Wellington Mornings with Nick Mills

The annual Cuba Dupa festival hits Wellington this weekend from 28-29th March. Nick speaks to Director Bianca Bailey to see what we can expect from this year's event. The free event runs over Saturday and Sunday, and will feature over 210 acts, 70 food vendors, 220 performances. The festival is expecting tens of thousands of visitors, Bailey shares how they are preparing and what to look forward to this year. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Wellington Region ranked lowest in ASBs latest regional economic scoreboard. Nick speaks to Dot Loves Data Director and former Wellington Mayor Justin Lester on the issue. Lester says there are positives coming for Wellington, and is confident that our economy is recovering - just slowly. He talks through the causes and effects of our economic downfall and the comparisons to other regions - like Canterbury which is blossoming. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

EDITORIAL: Let's just call this out for what it is, because I think a lot of people are thinking the same as me here. When I saw Nicola Willis standing there at Marsden Point—hard hat on, big fuel tanker behind her—telling us we've got seven weeks of fuel supply, I thought, right… we get it. Message received. But then it quickly turned from reassurance into something else entirely. It started to feel like a staged photo opportunity at a time when the country should be in serious, disciplined mode. Mixed messages, anyone? Because here's the reality—this isn't business as usual. We've got a very volatile situation in the Middle East, real disruption risks through the Strait of Hormuz, and global oil prices already climbing. This can turn quickly. Especially tomorrow afternoon when Trumps deadline runs out. And if/when it does, countries like New Zealand—at the end of the supply chain and fully reliant on imported refined fuel—are exposed. That's not opinion. That's fact. And then I started thinking… could she have delivered that exact same message from Wellington? From her office? With the right backdrop? Because think about it. Car to the airport. Flight to Auckland. Car to Marsden Point. Car back to the airport. Flight home. Car back home Is that really the signal we want to send to New Zealanders right now? Be careful with fuel… while we burn it for optics? Mixed messages. So when the Government tells us we've got seven weeks' supply, but in the same breath says that depends on ships continuing to arrive—that's not comforting. That's conditional. That's “we're okay… as long as nothing else goes wrong.” And in a situation like this, plenty can go wrong. Which brings me back to the optics. If fuel security genuinely matters—if we may need to prioritise who gets fuel and when—then every decision should reflect that seriousness. Every litre should matter. So why in the world are we flying ministers around the country for what looks like a PR exercise? Why are we burning aviation fuel to stand in front of a ship and tell us what we already know? Mixed messages. It sends the wrong signal. It tells people this is still about presentation, not preparation. About being seen to be in control, rather than actually tightening the screws and planning for worst scenarios. And look—I understand the need for people to be reassured. Markets are jittery. Households are hurting. No one wants panic. But reassurance has to come with backed by behaviour. You can't tell people to brace for higher costs, hint at fuel prioritisation, and then carry on with business-as-usual optics. So here's the real question—what happens in five or six weeks if nothing improves? Are we still rolling out the same message? Still relying on ships turning up on time? Or are we finally forced into the harder decisions we should be preparing for right now? Because from where I sit, this moment demands absolute seriousness. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nick is joined on the Business Panel this week by General Manager of Wellington on a Plate (WOAP) and Beervana, Penny de Borst and Gollins Commercial property broker, Chris Gollins. Our guests discuss doing business in Wellington City and how it's changing this year. In time of turmoil for the city - we hear about the success of de Borst and Gollins' businesses, the hardships and the plans ahead. How has WOAP shaped our city's hospo space and how are Gollins finding their buyers are responding to the economic environment in Wellington? How are the industries coping with price increases - fuel, food, compliance, living costs - what's the year ahead looking like with these rises? Then how can we support local businesses? The panel talks the council, the mayor and the library opening. What does it mean to be a part of Wellington? And the city is predicting an increase of fewer than 800 people over the next five year - how do we bring back and keep people in the city? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nick Mills wraps the week with former Wellington City Mayor Dame Kerry Prendergast and former Upper Hutt Mayor Wayne Guppy. Are we panicking too much over the fuel supply from the Strait of Hormuz? Or is this justified? How badly is our country going to be impacted by the US/Israel Iran conflict? Fuel, food, economy – our guest faceoff on the important issues of the week. They discuss line of privacy as a public figure. Both have had to endure the political spotlight on their family lives and give their take on the situation around Minister Hipkins this week. Where does public interest end? Last year there was a speeding fine issued every minute, now the AA is calling for fines to double. Do our panel think this will help deter speeders? Then Prendergast and Guppy faceoff about the affordability of mince. Are there any cheap family meals anymore? Moa Point inquiry – costing over 5 thousand a day. The inquiry is being headed by a former head of Wellington Water, what do our panel think of this appointment and the progress from this? And are parents justified for criticising teachers for giving out lollies? Is it an issue for their health and behaviour, or uproar over nothing? Plus the panels hot or nots. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For this week's Friday Sport Kick-off, Nick is joined by Newstalk ZB's sports gurus Adam Cooper and Jason Pine. How are the Hurricanes looking for the season? Cooper thinks tonight's game against the Highlanders is the true test. The crew look at the games ahead for the Hurricanes and the starting players – including Ruben Love. Phoenix Women are the centre of attention and with a big week ahead this might be the Phoenix club's chance at silverware. They play Sydney FC tonight. To the men's team– the foundations are there, but how will they keep the shoots growing against Brisbane tomorrow? And both White Ferns and Black Caps in T20 double headers - Eden Park tonight, Hnry Stadium on Sunday. What are the chances of keeping our key players? Plus who stole Nick's highlighter? Find out on Friday Sport kickoff. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

EDITORIAL: I want to spend this morning talking about something I'm genuinely concerned about. I want to be tough on crime, like everyone does. I want to be serious about saving lives on our roads, course we do, that's a no brainer. So this is exactly where you start. The latest numbers are in, and they are big. Police issued 538,192 speeding fines in 2025—now that's the highest in 15 years. Break that down, and it's more than one fine every single minute of the year. That's up from 461,000 in 2024 and 402,000 in 2023. So enforcement isn't just rising—it's ramping up fast. Those fines brought in $54.2 million, with the average sitting around $100. And that's just tickets issued by officers—not even counting speed cameras. Now, some people hear that and say, “Here we go, revenue gathering.” I don't see it that way. Because at the same time enforcement has gone up, road fatalities have been trending down from previous highs. Even the AA's road safety spokesperson has said it's hard to prove direct link—but they also say they don't think it's a coincidence that stronger enforcement and lower road deaths are happening at the same time. And that makes sense, doesn't it? Speed is consistently identified by Police as a leading contributor to crashes and the severity of those crashes. So if you increase enforcement, you increase deterrence. And if you increase deterrence, you reduce risk. It's not complicated. Now look—I don't like getting a speeding ticket any more than anyone else. But I like even less watching someone scream past me at crazy speed and thinking, “That's someone who could kill someone today.” So if Police are out there in greater force, doing exactly what they've said they'll do—targeting speed—then good. That's their job. But here's where I think we need to go further. These fines are stuck in the last century. Literally. They were set in 1999, and since then, incomes have roughly doubled. Even the AA and the Transport Minister have acknowledged the penalties are too low. The AA has said that, at a minimum - double, an inflation adjustment would effectively mean doubling the fines. And I agree. Because if a fine doesn't hurt, it doesn't change behaviour. It just becomes part of the cost of driving badly. If you've only got a hundred dollar fine, but two hundred - you'd be thinking that's tough. So lift them. Make them meaningful. Make them immediate. Make them a proper deterrent. Because here's the bottom line. Nobody wants that knock on the door. Nobody wants that phone call telling you someone you love isn't coming home. If tougher enforcement is already working—and the data strongly suggests it is—then why wouldn't we learn from this, why wouldn't we make it harsher? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For Politics Thursday this week Nick is joined by Labour MP Ginny Andersen and National MP for Otaki Tim Costley. After this week's events with Minister Chris Hipkins family life reaching the public eye - we talk to our politicians around where we draw the line for privacy as a public figure. Then panel tackle the top political issues of the week starting with the latest GDP increase of 0..2% - what does this signify for everyday Kiwis? Discussion gets heated over food cost - the price of mince has risen 23.2% in the last year to an average of $24.46 a kg. What do our politicians think of this? And what will they do about it? Costley and Andersen also talk about doubling speeding fines as AA calls for an increase to cope with inflation but also deter drivers from speeding. There were 538,192 fines issued over 2025 - more than one per minute. Also on the agenda is fuel levels, changes to asylum seeker rules, and do parents have the right to be mad if their child is given sugar in class? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The cult classic Rocky Horror show is back in Wellington with the West End cast performing at the St James Theatre. Nick is joined in the studio today by star and Frank-N-Furter himself, Stephen Webb. Stephen, along with all the cast and live band have flown all the way from London and the West End production of the hit musical. He shares what it's like touring, bringing it to NZ and what makes audiences go crazy for the show. Nick and Stephen also talk Richard O'Brien and the show's Kiwi origins. The musical starts tonight and goes to Sunday 29th March. Get tickets here. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

EDITORIAL: Last week on the show we talked about something that doesn't get said enough in politics—that some people are just too nice for it. We mentioned Shane Reti. A genuinely decent man. And I'm going to say the same thing again today about Chris Hipkins. I've met him several times. Always the same—polite, grounded, asks how you are and actually cares, actually listens. Not a show, not an act. Just a decent bloke trying to do his best. And that's why what we're seeing right now doesn't sit well with me at all. Because here's the reality: this is a marriage breakup. It's messy, it's emotional, and it's personal. There are allegations being thrown around—none of them criminal, none of them proven—and yet all of sudden it's front-page news, it's talkback fodder, it's social media feeding frenzy. And I just think—where does it stop? Honestly, where do we draw the line? Chris Hipkins has come out, denied the claims, said they're untrue, and made it very clear he's not going to fight this out in public. And I respect that. I actually really respect that. Because the moment you start litigating your personal life in the media, nobody wins. Nobody. But what really got me yesterday—what genuinely hit me—was watching him get emotional when reporters asked about his children. That's the line for me. When children are involved, that's where it stops being politics. That's where it stops being “public interest.” That's where it becomes something that should be left alone. We all know breakups are hard. Anyone who's been through one knows how ugly they can get, how complicated they can get, how emotional they can get. Now imagine going through that with cameras in your face, microphones shoved at you, headlines being written about your private life. And think about the kids. Is that what we want politics to be? Because if it is—if the standard now is that every aspect of your personal life can be dragged into the public arena, judged, disrespected, and weaponised—then I'll tell you right now, most good people won't go near politics. And let's be honest for a second—if every one of us had our private lives exposed - and I have - every argument, every mistake, every rough patch… how many of us come out of that looking perfect? Not many. If any. Probably none. So for me, this isn't about left or right. It's not about Labour or National. It's about basic decency. Yes—hold politicians to account for their public decisions. Absolutely. That's where we hold them to account. But their private lives? Their families? Their kids? That's not ours. That's theirs, and only theirs. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good morning, New Zealand. Let's start the show this morning by asking you a simple question: how fragile is our economy right now, really? Because just when it feels like we might finally be seeing those green shoots growing, a bit of momentum, a bit of optimism creeping back into the country — along comes another debate that feels like it could shut things down yet again. Yes, petrol prices are climbing, pushed higher by the conflict involving Iran, and there are already calls for people — particularly public servants — to start working from home again to save fuel. The Public Service Association says the Government should actively encourage working from home if people can, urging it would reduce fuel use and save workers money. But the Government, so far, is pushing back. Public Service Minister Judith Collins says working from home is not an entitlement, and that agencies should manage arrangements in a way that supports a high-performing public service. Finance Minister Nicola Willis says she's not about to start telling New Zealanders how to live their lives — whether that means working from home or driving slower to save fuel. And Acting Prime Minister David Seymour says the Government wants to see how the private sector reacts first, because businesses out there are managing their own money. And honestly — I think that's the right instinct. Because here's the bigger issue for me. We are only just starting to feel like the country might be turning a corner. Businesses are cautiously optimistic. Hospitality is starting to breathe again. Retailers are seeing people come back through the door. The economy finally feels like it might be finding its feet. And the last thing we need right now is another policy that slows productivity down. We cannot control a war on the other side of the world. We can't control global oil prices. But we can control how we respond here in New Zealand. And if the first response is telling everyone to stay home again, to drive less, to shut down the normal rhythm of work and business — what does that do to the economy? Can everyone remember covid lockdowns again? What does that do to spending? What does that do to the next twelve months of growth in this country? Working from home as a national response should be an absolute last resort, not the first suggestion that gets thrown around. Because when people stay home, fewer coffees get bought. Fewer lunches get eaten in town. Fewer people go into the shops. Fewer businesses see customers walking through their doors. The better approach — surely — is to focus on fuel security. Get alternative supply lines. Strengthen our reserves. Make sure the country keeps moving rather than slowing down or stopping. Because right now, New Zealand doesn't need another disruption. What we need is confidence, productivity, and momentum, which we have got. And whatever decisions are made in Wellington over the coming weeks, they should have one simple goal in mind: keep the country moving forward, not backwards. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

All gift cards sold or given out with a purchase now have a minimum expiry date of three years as yesterday the government has amended the Fair Trading (gift card expiry) Act. Why is it not longer or unlimited? Nick speaks to Consumer NZ spokesperson Jessica Walker discusses the changes and how they will affect customers. Walker says they have been campaigning on the amendments for 10 years, as they estimate $10 million in wasted gift cards goes unspent every year in NZ. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has arrived in Samoa, and on the agenda is a ceremony to receive the matai, chief title. This visit is the first for Luxon in Samoa, and his first time meeting Samoa PM La'aulialemalietoa Polataivao Leuatea Fosi Schmidt since he was elected in September. Reports that he had requested the title have been debunked by the Prime Minister and his team. Other Prime Ministers have previously received the honour. NZ Herald political reporter Julia Gabel is with him in Samoa and chats with Nick about the media fuss surrounding the matai title and what else is on the PM's agenda. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For Friday Faceoff this week Nick is joined in the studio by lawyer and former MP Stephen Franks and managing director of Gazley Motors Myles Gazley. Starting with the government's warnings of carless days due to fuel shortages from the Iran conflict. Gazley and Franks give their insight into the issue, the response from the government and the public. Should the government implement the idea, or are there better alternatives? Then how's our council doing? As the spending budget for Mayor Little's triennium plan goes through - with amendments to climate funds. Our panel faceoff on the solution - is it amalgamation? We hear what the panel think of the Wellington mayors' letter to the Prime Minister opposing move on orders. And Te Matapihi Wellington Central Library opens tomorrow. What do Gazley and Franks think of the 178k opening celebration budget? And is this the library of the future, or an overspend? Plus they give their hots or nots for the week. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week for Friday Sport Kick-off Nick is joined by Jason Pine to wrap the weeks sport - and what's to come for the weekend. Starting with the biggest question in rugby at the moment - who will be Dave Rennie's All Blacks assistant coach? Jason and Nick talk Tana Umaga and Cory Jane, their stats, their legacy and hopes for the job. Tonight the Hurricanes play the Force in Napier, they go through what's expected and how the team is progressing to the championship. Plus, the Phoenix double header at Hnry stadium on Saturday - Match for Good. They dissect the success of Bev Priestman as the head coach of the women's team. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week for Politics Thursday Nick is joined by Labour MP and spokesperson for Health and Wellington Issues, Ayesha Verrall and National MP for Otaki, Tim Costley. Yesterday the Covid-19 response findings were released, what have our politicians learned from these findings? Verrall, who was associate health minister at the time, shares her thoughts on the inquiry findings surrounding spendings, teenage vaccination health concerns and lockdowns. Was the 30-million-dollar inquiry worth it? They also cover the union outcry over primary teacher individual pay deals, and the letter from Wellington regional mayors and community leaders opposing move on orders. Plus, Shane Reti exits the beehive - are some people too good to last in parliament? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nick chats to Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith after an open letter was signed by Wellington's regional mayors. The letter states the mayors and other community leaders reject the government's plan to give police power to move on rough sleepers for 24 hours. Minister Goldsmith shares his thoughts on the rejection of the orders, and the reputation of Wellington. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington Regional mayors, iwi and community leaders have signed an open letter to the Prime Minister stating that new move on orders are not welcome in the area. The move on orders have been proposed by the government to cope with growing numbers of homeless people in city centres - giving police powers to move people for 24 hours. The letter from the mayors is concerned that this is not the best way to deal with the issue and will cause harm in the community. Nick speaks with Hutt City Mayor Ken Laban about signing the letter, and the alternatives that the mayors are requesting. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The new Central Library, Te Matapihi Ki te Ao Nui is opening this weekend, March 14th. To celebrate the council is throwing an opening ceremony – originally budgeted at a $405k cost to the rate payer. After receiving the budget, Mayor Andrew Little slashed the cost to $178k. The library is reopening after 7 years of earthquake strengthening and refurbishments. The opening event includes a 300 person choir and jazz musicians. Nick speaks to Mayor Little about the process of halting the spending, and the concern from the public about rate rises. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For our business panel this week Nick is joined in the studio by Retail NZ CEO, Carolyn Young and employment law expert and partner at JB Morrison, Tess von Dadelszen. Young and von Dadelszen discuss doing business in the city, in such hostile times in terms of international, national and local politics. Starting with the effect of the Iran conflict, what are the effects of instability and price rises having on their businesses and their clients? The council financial saving plan is out. Will this actually change anything for businesses? How do our guests think this council is going? Then onto how their businesses are effected by our own government's instability. As talk continues about Luxon as leader, our panel discuss how their businesses are impacted from both a retail and legal point of view. And how are business leaders coping with the cost of living crises, how selling and buying businesses is going and as a city what we need to do better. Plus as the Moa Point saga continues, Mayor Andrew Little says that businesses will not receive financial compensation, although spending in Lyall Bay hospitality is down 40% - our guests look into the legality of this and how businesses can deal with the disaster. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week for Beehive Buzz, Nick is joined by Newstalk ZB Political Reporter Azaria Howell. Rumours swirl around Prime Minister Luxon's position and a coup, after last week's Curia poll result had National at 28%. And tomorrow the findings from the report on the Governments Covid-19 response are released. What is the feeling in the beehive right now, and what is expected to come of this? For the latest from the parliament, Beehive Buzz. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington City Council's revenue and financial working group has released their report with 50 suggestions to cut council spending and rates rises. Chair of the group and deputy mayor Ben McNulty joins Nick to discuss the findings of the report. The report will head to public consultation, after the council meeting on Thursday. The report aims to save about $8 -10 million, including cutting the council's climate budget by $1.65 million. McNulty shares how the decisions were made, the limits and the future of the report. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

OPINION: Luxon should not bow down to negative polls. What a weekend it's been for Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. And strangely enough, the whole situation really kicked off right here on this show on Friday morning with a little chat with Nicola Willis. The results of the poll were out, people were talking about miserable they were, the Nicola Willis interview kicked it off. It started the conversation again — a question about pressure and about how bad a poll has to be before a change in leadership is talked about — and then suddenly it grew legs. By the afternoon it was on national television, it was on Heather du Plessis-Allan's show, and the Prime Minister himself was fronting it. And he said it clearly - he is absolutely not stepping down. Now I've got to tell you something honestly — all Friday afternoon I kept thinking to myself, good. I hope he doesn't quit. Because look around the world right now. Everywhere you go, people are unhappy with the leader they've got. Why? Governments are being hammered by economic pressure, global instability, wars, the aftershocks of the pandemic, and recession. It's not exactly an easy time to be in charge of a country. The latest polling hasn't been kind to Luxon. A Freshwater Strategy poll reported by The Post shows 51% of voters say he should be replaced as National Party leader, while only 36% believe he should stay. Now, another survey from Curia Market Research put the New Zealand National Party at 28.4% support, its lowest level under Luxon. So yes, there's pressure. But here's the thing that really struck me over the weekend — most of that push for change isn't coming from National voters. The polling shows 67% of National supporters still back Luxon, and 60% of ACT voters support him too. The loudest calls for him to go are coming from Labour, Green, and Te Pāti Māori supporters. Which raises a pretty obvious question. Why on earth would a governing party sack its leader because the opposition wants them gone? Of course they want them gone, they'' want anyone gone. And then we get into the horse-race stuff. If Luxon were pushed out, the poll says Chris Bishop would be the most preferred replacement on 18%, followed by Nicola Willis on 11%, Erica Stanford on 10%, and Mark Mitchell on 9%. But here's my view. Changing Prime Minister in the middle of a tough economic recovery is exactly the kind of instability New Zealand does not need right now. We've come through COVID. We've been through inflation. We've had interest rates crushing households. We've had a recession. We've had tariffs. Globally we're watching wars in the Middle East and instability all over the world. This is not the moment for political musical chairs. So, my message to Christopher Luxon is pretty simple this morning. Don't quit. Don't wobble. Don't let the noise get to you. I want you to - front up. Stand up. Be stronger. New Zealand doesn't need another leadership drama right now. What it needs is steady leadership — even if it's not perfect — while the country gets itself back on track. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Finance Minister Nicola Willis joins Nick Mills in the studio for her monthly catch up. The latest poll from the Taxpayer Union and Curia has National at 28.4% - the lowest for the party since it formed Government in 2023. Nick questions Luxon's leadership and asks Willis - is there any hope for Luxon as Prime Minister. These numbers mean the left block could form a government, and is Nationals lowest result while in government since November 1999. They also discuss the effects that Kiwis could have to deal with from the Iran conflict, and what the government has planned to ease financial pressure. Plus, where is the Wellington North candidate - has Wellington been neglected this election? LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nick Mills wraps the week with former Minister and political commentator Peter Dunne and political commentator and barrister Brigitte Morten. The latest taxpayer union poll shows National at the lowest point since 2020 - 28%. After a failed coup last year, is this the right time for Bishop to take over as National leader? Our guests face off over what caused this and what will happen with the role of Prime Minister this election. Then the Iran War. How close are we to calling it a World War and how has Luxon handled this as an international leader? Should we as a country take a stand and what should it be? Dunne and Morten share their thoughts on the council's progress and what to expect from the release of the financial saving plans. Plus - should Moa Point impacted businesses receive compensation? They also discuss what the future of libraries should look like - following Nick's tour of Te Matapihi, the new central library. And bootcamps - is this the best use of $4 million, and the best option for the kids. Then hots or nots, our panel share their highlight and lowlight for the week. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For this week's Friday Sport Kick-off, Nick is joined by Newstalk ZB's sports gurus Adam Cooper and Jason Pine. Dave Rennie has been appointed as the new All Blacks head coach. The crew talk through the selection process, and his top competitor Jamie Joseph. Is this the right choice? Last weekend the Hurricanes lost 35-30 to Fijian Drua – what went wrong and how do the team need to prepare for the game today against the Waratahs? And it is a busy night for the sports world tonight - as playing at the same time as the Hurricanes are the Phoenix. How will they cope against Adelaide. And the Warriors start tonight at 8pm. Plus is India unstoppable at the T20 world cup? The Black caps prep to face them on Monday morning. Find out on Friday Sport kick-off. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Principal of Taita College Karen Morgan joins Nick on the show to discuss the benefits of public school. Karen has experience working in multiple public schools, she tells Nick about the benefits of sending your children to public school, and what makes the education work for the child. Is it the fact it's private/public, the teachers or something else? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The new Wellington Central Library named Te Matapihi is opening on Saturday March 14th after $217 million of refurbishments and strengthening. Nick Mills toured around the building and chatted to project lead Gisella Carr along with other staff in the brand new library. Was it everything he expected? And is it what Wellington needs to reignite life in the city? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Unrest in the Middle East continues. I watched that stand-up from the Prime Minister and I've got to be honest with you — I walked away feeling uneasy. Not because I expect a New Zealand Prime Minister to be a Middle East historian. We're a small country. Our politics is usually about rates, roads, schools, the price of butter. I get that. But when the world tips into crisis —when the United States and Israel launch strikes on Iran— that's not a domestic moment. That's what I call an international flashpoint. That's oil prices, security alliances, global instability, the rules-based order we rely on as a small trading nation. And I'm sorry, that performance didn't fill me with confidence. On Sunday, Christopher Luxon and Winston Peters said the Government “acknowledged” the US and Israeli action, but wouldn't say whether New Zealand supported it. On Monday morning, pressed to explain what “acknowledge” actually meant, the Prime Minister struggled to articulate it. He repeated that the Iranian regime is “evil” —and many would agree, given its repression at home and behaviour abroad— but that wasn't really the question. The question is: where does New Zealand stand? Under international law, military intervention has a high bar. Pre-emptive self-defence is defined narrowly under the century-old Caroline doctrine – the threat must be “instant, overwhelming, leaving no choice of means and no moment for deliberation.” Luxon said he hadn't seen intelligence, hadn't asked for any beyond regular briefings, and those matters were “to be determined”. That's the moment I thought: hang on. You don't have to reveal classified material, but you do have to look like you're in command. Former Foreign and Defence Minister Phil Goff spoke to Ryan Bridge this morning, questioning why the Government hadn't already ruled the Iranian Regime a terrorist organization. You do have to project calm authority. You do have to explain the principles guiding the country. Instead, it felt uncomfortable. Out of his depth. Out of his comfort zone. And maybe that's the brutal truth of politics – you don't get to choose when the world tests you. You don't get to say, “this isn't my portfolio". If you're Prime Minister, every crisis is your crisis. So here's the question I want to put to you tonight: Did you feel confident watching Christopher Luxon handle that moment? Did you feel like he was in control? Like he understood the stakes? Like he knew exactly where New Zealand sits in a conflict like this? Or did you, like me, feel it was one of the weakest stand-ups you've seen from a Prime Minister in a long time? Because in times of international tension, tone matters. Clarity matters. Leadership under pressure matters. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For Music Time this week Nick and James talk up the capitals friendliest and best music festival - Hutt Sounds, ponder why some gigs don't come here and run through all the must see events coming this month.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington Mayor Andrew Little says the City Council is not looking at compensation for businesses on the wastewater plagued-southern coast. Popular beaches like Lyall Bay and Island Bay closed after the Moa Point treatment plant catastrophically failed last month. Local shops in the area have been pleading for help, reporting large scale losses in revenue and trade as people stay away from the area, partly due to the bad smell. Little discussed this and a range of other topics on his monthly slot with Nick Mills. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week for Friday Faceoff Nick is joined in the studio by former Wellington mayor Justin Lester and playwright and columnist Dave Armstrong. They faceoff on the biggest issues of the week, starting with the $40million net loss for Air New Zealand. David Seymour says the government should sell their shares. Our panel talk about what needs to change, and what the government should do. Then would our guests swim at Lyall Bay? They faceoff about the ongoing issues of Moa Point, particularly the lifting of the swim restrictions - is it too soon? Plus Lester and Armstrong get into the rough sleeping move on order debate, Health NZ handing out vapes to smokers and the performance of the Phoenix last game - what would it take for a win with their new manager? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nick is joined in the studio by All Sports Breakfast host Adam Cooper and Weekend Sport host Jason Pine to talk all things sport to end the week. Chris Greenacre has been appointed interim manager of the Phoenix after Giancarlo Italiano called it quits after the 5-0 loss last week to Auckland FC. Can he save the day? We get the lowdown from our sports gurus, they give their analysis of the manager change and how the players have reacted since. Plus the Hurricanes win over the weekend. Was this luck or are we real contenders for the championship? Find out on Friday sports kick-off. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Things get fiery this week on Politics Thursday with Labour MP Ginny Andersen and National MP for Otaki Tim Costley. They join Nick on the show to talk about the biggest issues in politics this week - including the rough sleeping move on orders announced by the government. Can our police force cope with this with their resources and where are these people being moved to? Following Mayor Andrew Little's swim in Lyall Bay to prove water quality is safe , would our politicians join him for a swim after the Moa point leak? They discuss the effects, the inquiry and what should happen for impacted businesses. Plus Labour's state of the nation speech - when can we expect to see big moves from Labour? And should banks be required to accept cash? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Starting tonight 6pm at Fringe Bar, Silver Tongues perform as part of the Wellington Fringe Festival. The group comprising of comedians all over the age of 50 take the stage over 4 nights with their stand up routines "showing that the silver haired are also silver tongued". Nick is joined in the studio by performers Neil Thorton, Ganesh Cherian and Darrell Phillips to talk all thing Fringe, performing, what to expect from the show, and why being old is a source of comedy, not just trauma. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Phoenix striker and Nepalese football star Sabitra Bhandari, also known as Samba, has raised over $57,000 NZD for a surgery. After tearing her ACL, Samba wants $135,000 NZD treatment in Qatar, where she went to previously. The Phoenix insurance policy has offered 25,000 surgery and rehab in NZ, and the Nepalese governing body is contributing $6,000 NZD. Nick speaks with co-founder of Give A Little JD Trask on the purpose of the app, and if this cause is over the line in what is expected from the app. Since this interview Samba has requested supporters stop donating as she has reached her the amount needed. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nick chats with political commentator Peter Dunne about Labour's State of the Nation speech. What is this year looking like for Labour? Are they playing it safe? Dunne analyses the address to Labour supporters and what this means for their policy announcements coming up. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Health NZ has handed out 7000 vapes and over 6500 refills for free in two months. This is part of an intitaive to help smokers quit - and includes a $500k contract to NZ vape company Alt. Newstalk ZB political reporter Ethan Griffiths tells Nick what the decision was behind this initiative, what opposers are saying and how this plan compares worldwide. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For our business panel this week Nick is joined in studio by Steve Walters and Mark Quinn Walters is the general manager of Kilbirnie, Lyall Bay and Rongotai Business association and helped establish the iconic Wellington Seven. Quinn is a respected commercial property figure with strong insight into retail, development and business trends across the region. They discuss how the Moa Point sludge disaster is affecting confidence, particularly for east coast businesses already struggling with high rates. How much is council policy helping — or hindering — growth? The panel will also weigh in on intensification, resistance to development, and whether Wellington needs a serious “shot in the arm” to revive confidence. And what would it take to bring back the energy and vibrancy of the Sevens-era glory days? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last weekend, the Phoenix were slammed against Auckland FC, losing 5-0 with an own goal. An hour later manager Giancarlo Italiano resigned. Nick is joined by former All White David Chote to give his insight into the failure of the Phoenix. They chat about heir predictions for a replacement, as well as theorise if Italiano was pushed to resign. Is there enough room for two clubs in NZ? Chote gives his analysis of the match, the goal, and the management. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government has announced they will give more power to police to "move on" rough sleepers for 24 hours to people as young as 14. Nick speaks to Karl Tiefenbacher who is a Wellington City Councillor and business owner on his perspective from both these lenses. Tiefenbacher shares what the council have been doing to help this issue, and what needs to still be done. And does he agree with Police Association President Steve Watts, who said the police do not have the resources to be able to move people on. And where will they go? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nick Mills wraps the week with former MP and Attorney General Chris Finlayson and director of NZ Infrastructure Commission and ex councillor Tim Brown. Moa point continues to be an issue. Is it a long time coming? Brown and Finlayson face off on funding, spending and leadership of the plant and Wellington Water. Then they get into the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. What does this unprecedented scene mean for the future of the royals? And things get fiery over Minister Bishop's suggestion the government are reconsidering the state highway 1 improvements. We also get their hot or nots of the week plus former minister Finlayson's thoughts on Seymour's plan to decrease portfolios and merge ministries. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.