Newsable

How good is David Seymour's call to cut what he describes as a bloated number of MPs pocketing easy money as highly paid ministers? So good. There is so much waste at the top of government, and it's an insult to ordinary, hard-working Kiwis says Paddy Gower. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tory Whanau should be saluted for putting Wellington first and saving a no-doubt divisive and energy-sapping scrap for the mayoral race with Andrew Little, says TFN host Paddy Gower. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Prime Minister's wife has offered one of the best takes on the polarisation of politics that Paddy Gower has ever heard, revealing her to be incredibly down-to-earth, grounded, principled, and thoughtful. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a five-part investigation, Stuff senior journalist Lloyd Burr is revisiting a fascinating, turbulent and tumultuous time in New Zealand politics to analyse Jacinda Ardern's dramatic rise, her fall, and how the country fell out of love with her. All this week, the Newsable feed will carry full audio from extended interviews with key figures in her story. Today: Associate Professor of Leadership at Massey University, Dr Suze Wilson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In his first interview since being sacked as New Zealand's High Commissioner to the UK, Phil Goff tells Paula Penfold why he said what he did about US President Donald Trump, and why, even though it cost him his job, he has no regrets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paddy Gower doesn't really like yachting and doesn't live in Auckland. But he says the Government's refusal to help fund hosting the America's Cup is lame-o and suckful, lacks vision, and is actually quite depressing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a five-part investigation, Stuff senior journalist Lloyd Burr is revisiting a fascinating, turbulent and tumultuous time in New Zealand politics to analyse Jacinda Ardern's dramatic rise, her fall, and how the country fell out of love with her. All this week, the Newsable feed will carry full audio from extended interviews with key figures in her story. Today: Former Chief Executive of the Employers and Manufacturers Association, Brett O'Reilly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a five-part investigation, Stuff senior journalist Lloyd Burr is revisiting a fascinating, turbulent and tumultuous time in New Zealand politics to analyse Jacinda Ardern's dramatic rise, her fall, and how the country fell out of love with her. All this week, the Newsable feed will carry full audio from extended interviews with key figures in her story. Today: Senior Political Correspondent Jenna Lynch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a five-part investigation, Stuff senior journalist Lloyd Burr is revisiting a fascinating, turbulent and tumultuous time in New Zealand politics to analyse Jacinda Ardern's dramatic rise, her fall, and how the country fell out of love with her. All this week, the Newsable feed will carry full audio from extended interviews with key figures in her story. Today: Green Party co-leader James Shaw. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a five-part investigation, Stuff senior journalist Lloyd Burr is revisiting a fascinating, turbulent and tumultuous time in New Zealand politics to analyse Jacinda Ardern's dramatic rise, her fall, and how the country fell out of love with her. All this week, the Newsable feed will carry full audio from extended interviews with key figures in her story. Today: Ardern's predecessor as Labour leader, Andrew Little. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adolescence, the Netflix blockbuster that has everyone talking - and every parent freaking out about kids and phones - is terrifyingly good, says Paddy Gower. Speaking on his TFN show, Gower said that while the series features amazing acting and impressive single-camera shots, its real impact lies in how it has reignited the debate about social media and managing children's access to smartphones. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In his first interview since his health deteriorated, Dai Henwood reveals just how "grim" the past month has been. Speaking with Samantha Hayes at his home, he described his current symptoms as inescapable - completely different to dealing with bowel cancer - and a constant weight on his mind. This week, Henwood faces his 35th round of chemotherapy, the after-effects of which he likens to "the worst hangover you've ever had." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former Black Sticks star Gemma McCaw is juggling three children under six, an extreme fitness regime, and a deep love of books - while taking a firm stance against screen time. Her household is a no-television zone for most of the week. Instead, they read up to five books each in the evening, fostering a love of books in her daughters, aged 2, 3, and 6 years old. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

More than 100 organisations from 14 countries, collectively managing around $6 trillion in funds, gathered in Auckland for the summit. They heard from a range of speakers about potential investment opportunities as the government seeks to attract investors to fund the country's infrastructure. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon addressed media as the summit wrapped up. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At this week's post-Cabinet press conference, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced that he will travel to India next week in an effort to advance a trade agreement. Meanwhile, Transport Minister Chris Bishop revealed that the government is opening registrations of interest for the first stage of the Northland Expressway at this week's NZ Infrastructure Investment Summit. Luxon then answered questions from the media regarding Andrew Bayly "taking some time out" to climb Mt. Everest after resigning as a minister, the challenges facing the school lunch program, and the latest Taxpayers' Union-Curia poll, which shows Labour leader Chris Hipkins overtaking Luxon as the preferred Prime Minister. Regarding the poll results, Luxon stated that he has never been overly concerned with polling, adding, "Ultimately, New Zealand is going to judge me at the election in 2026." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Labour leader Chris Hipkins has introduced a refreshed lineup and outlined three key priorities - jobs, health, and housing - during his State of the Nation Speech at the Auckland Business Chamber. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Government says it is delivering on its commitment to fixing New Zealand's broken healthcare system by improving access to healthcare for all Kiwis. At the regular post-Cabinet press conference, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon described Health NZ as a “low-performing organisation” in need of transformation. Meanwhile, Health Minister Simeon Brown announced several key initiatives aimed at improving the sector. After the announcement, Luxon was asked about the tense meeting between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He described it as a “tough watch” but reiterated that New Zealand's support for Ukraine remains unchanged. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Government has announced a series of reforms to give businesses additional tools to deal with those that are robbing them. These include: Amending the Crimes Act so that citizens can intervene to stop any Crimes Act offence at any time of the day. Requiring that a person making an arrest contact police and follow police instructions. Clarifying that restraints can be used, when reasonable, when making an arrest. Changing the defence of property provisions to the Crimes Act so it is clear that reasonable force may be used. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon faced questions from the media following National MP Andrew Bayly's resignation after an incident involving 'inappropriate behaviour' with a staff member. Luxon said he asked Bayly to explain what happened but would not provide further details, stating, "It's good that he recognised he didn't meet his own standards." Luxon said resigning was the right decision. Labour leader Chris Hipkins then held a press conference, accusing Luxon of failing to show appropriate leadership in handling the situation. He said the issue could have been resolved within 24 hours and described allowing it to drag on over the weekend as "unbelievable". Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

National's Andrew Bayly has resigned as a minister this morning after what he described as an "animated discussion" escalated, resulting in him placing a hand on a member of staff. Bayly called his behaviour "inappropriate" and expressed deep regret. He stated that he has taken personal responsibility for his actions, which is why he decided to step down. Bayly also confirmed that he has apologised to the staff member involved. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As widely predicted, the Reserve Bank has cut the official cash rate by 50 basis points to 3.75%, the lowest level in two years. RBNZ Governor Adrian Orr held a press conference following the decision, stating that the cut reflects the ongoing decline in inflation and their confidence that this trend will continue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Conservation Minister Tama Potaka have announced that $30 million from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy will fund over a dozen projects aimed at boosting tourism and biodiversity. $11 million will go toward managing infrastructure at some of New Zealand's most popular visitor sites, while $19 million will go into protecting biodiversity by reducing the spread of invasive species. The announcement was made at the regular post-Cabinet press conference, where the Prime Minister was also questioned about the recent Destiny Church protests. He said he thought the protesters crossed the line, and that it was "not the Kiwi way." Luxon also said that the Government would consider reviewing the church's charitable status "in due course". Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop have announced that the Government will host an international investment summit for around 100 high-profile investors, business leaders, and construction companies from around the world. The summit will be held on March 13 and 14, and aims to "highlight partnership opportunities for overseas investment". Following the announcement, Luxon faced questions from the media about ACT Party leader David Seymour driving a Land Rover up the steps of Parliament, to which he responded "I'm not interested in those political sideshows". He was also questioned about Seymours letter in support of Philip Polkinghorne, and the Cook Islands - China deal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Despite being asked to stay away, ACT party leader David Seymour has spoken at Waitangi. As Seymour began to speak, men on the paepae stood then turned their backs on him. His microphone was then taken by Aperahama Edwards. He was given a new one, which was taken again. *Audio has been left as it was live, with the gaps in David Seymours speech due to his microphone being taken away.* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Housing Minister Chris Bishop has released Kāinga Ora's “turnaround plan”, which he says will refocus the housing agency on its core purpose of being a “good social landlord” and help it build new homes at market rate or cheaper. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Transport Minister Chris Bishop have announced a total of 38 sections of the state highway network will have their higher speed limits reversed back to their previous levels. The reversals will be completed by July 1st, with State Highway 2 between Featherston and Masterton in the Wairarapa the first section to have its limit increased again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ACT Party leader David Seymour has given his State of the Nation speech, saying New Zealand needs to move past the “squeamishness” of privatisation and have more honest conversations about what the government spends, owns, and regulates. He raised the issues of asset sales, questioning whether New Zealand was making the best use of the Government's $0.5 trillion plus worth of assets, and allowing people to opt out of public healthcare, suggesting people could get better value for their healthcare if that money went to individuals' own private insurance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has given the annual State of the Nation address while speaking to the Auckland Chamber of Commerce. He began by saying his speech will focus on the economy and "almost nothing else". He was true to his word, using the speech to take aim at New Zealand's “culture of saying no”, saying it held back economic growth. Luxon went on to announce the government is setting up a new foreign investment agency, called Invest New Zealand, aimed at boosting productivity and innovation. He also announced major reform to Crown Research Institutes, including transferring them into four new Public Research Organisations to be focused on bio-economy, earth sciences, health and forensic sciences, and AI and other advanced technologies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump has been sworn in as US president for the second time. The 47th president delivered his inauguration speech from inside the US Capitol where he outlined his immediate priorities whilst also criticising the previous Biden administration. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Outgoing US President Joe Biden has given his farewell speech to the American people from the Oval Office. As well as hailing his administrations accomplishments over the past four years, he also warned of a “dangerous concentration of power”, saying an “oligarchy” of ultra-wealthy is “taking shape in America”.

Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming died after being struck by a vehicle in central Nelson just after 2am on New Year's Day. She has been farewelled in a ceremony in Nelson with heartfelt tributes from family and colleagues, including Police Commissioner Richard Chambers. 

Erica Stanford, the Minister in charge Government's Response to the Royal Commission's Report into Historical Abuse in State Care, has confirmed survivors of torture at Lake Alice will receive a $150,000 redress payment, or can request an independent arbiter make an individual assessment. Stanford said the government has set aside up to $22.68 million for the redress scheme.

Six60 frontman Matiu Walters says he no longer cares about topping the charts and the band's “legacy” as much as he once did, saying he now prefers to focus on being “creatively brave" instead. The reason for the change? Fatherhood. Walters spoke openly and honestly about how being a dad has changed him on Paddy Gower's "The F#$%ing News" show this week. Click here to watch the full episode, or search for "Paddy Gower's TFN" to listen on your favourite podcast player.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon addressed questions put to him by media on a number of issues currently under the spotlight, including the Government's plan for the Cook Strait ferries, the changes to ACC levies, and an indecent assault of two women by visiting members of the Vietnamese Government.

Finance Minister Nicola Willis and newly-appointed Minister for Rail Winston Peters have announced it is establishing a new company to procure two new ferries for the Cook Strait.  The ferries are expected to begin operation in 2029 as the existing ferries reach the end of their operating lives. Willis would not disclose what the project will cost, saying that information is commercially confidential until procurement and negotiations for the associated landside infrastructure have been completed.

Climate Change Minister Simon Watts has released details of the Government's blueprint for emissions reduction over the next five years. The second Emissions Reduction Plan sets the foundation to meet the net zero 2050 target as early as 2044, and will focus on eight key policies that have the greatest potential emissions savings.

Greyhound racing is to be phased out in New Zealand over the next 20 months Racing Minister Winston Peters has announced. The decision was driven by multiple reviews and high injury rates, and has cross-party support.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Finance Minister Nicola Willis have outlined plans to improve competition in New Zealand's banking sector. The government will accelerate moves to provide Kiwibank with access to more capital, and take steps to ensure the Reserve Bank places greater importance on banking competition.

Former All Black Ali Williams is now football-mad. He is not only a member of the Auckland FC ownership group, but, as he tells Paddy Gower, he is on a mission to make football bigger than rugby in New Zealand's largest city. ### This conversation featured as part of Paddy's "The F#$%ing News" podcast. Click here to listen to the full episode, or search for "Paddy Gower's TFN" on your favourite podcast player.

The large Canterbury wildfire in the Bridge Hill area that caused multiple evacuations is still not contained, according to Fire and Emergency New Zealand. The fire doubled in size overnight and is now nearly 1000 hectares, with one structure, Holloway Lodge, so far lost to the blaze. It's believed to be an old New Zealand forest service hutt.

In a wide-ranging conversation, Stuff's senior political correspondent Jenna Lynch sat down with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to talk about the state of New Zealand's health system, the coalition government, military academies, guns, cost of living, the treaty principles debate, and what 2025 could have in store.

After a nearly 7 week trial, Chinese national Tingjun Cao has been found guilty of murdering Christchurch real estate agent Yanfei Bao. Bao went missing in July 2023, with her body being found in a shallow grave just over a year later. Jake Kenny from The Press looks back on what was an extraordinary trial.

Transport Minister Simeon Brown and Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown have announced major changes to Auckland's transport policy decision making structure. This includes returning regional and transport planning to Auckland Council, and establishing a new Auckland Regional Transport Committee that will be tasked with developing a 30 year transport plan for Auckland, to be agreed upon by both Cabinet and Auckland Council. The changes mean Local Boards will also now have authority over certain transport decisions such as parking policies, and setting of speed limits.

Paddy Gower sits down with Shortland Street actor Bella Kalolo-Suraj to talk about the hurtful messages she receives about her weight and the effect they have on her. Kalolo-Suraj, who was recently named New Zealand's Television Personality of the Year for her role as Selina To'a, told Paddy she's been fat-shamed with online messages that often start with “I don't want to offend, but...”. This conversation featured as part of Paddy's "The F#$%ing News" podcast. Click here to listen to the full episode, or search for "Paddy Gower's TFN" on your favourite podcast player. ### Paddy is touring Aotearoa New Zealand this November and December with a LIVE SHOW, bringing the TFN positivity to your town. He'll share yarns from his book, find a local Good Kiwi, and he's keen to meet you. For tickets go to paddygower.co.nz

Defence Minister Judith Collins and Chief of Navy Rear Admiral Garin Golding speak after an interim Court of Inquiry report found the sinking of the HMNZS Manawanui off the coast of Samoa in October was the result of a "series of human errors".

Labour leader Chris Hipkins, who was the former Covid-19 response minister, reacts to the Royal Commission of Inquiry into New Zealand's Covid-19 response releasing it's Phase One report.

Christopher Luxon has said a crash between his limo and a police car was “a bit of a shock” but luckily no-one was hurt. He also fielded questions on the Royal Commission of Inquiry's imminent report into New Zealand's Covid-19 response, and Winston Peter's recent comments suggesting he may be "struggling" in the role of Prime Minister.

There have been 76 reports or inquiries into various elements of the Covid-19 pandemic in New Zealand. The latest will be the biggest so far: a Royal Commission of Inquiry. But it's only ‘Phase One'. Stuff's Explainer Editor Lloyd Burr sat down with the Inquiry Chair, Professor Tony Blakely, who talked about Voices For Freedom, Jacinda Ardern, and why Winston Peters has beef with him.

As expected the Reserve Bank has dropped the official cash rate by 50 basis points to 4.25%, the lowest level since November 2022. Once again we've enlisted the services of Brad Olsen from Infometrics to tell us what this means in real terms.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Labour Party leader Chris Hipkins have paid tribute to former National Party minister Nikki Kaye, who has passed away aged 44 following a long battle with breast cancer. Sir John Key, who was Prime Minister when Kaye was a minister, also spoke about her political and personal legacy.

Former National Party Minister Nikki Kaye has died at the age of 44, after a long battle with breast cancer. Tributes have been pouring in from across the political spectrum. In 2020, she gave her valedictory statement to Parliament after 12 years as the MP for Auckland Central.