Episodes
The Big Issue: Voluntary Euthanasia
May 21 2019
Panellists Mamari Stephens and Maryan Street are joined by diversity specialist Philip Patston, Palliative care specialist Rod McLeod, retired Methodist minister Rev. Dave Mullan, and legal expert Grant Illingworth QC.
Question of the day for Mon 20 May 2019
May 21 2019
Do you support voluntary euthanasia in New Zealand? Why or why not? Our listeners tell us their thoughts.
Opinion split over Game of Thrones final
May 21 2019
We can't not mention Game of Thrones today. Some fans loved the ending and feel satisfied, others are signing a petition arguing the whole last season needs to be re-written.
Call to remove abortion from the Crimes Act
May 21 2019
More than 13,000 people have signed a petition calling for abortion to be removed from the Crimes Act. The petition was set up less than a week ago on the Parliament website and will stay up until July.
Parliament's bullying problem
May 21 2019
A sweeping new review is out today on the workplace culture in Parliament and it appears it is toxic. The review found there is a systematic bullying and harassment culture.
The Panel with Mamari Stephens and Maryan Street (Part 2)
May 21 2019
Question of the Day: Do you support voluntary euthanasia in New Zealand? Why or why not? Panellists Mamari Stephens and Maryan Street are joined by diversity specialist Philip Patston, Palliative care specialist Rod McLeod, retired Methodist minister Rev. Dave Mullan, and legal expert Grant Illingworth QC to discuss the fraught issue of voluntary euthanasia. The expanded Panel debate the latest bill before parliament - The End of Life Choice Bill - which goes to its second reading tomorrow, as w...more
The Panel with Mamari Stephens and Maryan Street (Part 1)
May 21 2019
A sweeping new review is out today on the workplace culture in Parliament and it appears it is toxic. Speaker Trevor Mallard launched the external review of bullying and harassment of staff at Parliament in November last year. The review found there is a systematic bullying and harrassment culture. We speak to Employment Law expert Kathryn Dalziel about workplace bullying. More than 13,000 people have signed a petition calling for abortion to be removed from the Crimes Act. The petition was set ...more
I've been thinking for 21 May 2019
May 21 2019
What the Panellists Mamari Stephens and Maryan Street have been thinking.
Story of the Day for 21 May 2019
May 21 2019
UK Police ordered a McDonald's in Scotland to stop selling milkshakes over fears people would dunk them over Brexit campaigner Nigel Farage.
School phone ban
May 20 2019
Intesting item here by Kelly Makiha, Roroua Daily Post lookig at the issue of celphones in schools. How to get the balance right between students being allowed their phones and being distracted by them in class?
Ending food wastage
May 20 2019
The UK government may soon force restaurants to offer takeaway leftovers to reduce food waste.
Family violence funding
May 20 2019
The Prime Minister made a major announcement on the weekend, committing the government to funding a multi-agency approach to family and sexual violence to the tune of $320 million over four years.
MP Alfred Ngaro and new party
May 20 2019
National Party leader Simon Bridges is happy to give list MP Alfred Ngaro "the space" to explore the idea of splitting off and setting up a Christian values party. Just what does that mean?
Question of the day for 20 May 2019
May 20 2019
What was the last protest you went on?
Are protests making a comeback?
May 20 2019
Are protests making a comeback? This includes many of young New Zealanders marching for climage change. And internationally there have been some massive protests, including the 2017 Womens March which took place the day after President Donald Trump's inauguration. It was the largest, single-day protest in U.S history.
Insurance risks for NZ homes
May 20 2019
Lloyds of London rates New Zealand as the second most at-risk nation in the world, behind Bangladesh, when it comes to insurance. Experts are advising those with properties on cliff tops, waterways and seafronts to be especially vigilant when it comes to checking their insurance coverage.
Was the Australian election result a surprise?
May 20 2019
It is almost guaranteed that Australia will have a third term Liberal National Government. Liberal Leader Scott Morrison has pulled off an incredible victory and it's yet another election where the pollsters got it wrong.
The Panel with Russell Brown and Catherine Robertson (Part 2)
May 20 2019
Question of the Day: What was the last protest you went on? National Party leader Simon Bridges is happy to give list MP Alfred Ngaro "the space" to explore the idea of splitting off and setting up a Christian values party. Just what does that mean? The Prime Minister made a major announcement on the weekend, committing the government to funding a multi-agency approach to family and sexual violence to the tune of $320 million over four years. Michael Phillip of Massey University talks about how ...more
The Panel with Russell Brown and Catherine Robertson (Part 1)
May 20 2019
It is almost guaranteed that Australia will have a third term Liberal National Government. Liberal Leader Scott Morrison has pulled off an incredible victory and it's yet another election where the pollsters got it wrong. Lloyds of London rates New Zealand as the second most at-risk nation in the world, behind Bangladesh, when it comes to insurance. Experts are advising those with properties on cliff tops, waterways and seafronts to be especially vigilant when it comes to checking their insuranc...more
I've been thinking for 20 May 2019
May 20 2019
What the Panelists Catherine Robertson and Russell Brown have been thinking.
Story of the Day for 20 May 2019
May 20 2019
In New York City, it seems no one can afford to miss an email or reply to a chat late, even if that means checking their phones when crossing the street. But soon these daredevils could get hit with a fine for their reckless behavior.
Call for more animal welfare funding
May 17 2019
Researchers have found that there's inadequate protection for some of the most vulnerable members of society - animals. It's because of a lack of funding. Only 1.6 per cent of the Ministry for Primary Industry's 2018-19 budget is earmarked for all aspects of animal welfare, enforcement, education and policy advice. The RNZSPCA is woefully under-resourced with just $400,000 in funding from the government. Marcelo Rodriguez Ferrere of the University of Otago wants to see a Commissioner for Animals...more
What your email sign-off says about you
May 17 2019
Getting your email sign-off just right is trickier than it sounds. "Regards" is too cold "cheers", maybe too warm. So what's the Goldilocks zone of email sign-offs?
Question of the Day for 17 May 2019
May 17 2019
When was the last time you wrote a cheque and what it was for?
New initiative to fight discrimination
May 17 2019
Anjum Rahman of the Islamic Women's Council has launched the Inclusive Aotearoa Collective, today. It's a new movement to fight racism and bigotry in Aotearoa. The impetus comes from the feeling that people want to be able to do something about discrimation, in general, in the wake to the CHCH mosque shootings.
Kiwibuild criteria
May 17 2019
Does the criteria for Kiwibuild need a renovation? Presently, buyers must keep the home for three years, must be New Zealand citizens and first time buyers or be so-called "second chancers" who no longer own a home. Buyers must have an annual income less than $120,000 or a combined income of less than $180,000. Building and construction commentator Mark Graham talks about the major flaws of Kiwibuild.
The Panel with Ella Henry and Raybon Kan (Part 2)
May 17 2019
Question of the Day: When was the last time you wrote a cheque and what it was for? Getting your email sign-off just right is trickier than it sounds. "Regards" is too cold "cheers", maybe too warm. So what's the Goldilocks zone of email sign-offs? Researchers have found that there's inadequate protection for some of the most vulnerable members of society - animals. It's because of a lack of funding. Only 1.6 per cent of the Ministry for Primary Industry's 2018-19 budget is earmarked for all asp...more
The Panel with Ella Henry and Raybon Kan (Part 1)
May 17 2019
Does the criteria for Kiwibuild need a renovation? Presently, buyers must keep the home for three years, must be New Zealand citizens and first time buyers or be so-called "second chancers" who no longer own a home. Buyers must have an annual income less than $120,000 or a combined income of less than $180,000. Building and construction commentator Mark Graham talks about the major flaws of Kiwibuild. Anjum Rahman of the Islamic Women's Council has launched the Inclusive Aotearoa Collective, tod...more
I've been thinking for 17 May 2019
May 17 2019
What the Panelists Ella Henry and Raybon Kan have been thinking.
Story of the Day for 17 May 2019
May 17 2019
How do you feel about cows? Are you fans? Who isn't right? The reason it bring it up is that the Austrian Government has warned the public not to kiss cows.
Sad Songs then and now
May 16 2019
Pop music is becoming sadder and more negative according to two recent studies of thousands of US and UK hits from the last few decades have concluded that since the 80's emotions like sadness and loneliness are more and more prevalent..
Alabama abortion decision
May 16 2019
Alabama is the latest to restrict pregnancy terminations - abortions will be illegal in nearly all ciurcumstances. And sixteen other states are seeking to impose new restrictions on abortion. Those who support a woman's right to a termination are hoping the law will be blocked and it will end up before the Supreme Court. What has happened in the United States since the landmark Roe vs Wade ruling in 1973?
Bring back Banksie
May 16 2019
The former mayor of Auckland John Banks says the super city has been a great disappointment. He's not ruling out having another tilt at the job in the next local body elections.
Question of the Day for 16 May 2019
May 16 2019
What would you change about social media?
Jeremy Kyle show axed in NZ
May 16 2019
TVNZ is axing the Jeremy Kyle Show. It comes after a 63 year-old grandfather was found dead from apparent suicide, shortly after his appearance on the UK show, where he failed a lie detector test over alleged infidelity. Owen Jones who's the author of Chavs: The Demonization of the Working Class, said the show "consisted of putting vulnerable people from disadvantaged backgrounds in stocks to have eggs thrown at them". But is it the show's fault that this man is now dead?
MSD spying on beneficiaries
May 16 2019
The Privacy Commissioner John Edwards has found the Ministry of Social Development has been systematically misusing its powers while pursuing people it suspects of benefit fraud. He says the Ministry has been bypassing beneficiaries and going to third parties for information. They've been obtaining text messages, domestic violence and other police records, banking information and other billing records. Privacy lawyer Liane Dalziel says there are grounds for the affected beneficiaries to have a l...more
CHCH Call - what now?
May 16 2019
A meeting overnight in Paris oversaw all the major tech companies sign-up to a first of its kind agreement, the Christchurch Call. The summit was initiated by the New Zealand Prime Minister Ardern and the French President Emmanuel Macron. Seventeen governments have signed up to it, as well as the tech big guns, Amazon, Facebook, Daily Motion, Google, Microsoft, QWant, Twitter, and You tube. Peter Thompson of Victoria University Wellington talks about the part the big bucks play in media decison-...more
The Panel with Lizzie Marvelly and Mark Knoff-Thomas (Part 2)
May 16 2019
Question of the Day: What would you change about social media? The former mayor of Auckland John Banks says the super city has been a great disappointment. He's not ruling out having another tilt at the job in the next local body elections. Alabama is the latest to restrict pregnancy terminations - abortions will be illegal in nearly all ciurcumstances. And sixteen other states are seeking to impose new restrictions on abortion. Those who support a woman's right to a termination are hoping the l...more
The Panel with Lizzie Marvelly and Mark Knoff-Thomas (Part 1)
May 16 2019
A meeting overnight in Paris oversaw all the major tech companies sign-up to a first of its kind agreement, the Christchurch Call. The summit was initiated by the New Zealand Prime Minister Ardern and the French President Emmanuel Macron. Seventeen governments have signed up to it, as well as the tech big guns, Amazon, Facebook, Daily Motion, Google, Microsoft, QWant, Twitter, and You tube. Peter Thompson of Victoria University Wellington talks about the part the big bucks play in media decison-...more
I've been thinking for 16 May 2019
May 16 2019
What the Panelists Lizzie Marvelly and Mark Knoff-Thomas have been thinking about.
Story of the Day for 16 May 2019
May 16 2019
Have you seen the Spice Girls movie "Spice World"... Well, the Union Jack-painted double-decker bus that featured in that 1997 film has been converted into an Air bnb by a mega-fan! It's parked at London's Wembley Park to tie in with the Spice Girls (minus Posh) performance at the O2, next month.
Auckland e-scooter trial: phase two
May 15 2019
It's phase two of the e-scooter trial in Auckland. Lime scooters will be joined by Wave scooters and a home grown startup, Flamingo. Lots more e-scooters for you to love or hate. Speed limits will be imposed in the main areas of the city with 15 km/hr, the maximum.
Fees-free backflip
May 15 2019
The Government has reallocated money that was destined for the fees-free tertiary education policy. The Labour Party's 2017 election campaign included the introduction of fees-free which started in 2018. It was to meant to gradually extend to two-years fees-free in 2021 and provide three years' free in 2024.
Question of the Day for 15 May 2019
May 15 2019
What is your worst purchasing decision?
A pub without alcohol
May 15 2019
Everything points to it being a normal cocktial bar....a cosy space with great drinks except for one thing.. Getaway bar is totally alcohol free!
Loneliness a major reason for elderly going into rest homes
May 15 2019
New research has found that negative social factors were often more compelling reasons for elderly to enter care than than physical health issues. People who said they were lonely were almost 20 per cent more likely to go into a rest home, even when physically well. The University of Otago's Hamish Jamieson talks to The Panel about his findings.
Shocking NZ homicide reality
May 15 2019
A major Stuff investigation has resulted in The Homicide Report. The investigators found 134 women were killed by a partner or ex-partner, in the past 15 years. That's nine women a year. It's not just the number of killings that's disturbing, it's the level of aggression. The investigation found a significant proportion of the killings involve what's known as "overkill", where the violence used was far beyond what was necessary to cause death. Ang Jury from Women's Refuge explains the importance...more
The Panel with Chris Gallavin and Lavina Good (Part 2)
May 15 2019
What is your worst purchasing decision? The Government has reallocated money that was destined for the fees-free tertiary education policy. The Labour Party's 2017 election campaign included the introduction of fees-free which started in 2018. It was to meant to gradually extend to two-years fees-free in 2021 and provide three years' free in 2024. It's phase two of the e-scooter trial in Auckland. Lime scooters will be joined by Wave scooters and a home grown startup, Flamingo. Lots more e-scoot...more
The Panel with Chris Gallavin and Lavina Good (Part 1)
May 15 2019
A major Stuff investigation has resulted in The Homicide Report. The investigators found 134 women were killed by a partner or ex-partner, in the past 15 years. That's nine women a year. It's not just the number of killings that's disturbing, it's the level of aggression. The investigation found a significant proportion of the killings involve what's known as "overkill", where the violence used was far beyond what was necessary to cause death. Ang Jury from Women's Refuge explains the importance...more
I've been thinking for 15 May 2019
May 15 2019
What the Panelists Lavina Good and Chris Gallavin have been thinking about.
Story of the Day for 15 May 2019
May 15 2019
A British insurance provider is offering reimbursment for Game of Thrones spoilers.
Munns menswear to shut shop
May 14 2019
After 100 years the Munns menswear chain is closing down. One of the reasons cited is the general move away from formal wear to casual wear. The other thing they referred to is that local shops just can't compete with global brands, such as Zara and H&M.
Go-Fund-Me campaign to build a border wall
May 14 2019
The man who started up a Go-Fund-Me campaign to raise money to build a border wall between the US and Mexico is being questioned by his donors who are wondering if it's ever going to happen, and what has happened to their money. Brian Kolfage started the fund last December to build the wall because he was sick of political games by Republicans and Democrats. There's $20 million in the kitty. International Law expert Al Gillespie tells us just how a private citizen can build a wall between sovere...more
Free rides on Auckland's public transport
May 14 2019
The Auckland Council is considering making public transport free for children under 15 on weekends and public holidays. It could lift patronage by over 1 million trips a year.
Fonterra sells Tip Top
May 14 2019
Fonterra is selling the Tip Top heritage band to Froneri. It's a joint venture between PAI Partners and Nestle, which is described as the third largest ice cream manufacturer in the world. Tip Top was sold for $380m. Business commentator Bernard Hickey talks about why Fonterra sold the brand.
Question of the Day for 14 May 2019
May 14 2019
What's your favourite classic movie - and why?
BYO containers for Foodstuffs supermarkets
May 14 2019
Foodstuff's North Island supermarkets, Pak 'n' Save, New World and Four Square will be allowing customers to BYO containers for their seafood, bakery, deli, and butchery purchases. The company says it's a way to help cut-down on the use of plastics. Paul Dansted of New Zealand Food Safety talks about what they expect for food safety.
Maori and Pasifika under represented in financial disputes
May 14 2019
The Government approved disputes scheme is where people that are wronged by a bank, insurer, or lender can go to have their disputes resolved. Only ten per cent of the complainants to the Banking Ombudsman were logged as Maori or Pasifika despite making up a fifth of the population. A lack of awareness of their rights is one aspect of this. Peter Cordtz of the Commission for Financial Literacy says many Maori and Pasifika people have specific perspective on money.
Christchurch Call
May 14 2019
The Prime MinisterJacinda Ardern is due to meet the leaders of global tech giants including google, Facebook and twitter to eliminate terrorist and violent content online, in Paris. The summit has been dubbed the Christchurch Call and leaders present include, France's Emmanual Macron and Germany's Angela Merkel. Computer expert Alisatair Knot of the University of Otago explains what needs to happen in the technical field to prevent the spread of objectionable material on social media.
The Panel with Shane Te Pou and Verity Johnson (Part 2)
May 14 2019
What's your favourite classic movie - and why? Fonterra is selling the Tip Top heritage band to Froneri. It's a joint venture between PAI Partners and Nestle, which is described as the third largest ice cream manufacturer in the world. Tip Top was sold for $380m. Business commentator Bernard Hickey talks about why Fonterra sold the brand. The Auckland Council is considering making public transport free for children under 15 on weekends and public holidays. It could lift patronage by over 1 milli...more
The Panel with Shane Te Pou and Verity Johnson (Part 1)
May 14 2019
The Prime MinisterJacinda Ardern is due to meet the leaders of global tech giants including google, Facebook and twitter to eliminate terrorist and violent content online, in Paris. The summit has been dubbed the Christchurch Call and leaders present include, France's Emmanual Macron and Germany's Angela Merkel. Computer expert Alisatair Knot of the University of Otago explains what needs to happen in the technical field to prevent the spread of objectionable material on social media. The Govern...more
I've been thinking for 14 May 2019
May 14 2019
What the panelists Verity Johnson and Shane Te Pou have been thinking about.
Story of the Day for 14 May 2019
May 14 2019
Doris Day - real name Doris Mary Ann Kappelhoff - was born in 1922, and was one of the most popular singers of the 20th century - as well as being very successful at the box office. Doris Day was the world's biggest female film star in the early 1960s.
Cinema with beds
May 13 2019
A cinema has opened in Switzerland that offers customers the option of watching their movie in a double bed instead of a traditional seat. This will cost you $NZ73 and includes free food and drink. Luxury or pure laziness?
Working harder not smarter
May 13 2019
Australian entrepreneur Mark Bouris has championed starting your day 3am to really cram in as much work as possible. He's not the first successful person to advocate ridiculous wake-ups times or working long hours as the secret formula. But in an opinion piece in Stuff Rachel Klaver says the idea is flawed. We ask the panelists what they think is important for success.
Teachers Mega Strike
May 13 2019
The Education Mega Strike looms. On Wednesday 29th of May almost 50,000 primary and secondary teachers and primary principals will walk off the job. It's the third strike in this campaign in a stand-off with the Ministry of Education. The strike will affect hundreds of thousands of students in more than 2000 schools. The president of the PPTA Jack Boyle tells us why teachers aren't satified with the government's latest offer.
Question of the Day for 13 May 2019
May 13 2019
Wallace has complained about bad taxi service and got a free ride. What have you successfully complained about?
Supported living rather than a wet house for Wellington
May 13 2019
The Mayor of Wellington, Justin Lester, has announced the establishment of a wet house for homeless alcoholics will not go ahead. He says supported living units would be created, instead, which he says is "the same thing but different". We ask the Salvation Army's Lynette Hutson just what the difference is.
School bullying "intolerably high"
May 13 2019
An Education Review Office report says that bullying in schools is intolerably high and beyond schools direct control. Nearly 11,000 young people in 136 schools were surveyed and nearly half of primary school children and a third of teenagers reported being bullied. Deidre Vercauteren of Accent School Support at Victoria University of Wellington, casts some light on what's going on and what can be done.
The Panel with Jock Anderson and Karlo Mila (Part 2)
May 13 2019
Wallace has complained about bad taxi service and got a free ride. What have you successfully complained about? The Education Mega Strike looms. On Wednesday 29th of May almost 50,000 primary and secondary teachers and primary principals will walk off the job. It's the third strike in this campaign in a stand-off with the Ministry of Education. The strike will affect hundreds of thousands of students in more than 2000 schools. The president of the PPTA Jack Boyle tells us why teachers aren't sat...more
The Panel with Jock Anderson and Karlo Mila (Part 1)
May 13 2019
An Education Review Office report says that bullying in schools is intolerably high and beyond schools' direct control. Nearly 11,000 young people in 136 schools were surveyed and nearly half of primary school children and a third of teenagers reported being bullied. Deidre Vercauteren of Accent School Support at Victoria University of Wellington, casts some light on what's going on and what can be done. The Mayor of Wellington, Justin Lester, has announced the establishment of a wet house for h...more
I've been thinking for 13 May 2019
May 13 2019
What the Panelists Karlo Mila and Jock Anderson want to talk about.
Story of the Day for 13 May 2019
May 13 2019
In the UK, national numeracy day is on Wednesday and some research released ahead of it found that half of British adults have the numeracy skills of a primary school kid - and third struggle to work out the right change when buying things, and also find it hard to correctly weigh and measure ingredients when cooking!
Are we failing our sportswomen?
May 10 2019
Helen Clark says we're failing sportswomen in New Zealand. The former Prime Minister told an event we need to stop accepting the excuse that we can't find women to appoint to senior roles in the sector.
Cheaper booze, less harm
May 10 2019
Otago University Students' Association is calling for cheaper alcohol in bars, arguing that getting students to drink in bars, rather than at unregulated flat parties or on the street, would reduce alcohol-related harm.
Question of the Day
May 10 2019
Question of the Day: If you could choose another country's leader to lead New Zealand, who would it be?
Australia's most trusted politician: Jacinda Ardern
May 10 2019
A research company asked Australians to rank their most trusted politicain and the winner was Jacinda Ardern. Just two weeks out from the Australian general election the people chose our Prime Minister as most preferred.
Americans and patriotism
May 10 2019
Americans are more likely than any other nationality to say their country is the 'best in the world'. That's the finding from a project by the Guardian, which surveyed 23 of the world's biggest countries.
Too many tourists
May 10 2019
A survey has found some Kiwis are worried about tourists - mainly because of congestion, infrastructure and the environment.
No contact sport for children
May 10 2019
Children shouldn't play contact sport until at least 12 years old experts say. They were unanimous is saying that a little contact in pre-teens to the head is too much contact.
The Panel with Heather Roy and Andrew Clay (Part 2)
May 10 2019
Americans are more likely than any other nationality to say their country is the 'best in the world'. That's the finding from a project by the Guardian, which surveyed 23 of the world's biggest countries. Despite the fact that more 40 percent of Americans say the strongly dislike their presiodent, and 70 percent say elected officals are crooked, they still have strong pride in their country. The panelists weigh in on whether kiwis need more country pride. Question of the Day: If you could choose...more
The Panel with Heather Roy and Andrew Clay (Part 1)
May 10 2019
Children shouldn't play contact sport until at least 12 years old experts say. A group of Boston medical scientists told the NZ Herald that the younger you start sports like rugby and American football the greater your chances of degenerative brain diseases. They were unanimous is saying that a little contact in pre-teens to the head is too much contact. We speak to Doug King, Clinical Nurse Specialist at Hutt Valley, about his research into concussion in sport. A survey has found some Kiwis are...more
I've been thinking for 10 May 2019
May 10 2019
What the Panelists Heather Roy and Andrew Clay have been thinking about.
Story of the Day for 10 May 2019
May 10 2019
A case of mistaken identity in London.
Prunes vs lollies
May 09 2019
A traveller wants to see prunes handed out on Air NZ flights rather than lollies. The man argues it would "clean eating and healthy digestion".
Social media effects "tiny" on kids
May 09 2019
A new study has found the effect social media has on children's happiness is "trivial". While the effects of time spent on social media were more wide-ranging for girls, that effect is quote "tiny".
Making public transport more attractive
May 09 2019
Auckland Transport is considering a number of ideas to boost public transport patronage, including free travel on weekends, cheaper ferry rides, and bigger students discounts.
The Folau fallout
May 09 2019
The Israel Folau saga continues with many figures coming to his defence. Wallabies star Israel Folau was found guilty of a "high level" breach of his contract.
Universal Basic Income: would it work?
May 09 2019
A new study has found a Universal Basic Income may not work - that is it can't alleviate poverty and be economically viable at the same time.
Nick Smith suspended and named
May 09 2019
In a rare parliamentary move, the Speaker named and suspended National MP Nick Smith for a comment yesterday, he accused Trevor Mallard of being " soft on drugs, like the Government."
The Panel with Sue Bradford and Stephen Franks (Part 2)
May 09 2019
Auckland Transport is considering a number of ideas to boost public transport patronage, including free travel on weekends, cheaper ferry rides, and bigger students discounts. Many of these ideas have been floated by group Generation Zero, spokesperson Leroy Beckett explains how they might work. A new study has found the effect social media has on children's happiness is "trivial". The UK researchers looked at 12,000 adolescents and discovered that while the effects of time spent on social media...more
The Panel with Sue Bradford and Stephen Franks (Part 1)
May 09 2019
In a rare parliamentary move, the Speaker named and suspended National MP Nick Smith for a comment yesterday. The dispute happened in the last question of the day in Question Time when Smith accused Mallard of being " soft on drugs, like the Government." We speak to Law Professor Andrew Geddis about the political purpose of suspending MPs. A new study has found a Universal Basic Income may not work - that is it can't alleviate poverty and be economically viable at the same time. There are many p...more
I've been thinking for 9 May 2019
May 09 2019
What the Panelists Sue Bradford and Stephen Franks have been thinking about.
Story of the Day for 9 May 2019
May 09 2019
The seventh in-line to the British throne has arrived...and he now has a name. The Sussex's have decided on Archie.
Inattentive Passengers booted off plane
May 08 2019
A man and a woman were kicked off an Air New Zealand flight yesterday for reportedly refusing to pay attention to safety briefing, Stuff reports.
Should unimmunised kids go to school?
May 08 2019
Schools are debating whether to take the drastic step of excluding have not been vaccinated, in the midst of a measles outbreak.
WCC's living wage
May 08 2019
Wellington City Council has been making a song and dance about its living wage status, but now it's emerged some of its staff are actually on minimum wage.
Economy not "rockstar" for all
May 08 2019
Kiwi Wealth has released its State of the Investor Nation report, finding that a third of those surveyed are struggling to make ends meet.
Question of the Day for 8 May 2019
May 08 2019
What's your biggest fashion regret?
Referendum: the details
May 08 2019
The Government has announced the details for the 2020 cannabis referendum, with voters facing a simple yes/no question based on draft legislation.
The plan to tackle climate change
May 08 2019
The Government has set out its plan to tackle climate change for the next 30 years in its Zero Carbon bill. New emissions targets have been set for all greenhouse gases, except methane, to net zero by 2050.
The Panel with Fete Taito and Cindy Mitchener (Part 2)
May 08 2019
What's your biggest fashion regret? Kiwi Wealth has released its State of the Investor Nation report, finding that a third of those surveyed are struggling to make ends meet. The report suggests that though New Zelaland appears to be a well off country on the face of it, there are big divisison between those who are doing well and those who aren't. Joe Bishop, Kiwi Wealth's General Manager of Customer, Product and Innovation explains the findings.Wellington City Council has been making a song an...more
The Panel with Fete Taito and Cindy Mitchener (Part 1)
May 08 2019
The Government has set out its plan to tackle climate change for the next 30 years in its Zero Carbon bill. New emissions targets have been set for all greenhose gases, except methane, to net zero by 2050. It has cross party support, but not all are convinced it is strong enough. Associate Professor Bronwyn Hayward from the University of Canterbury gives her thoughts on the bill. The Government has announced the details for the 2020 cannabis referendum, with voters facing a simple yes/no questio...more
I've been thinking for 8 May 2019
May 08 2019
What the Panelists Cindy Mitchener and Fete Taito have been thinking about.
Story of the Day for 8 May 2019
May 08 2019
A hair salon in Hackney in East London, is taking the radical step of creating parity in what it charges for a haircut. It's going to charge men and women the same price..
Avoiding celebrity politics
May 07 2019
Resist the the rise of celebrity politics. That's the call from columnist Liam Hehir on Stuff today. He argues we must keep of tradition of being understated and avoid American-like political coverage.
Hands on or off the exhibits?
May 07 2019
There's debate about whether museums should be more interactive, after a woman climbed onto a rare motorbike exhibition. Te Papa says it can't monitor all its exhibitions all the time.
Opinions on second opinions
May 07 2019
Dr Lisa Sanders explains that second opinions play an important role in medicine but the process is neither straightforward nor infallible and should be approached with caution.
Where to get (free) water
May 07 2019
Panelist Niki Bezzant has written a piece in the New Zealand Herald about where people can get free water in public places. Water fountains aren't as common nowadays.
Question of the Day for 7 May 2019
May 07 2019
Would you support your CBD being closed to cars? Why or why not?
Huawei decision "fearmongering"
May 07 2019
The New Zealand boss of Chinese Company Huawei Andrew Bowater has spoken in very clear terms of how GCSBs decision to exclude Huawei from rolling out 5G was in his view, political fearmongering.
Edinburgh says no to cars
May 07 2019
Edinburgh CBD has been closed to traffic, as the city joined the Open Streets movement in a bid to reduce air pollution.
Nature in dire straits
May 07 2019
A new 1800 page report out paints a dire picture of the global state of biodiversity. The UN assessment that nature is declining at rates unprecedented in human history.
The Panel with Selwyn Manning and Niki Bezzant (Part 2)
May 07 2019
Question of the Day: Would you support your CBD being closed to cars? Why or why not? Panelist Niki Bezaant has awritten a piece in the New Zealand Herald about where people can get free water in public places. Water fountains aren't as common nowadays but a new non-profit RefillNZ is hoping to make it easier for people to fill up their water bottles in cafes around the country. A piece on Newsroom looks at second opinions in the medical world. Dr Lisa Sanders from the Yale Shool of Medicine exp...more
The Panel with Selwyn Manning and Niki Bezzant (Part 1)
May 07 2019
A new 1800 page report out paints a dire picture of the global state of biodiversity. The UN assessment that nature is declining at rates unprecedented in human history, as many as one million plant and animal species are at risk of extinction. Associate Professor James Russell explains what transformational change the world needds to combat the issue. Edinburgh CBD has been closed to traffic, as the city joined the Open Streets movement in a bid to reduce air pollution. It will be closing roads...more
I've been thinking for 7 May 2019
May 07 2019
What the Panelists Niki Bezzant and Selwyn Manning have been thinking about.
Story of the Day for 7 May 2019
May 07 2019
The discovery of a coffee cup in a scene in the most recent Game Of Thrones has shocked fans but it's nothing new for Hollywood. Robert Kelly takes a quick look at the rich history of modern objects left lying around in films and TV.
Academic labelled racist for using "pakeha"
May 06 2019
Academic Ekant Veer has been accused of racism after using the word "Pakeha" when he asked Christchurch City Council to be more inclusive of multicultural communities.
Increase of people at Awaroa worrying
May 06 2019
Professor Steve Trewick says there's been a big increase in visitors since Awaroa beach was bought "by the people" in 2016, and quad bike and tractor tracks consistently mark the beach.
Victoria University of Wellington - branding refresh
May 06 2019
Victoria University of Wellington will not be changing its name. It today announced a 'branding refresh' which will see it emphasise the word Wellington to differentiate it from other Universities.
Sugary drinks: bad for us, but we're drinking more
May 06 2019
A New Zealand-led study has found sugary drinks are more harmful than sugary foods, and we're drinking more of it. The study, published in the journal Obesity, discovered it's easier for the body to process liquid.
Question of the Day for 6 May 2019
May 06 2019
Who would you want to name a street after? Why?
Wu-Tang Clan & Obama street names
May 06 2019
The Wu-Tang Clan and Barack Obama have been honoured with street names in New York and Los Angeles, respectively.
The end of takeaway coffee cups?
May 06 2019
A Wellington café has stopped serving coffee in single-use disposable takeaway cups. Arobake customers must now bring their own cup in or can "hire" a reuseable cup - they get their $3 back when they return it.
Graffiti crackdown hurting street art
May 06 2019
Some street artist say Auckland Council's graffiti policy is preventing art from flourishing. The rapid removal of graffiti in the city seems to be the problem, stifling artists from turning tags into murals.
What form will the cannabis referendum take?
May 06 2019
Cabinet is today looking at the referendum into cannabis legislation for personal use that's set to be voted on at the 2020 election.
The Panel with Damian Christie and Jennie Moreton (Part 2)
May 06 2019
The Wu-Tang Clan and Barack Obama have been honoured with street names in New York and Los Angeles, respectively. Wu-Tang Clan District is in the borough of Staten Island, where some members of the hip-hop crew came from, while Rodeo Road has become Obama Boulevard. The panelists weigh in on whether our street names should be upgraded to honour modern figures. Who would you want to name a street after? Why? A New Zealand-led study has found sugary drinks are more harlmful than sugary foods, and ...more
The Panel with Damian Christie and Jennie Moreton (Part 1)
May 06 2019
Cabinet is today looking at the referendum into cannabis legislation for personal use that's set to be voted on at the 2020 election. The National Party's revealed it's seen a leaked paper detailing the four possible forms the referedum could take next year, including whether legislation will be passed before the vote. Journalist Russell Brown has written a piece on what he route he believes the Government will take on the issue. Some street artist say Auckland Council's graffiti policy is preve...more
I've been thinking for 6 May 2019
May 06 2019
What the Panelists Jennie Moreton and Damian Christie have been thinking about.
Story of the Day for 6 May 2019
May 06 2019
There are some beautiful voices that are well-known for their narration and storytelling abilities.... Attenborough, Morgan Freeman, Emma Thomson..etc... Then there's Snoop Dogg.
Housework: there's an app for that
May 03 2019
Labour of Love is the name of a new app to help men appreciate the unsung work that their female partners do. It was the idea of a couple who were both busy with their careers and family duties, and the allocation of household tasks led to arguments. The app is basically a to-do list that has points attached to each task. You assign each task so-many points and when you reach the goal of the number of points you're aiming for, you get a reward.
Just don't do it
May 03 2019
We're all being encouraged to take a leaf out of the Netherland's book, and niksen. Just do nothing.
Accepted Scrabble words gets an update
May 03 2019
Scrabble has accepted 2,862 new words. Youth culture slang phrases have been added in the first update since 2015. These include sharenting, blud and bae. Others such as incel, antivaxxer and fatberg have also made the Scrabble grade. The president of the New Zealand Association of Scrabble Players talks about what it takes for a word to be accepted.
Question of the Day for 3 May 2019
May 03 2019
Have you been hurt in a bike accident? Tell us about it. A trauma study in the New Zealand Medical Journal has found that bike accidents resulted in nearly 1000 people sent to hospital around the North Island between 2012-2016. This data from DHBs showed that around 60 per cent of major trauma happened on the road. It appears its a case of putting the cart before the horse. Patrick Morgan of the cycling lobby group Cycling Action Network answers if the heavy promotion of cycling has been put ahe...more
Consuming food past its use-by
May 03 2019
More business that sell out-of-date stock are springing up online and as bricks and mortar outlets. Love Food Hate Waste reports that New Zealanders throw away 157,389 tonnes of food every year. Are you ok with consuming something that's theoretically expired?
Being Māori enough
May 03 2019
A spat has broken out between the Labour MP Willie Jackson and National's Paula Bennett. In Parliament, Mr Jackson pretty much said that Mrs Bennett isn't Māori enough. He said she doesn't know if she's a Māori. Broadcaster and Māori language advocate Stacey Daniels has a go at explaining what makes a person Māori enough.
$95 million dollar boost in teacher training
May 03 2019
The Government has announced a $95 million dollar boost in spending on teacher training over the next 4 years. The teacher shortage has seen the Government bring in 354 teachers from overseas. Andrea Milligan of Victoria University's School of Education has concerns about the quality of teachers the country will end up with.
Changes to welfare system not "fit for purpose"
May 03 2019
The Government is to scrap a benefit sanction that saw solo mothers penalised by up to $28 a week if they didn't name the father of their child. Removing the sanction will cost $113.4 million over four years and comes into effect on April 1, 2020. The amount beneficiaries can earn in paid work, before their benefit is cut, is to increase - for the first time in 20 years.
The Panel with Rajorshi Chakraborti and Jo McCarroll (Part 1)
May 03 2019
The Government is to scrap a benefit sanction that saw solo mothers penalised by up to $28 a week if they didn't name the father of their child. Removing the sanction will cost $113.4 million over four years and comes into effect on April 1, 2020. The amount beneficiaries can earn in paid work, before their benefit is cut, is to increase - for the first time in 20 years. The Government has announced a $95 million dollar boost in spending on teacher training over the next 4 years. The teacher sho...more
The Panel with Rajorshi Chakraborti and Jo McCarroll (P
May 03 2019
Have you been hurt in a bike accident? Tell us about it. A trauma study in the New Zealand Medical Journal has found that bike accidents resulted in nearly 1000 people sent to hospital around the North Island between 2012-2016. This data from DHBs showed that around 60 per cent of major trauma happened on the road. It appears its a case of putting the cart before the horse. Patrick Morgan of the cycling lobby group Cycling Action Network answers if the heavy promotion of cycling has been put ahe...more
I've been thinking for 3 May 2019
May 03 2019
What the Panelists Jo McCarroll and Rajorshi Chakraborti have been thinking about.
Story of the Day for 3 May 2019
May 03 2019
Rest in peace actor Peter Mayhew, who died today at the age of 74. Peter Mayhew of course most famous for his role as Chewbacca, one of the GREAT movie sidekicks I'm sure we can all agree ?
Shorter phone time longer life
May 02 2019
An increasing body of evidence suggests that the amount of time we spend on our smartphones is way too long. It's interferring with our sleep, self esteem, relationships, memory, attention spans, and decision making skills.
Looted painting legally owned by Madrid museum
May 02 2019
A 14-year legal battle over ownership of a painting looted by Nazis has come to an end. A judge in California has ruled the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum in Madrid, which has had Pissarro's "Rue Saint-Honoré in the Afternoon" since 1993, is the legal owner. Nazis took the painting from it's Jewish owner in 1939 in exchange for letting her flee Germany just before the war.
Facebook privacy changes
May 02 2019
A raft of social media platforms belonging to Facebook are to have their privacy settings bolstered, after criticism about how the company protects user data. CEO Mark Zuckerberg says it's a major shift in how the company's run. He says Facebook is focused on looking at ways to encode privacy across the firm's entire infrastructure.
Question of the Day for 2 May 2019
May 02 2019
What would you call the new Auckland-Hamilton rail express? Five possible names for the new Hamilton to Auckland passenger rail service are being considered by local government. Topping the list from the working group is, The Tron Express. Listeners of The Panel are suggesting Trainy McTrainFace, Jafa Bogomotion, Overdue and The Hamiltrain, to name a few.
Metal: the fastest growing music genre
May 02 2019
Music distribution company TuneCore reports there's been a 154 per cent growth in the popularity of metal music. Metal topped all other genres in 2018 when it came to increased streams and downloads from the previous year. Metal fan and member of the local band Devilskin, Paul Martin, explains what the appeal of head banging music is.
Misuse of Drugs Amendement Bill
May 02 2019
Treating drugs as a health centred issue and away from a punitive apprach has been at the heart of the Governments Misuse of Drugs Amendement Bill. It's a shift away from the War on Drugs approach to a health focused one, says the Drug Foundations Ross Bell. The Salvation Army's Lynette Hutson says their addiction services are already at capacity but they are hopeful that they can strengthen both the existing services and develop new approaches to that will respond to family and community needs ...more
Naming the Christchurch Mosque gunman
May 02 2019
New Zealand's major media outlets have agreed on how the coverage of the trial of the Christchurch Mosque gunman should be covered. Is it still the right thing to limit the use of his name?
Maori Council sets Human Rights Commission onto Hobson's Pledge
May 02 2019
The New Zealand Maori Council has called-out the Hobson's Pledge Group because he says no one else has. The Council's executive director Matthew Tukaki said that Hobson's Pledge was "a divisive group of haters". Hobson's Pledge spokesperson Don Brash is seeking legal advice saying claims of racism were "outrageously stupid ". Lawyer Graeme Edgeler says Mr Brash could be thinking of a defamation case.
The Panel with Paula Penfold and Morgan Godfery (Part 2)
May 02 2019
Music distribution company TuneCore reports there's been a 154 per cent growth in the popularity of metal music. Metal topped all other genres in 2018 when it came to increased streams and downloads from the previous year. Metal fan and member of the local band Devilskin, Paul Martin, explains what the appeal of head banging music is. Question of the Day: What would you call the new Auckland-Hamilton rail express? Five possible names for the new Hamilton to Auckland passenger rail service are be...more
The Panel with Paula Penfold and Morgan Godfery (Part 1)
May 02 2019
The New Zealand Maori Council has called-out the Hobson's Pledge Group because he says no one else has. The Council's executive director Matthew Tukaki said that Hobson's Pledge was "a divisive group of haters". Hobson's Pledge spokesperson Don Brash is seeking legal advice saying claims of racism were "outrageously stupid ". Lawyer Graeme Edgeler says Mr Brash could be thinking of a defamation case. New Zealand's major media outlets have agreed on how the coverage of the trial of the Christchur...more
I've been thinking for 2 May 2019
May 02 2019
What the Panelists Paula Penfold and Morgan Godfery have been thinking about.
Story of the Day for 2 May 2019
May 02 2019
What's the best food smell in the world? Frying bacon? Frying onions? Just frying full stop? And now a different one - what 's the WORST smelling food?
Work mum: another way to get your hard earned cash
May 01 2019
Michael Hill Jeweller is urging people to buy gifts for someone other than your actual mother, for Mothers' Day. It reckons you could be buying for your "work mum", too. The ad says "celebrate all your mums". The jewellery outlet's suggestions don't end there, others are "Friend Mum" and "Dad Mum.
Pasifika rugby players supporting Folau
May 01 2019
The Israel Folau controversy over his social media comments condemning many varieties of sinners to hell, including gays, is taking another turn. Other Pasifika rugby players, including Taniela Tupou, have waded in. Tupou says that Rugby Australia might as well sack him "and all the other Pacific Islands rugby players around the world" because they have the same Christian beliefs as Folau. Have they been backed into a corner and forced to defend their faith?
Free range chicken
May 01 2019
Footage of deformed and dying chickens has been released animal rights group SAFE - they say the chickens are on a free range farm and highights how consumers are being hoodwinked, with people paying a premium for biards that are in fact suffering. Consumer NZ's Jessica Wilson explains what is and what isn't free range. Can we trust the labelling on products?
Question of the Day for 1 May 2019
May 01 2019
What would you tell your 18 year old self applying for your first job?
Handshakes: when to and when not to.
May 01 2019
Young people going to job interviews are being told that a poor handshake will cost you getting the job. And there's also a call to ban handshakes in the workplace over fears of unwanted touching.
Mental Health inquiry accused of "methodological racism"
May 01 2019
A co-author of a report on the mental health inquiry says it was re-written, renamed and cut in half, in what she calls "methodological racism." Dr Lynne Russell is a top Maori researcher and she says Maori got just three mentions among the 40 recommendations in the Mental Health and Addictions Inquiry report. Anton Blank is an advocate for Maori child health. He talks about unconscious bias in offical reports.
National Party leadership
May 01 2019
Is Simon Bridges going to be forced to walk the plank? It's not clear if any possible challengers have the numbers to defeat him, though, especially while the party is holding up above the 40 per cent mark.
The Panel with Tim Watkin and Julia Whaipooti (Part 2)
May 01 2019
Young people going to job interviews are being told that a poor handshake will cost you getting the job. And there's also a call to ban handshakes in the workplace over fears of unwanted touching. What would you tell your 18 year old self applying for your first job? Footage of deformed and dying chickens has been released animal rights group SAFE - they say the chickens are on a free range farm and highights how consumers are being hoodwinked, with people paying a premium for biards that are in...more
The Panel with Tim Watkin and Julia Whaipooti (Part 1)
May 01 2019
Is Simon Bridges going to be forced to walk the plank? It's not clear if any possible challengers have the numbers to defeat him, though, especially while the party is holding up above the 40 per cent mark. A co-author of a report on the mental health inquiry says it was re-written, renamed and cut in half, in what she calls "methodological racism." Dr Lynne Russell is a top Maori researcher and she says Maori got just three mentions among the 40 recommendations in the Mental Health and Addictio...more
I've been thinking for 1 May 2019
May 01 2019
What the Panelists Julia Whaipooti and Tim Watkin have been thinking about.
Story of the Day for 1 May 2019
May 01 2019
Sara Holbrook is a name some of us might be vaguely familiar with, she's an American poet who often writes humourous verse for kids..
Live and not-so-live music
Apr 30 2019
The Panelists ponder if live music is still live if there's a pre-recorded backing track.
Plant blindness
Apr 30 2019
A pair of US botanists Elisabeth Schussler and James Wandersee, coined the term "plant blindness" back in the late '90s. It's an under appreciation of plants in general. The Panelists tell us how much notice they take of the natural world around them.
UK school's real life lesson in meat production
Apr 30 2019
A school in the UK is going to give kids a lesson in life. Farsley Farfield Primary in Leeds is planning to slaughter its pet pigs to demonstrate where meat comes from. The pigs are kept on the school's farm in West Yorkshire. The headteacher says his pupils will be 'more knowledgeable and sensitive to animal welfare' as a result of the plan. Part of the project is to discuss the need to reduce meat consumption.
NZ has some of the worst roads in the developed world
Apr 30 2019
The Ministry of Transport has confirmed that April has been the deadliest month on the roads in 10 years. Forty-five people have died this month and 137 so-far this year. The usual reasons have been given - distraction and speed. Race car driver Greg Murphy is calling on more driver training but, road safety advocate Clive Matthew-Wilson says that would be ineffective. Journalist, Rod Vaughan's looked into New Zealand's roads and concluded that the conditions are appalling.
Social psychologist's analysis of Gen Z
Apr 30 2019
Jonathan Hait, a social psychologist and a top Global Thinker, according to Foreign Policy Magazine, says "never before, have we encountered a group like Generation Z who feel 'unsafe' if you disagree with them, expect upsetting information to be signalled with a trigger warning, and are so ill equipped for adulting that they will call the police if they find a mouse in the house". Are they right to be fearful in the midst of climate change and political fearmongering on all fronts?
Question of the day for 30 April 2019
Apr 30 2019
What is something you only recently learned that has improved your daily life?
Anti-Muslim leaflets and white supremacy
Apr 30 2019
Anti-muslim leaflets were left on cars parked outside two churches in Palmerston North on Sunday. In Auckland, there is mounting concern from some students about an increased white supremacy presence at the University of Auckland. Massey University's Paul Spoonley relays his observations about what's going on.
Help with food and power bills. What about a payrise instead?
Apr 30 2019
The government and electricity companies are launching a pilot scheme to help people with their power bills. A private company is providing lunch to 400 secondary school pupils in Lower Hutt. Meanwhile, the cost of living for beneficiaries rose 0.6 per cent in the three months to March and rose 0.4 per cent for Maori. The national average increase in the cost of living was 0.1 per cent. Is higher pay, not tobacco price hikes and hand-outs what's really needed?
Trust in the workplace
Apr 30 2019
An intensive care specialist at Auckland's Middlemore Hospital, David Galler, says the lack of trust between junior doctors and their DHB bosses has never been worse. The Resident Doctors Union says the junior doctors are striking to prevent clawbacks to long standing terms and conditions of employment. So, how does a huge organisation regain mutual trust? We ask Geoff Plimmer from Victoria University's School of Management.
The Panel with Guy Williams and Victoria Stewart (Part 2)
Apr 30 2019
What is something you only recently learned that has improved your daily life? Jonathan Hait, a social psychologist and a top Global Thinker, according to Foreign Policy Magazine, says "never before, have we encountered a group like Generation Z who feel 'unsafe' if you disagree with them, expect upsetting information to be signalled with a trigger warning, and are so ill equipped for adulting that they will call the police if they find a mouse in the house". Are they right to be fearful in the ...more
The Panel with Guy Williams and Victoria Stewart (Part 1)
Apr 30 2019
An intensive care specialist at Auckland's Middlemore Hospital, David Galler, says the lack of trust between junior doctors and their DHB bosses has never been worse. The Resident Doctors Union says the junior doctors are striking to prevent clawbacks to long standing terms and conditions of employment. So, how does a huge organisation regain mutual trust? We ask Geoff Plimmer from Victoria University's School of Management. The government and electricity companies are launching a pilot scheme t...more
I've been thinking for 30 April 2019
Apr 30 2019
What the Panelists Victoria Stewart and Guy Williams want to talk about.
Story of the Day for 30 April 2019
Apr 30 2019
There's a classic reverse-NIMBY stoush a-brewin in the Toronto inner-city suburb of Parkdale.
New research on stopping pet cats killing native fauna
Apr 29 2019
New research suggests a way forward for dealing with domestic cats in relation to the natural environment. Including, keeping cats inside from dusk til dawn. New Zealanders are a long way behind Australians in keeping their cats indoors. Yolanda Heezik of the University of Otago's Zoology Department explains why and what we can do.
Waikato pensioner flat residents face rent hike
Apr 29 2019
The Waikato District Council is increasing the rent of its pensioners flats by 16 per cent, that's $26 a week. Budgeting adviser Darryl Evans of Mangere Budgeting Services says the elderly, who already have very modest means, will suffer.
Technologically advanced cars diminishing drivers' abilities
Apr 29 2019
There's a "bring back the stick shift" movement as some say the ease of driving modern cars is taking away drivers' abilities to make safe and timely decisions when driving.
Kiwi accent the sexiest of them all
Apr 29 2019
The Big 7 travel site has determined that the kiwi accent is outrageously charming. The sexiest accent in the world. How come it wasn't French or Italian?
$1m slushy machines in prisons
Apr 29 2019
The department of Corrections is being criticised for spending $1 million on 193 slushy ice machines to help keep prison staff cool over the summer of 2017-2018. National leader Simon Bridges calls it wasteful spending.
The downside to hasty firearms law changes?
Apr 29 2019
Police have confirmed the person accused of taking 11 guns from Palmerston North police station last Thursday got into the building through an unlocked door. The deputy Police Comissioner Mike Clement says those firearms "weren't in the intended strong room, which the process requires." Is this kind of thing what ACt leader David Seymour was worried about when he criticised the haste of amending the firearms laws?
Push to get people into active transport
Apr 29 2019
A University of Otago-led report has outlined bold ambitions aimed at getting people out of their cars and into more 'active transport'. These include doubling the number of trips walked, doubling the proportion of cycling trips and increasing all trips by public transport to 15 per cent by 2050. Associate Professor of transport and urban planning at Massey University, Imran Muhammad tells us if this is anything more than aspirational.
The Panel with Jarrod Gilbert and Penny Ashton (Part 2)
Apr 29 2019
The Big 7 travel website has determined that the kiwi accent is outrageously charming. The sexiest accent in the world. How come it wasn't French or Italian? There's a "bring back the stick shift" movement as some say the ease of driving modern cars is taking away drivers' abilities to make safe and timely decisions when driving. The Waikato District Council is increasing the rent of its pensioners flats by 16 per cent, that's $26 a week. Budgeting adviser Darryl Evans of Mangere Budgeting Servi...more
The Panel with Jarrod Gilbert and Penny Ashton (Part 1)
Apr 29 2019
A University of Otago-led report has outlined bold ambitions aimed at getting people out of their cars and into more 'active transport'. These include doubling the number of trips walked, doubling the proportion of cycling trips and increasing all trips by public transport to 15 per cent by 2050. Associate Professor of transport and urban planning at Massey University, Imran Muhammad tells us if this is anything more than aspirational. Police have confirmed the person accused of taking 11 guns f...more
I've been thinking for 29 April 2019
Apr 29 2019
What the Panelists Penny Ashton and Jarrod Gilbert have been thinking about.
Story of the Day for 29 April 2019
Apr 29 2019
Some fresh news the ceaseless quest of airlines around the world to provide a literal "cattle class" experience for customers ..
Can we fix the OIA?
Apr 26 2019
Stuff has launched a series looking at shortcomings in the official information act. Our panellists - both of whom have worked as journalists - weigh in with their thoughts and experiences.
Where will we grow our veges?!
Apr 26 2019
Fertile land around our urban centres is being eaten up by housing developments, and the horticultural sector is worried it'll affect a $3.5 billion industry. Horticulture NZ's Michelle Sands joins us to explain those concerns
WCC paying social media "influencer" to reach young people
Apr 26 2019
Wellington's city council is paying a social media influencer, Lucy Revill, to try to reach more under-35s. Is this a sensible use of ratepayer money?
Question of the Day
Apr 26 2019
What album did you first HATE and ended up loving?
US hit with $2.3m bill for Otto Warmbier care
Apr 26 2019
North Korea has issued the USA a $2.3 million bill for the hospital care of Otto Warmbier, a US citizen who was arrested and jailed in North Korea, before suffering extreme, mysterious brain damage and dying shortly afterwards.
Joe Biden throws his hat into the ring
Apr 26 2019
Former vice-president Joe Biden has officially launched a bid for the White House - does he stand a chance against the incumbent?
Time for Anzac Day to evolve?
Apr 26 2019
Should Anzac Day solely concern itself with fallen soldiers, or does it have wider resonance as a reminder of the horrors of war? Alan Jackson of the Archibald Baxter Memorial Trust joins the panel to discuss.
The Panel with Ruwani Perera and Ben Thomas (Part 2)
Apr 26 2019
What album did you first hate and ended up loving ? Fertile land around our urban centres is being eaten up by housing developments, and the horticultural sector is worried it'll affect a $3.5 billion industry. Horticulture NZ's Michelle Sands joins us to explain those concerns. Stuff has launched a series looking at shortcomings in the official information act. Our panellists - both of whom have worked as journalists - weigh in with their thoughts and experiences.
The Panel with Ruwani Perera and Ben Thomas (Part 1)
Apr 26 2019
Should Anzac Day solely concern itself with fallen soldiers, or does it have wider resonance as a reminder of the horrors of war? Alan Jackson of the Archibald Baxter Memorial Trust joins the panel to discuss. Former vice-president Joe Biden has officially launched a bid for the White House - does he stand a chance against the incumbent? North Korea has issued the USA a $2.3 million bill for the hospital care of Otto Warmbier, a US citizen who was arrested and jailed in North Korea, before suffe...more
I've been thinking for 23 April 2019
Apr 26 2019
What the Panelists Ben Thomas and Ruwani Perera have been thinking about.
Story of the Day for 26 April 2019
Apr 26 2019
Story of the Day for 26 April 2019.
Time to rein in CEO pay?
Apr 24 2019
The grand-daughter of Walt Disney co-founder Roy Disney is calling for the company to spread its wealth more evenly, after it was revealed the company's chief executive was paid $98 million this year.
What does the future hold for Queen's Wharf?
Apr 24 2019
Consent has been granted for a controversial extension of Queen's Wharf in Auckland, allowing huge cruise ships to berth there.
Do we need to re-think where charitable funding comes from?
Apr 24 2019
Some religious groups are missing out on funding because they object to taking money that comes from gambling. Why are so many charitable groups reliant on the pokies to stay solvent?
Should local councils have Maori seats?
Apr 24 2019
Maori seats have been effective in getting more Maori into parliament - but there's a big dearth of Maori among local councils. Should - and can - we introduce similar structures?
Question of the Day for 24 April 2019
Apr 24 2019
What's your favourite ever work perk?
Some teachers paid less than minimum wage
Apr 24 2019
Some teachers whose qualifications are still being processed are being paid a temporary wage which ends up being less than $17.70 an hour. Stephanie Mills from the NZ Education Institute joins us to explain how the situation has come about.
As Sri Lanka mourns, Ardern challenges world leaders
Apr 24 2019
Jacinda Ardern is trying to lead global efforts, in concert with France, to end the use of social media to promote and organise terrorism. But is our voice loud enough to make a difference on the world stage?
What does Anzac Day mean in 2019?
Apr 24 2019
On the eve of Anzac Day, the panel ponders whether the meaning of a commemorative day can change over time.
The Panel with Michelle Boag and Golnaz Bassam-Tabar (Part 2)
Apr 24 2019
"What's your favourite ever work perk?". Maori seats have been effective in getting more Maori into parliament - but there's a big dearth of Maori among local councils. Should - and can - we introduce similar structures? Some religious groups are missing out on funding because they object to taking money that comes from gambling. Why are so many charitable groups reliant on the pokies to stay solvent? Consent has been granted for a controversial extension of Queen's Wharf in Auckland, allowing h...more
The Panel with Michelle Boag and Golnaz Bassam-Tabar (Part 1)
Apr 24 2019
On the eve of Anzac Day, the panel ponders whether the meaning of a commemorative day can change over time. Jacinda Ardern is trying to lead global efforts, in concert with France, to end the use of social media to promote and organise terrorism. But is our voice loud enough to make a difference on the world stage? Some teachers whose qualifications are still being processed are being paid a temporary wage which ends up being less than $17.70 an hour. Stephanie Mills from the NZ Education Instit...more
I've been thinking for 24 April 2019
Apr 24 2019
What the Panelists Michelle Boag and Golnaz Bassam-Tabar have been thinking about.
Story of the Day for 24 April 2019
Apr 24 2019
If you're a bit upset about not having many Twitter followers - call a meeting with the company's CEO. Oh, you think you might find that tricky? Well, it's not if you're the president of the USA.
Where are all the monarch butterflies?
Apr 23 2019
The number of monarch butterflies seems to be eroding year after year. Jacqui Knight from the Monarch Butterfly New Zealand Trust joins us with her theory as to why, and tips on how you can help them flourish if you're so inclined
Does Queenstown need to crack down on AirBnB?
Apr 23 2019
New research suggests AirBnBs are disproportionately located in our busiest tourist hotspots, like Queenstown and Wanaka. How badly is it affecting those housing markets?
Watershed moment for plastics
Apr 23 2019
International complications around recycling mean certaintypes of plastic are likely to soon be unviable - and could put landfill under pressure.
Question of the Day for 23 April 2019
Apr 23 2019
What habits most annoy you when flying?
Govt admits it won't meet police target
Apr 23 2019
The government won't meet its target of recruiting an extra 1800 police officers by 2020 - does this call into question its credibility?
Nearly 300 dead in Sri Lanka bombings
Apr 23 2019
Nearly 300 people have died in a series of hotel and church bombings in Sri Lanka over the weekend. The University of Waikato's Professor Al Gillespie joins us to talk about the significance and fallout from the attacks.
The Panel with Peter Elliott and Tayyaba Khan (Part 2)
Apr 23 2019
What habits most annoy you when flying? International complications around recycling mean certaintypes of plastic are likely to soon be unviable - and could put landfill under pressure. New research suggests AirBnBs are disproportionately located in our busiest tourist hotspots, like Queenstown and Wanaka. How badly is it affecting those housing markets? The number of monarch butterflies seems to be eroding year after year. Jacqui Knight from the Monarch Butterfly New Zealand Trust joins us with...more
The Panel with Peter Elliott and Tayyaba Khan (Part 1)
Apr 23 2019
Nearly 300 people have died in a series of hotel and church bombings in Sri Lanka over the weekend. The University of Waikato's Professor Al Gillespie joins us to talk about the significance and fallout from the attacks. The government won't meet its target of recruiting an extra 1800 police officers by 2020 - does this call into question its credibility?
I've been thinking for 23 April 2019
Apr 23 2019
What the Panelists Peter Elliott and Tayyaba Khan have been thinking about.
Story of the Day for 23 April 2019
Apr 23 2019
I think we know that the Grammy-winning singer Adele is the queen of break up anthems. The reason we bring it up is that over the weekend it was revealed that Adele has split from her husband - sure gossip news but the response has been huge and slightly concerning.