Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

Cyclone Alfred continues to head towards Queensland.  Four million people are set to be directly affected according to the latest numbers.  Several towns have been evacuated and thousands are without power.  Byron Bay Mayor Sarah Ndiaye gives Ryan Bridge an update on the situation.  LISTEN ABOVE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government is reinstating the board of Health New Zealand, only eight months after it was scrapped. Lester Levy was appointed as commissioner and replaced the board last year. What does the new model look like?  Health Minister Simeon Brown said the recruitment process has begun for a new board and talks to Ryan Bridge about the change. LISTEN ABOVE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Health Minister Simeon Brown is making major changes by bringing back the board of Health New Zealand.  It comes as an audit of the public health agency found financial difficulties and "significant concerns."  Senior Political Correspondent Barry Soper tells Ryan Bridge one of those concerns was senior management not having a meeting for two years.  "If it was laughable, you'd say it was an orchestrated litany of laughs, but it's not because it's not funny," he said.  LISTEN ABOVE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cracks are showing in the relationship between US President Donald Trump and Elon Musk. Trump gathered his cabinet to distinguish what power Musk has.  The President's new guidance says that DOGE will play an advisory role and that's it. US Correspondent Dan Mitchinson talks to Ryan Bridge about the change, and Trump's pause on Mexico-Canada tariffs.  LISTEN ABOVE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can the Black Caps beat India on Sunday night to with the ICC Champions Trophy? The teams will come up against each other in Dubai at 10pm NZ time. The final follows a record-breaking victory against South Africa in the semi-final of the tournament. LISTEN ABOVE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meal deals have been a staple across UK retailers - and some outlets are offering consumers a new lunchtime option. Companies like Asda, Sainsbury's and Tesco are offering up salads, sandwiches, wraps, pasta and more - and non-alcoholic beer has entered the mix.  UK correspondent Enda Brady says this has been met with mixed reactions, with many labelling this move 'desperate'. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Equity markets across the world have taken a dive - and one expert has explained the sudden drop. Donald Trump's tariff threat and collective concerns about the administration's new Department of Government Efficiency have sparked aversion among experts. Sam Dickie from Fisher Funds explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand’s red meat sector is on track for a strong rebound, with export returns and overall profitability expected to rise. According to Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s mid-season update, strong global demand is expected to boost results for the sector.  The Country's Jamie Mackay explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good news for Kiwi motorists - they can look forward to lower fuel prices in the next few days. The price of oil is at its lowest level in more than three years as fears about lower global growth combine with Opec plans to boost production. NZ Herald business editor at large Liam Dann explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tonight on The Huddle, Kiwiblog's David Farrar and former Labour minister Stuart Nash joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more! Foreign Minister Winston Peters made the decision to sack Phil Goff as High Commissioner to the UK after he questioned President Donald Trump's understanding of history. Was this the right call? The Government has revealed it plans to lower the age of eligibility for free bowel cancer screenings to 58. However, it's using funding set aside from the last Government's plan to lower screening for Māori and Pasifika to 50. What do we make of this? Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran has officially resigned - and will step down from the role this October. How will he be remembered? Did he make the right call?  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Thursday, 6 March 2025, Ryan Bridge talks to Jessica Walker - Head of research at Consumer NZ about calling for an outright ban on card payment surcharges. Health Minister Simeon Brown discusses the Government's announcement on lowering the age for free bowel cancer testing. Winston Peters has given Phil Goff the flick as the High Commissioner to the UK - was he wrong to comment on Trump? Plus, the Huddle discusses yet another significant resignation with Greg Foran standing down as Air NZ CEO. 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.

Medical lab scientists and technicians across the country are set to go on strike in the coming days. Rolling strikes will take place across Pauanui, Pathlab and various med labs - beginning on the 22nd of March. The union has revealed 123,000 fewer patient tests will take place as a result of the strike action.  APEX National Secretary Dr Deborah Powell says important tests will still be carried out - but the results will be delayed. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An Auckland-based Canadian billionaire previously linked to an alternative news venture has taken a substantial holding in media company NZME. NZME owns the NZ Herald, BusinessDesk and Newstalk ZB. E tū negotiator Michael Wood says many are concerned about a potential change in editorial direction. "The concern here is that we clearly have an individual that is highly motivated to take control of a major media entity in New Zealand and who is doing so, quite clearly, with the intent of promulgating a particular political perspective."  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Air New Zealand is in for a change - with CEO Greg Foran resigning from October. He's told the board the airline is in a good place and this is the right time to step down. He took on the role in February 2020. Aviation commentator Irene King says the airline should take this opportunity to restore confidence at home. "Air New Zealand has really got to focus on its core New Zealand market - and I think some of that's been lost. The edge has gone off." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New research reveals Kiwis check their devices for notifications up to 50 times per hour. According to a survey by Kindle, 86 percent of respondents check through their notifications before they go to sleep - which has been found to contribute to increased stress levels and poor sleep quality. Neuroscientist Dr Mark Williams says many people have also developed 'phantom buzz' syndrome as a result of always needing to be connected to their phones. "Their brains are so wired to be constantly getting these notifications - that's what they're looking for all the time. They get these 'phantom buzzes' and they have trouble getting to sleep and doing things." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's support for the Foreign Affairs Minister sacking Phil Goff as High Commissioner to the UK.  Goff questioned President Donald Trump's understanding of history at a public Chatham House event. Winston Peters says that's ultimately made his position as High Commissioner untenable.  Former New Zealand Consul-General to LA, Maurice Williamson, says diplomats are clearly warned not to convey personal views. "It wouldn't matter if you were talking about Japan or China or anything - that's the role of a diplomat, you're there to represent the Government's views." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Health Minister says higher testing rates are key to better bowel cancer outcomes. The Government is lowering eligibility for free screening to 58 from late this year. It's using funding set aside from the previous Government's plan to lower screening for Māori and Pasifika - who have worse early onset death rates - to 50. Simeon Brown says this will save more lives - but he explained they'll still pay attention to those communities.  "We're also going to be doing a lot of work with Health NZ to focus on increasing the rates of testing amongst those Māori and Pasifika communities."  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Foreign Minister Winston Peters has sacked Phil Goff as British High Commissioner. The Foreign Minister acted after Goff - a former Labour leader and Cabinet Minister in Clark's Government - questioned Donald Trump's understanding of history.  Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper says Trump needs to be handled with care, as the US President could retaliate and impact New Zealand's 'bread and butter'. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia's Prime Minister is reassuring locals bracing for Cyclone Alfred that the Government has their back.  The category two storm is expected to hit tomorrow between the Sunshine Coast and northern New South Wales. More than 200 NSW schools are closed, the Defence Force is activated - and Qantas and Virgin are suspending Brisbane flights. Australian correspondent Murray Olds says over 20,000 homes will also need to be evacuated before the cyclone touches down. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kane Williamson has rotated the strike with a Lahore cat at the media conference after New Zealand's 50-run Champions Trophy semi-final cricket win over South Africa. He didn't need nine lives with his 102 alongside Rachin Ravindra's 108 as part of 362 for six to cat-apult the Black Caps into a decider against India in Dubai on Sunday. Sportstalk host D'Arcy Waldegrave explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's renewed calls for an outright ban on card payment surcharges.  Consumer NZ says the Commerce Commission's considering lowering interchange fees, but there's no guarantee it'll reduce what consumers pay. It says a proper ban would be more consistent and fairer for buyers and merchants. Research Acting Head Jessica Walker says there's been adjustments to interchange fees in the past - and there's doubt this latest change will be different. "What we're calling for is for the Commerce Commission to make this a priority - and at least consider putting surcharge bans on the table." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.