Podcast appearances and mentions of Andrew Little

Because in the latest RNZ Reid research poll, more than half the people surveyed said they could be persuaded to vote for a different party. Which says a lot about the state of the parties currently ... but also got us thinking about what political parties need to do to target these so-called swing voters and how much energy would go into creating policies that could appeal to them. Clint Smith has held a variety of roles in Government, including in Jacinda Ardern's Government, And as Senior Policy Strategist for her predecessor, Andrew Little. He is now Director at Victor Consulting, and he joins Emile to discuss.

In this episode, we chat with Josh Murman and Colton Rathman to explore how PTx Ag is bringing autonomous technology to the farm by transforming compatible tractors into self-operating machines. We discuss how the system works and how it helps farmers tackle labor shortages, improve efficiency, and complete critical fieldwork on time. But we also look beyond productivity, exploring how autonomy could make conservation practices such as cover cropping, reduced tillage, and other stewardship efforts more practical and accessible by reducing the time and labor they require. Whether you're curious about autonomous farming or the future of sustainable agriculture, this episode offers an inside look at the opportunities this technology can create.   Resources: PTx Ag: OutRun Retrofit Autonomy Kit PTx Ag: Find a Dealer   Josh Murman [LinkedIn] Colton Rathman [LinkedIn] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]   Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!   We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/   Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin

Wellington looks to me to be in rude health. For a city down in the dumps, with a reputation problem and a previously shocking council, public service issues and any number of surveys talking about negativity, how come Wellington looks so busy? I was down for dinner Saturday night. The drive from the airport around the Bays was packed. Jervois Quay was packed, bumper to bumper. If you had told me there was an All Black test down the end of the road at the stadium I would have believed you. The restaurant was packed. They do two sittings a night and you can't get a table. The restaurant next door was packed. They got a Michelin star earlier in the week but they told me it was always busy anyway. The hotel was flat out. It could be because of school holidays. I stood in the hotel room after dinner looking down on the traffic. I have no idea where they were off to but there were a lot of them. Having lived in Wellington for a decade I think it's probably the best looking of our cities. There is a lot of seriously good architecture, some beautiful buildings and a lot of suburbs with houses with spectacular views. But it's reputation is still a problem. Katie asked on Instagram where the best place to eat in Wellington was. One person said the Koru lounge while another person said anywhere in Auckland. In fact a lot of people made those jokes. There is a strong anti-Wellington vibe around the country and yet, and I guess this is the tourist snapshot problem, one night does not a proper impression make. There were all those international travellers that talked about how fabulous the world was and how miserable New Zealand is when we went around the world the other day. I think we busted that myth because any place, when you are in a hotel or in a restaurant without a care in the world, seems better than home. But it doesn't mean they don't have their issues. Wellington seems like a good looking town. The hospitality scene, despite all you hear, on Saturday night was overflowing. It was busy, it was bustling and as I sat in the restaurant for breakfast at seven o'clock yesterday morning there was a lot more action out and about than you ever see in a place like Christchurch and Auckland at that time on a weekend. And that's before you get to the joggers on Evans Bay Parade running into a southerly and seven degrees. You've got to love that. Wellington the image and Wellington the reality is not the same thing. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington City Mayor Andrew Little joins Nick Mills in the studio for the July edition of his monthly catch up. Mayor Little takes Nick's and callers questions for the hour on the latest in the capital. They hit the top stories of the week including the council's public defiance of move on orders, solutions to our homeless problem and how we can get the city looking and feeling good again. Then onto the three advisory groups put together by the council to improve the city. Why did the Mayor go back on his opinion he was against forming these boards? And Nick asks how the success will be measured. And Tiaki Wai makes it to day 2. How has the transition gone and what does Wellington have in store with our new water entity. Plus, Nick and the Mayor celebrate the 3 Michelin stars Wellington businesses were awarded this week. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington council has unveiled their new team aiming to help the capital get its mojo back. The council has brought together a lineup of business, property, technology and creative sector leaders to help shape a five-year plan to grow the city's economy. Mayor Andrew Little says Wellington's seen limited economic growth over the last few years, and the council's hoping to turn that around. "We've got our work cut out for us. We do have some strength - beyond being a public service city, we do have some other strengths, and it's about drawing on those things." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington council has unveiled their new team aiming to help the capital get its mojo back. The council has brought together a lineup of business, property, technology and creative sector leaders to help shape a five-year plan to grow the city's economy. Mayor Andrew Little says Wellington's seen limited economic growth over the last few years, and the council's hoping to turn that around. "We've got our work cut out for us. We do have some strength - beyond being a public service city, we do have some other strengths, and it's about drawing on those things." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tell me something: does what's just happened with the Golden Mile upgrade in Wellington restore your faith in the possibility that councils can actually be run properly? Because that thing - I don't know if you've been following it over the years - but the Golden Mile upgrade has been an albatross around the necks of Wellington business owners and ratepayers since probably about 2016. It was always going to be too expensive, especially when it tripled in price. It was always going to kill businesses once construction started and cars were banned from driving on the Golden Mile. And it was always going to be one of the most frustrating examples of a Labour-Green majority council, obsessed with its hatred of cars, forcing through its pet project despite howls of outrage from the public - who would end up paying for it in more ways than one. This went on for years and years: the public saying “please don't,” the council saying, “nah, we're gonna.” It just went on and on.Then Andrew Little arrived - the first good mayor since Kerry Prendergast left office in 2010 - and everything changed. Within six months, the Golden Mile project was dead. Even councillors who had previously voted for it, like Ben McNulty, changed their votes and killed it off - presumably because that's what a good leader does. They take people with them. They change people's minds. Andrew Little is like a new broom in that city. He's killed off the most vexed and controversial project. He's fired a warning shot at the consultants that he is not prepared to pay endless bills for a cast of thousands to tell him what two or three people could. He's forced council staff to cut back on ridiculously high budgets. He's immediately reduced the infighting around the table. He's the grown-up who has taken over after 15 years of the kids trying to run the place themselves. For the first time in a very, very long time, Wellington City Council is not the worst council in the country. It restores your faith, doesn't it? All you need is a decent candidate to put their hand up, and even the worst-run place can actually be rescued. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington's controversial Golden Mile project's been canned, following a three-hour council debate. In their final vote, 14 wanted to discontinue the revitalisation project - with three opposed. Councillor Karl Tiefenbacher stood aside from voting because of a conflict of interest. Mayor Andrew Little says they ran the numbers, and the council can't afford another $60 million. "Some bits don't stack up, some bits might - but we actually just can't afford $60 million, so I'm supportive of us just going back and seeing what we can do, and trying to get some savings at the same time." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Wellington City Council has officially ended the dream of the Golden Mile after voting to scrap the project Wellington City Mayor Andrew Little joins Nick Mills to discuss the next steps to improve the area - while keeping it affordable. He says it's important to get the balance right, but something must be done to Courtenay Place. "We have to do what's right for the city right now." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington's mayor Andrew Little has declared a state of emergency for the city's Southern and Eastern wards. It comes as a heavy swell warning is issued, with the public asked to avoid beaches and coastal areas around Wairarapa and Wellington. Dan Neely from the Wellington Civil Defence Emergency Management Office spoke to Melissa Chan-Green. 

Wellington City Andrew Little joins Nick in the studio to talk the latest wins and losses of the city from the last month. Mayor Little says he is "angry" and "horrified" over the $600,000 cost for the promotion website for Te Matapihi Wellington Central Library. Nick asks the tough questions around accountability, Little says he still has faith in CEO Matt Prosser and CFO Andrea Reeves after yet another cost blowout. Although rates have had the lowest rise in years, has the council really got financial restraint after another ghost is shaken from the finance team? Also on the agenda is the latest updates on Moa Point and council amalgamation, Tiaki Wai changes and authority, Wellingtonians leaving for Australia and what we can do to keep them here. And what will happen to the Citizens Advice Bureau after large cuts put it's existence at risk? Could the decision be overturned? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington's mayor has voiced concerns with the Government cracking down on local councils. The mayor's outlined his response to the Government debate on council amalgamation - saying he'd vote yes on merging if a vote were held today. Councils have an August deadline to plan potential groupings, and are hold regular discussions. Andrew Little says the three-month deadline isn't enough, citing issues that arose with Auckland council. "I'm responsive to that, let's put together the best thing we can together - but I don't want to mislead the residents of the Wellington region and say that everybody's going to get a fair say, because we just won't have time to." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast with Andrew Dickens for Wednesday, 3 June, 2026, Wellington mayor Andrew Little says he agrees with amalgamation but thinks the government's set an unfair timeframe. We talk to the Hospitality NZ chief executive about a dramatic rise in closures in the industry. Football commentator Jason Pine now fears for what England will do to the All Whites after a humiliating loss to Haiti. And on The Huddle, Jack Tame and Maurice Williamson debate whether the Te Huia train trip between Auckland and Hamilton is worth it after a fares increase. Get the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast every weekday evening on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington City Mayor Andrew Little spoke to constituents and officials this morning outlining the way forward for council amalgamation, as only ten weeks remain for the government's deadline. Mayor Little joins Nick on the show this morning to discuss his thoughts and plan as the deadline looms. With talks of a referendum, Little says if he had to decide today, he would go through with the amalgamation of the "core four" - Porirua, Hutt City and Upper Hutt. Nick finds out the latest on Upper Hutt's involvement, the effect on rates, what WCC have learnt from the Auckland Supercity merger and the possible structures that could sustain local voices. Little shares what the next steps look like, including potential of a referdendum. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There was a story on the news last night about the government's push to have fewer local councils and how it's given them just a few months to come up with a plan. The threat being that, if they don't, the government will force it on them. And a couple of things struck me. First, it occurred to me how successful the government has been in getting these councils to toe the line. The councillors and mayors on the news last night were all going on about having the opportunity to choose their own destiny. Which, for some of them, will be looking for another job. One of them said it was great to do it to yourself instead of having someone else doing it to you, which they might have phrased a bit differently if they were given the chance. Nevertheless, I thought that if the government's objective was to make these councils sit up and take notice, then objective achieved. The other thing that occurred to me, and I see that Wellington mayor Andrew Little is saying the same thing, is that this local government reform has rip, shit and bust written all over it. Yes, 67 councils in a country the size of New Zealand is too much. And yes, amalgamating these councils makes perfect sense. I mean, I'm a big advocate of the greater Christchurch councils joining forces. Have been for a long time now. But, as Andrew Little is pointing out, establishing the super city in Auckland wasn't an overnight or rushed thing. He says the Auckland Council was created after a Royal Commission that ran for years. And he reckons it's going to be impossible for councils to properly design and submit proposals in the timeframe set by the government. And he's right. Although we know why the government's got the rush on, don't we? It's election year and it needs to be able to say before the election that it's delivering on its promise to overhaul the local government sector. But that's where the risk comes. Because if the government's motivation is to put itself in a position where it can trot out that line about getting stuff done, then we may end up with a local government structure no better than the one we've got. Yes, we might have fewer councils, but that might be about it. Because sometimes there's nothing wrong with taking your time to do something properly. And, for me, this is one of those times. We were talking about the Waimakariri Council yesterday and it's back in the news today, with this public consultation it's started as part of the plan it has to deliver to the government in just over two months from now. It's put three options on the table: staying on its own but picking up the work that ECan does in its neck of the woods, amalgamating with the Hurunui and or the Kaikōura councils, or joining forces with Christchurch City and Selwyn. Which is all horse before cart, just like the government's approach is horse before cart. Because right now things are still up in the air in terms of what these councils are going to be responsible for, especially with the government's intention to do away with regional councils such as Environment Canterbury. And until that becomes much clearer than it is now, it is futile asking councils to find another council or councils to join their team, because none of them have got any idea at the moment what they're going to be responsible for. So yes, press on with your local government reforms, but do it in a way that means we do actually end up with something better than what we've got now, and not just a rearrangement of the deck chairs. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Dr. Grace Schuster joins co-hosts Andy and Nathan to discuss her PhD research on how bioenergy crop production impacts grassland bird communities in southwestern Nebraska. From the feasibility of large-scale switchgrass production to conservation strategies, this episode explores the balance between fueling the future and protecting our wildlife. Can agricultural landscapes support both renewable energy goals and healthy bird populations? Tune in for a fascinating conversation at the intersection of ecology, agriculture, and conservation.   Resources: Bioenergy Crop Production: Implications for Grassland Bird Communities in Southwestern Nebraska (Thesis) Further information on this research project (AWESM Lab)   Dr. Grace Schuster [website] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]   Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!   We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/   Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin

In this episode, Dr. Grace Schuster joins co-hosts Andy and Nathan to discuss her PhD research on how bioenergy crop production impacts grassland bird communities in southwestern Nebraska. From the feasibility of large-scale switchgrass production to conservation strategies, this episode explores the balance between fueling the future and protecting our wildlife. Can agricultural landscapes support both renewable energy goals and healthy bird populations? Tune in for a fascinating conversation at the intersection of ecology, agriculture, and conservation.    Resources:  Bioenergy Crop Production: Implications for Grassland Bird Communities in Southwestern Nebraska (Thesis)  Further information on this research project (AWESM Lab)    Dr. Grace Schuster [website]  Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc]  Nathan Pflueger [website]  AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab]  Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]    Watch these podcasts on YouTube  If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!    We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/  Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/    Music by Humans Win  Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin 

Wellington's mayor is talking up cost savings, as the council chases a lower 5.8 percent rates rise. It proposed 7.4 percent during public consultation. Some fees and user charges are increasing and big projects like the Town Hall and refurbishing the Botanic Gardens' Begonia House will continue. Andrew Little says they made cuts to keep rates down. "Finding savings isn't an annual activity, it's a daily activity - so they carried on working, they found these projects that aren't going to be finished, that don't have to be depreciated , so we could donate to budget for that." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's time for Mayoral minutes our regular weekly segment where we speak with a local mayor about the challenges they're facing, how they're working to solve them and what makes their community special. Today we're heading to the capital Wellington, from where Mayor Andrew Little joins Jesse.

Wellington mayor Andrew Little responds to the government's announcement that it plans to cut almost 9000 public sector jobs over the next three years. Mayor Little spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

EDITORIAL: Let's be honest now — when is enough actually enough in this city? How long have Wellingtonians been listening to the words “Let's Get Wellington Moving”? Seven years? Eight years? Longer? The project was officially launched back in 2017. Nearly a decade ago. Nearly a decade of workshops, consultations, artist impressions, reviews, counter-reviews, delays, blowouts, political infighting and endless promise for us. And what do we actually have to show for it? Seriously — what do we have to show for it? Because I walk through the start of the so-called Golden Mile redevelopment near the Embassy Theatre almost every day, and if you told a visitor from out of town that millions of dollars had already been spent there, they would laugh at you. They'd say, “Where? How? A few plants? Some shifted paving? A slightly rearranged pedestrian area? A cycleway?” That's the transformational city-shaping project we've been arguing about for the best part of a decade? Meanwhile the city struggles. Retailers are struggling. Businesses are struggling. People are worried about rates. Roading's a mess. Water infrastructure is collapsing. Construction costs have exploded. The council can barely afford what it already has on its plate. And now we're spending another FOUR HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS on another review. Another review. Not fixing anything. Not building anything. Not deciding anything. Just another group of people sitting around discussing whether previous groups of people were right or wrong. I'm with Andrew Little on this one. At some point politicians have to actually make political decisions. If you were elected to lead, then damn well lead. Stop outsourcing every difficult decision to panels, consultants, independent reviews and strategic assessments. The original Golden Mile budget was in 2020 was $78 million. Then it became $160 million. Now it's sitting around $220 million. And even Andrew Little is saying the council simply cannot afford another $60 million blowout. Hello! You wouldn't need a degree to work that one out. So here's the simple question: If we can't afford it, why are we pretending we can? Because what's happened in Wellington is death by consultation. Death by process. Death by indecision. We have become a city addicted to talking about things instead of actually doing them. And here's the worst part — this uncertainty has hung over central Wellington businesses for years. Years. People trying to invest, lease buildings, open restaurants, run cafés, survive construction disruptions, they want to employ staff — all while the city keeps changing the plan every six months. Enough. Either do the project properly, fully funded, with certainty and timelines — or pull the plug and let us move on with our lives. And now. Not in 6 months' time – now. But this endless middle ground of reviews, pauses, re-scopes and consultant reports is draining the life, confidence and energy out of Wellington. Forget it Nearly a decade in, Wellingtonians deserve an answer and now. Not another workshop, not another panel. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington City Mayor Andrew Little joins Nick Mills in the studio for May's monthly chat and takes your calls. After multiple news stories about unrest between council executives and the council, Nick asks Mayor Little for his insight into the debates at the moment. Mayor Little says a change of culture is needed and he is concerned officials don't realise that they aren't spending their own money, but that of the taxpayers. Then onto amalgamation, Mayor Little shares the latest in talks and suggests eight councils could be involved. Also on the agenda was Tiaki Wai water meter cost, the latest in chats between council and the entity and Golden Mile and Moa Point updates. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Neale Jones was Chief of Staff to Labour Leader Jacinda Ardern, and prior to that was Chief of Staff to Andrew Little. He is the director of public affairs firm Capital. Peter Dunne was the leader of United Future and is a former MP and Minister who has worked within both National and Labour governments.

Now, you would have thought that after all the publicity Wellington City Council has been getting - and the paid staff have been getting - for being caught doing things behind the backs of elected councillors, they probably wouldn't do it again. And yet, here we are. They've been caught doing it again. The latest revelation is that they have decided to exempt themselves from a Government law brought in about three months ago. The law prevents employees who earn more than $200,000 from taking personal grievance cases against their bosses if they are fired. In other words, there will be no golden handshake if you've been sacked while earning that kind of money. But guess what? Wellington City Council bosses decided they weren't going to follow that law and exempted 42 of their staff from it. That's quite unbelievable, because the law is intended to make it easier for employers to remove incompetent managers who have been doing very little for years on end. And Wellington City Council knows it has a problem. A recent report suggests they may have a couple of hundred staff they need to get rid of. They have one of the highest staffing levels in the country when compared with other councils. As I say, they didn't tell elected councillors they made this decision. However, a councillor found out, started asking questions and it turns out it was true. Technically, the council can argue it didn't have to inform elected councillors -this is an employment decision they can make themselves. But even the mayor, Andrew Little, has said this should have gone to the council for signoff. It's not a good look. And it's becoming a bit of a running theme, hasn't it? Not just in Wellington but around the country: unelected staff making decisions in secret that ratepayers probably wouldn't be happy about if they knew. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we're joined by Jake Koenig, Midwest Habitat Program Manager for the Monarch Joint Venture, to explore the fascinating world of monarch butterflies. Jake shares insights into their incredible multi-generational migration, the challenges they face, and what conservation efforts are underway to support their survival and growth. He also takes us along on his recent trip to Mexico, where monarchs gather in breathtaking numbers at their overwintering grounds. From the incredible spectacle of migration to possible ventures in milkweed production, we explore the incredible world of the monarch and the role we can play in it.   Resources: Monarch Life Cycle Cards  Habitat signs for advocacy Remote sensing Mowing management best management practices Community science opportunities  Research reviews Solar synergy program   Jake Koenig [website, Instagram, Facebook] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]   Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!   We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/   Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin

In this episode, we're joined by Jake Koenig, Midwest Habitat Program Manager for the Monarch Joint Venture, to explore the fascinating world of monarch butterflies. Jake shares insights into their incredible multi-generational migration, the challenges they face, and what conservation efforts are underway to support their survival and growth. He also takes us along on his recent trip to Mexico, where monarchs gather in breathtaking numbers at their overwintering grounds. From the incredible spectacle of migration to possible ventures in milkweed production, we explore the incredible world of the monarch and the role we can play in it.    Resources:  Monarch Life Cycle Cards   Habitat signs for advocacy  Remote sensing  Mowing management best management practices  Community science opportunities   Research reviews  Solar synergy program    Jake Koenig [website, Instagram, Facebook]  Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc]  Nathan Pflueger [website]  AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab]  Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]    Watch these podcasts on YouTube  If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!    We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/  Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/    Music by Humans Win  Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin 

Concerns have been raised over the new Wellington water entity, as its board members will be paid twice as much as their Wellington Water counterparts. The group's new chair will be paid $110,000 - a higher figure than the $60,000 Wellington Water's previous chair was paid. The entity's CEO will also be paid $645,000 - a higher amount than the previous Wellington Water CEO got. Wellington mayor Andrew Little says this is disappointing news, even if the group has plenty to manage. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you grew up on or near a farm, you might think back fondly on summer days spent fishing in your local pond. From small ponds to large reservoirs, water in working landscapes provides numerous opportunities while also facing challenges. This month we are joined by Jeff Jackson, Aquatic Habitat Program Manager at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, to talk about fishery and pond management in agricultural and working landscapes. From water quality and sedimentation to healthy bass fisheries and beyond, Jeff covers the challenges facing our ponds and lakes and what we can do to ensure healthy waters for everyone.   Resources: Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Nebraska Game and Parks 2026 Fishing Guide   Jeff Jackson [contact] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]   Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!   We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/   Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin

If you grew up on or near a farm, you might think back fondly on summer days spent fishing in your local pond. From small ponds to large reservoirs, water in working landscapes providesnumerous opportunities while also facing challenges. This month we are joined by Jeff Jackson, Aquatic Habitat Program Manager at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, to talk about fishery and pond management in agricultural and working landscapes. From water quality and sedimentation to healthy bass fisheries and beyond, Jeff covers the challenges facing our ponds and lakes and what we can do to ensure healthy waters for everyone.    Resources:  Nebraska Game and Parks Commission  Nebraska Game and Parks 2026 Fishing Guide    Jeff Jackson [contact]  Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc]  Nathan Pflueger [website]  AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab]  Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]    Watch these podcasts on YouTube  If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!    We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/  Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/    Music by Humans Win  Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin 

Neale Jones and  Andrew Little. 

There's growing calls for the Government to pay rates on Crown land. Wellington mayor Andrew Little has announced he'll lobby for changes to the Local Government Act to repeal the measure as part of his council's triennium plan. Currently, most property owned by central Government, such as schools and hospitals, is exempt from paying rates. Little says local councils provide a lot of infrastructure to Crown-owned buildings - and more revenue is needed. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you drive across the Midwest, much of the landscape is under production for corn and soybeans. But, it didn't always look like that. Only a couple of generations ago, farmers were planting more diverse fields, many of them including wheat. This month we are joined by Nathan Mueller, Executive Director of Nu Horizon Genetics and producer, to talk about the "third crop" -- winter wheat. Learn how wheat can improve farms, provide valuable habitat for wildlife, and help improve our landscapes and ecosystems.    Resources: Nu Horizon Genetics Nebraska Wheat Production New wheat growers: Avoid these 5 common mistakes Adding Winter Wheat to a Crop Rotation   Nathan Mueller [website] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]   Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!   We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/   Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin  

If you drive across the Midwest, much of the landscape is under production for corn and soybeans. But, it didn't always look like that. Only a couple of generations ago, farmers were planting more diverse fields, many of them including wheat. This month we are joined by Nathan Mueller, Executive Director of Nu Horizon Genetics and producer, to talk about the "third crop" -- winter wheat. Learn how wheat can improve farms, provide valuable habitat for wildlife, and help improve our landscapes and ecosystems.     Resources:  Nu Horizon Genetics  Nebraska Wheat Production  New wheat growers: Avoid these 5 common mistakes  Adding Winter Wheat to a Crop Rotation    Nathan Mueller [website]  Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc]  Nathan Pflueger [website]  AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab]  Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]    Watch these podcasts on YouTube  If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!    We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/  Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/    Music by Humans Win  Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin

Tonight, on The Panel, Wallace Chapman is joined by panellists Nicky Pellegrino and Allan Blackman. First up, Research Economist Professor Paul Dalziel says the latest child poverty statistics released today show our country is backsliding on any of the progress made since the Child Poverty Reduction Act was passed. Then, Wellington mayor Andrew Little says he's looking at changes to bus lanes, specifically bus lanes that win the city mountains in infringement notices. Oliver Gazley from Gazley Motors gives the panel the benefit of his opinion on the apparently over zealous collection of fines.

On today’s show: Ben’s so frustrated that his wife keeps doing this with the fridge! We debate on whether men look hotter wearing hats backwards. Why David Hasselhoff once filmed a music video at a listener’s auntie’s house! Chat with Wellington mayor Andrew Little after swimming to prove the harbour is safe. Weirdest things you've brought on a flight. Producer Troy breaks the sacred rule by heating fish in the office kitchen... Maddie McLean recaps explosive Married at First Sight drama. Instagram: @THEHITSBREAKFASTFacebook: The Hits Breakfast with Jono, Ben & MeganSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington's Mayor is considering taking the city's bus lanes back to the drawing board. People driving in bus lanes are Wellington City Council's biggest money grabber, raking in around $6 million in fines. A new bus lane on Cambridge Terrace caught tens of thousands of people exceeding the 50 metre maximum, worth a penalty fee of $150. Andrew Little told Mike Hosking he doesn't want bus lane cameras to be seen as a source of revenue for the council. He says there's a genuine question on whether they need to be designated bus lanes for 12 hours a day seven days a week. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This month we are joined by Carlie Gizel, Wild Turkey Biologist with National Wild Turkey Federation and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. As a native species of Nebraska, wild turkeys have lived and evolved in the Great Plains for years, at times exploding in numbers and at others succumbing to new threats. Through it all, they have remained an iconic species of the landscape, and hunters from near and far come to Nebraska seeking out this special bird. Join Carlie, along with co-hosts Andy and Nate, to talk about all things turkey.   Resources: Wild turkey hunting in Nebraska (Nebraska Game and Parks Commission) Nebraska State Chapter of NWTF Current Research: Wild Turkey Ecology in Western Nebraska (AWESM Lab)   Carlie Gizel [website] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]   Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!   We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/   Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin

Neale, Liam and Kathryn discuss recent events in politics including Finance Minister Nicola Willis' announcement into an independent review of the Reserve Bank's monetary policy decisions made during the Covid-19 pandemic. Neale Jones was Chief of Staff to Labour Leader Jacinda Ardern, and prior to that was Chief of Staff to Andrew Little. He is the director of public affairs firm Capital. Liam Hehir is a Palmerston North lawyer, political commentator and a National Party member.Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Wellington's mayor says questions can come later on who'll pay to fix the failed Moa Point wastewater treatment plant. The facility's failed catastrophically and wastewater's still flowing into the ocean - with no end in sight. Work's continuing at the site to lets teams assess what's gone wrong. Andrew Little says regional Wellington mayors have been quick to comment on whether they'll help pay. But he says those decisions haven't been made. "At the end of the day, Moa Point plant belongs to Wellington City Council - it's our responsibility. We need to get it fixed and up and running, we don't want to quibble about who's paying." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This morning, we spoke to Energy Minister Simon Watts about the government's plan for a new liquified natural gas import terminal. and we had our weekly interview with Labour Leader, Chris Hipkins. We spoke with Wellington mayor Andrew Little about what any independent inquiry into the Moa Point Waste Treatment plant failure could look like. Plus, Kiwirail front after faults are discovered on Auckland's train network. And we joined friends of Zoi Sadowski-Synnott as they cheered her on toward her Silver medal at the Winter Olympics.

Wellington Water says about 70 million litres of raw sewage is pouring into the sea every day the Moa Point Wastewater Treatment Plant is out of action. Wellington mayor Andrew Little spoke to Corin Dann.

Wellington Mayor Andrew Little says critical damage to the city's wastewater treatment plant couldn't come at a worse time. Heavy rain flooded the building's lower floors causing sewage to leak into Tarakena Bay, writing off equipment and forcing the plant to shut down. Wellington Water says it could take months to fix and urges people to stay off beaches along the south coast, and avoid collecting seafood. He told Mike Hosking the failure appeared to be a “freak thing”, and since becoming mayor, nobody had ever indicated to him that the treatment plant was at risk. He says there's been ongoing investment in it, and they have contractors looking after all the rest. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Mike Hosking Breakfast Full Show Podcast for Thursday 5th of February, Finance Minister Nicola Willis tries to put a spin on a headline unemployment number that doesn't help the Government in an election year. There's a sewage disaster in Wellington, so Mayor Andrew Little joined to discuss the situation. Kate Hawkesby and Tim Wilson discuss jobs, and Mike can't believe that money is now the gift of choice for a wedding on Wrapping the Week. Get the Mike Hosking Breakfast Full Show Podcast every weekday morning on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This month we are joined by Carlie Gizel, Wild Turkey Biologist with National Wild Turkey Federation and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. As a native species of Nebraska, wild turkeys have lived and evolved in the Great Plains for years, at times exploding in numbers and at others succumbing to new threats. Through it all, they have remained an iconic species of the landscape, and hunters from near and far come to Nebraska seeking out this special bird. Join Carlie, along with co-hosts Andy and Nate, to talk about all things turkey.    Resources:  Wild turkey hunting in Nebraska (Nebraska Game and Parks Commission)  Nebraska State Chapter of NWTF  Current Research: Wild Turkey Ecology in Western Nebraska (AWESM Lab)    Carlie Gizel [website]  Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc]  Nathan Pflueger [website]  AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab]  Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]    Watch these podcasts on YouTube  If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!    We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/  Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/    Music by Humans Win  Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin 

In this episode of the Deer IQ Podcast, we're joined by Dr. Andrew Little (University of Nebraska) to break down GPS-collared buck data that reveals how much hunting pressure deer will tolerate before their behavior changes.Using real movement data, we explore how many hunters per acre actually creates pressure, how quickly bucks respond once that line is crossed, and why most deer don't leave — they simply avoid hunters.If you manage a property, share a lease, or hunt pressured ground, this episode answers the critical questions:• How many hunters can your land realistically support?• When does good hunting start to decline — and why?• What is the true pressure threshold, and how do you stay below it all season?This episode defines hunting pressure in measurable terms and gives you practical ways to manage it so your land hunts better and stays fresh longer.• 2A DISPLAY PRODUCTS  (10% OFF Code "IQ" ) Here: https://www.2adisplay.com/ • Get a Smart Land & Hunting Plan HERE: https://deeriq.com/land-and-hunting-plans/ • Take the Deer IQ Test 360 HERE: https://deeriq.com/full-assessment/** Season 3 Quiz: https://deeriq.com/season-3-quiz/ • GENERAL INFO about ALL Deer IQ Resources HERE: https://deeriq.com/services/ Website: https://deeriq.com  Facebook Private Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/511109237864762  Deer IQ  FREE Journal: https://deeriq.com/journal/  Pressured Public Lands Hunting Guide:  https://deeriq.com/public-land-hunting-guide/  Newsletter Signup: https://deeriq.com/signup/  Patreon - Contribute Financially to Deer IQ: https://www.patreon.com/DeerIQPatreon   Scent Control Regimen: https://deeriq.com/scentcontrol-regimen/  Episode # 121Guest: Host Adam Lewis, Dr. Andrew LittleIQ ranking - 5 (Intermediate)

This month we are joined by Sam Wilson, Furbearer Biologist at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, and Frank Andelt, retired Furbearer Biologist and Sam's predecessor at Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, to share the amazing story of the river otter in Nebraska. From thriving populations to complete extirpation, river otters were wiped out across the state. But as our guests share, otters are a resilient species. After a few local otter sightings, Frank shares the story of reintroduction of otters to Nebraska and how far they have come since then.   Resources: The River Otter – Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Recovery of a Native Furbearer   Sam Wilson [website] Frank Andelt  Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]   Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!   We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/   Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin  

This month we are joined by Sam Wilson, Furbearer Biologist at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, and Frank Andelt, retired Furbearer Biologist and Sam's predecessor at Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, to share the amazing story of the river otter in Nebraska. From thriving populations to complete extirpation, river otters were wiped out across the state. But as our guests share, otters are a resilient species. After a few local otter sightings, Frank shares the story of reintroduction of otters to Nebraska and how far they have come since then.    Resources:  The River Otter – Nebraska Game and Parks Commission  Recovery of a Native Furbearer    Sam Wilson [website]  Frank Andelt   Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc]  Nathan Pflueger [website]  AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab]  Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]    Watch these podcasts on YouTube  If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!    We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/  Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/    Music by Humans Win  Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin 

This month we are joined by Dr. Jordan Giese, Research Assistant Professor at the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute at Texas A&M University - Kingsville, to talk about prairie strips and his research on bird responses to prairie strips in row crop acres. From songbirds to Ring-necked pheasants, Dr. Giese shares how prairie strips can be beneficial for a range of wildlife within agricultural landscapes. Whether you are interested in birding, hunting, wildflowers, or soil health, prairie strips offer immense benefits for farmers across the Midwest.  Resources: Science-Based Trials of Rowcrops Integrated with Prairie Strips (STRIPS) Prairie Strips farmer and landowner testimonials   Dr. Jordan Giese [website, @birdnbiologist] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]   Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!   We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/   Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin

This month we are joined by Dr. Jordan Giese, Research Assistant Professor at the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute at Texas A&M University - Kingsville, to talk about prairie strips and his research on bird responses to prairie strips in row crop acres. From songbirds to Ring-necked pheasants, Dr. Giese shares how prairie strips can be beneficial for a range of wildlife within agricultural landscapes. Whether you are interested in birding, hunting, wildflowers, or soil health, prairie strips offer immense benefits for farmers across the Midwest.   Resources:  Science-Based Trials of Rowcrops Integrated with Prairie Strips (STRIPS)  Prairie Strips farmer and landowner testimonials    Dr. Jordan Giese [website, @birdnbiologist]  Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc]  Nathan Pflueger [website]  AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab]  Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]    Watch these podcasts on YouTube  If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!    We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/  Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/    Music by Humans Win  Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin 

What makes the Great Plains such a productive agricultural hotspot? And why are some fields just more productive than others no matter what? It turns out the secret is in the soil. This month we are joined by Dr. Ray Ward, founder of Ward Laboratories, to discuss how our soils came to be and how a better knowledge of your soil can lead to healthier farms and ecosystems overall. With a PhD in Soil Fertility and personal farming experience, Dr. Ward shares how practices like cover crops and diversifying an operation can lead to massive benefits – in soil health, water quality, wildlife abundance, ecosystem health and farmer profitability.  Resources: Ward Laboratories Ward Labs Resources   Dr. Ray Ward [website] Dr. Andrew Little [academic profile, @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [website] AWESM Lab [website, @awesmlab] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [website, @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne]   Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us!   We are dedicated to bringing important information and new ideas to listeners just like you. Help us keep WildAg going by donating to the podcast: https://nufoundation.org/fund/01155570/ Or, learn more about how your organization can sponsor episodes: https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-sponsorship/   Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin