
Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive
12,871 episodes — Page 160 of 258

Heather du Plessis-Allan: National will hope tomorrow's protest crowds stay small
I'll tell you what's going to be really telling tomorrow with those Te Pāti Māori protests- it's how big they are. It's basically going to be an indication of how much pushback and resistance the new Government's going to get on its plan to roll back the Treaty out of law like they plan to do. I reckon for tomorrow, every single party in Parliament is going to be interested in that crowd size. Te Pāti Māori will obviously want it to be big, because it shows that they're onto something- that they have support for their resistance. ACT, on completely the opposite side, is also going to want it to be big, because the bigger those protests are tomorrow, the more it's going to annoy motorists and people trying to get on with their jobs. This will drive more support to ACT, for what they're planning to do. Plus, it's also going to draw more attention to the things ACT are arguing for- which they won't be unhappy about. National, out of all of the parties in Parliament, is going to be packing itself if those protests are big. Because that is the very thing National has been trying to avoid when they said no to ACT's Treaty principles referendum. National does not want to have a race relations debate while they're in Government, it would reflect really badly for them. Remember the 2005 election, which they lost, with Don Brash's infamous billboards. They are still haunted by that stuff, they are still haunted by the fact that they are labelled racists over that- they hate it. But it seems to me that regardless of what they do, simply because ACT is around- they're going to get it anyway because of all the other stuff. To be fair, along with ACT and New Zealand First, they're repealing co-governance, they're taking the Māori wards on the councils back to referenda, they're removing the Treaty principles legislation, they're removing the Iwi clause from Oranga Tamariki, they're switching Government names- and that's just a taste. And that seems to be enough to give Te Pāti Māori reason to start campaigning already and going hard already. If tomorrow's crowds are small, maybe this won't be a thing, and it'll be an indication people don't care as much as Te Pāti Māori thinks they do. But if those crowds are big- strap yourself in. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Simon Watts: Climate Change Minister labels New Zealand's COP-28 Fossil of the Day award a 'distraction'
New Zealand has won the first Fossil of the Day award at COP-28 in Dubai. It's been awarded for the National-led Government’s campaign promise it'll revoke the last Government’s ban on offshore oil exploration. Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says Labour got the same award last year. He says it's just a distraction from the summit's real business. "We're focused on the things that really matter, and that's engaging with our national partners when we get over there on the ground. It's something that happens, but it's in the background." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ethan Griffiths: NZ Herald Open Justice reporter on the outpouring of support for Te Whatu Ora employee accused of leaking vaccination data
Huge support for a Te Whatu Ora employee accused of taking bulk Covid vaccination data. Barry Young appeared in Wellington District Court today, after data was posted on a conspiracy website. The 56-year-old appeared this morning, then returned to the dock this afternoon, and was granted bail so long as he's released by 1pm tomorrow. Herald Open Justice reporter Ethan Griffiths says Young was cheered inside and outside the the court. "The public gallery was absolutely packed to the brim with supporters who gave Young a standing ovation when he emerged from the cells. Outside court, there were a handful of supporters with signs as well." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Paora Stanley: Te Runanga o Ngai Te Rangi Iwi Trust CEO ahead of tomorrow's planned nationwide protest against the Government
Protesters vowing to cause gridlock on highways tomorrow say they aren't fearful it'll alienate people. Te Pāti Māori are asking supporters to take to the streets in a nationwide day of action. It says the Government's policy programmes are an assault on tangata whenua and Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Te Runanga o Ngai Te Rangi Iwi Trust's Paora Stanley says regardless what Maori do, people will be annoyed at them. "There's a lot of hate going around as it is. People were going against Three Waters not because of what it stood for, but because it was pro-Māori in their view." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris Lendrum: NZR General Manger of Professional Rugby on Beauden Barrett signing on to the end of the 2027 Rugby World Cup
The allure of the All Blacks jersey remains strong. That's the view out of New Zealand Rugby after Beauden Barrett's call to re-sign through to the end of the 2027 Rugby World Cup. He'll be available for test matches next year and the Blues in Super Rugby Pacific from 2025 after his sabbatical in Japan. NZR's General Manger of Professional Rugby, Chris Lendrum is 'stoked' to have Barrett re-joining them for the foreseeable future. "He's played 123 tests for New Zealand, he's been World Player of the Year on a couple of occasions, he's one of our greatest All Blacks." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oliver Peterson: Australia correspondent on Australian supermarkets facing Senate investigation for profiteering
Australia's biggest supermarkets are set to be scrutinised in a Senate inquiry investigating their prices. Coles and Woolworths have been accused of profiteering during an inflationary period marked by increased food costs. Australia correspondent Oliver Peterson says the supermarket duopoly dominate the market- and people are feeling ripped off. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jason Pine: Sportstalk host on Beauden Barrett signing on with NZ Rugby for another four years
New Zealand Rugby have welcomed the coveted signature of Beauden Barrett for another four years. The hybrid playmaker's resisted the temptation of further lucrative overseas deals and will remain available to the All Blacks and the Blues until the end of the 2027 World Cup. He'll be available for test matches next year after a season with the Toyota Verblitz in Japan. Sportstalk host Jason Pine explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Simon Bridges: Auckland Business Chamber CEO on City Rail Link costing taxpayers millions more amid increased costs and delays
Auckland ratepayers will be saddled with a bill of roughly $220 million each year to run the City Rail Link - once it opens. Chief executive Sean Sweeney says the project is 80 percent complete, but there's no guarantee the November 2025 deadline will be met. Auckland Business Chamber CEO Simon Bridges says there's no excuse for these extended cost blowouts and delays. "It's created a huge amount of problems. Just by the cost blowouts, the fact that this has taken too long and there doesn't seem to be a particularly good end in sight." LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Taxpayer Union Offers Free Re-Brand For Government Departments
The Taxpayers Union has offered themselves up to re-brand Government departments on the cheap. The organisation wants to redesign logos at no cost, for departments required to be renamed under the new Government. Campaigns Manager Connor Molloy told Heather du Plessis-Allan that they don't want tax payers money spent unnecessarily, when agencies use the change as an excuse to do a full brand refresh - even though they have no competition. Molloy says the union will also create better brand guidelines and consistency across the public service. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Helen Clark: Government should accept WHO Regulation Amendments
Former Prime Minister Helen Clark doesn't understand why the coalition government is yet to accept amendments to the World Health Organisation's regulations. The W-H-O is reassessing its guidelines for how countries should act in public health events, such as during a pandemic. Chris Luxon says he wants to make sure the amendments align with New Zealand's interests. Clark told Heather Du Plessis-Allan that she believes New Zealand First may be influencing the Prime Minister. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Simeon Brown: Meeting With Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown "Positive"
National's new Minister for Auckland, Simeon Brown, and Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown met today for the first time since National took office. The pair talked congestion charges, abandoning Auckland's light rail and ditching the regional fuel tax. Simeon Brown told Heather du Plessis-Allan that the meeting "went well", despite having previously clashed on issues like the Regional Fuel Tax. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malcolm Mulholland: "Pleased" To See Steve Maharey Resign From Pharmac and ACC Boards
Former Labour MP and minister Steve Maharey has resigned from the boards of Pharmac and ACC. He got in trouble earlier this year after penning opinion columns flouting the political neutrality expected of public service board members. There were also calls for his resignation after inappropriate emails were sent within Pharmac about journalist Rachel Smalley. Patient Voice Aotearoa's Malcolm Mulholland told Heather du Plessis-Allan he's pleased to see Maharey go. Mulholland says he's hoping Chief Executive Sarah Fitt is the next to exit. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jason Pine: Chloe Knott Gives "Parting Shot" After Wellington Phoenix Resignation
Wellington Phoenix midfielder Chloe Knott Has spoken out following her sudden departure from the club this evening saying on X that her “values no longer align with the club or current management”. The club released an official statement earlier today claiming that the decision to step back from Football was due to the challenges of balancing a fulltime job and part-time A-League commitments. Newstalk ZB's Sports Contributor Jason Pine told Heather Du Plessis-Allan that her comments where a "Parting Shot" at the club LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victoria Arbiter: "Unlikely" Royal Family Will Sue Piers Morgan
A Royal expert says it would be highly unlikely for the Royal Family to sue Piers Morgan. The TV host named two senior royals accused of voicing concerns over the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s son Archie's skin colour, reportedly causing the royal family to consider legal action. Royal Correspondent Victoria Arbiter told Heather du Plessis Allan that historically the institution prefers not to give claims like this more publicity. But she says the claims are very damaging, and have the potential to cause long-term issues. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Enda Brady: UK correspondent on Piers Morgan revealing the names of the royals accused of racism
Talk show host Piers Morgan has named the royals who allegedly raised 'concerns' over Prince Archie’s skin colour. Shortly after Omid Scobie’s new book Endgame was pulled from shelves in the Netherlands after accidentally revealing these senior members, Morgan took things into his own hands. UK correspondent Enda Brady won't name these individuals, but says it's easy to discover these identities online. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Huddle: Does Tory Whanau need to resign?
Tonight on The Huddle, Tim Wilson from Maxim Institute and Nick Mills from ZB's Wellington Mornings joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day- and more! More Wellington Councillors are calling on Tory Whanau to resign after she admitted to having an alcohol problem. Is there any way back for her now? Consumer NZ has launched legal action against Z Energy amid accusations of greenwashing. Is this a valid action? Will this be good for consumers? More New Zealand schools have banned Crocs because they're starting fights among students- is this a good idea? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sam Dickie: Fisher Funds senior portfolio manager on investment expert Charlie Munger dying
Charlie Munger, investment guru and sidekick in Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway project, passed this week. Munger served as Buffett’s sounding board on investments and business decisions and led Berkshire as vice-chairman for decades. Sam Dickie from Fisher Funds says Munger was an instrumental part of Berkshire's success alongside Buffett. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rowena Duncum: The Country producer on Jo Luxton being appointed Agriculture spokesperson for Labour
Surprising news out of the opposition, as Hipkins reveals his shadow Cabinet picks. Many of the roles are a continuation of the portfolios MPs served while ministers in government- but some have been changed. The Country's Rowena Duncum was surprised to see Jo Luxton take over the Agriculture role, and wonders what that means for Labour's future. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Liam Dann: NZ Herald business editor at large on the renewed optimism from Kiwi business leaders
There's renewed optimism from New Zealand's business leaders about the state of the economy. In the latest ANZ Business Outlook survey, confidence increased by 8 points to +31 in the results for November. NZ Herald business editor at large Liam Dann explains this boost in optimism. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jason Walls: ZB political editor on Chris Hipkins unveiling his choices and changes for his shadow cabinet
Chris Hipkins says there could be Labour MPs within his caucus uncertain about their political future. The Labour leader has outlined his shadow cabinet, revealing which MPs have what portfolios. He says none of his MPs have confirmed they plan to leave politics - but wouldn't rule out if he's had conversations colleagues about bowing out. ZB political editor Jason Walls says he wouldn't be surprised to see Damien O'Connor bow out of Hipkins' cabinet. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malcolm Johns: Genesis Energy CEO on the company's plan to produce 95 percent renewable electricity by 2030
Genesis Energy is making moves to meet its promise of producing 95 percent renewable energy by 2030. The company plans to use profits from Kupe gas field to support a $1.1 billion programme to build solar and wind generation and grid-scale battery storage. Chief executive Malcolm Johns says it's likely Genesis will meet their target within the coming years. "We're not starting from a cold start, we have a number of things under way, particularly in the area of solar and wind development. Battery will take us about 18 months to put in place, we're pretty confident." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ken Laban: Sky Sport rugby commentator on the Wellington Lions abandoning Sky Stadium for the smaller Jerry Collins Stadium
After 24 seasons, the Wellington Lions are set to ditch Sky Stadium and downsize their venue for NPC rugby matches. It was revealed today that discussions have taken place- and the Lions will hold future matches at the Jerry Collins Stadium amid low attendance and challenging finances. Rugby commentator Ken Laban disagrees with this decision- and doesn't think it's the right way forward. "I don't think the answer is to give up on the community and give up on the people supporting Wellington by going to a much smaller stadium- and in comparison, a very underwhelming venue." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris Hipkins: Labour leader criticises National's proposed 100-day plan
The Labour Party leader says National's throwing away years of work for ideological reasons. Chris Hipkins has unveiled his shadow cabinet, and vows they're ready to hold the Government to account. Prime Minister Chris Luxon's revealed his 100-day plan, which includes reinstating the Resource Management Act- which Labour repealed. Hipkins says it won't take the country forward. "They were banging on for years about how flawed the RMA was and how it needed to be overhauled. And now they're wanting to go back to the RMA, so it's not like they're going to drive something forward- they just seem to want to throw everything into reverse." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jon Reeves: Public Transport Users Association National Coordinator welcomes Wayne Brown's proposed changes for public transport
Auckland mayor Wayne Brown's public transport plan is being praised. The Public Transport Users Association says his idea to cap total transport costs at $50 a week will mean big savings for people who live further away from the CBD. National Coordinator Jon Reeves says allowing people to use pay-wave instead of HOP cards is great too. "That makes it a lot easier, because I know a lot of people around the city who say- I can't use public transport, don't know where to get a HOP card from, all that jazz." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Justin Lester: former Wellington mayor comes to Tory Whanau's defence after allegations of drunken behaviour surface
A former mayor is coming to the defence of Wellington's under-fire leader Tory Whanau. Mayor Whanau has admitted she has a problem with alcohol- and is getting help. Councillor Nicola Young is calling on her to resign, citing concerns about the City Council's reputation. It comes after another incident in which Whanau is alleged to have been publicly intoxicated. Former mayor Justin Lester says Whanau has done a great job. "She's been a great ambassador, she's been out leading the charge and getting Wellington's name out there." LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Murray Olds: Australian correspondent on Brittany Higgins being cross-examined in Bruce Lehrmann defamation trial
Brittany Higgins today admitted to getting some key details wrong while being cross-examined in court. Lehrmann has brought a defamation case against media figures over an interview with Higgins in which she alleged she was raped in Parliament House. Australian correspondent Murray Olds says Higgins admitted to not having the best memory- but her evidence is as true as she could get it. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

D'Arcy Waldegrave: Sportstalk host on the Wellington Lions ditching Sky Stadium for Jerry Collins Stadium
Wellington Rugby is planning a shift away from Sky Stadium for home matches after a 24 season association. Discussions between the union and the Porirua council are advanced to hold all Lions and Pride games at Jerry Collins Stadium from next year. The move comes as provincial unions battle low crowds and challenging finances to connect the provincial game with stakeholders and fans. Sportstalk host D'Arcy Waldegrave explains what this means for the next season. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jon Duffy: Consumer NZ chief executive on the organisation seeking a High Court declaration that Z Energy misled Kiwis
Consumer NZ is accusing Z Energy of profiting from misleading sustainability messaging. The organisation teamed up with the Environmental Law Initiative and Lawyers for Climate Action New Zealand Inc to seek a High Court declaration for Z's breaches of the Fair Trading Act. Chief executive Jon Duffy says the evidence contradicts Z Energy's climate-focused public messaging. "We don't think that stacks up, and consumers shouldn't be misled into thinking that their purchase of an inherently damaging product is somehow better at this company over other companies." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gavin Grey: UK correspondent on UK courts being urged to hand out rehabilitative community sentences
Over in the UK, courts could be handing out rehabilitative community sentences over short-term jail sentences. The Sentencing Council for England and Wales says judges and magistrates should focus on reforming offenders, amid an overcrowding crisis in prisons. UK correspondent Gavin Grey says courts are also being encouraged to rethink jailing women because of the long-term impact on children. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Huddle: Is Tory Whanau's behaviour acceptable for an elected official?
Tonight on The Huddle, Ali Jones from Red PR and Kiwiblog contributor and pollster David Farrar joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day- and more! Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau has admitted to having an alcohol problem, after another incident of public drunkenness got recorded. Is this acceptable behaviour for an elected official? How sympathetic should we be? Prime Minister Chris Luxon revealed his 100-day plan today. The plan is comprised of 49 actions, including repealing Three Waters, Auckland's Fuel Tax and the ute tax- and establishing major targets for the health system. Will these plans help New Zealanders in the long run? Winston Peters has been accusing reporters of taking bribes, and Luxon came to Winston's defence. What do we think of Luxon's management- is he being too soft on Winston? LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jenee Tibshraeny: NZ Herald Wellington business editor on the Government's plan to shut down the Productivity Commission
The incoming Government has agreed to disestablish the Productivity Commission, as ACT requested. Staff are disappointed, yet unsurprised, as many were concerned the agency had become too politicised. NZ Herald Wellington business editor Jenee Tibshraeny says there were already tensions between chair Ganesh Nana and former staffers. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jason Walls: ZB political editor on Chris Luxon's first post-cabinet press conference as Prime Minister
The Prime Minister has come to the defence of his deputy's scathing attacks on the media. Winston Peters has been accusing reporters this week of taking bribes, in reference to the $55 million Public Interest Journalism Fund. Applicants to the fund were asked, when appropriate, to produce funded content to support NZ identity, culture and public interest requirements, including support for the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. But, overriding this in NZME's funding agreements - a clause specifically requested by the company - is an acknowledgement of the absolute editorial independence. Chris Luxon says he wouldn't describe the fund as a bribe - but he doesn't support it either - similar to many New Zealanders. ZB political editor Jason Walls says it's clear Luxon isn't interested in intervening- and he's going to let Winston be Winston. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Richard Umbers: Ryman Healthcare chief executive on the company posting a lower half-year profit
Retirement village operator Ryman Healthcare has posted a lower-than-expected half-year profit. The company had earned $186 million after tax for the six months to September, a 4 percent decrease from 2022. Chief executive Richard Umbers says this loss is driven by a more subdued housing market. "The housing market is under pressure. That impacts our ability to sell, which inevitably has a flow-through effect on the business." LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gareth Kiernan: Infometrics chief economist on the Reserve Bank's plans for future OCR hikes
The Reserve Bank left the OCR at 5.5 percent during today's review, in line with predictions. The Bank also issued a hawkish statement about future hikes, claiming further hikes would be needed if inflationary pressures got to be stronger than anticipated. Infometrics chief economist Gareth Kiernan says there's a good chance the OCR will need to go up between now and 2025. "Economic activity is running a percentage point higher than the Reserve Bank had been anticipating when it did its' last statement back in August- that didn't sound like a lot, but we knew the economy was highly stretched." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Diane Calvert: Wellington City Councillor on Tory Whanau admitting to having an alcohol problem
Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau has admitted to having an alcohol problem. This statement follows another incident of drunken behaviour- which was recorded at a popular Cuba St establishment two weeks ago. Wellington City Councillor Diane Calvert hopes she's getting the necessary support, but acknowledges the risk this poses. "We need to make sure we've got people with the right skills and the right capabilities to make decisions in the best interests of the city going forward." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Garreth Hayman: Doppelmayr CEO proposes aerial cable cars as an option for Kiwi commuters
A cable car company is pitching gondolas as public transport solutions for a number of cities. A case has been presented to multiple councils by Austrian company Doppelmayr Urban Transport Solutions. Aerial cable cars are being touted as options for Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown. Doppelmayr CEO Garreth Hayman says it would be good for getting people to and from airports. "There is a cabin coming very frequently every few seconds, and there is completely level boarding there. It would be quite easy to use- like going on an escalator with your luggage." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grant Duncan: political commentator responds to Luxon's 100-day plan
Despite some setbacks, Luxon has unveiled his Government's 100-day plan. The plan features 49 action points, including repealing the Auckland Regional Fuel Tax, the Clean Car Discount scheme, and Fair Pay Agreement legislation- and setting new targets for the health system. Political commentator Grant Duncan says the Government's next phase will need to do more to fix the issues they planned to address. "They need to get serious about their actual plans, particularly with rebuilding the economy. Just repealing stuff isn't rebuilding the economy." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tony Alexander: independent economist doesn't believe the Reserve Bank will need to hike the OCR further
The Reserve Bank says there may be a need for more interest rates hikes. It has held the Official Cash Rate at 5.5 percent, and their forecast track suggests no rate cuts are on the horizon until mid-2025. Independent economist Tony Alexander says he doesn't think the Reserve Bank will actually do that- or really believes it will have to. "I think today's statement was all about a signal to the market. To say- don't get too optimistic out there, inflation's falling, but maybe you're getting a bit optimistic about the pace which things are going to ease off." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dan Mitchinson: US correspondent on former First Lady Rosalynn Carter's memorial service
Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter was honoured today at a memorial service. Her husband, former President Jimmy Carter, led other political figures in tribute- including Joe and Jill Biden, Bill and Hillary Clinton, Michelle Obama, and Laura Bush. Melania Trump also attended, and caused a bit of a stir. US correspondent Dan Mitchinson said American media zeroed in on her unique choice of outfit, as she was the only former First Lady to wear grey. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

D'Arcy Waldegrave: Sportstalk host on Sam Cane's suggestion that NZ Rugby rethink international player rules
All Blacks captain Sam Cane believes New Zealand Rugby needs to have a conversation about allowing international players to play their club rugby abroad. The flanker's fronted media with new Japan League One club Suntory Sungoliath - where he was alongside South Africa's Cheslin Koble. Sportstalk host D'Arcy Waldegrave explains the wider implications of this idea. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kevin Putt: former Springbok and rugby commentator on Sam Cane urging NZ Rugby to allow overseas players to represent All Blacks
Sam Cane is the latest to suggest opening up the All Blacks’ eligibility to New Zealanders playing for overseas clubs. The current All Blacks captain has asked NZ Rugby to consider allowing players overseas to be eligible for national selection. Former Springbok and rugby commentator Kevin Putt approves of this idea, claiming it's been successful for South Africa. "What we've got to look at is- why are we 7th in the world in the under-20s? We've got France and Ireland one and two, we've got years of pain ahead of us at the moment." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Enda Brady: UK correspondent on Rishi Sunak cancelling a meeting with the Greek Prime Minister over the Elgin Marbles
Greece's Prime Minister has criticised Rishi Sunak's last-minute cancellation of an anticipated meeting. Kyriakos Mitsotakis had hoped to raise the issue of returning the Elgin Marbles amid heated disagreements. UK correspondent Enda Brady says the Greek Government have been trying for years to get the collection back after the British stole them. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Huddle: Does Winston Peters have a point?
Tonight on the Huddle, Jordan Williams from the Taxpayers' Union 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! Winston Peters is under fire for attacking the media and making inaccurate statements about public funding on the new Government's first-ever Cabinet meeting session. Does Winston have a point? How does this reflect on the Government? An NZ On Air board member has resigned after making a social media post calling out new Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters’ attack on media independence. Is this the right call? LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Paul Bloxham: HSBC chief economist on the Government's planned changes to the Reserve Bank
As part of the coalition agreement, the Government revealed some new changes for the Reserve Bank. Its dual mandate will be ditched- and focus will return to keeping inflation between one and three percent. HSBC chief economist Paul Bloxham says reduced priorities means the Reserve Bank will only have one clear goal to meet. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jamie Mackay: The Country host on Agriculture Minister Todd McClay promising to review on-farm regulations
National's newly appointed Agriculture Minister has promised to review several on-farm regulations before the end of the year. Todd McClay plans to implement new changes to freshwater rules by Christmas- to the approval of the region's farming community. Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford welcomes the arrival of McClay and says he and his associate ministers Nicola Grigg, Andrew Hoggard and Mark Patterson will make a great team. The Country host Jamie Mackay explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pattrick Smellie: BusinessDesk managing editor on the date for Eric Watson’s bankruptcy case being called
A date has been set for disgraced businessman Eric Watson's bankruptcy case to be called. The liquidators of Watson’s company, Cullen Investments, have chased him for roughly $57.4 million, plus interest. Auckland's High Court confirmed that the bankruptcy proceeding will be called on February 1, 2024. BusinessDesk managing editor Pattrick Smellie says Watson's been staving off problems for over a decade. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jason Walls: ZB political editor on Winston Peters doubling down on conspiratorial statements
Winston Peters has doubled down on conspiratorial comments about the media, and gone further. Yesterday, he called a $55 million Public Interest Journalism Fund a Government 'bribe'. Today, ahead of the Government's first Cabinet meeting, Peters asked media to tell the public what criteria had to be signed up to- to get the money. ZB political editor Jason Walls says Luxon will likely be annoyed with Winston's remarks. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andre Castaing: ANZ economist says Wellington's property prices are declining ahead of anticipated public service cuts
The Government's plan to slash the public sector is having an adverse impact on Wellington's property market. According to ANZ's latest property report, Wellington's housing market is lagging behind the rest of the country as people brace for job losses. ANZ economist Andre Castaing says housing markets all over the nation are expected to go sideways within the next year. "The housing market in Wellington- we would characterise that as having the potential to be a touch slower. However across the country, there's a range of things impacting house prices." LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Catherine D'Souza: Analgesic Advisory Committee on Pharmac running out of a crucial pain relief drug
Pharmac is about to run out of a crucial pain relief drug. The drug-buying agency was warned two years ago the Pfizer factory producing one-milligram liquid morphine is closing. But it hasn't found a replacement before New Zealand's supplies run out next month. Analgesic Advisory Committee member Catherine D'Souza says Pfizer promised to help find alternatives, but didn't. "Which is really disappointing. So then Pharmac looks at opening a competitive process asking for companies to apply to provide New Zealand with this product, but there were no bids at all." A Pfizer spokesperson issued the following statement: "The transfer of sponsorship of RA-Morph was Friday 22 September and supply was available from Bridgewest on Monday 9 October. Pfizer and Bridgewest worked cooperatively to ensure continuity of supply to customers in New Zealand was maintained in the interim. Pfizer has been in regular communication with Pharmac on medicines supplied from the Perth site. Following the decision to exit the Perth site (the site was divested in April 2023 and purchased by Bridgewest Group - the sale having closed on 4 April 2023), it was also decided to discontinue the manufacturing of RA-Morph and its supply in New Zealand. In the interest of patients, and to ensure that the market had lead-time to seek alternative means of supply, a discontinuation notice was given to Pharmac with two years’ notice in September 2021." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bill Bradford: First Union acting secretary on the worker-led backlash against a new Warehouse giveaway
Warehouse employees have expressed outrage over a new promotion led by the retail giant. The 'ring the bell' giveaway scheme involved staff offering lucky customers $100 off their purchase on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. First Union acting secretary Bill Bradford says workers are frustrated that the company could find money for this promo- but not pay rises. "They see the owner of the store throwing money around like confetti, as far as they can see it. There's no money for them, and they're the ones who do the work and make the profits." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.