doron Steinbrecher were taken back to Israel by security forces after Hamas fighters handed them over to the Red Cross.   UK correspondent Gail Downey says it's unclear whether the hostages will reveal the conditions of their capture at this stage.  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand's energy sector is hoping Prime Minister Luxon's Cabinet reshuffle will lead to potential solutions to the country's energy crisis. Yesterday's shake-up resulted in Climate Change Minister Simon Watts picking up the energy portfolio from Simeon Brown. Octopus Energy's Margaret Cooney says more innovation is needed to boost the sector. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week's inflation data will set the economic tone for the new year, but experts are hoping the final months of 2024 brought positive results. The latest inflation results from the December quarter will be out this Wednesday, and there's hope enough steam has been let out of the economy. Kiwibank Chief Economist Jarrod Kerr explains what we can expect. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tonight on The Huddle, Trish Sherson from Sherson Willis PR and Josie Pagani from Child Fund joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more!  What do we make of yesterday's Cabinet reshuffle? Do we need a Minister for the South Island? Is Simeon Brown a good fit for the Health portfolio? It's a big day for the US tomorrow, as Donald Trump takes back the keys to the White House in his inauguration ceremony. What are we predicting for his return to the Oval Office? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Monday January 20th, 2025, Homegrown director Andrew Tuck explained why the festival 'outgrew' Wellington following the news it would move locations in 2026. Influencers and e-celebs are wondering what the future holds amid uncertainty about TikTok. Influencer and advocate Jazz Thornton revealed how she plans to diversify her output. Over in the US, it's getting close to Donald Trump's inauguration ceremony. Correspondent Simon Marks reveals the famous faces we can expect to see - and the ones we won't. The Huddle also wonders what executive orders will be signed upon Trump's return to the White House. 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.

Nicola Willis says her new role in Cabinet is all about driving New Zealand's growth.  The Finance Minister has been given the Economic Growth portfolio, formerly known as the Economic Development portfolio It's been taken off Melissa Lee - who's been stripped of all ministerial responsibilities. Willis says she'll now be taking the lead at the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.  "Through that role, I will be making sure that we're responding to businesses, industries, small business owners about what they need to have the confidence to be investing, to be hiring." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

First-term MP James Meager is pledging to speak to those in the deep south - and the top of the Mainland. Meager is the first National MP elected in 2023 to become a minister, taking up the new portfolio of Minister for the South Island, alongside portfolios in Hunting and Fishing and Youth. James Meager says he wants to make sure the South Island can contribute to economic growth. "That's a big part of what the PM wants me to do - help us focus on what we can do to promote growth in the South Island."  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Online stars are scrambling to change platforms amid uncertainty about TikTok. The Chinese social media platform 'went dark' yesterday because of a US ban that aimed to force its sale to a neutral party.  Access is being restored after Donald Trump promised to delay enforcement. TikTok influencer and mental health advocate, Jazz Thornton, says the US ban affects New Zealanders by reducing engagement.  She says she's diversified by using YouTube. "For security - but also to be able to continue to reach the people that we do. There's so much uncertainty with all kinds of social media that you can't put everything in one basket." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Gloriavale leaver has outlined his 'livid' reaction to yesterday's apology from community leader Howard Temple.  The Royal Commission of Inquiry requested an apology, after establishing a pattern of abuse. Temple thanked those who'd reported it - and accepted the Commission's Safety of Care recommendation. But former member John Ready says the apology was insincere - and shows a complete lack of understanding of the damage caused. "The timestamp - 1950 to 1999 - leaves out the majority of the abuse from 2000." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Famous faces are appearing in Washington DC - just 12 hours until Donald Trump is sworn in as the 47th US President.  The blisteringly cold weather has moved the event indoors for the first time since 1985. Elon Musk and other billionaires - Mark Zuckerberg and Jeff Bezos - will be there, alongside all living former presidents.   US correspondent Simon Marks says, notably, Michelle Obama won't be there.  "I think it's not so much the climactic conditions that have kept her away from those events, but the inevitability of her having to rub shoulders with the Trumps at them." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Experts are wondering about the future of New Zealand's health sector after the Prime Minister made some changes in Cabinet. Chris Luxon stripped Shane Reti of his Health Minister portfolio and handed the role over to Simeon Brown instead. Meanwhile, Nicola Willis is picking up a new Economic Growth role, and Chris Bishop became the Minister for Transport. NZ Herald deputy political editor Thomas Coughlan unpacks what this could mean for the health system. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TV presenter Tony Jones has apologised to Novak Djokovic for mocking Serbian fans at the Australian tennis Open. Djokovic vowed to boycott interviews from Australian broadcaster Channel Nine until he received a public apology, after Jones called him 'over-rated' and a 'has-been'.  Australian correspondent Oliver Peterson says Jones reached out to Djokovic's team after the story attracted worldwide attention.  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia have won the latest SailGP regatta in Auckland, after beating Spain and Great Britain in the three-team final. The Australians won two fleet races out of seven and had three runner-up finishes to be the top boat heading into the decider. It was disappointment for the Black Foils, who missed out on qualifying for the final by two points. Sportstalk host Jason Pine unpacked the racing action from this morning. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington's Homegrown festival is set to move further afield - with organisers claiming it's outgrown the capital. The music festival's been operating at the region's waterfront for 18 years, but it's been revealed this year's upcoming two-day event will be the last held in Wellington before it moves in 2026. Festival director Andrew Tuck says they've been looking to expand Homegrown out further - and there's nowhere else in Wellington that can accommodate demand. "We looked everywhere to see if we could accommodate inside Wellington, we've been looking at that for the last couple of years. And unfortunately, there's nowhere where we could actually move the people in a comfortable fashion that'll actually tick all the boxes."  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.