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Defence Minister Judith Collins has had frontline access to the war in Ukraine. She's returned from the war-torn country, visiting sites impacted by Russia's three and a half year long invasion. Collins met with Ukraine's Defence Minister while there, alongside speaking with the Foreign Minister, the Office of the President, and Deputy Minister of Defence. She told Mike Hosking it's a difficult situation. Collin says the Ukrainians are not giving in, but they do want a ceasefire, and they do worry about the people being slaughtered. The Defence Minister says she saw appalling behaviour from Russia, with war crime after war crime. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Defence Minister Judith Collins has just returned from visiting Ukraine - and says she's seen first-hand the heartbreaking human cost of war to its people. She says Russia's illegal invasion's brought misery and destruction to the Ukrainian people for three and a half long years. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper unpacked the trip further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Anne Daniels President of the NZ Nurses Organisation joins the show to talk about this weeks' strike action.Chloe Swarbrick and David Seymour on Herald NOW to discuss the Paris Climate Agreement that Seymour has called for NZ to leave.Helen Clarke and John Key were in China for celebrations, representing NZ alongside some controversial guests.... And just a day later Judith Collins makes a secret visit to Kyiv Ukraine to show NZ's support.=================================Come support the work we're doing by becoming a Patron of #BHN www.patreon.com/BigHairyNews=================================Merch available at www.BHNShop.nz Like us on Facebookwww.facebook.com/BigHairyNews Follow us on Twitter.@patbrittenden @Chewie_NZFollow us on BlueskyPat @patbrittenden.bsky.socialChewie @chewienz.bsky.socialEmily @iamprettyawesome.bsky.socialMagenta @xkaosmagex.bsky.social
For Dear Science this week, our expert, Dr Daniel Thomas all about ‘interactions' For our weekly catchup with the National Party, Host Sara spoke to MP Carl Bates about the government's plans to fix up the supermarket duopoly, changes to the Alcohol Sale and Supply act, and Judith Collins legislation for Defence Force workers For Green Desk, Sara spoke to University of Otago's Dr Thomas Mattern about the Tawaki Project on New Zealand's penguin populations Faith spoke to psychological medicine researcher Dr. Aida Dehkhoda about assisted dying, and how doctors, patients, and their families can be better supported
For Dear Science this week, our expert, Dr Daniel Thomas all about ‘interactions' For our weekly catchup with the National Party, Host Sara spoke to MP Carl Bates about the government's plans to fix up the supermarket duopoly, changes to the Alcohol Sale and Supply act, and Judith Collins legislation for Defence Force workers For Green Desk, Sara spoke to University of Otago's Dr Thomas Mattern about the Tawaki Project on New Zealand's penguin populations Faith spoke to psychological medicine researcher Dr. Aida Dehkhoda about assisted dying, and how doctors, patients, and their families can be better supported
The Government has announced a $2.7 billion defence spending boost to upgrade the aircraft fleet. The money will be spent on five Seahawk helicopters and two Airbus aircrafts, to replace the Defence Force's "embarrassing" planes, in Judith Collins' words. It's part of National's pledge to boost defence spending by $9 billion over the next four years, but why now? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Defence Minister says it's important for New Zealand to have the right equipment as the Government unveils its newest defence spend. The Government is set to invest $2.7 billion into two new Airbus A321 planes and five new MH-60R Seahawk helicopters to replace the Air Force's Boeing 757s and the Navy's older Seasprite helicopters. Judith Collins explained that it was important to get the right equipment at the right price range. "We're a bit faster than some people getting them because we're doing this less-to-buy program with a very large supplier - or someone who buys an awful lot of brand-new planes - and we're on that sort of system so we can get them a bit earlier." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Green MP Huhana Lyndon joins us LIVE tonight at 9pm to talk about the Pae Ora Amendment Bill. Many within Maoridom are concerned that this bill are concerned changes to New Zealand's health legislation will weaken the voices of local Māori communities and centralise decision-making in Wellington.Dr Gary Payinda joins us LVE around 9.40 to talk about Dargaville Hospital patients asked to sign consent form on having no on-site doctor, something that legally a patient cannot do.Defence Minister Judith Collins carried a model Seahawk helicopter and a huge grin with her on Thursday, as she headed to the debating chamber to remind people that "they money will be found because the money has to be found" all in a week they wouldn't find money for teachers, and a week after they wouldn't find money for nurses.=================================Come support the work we're doing by becoming a Patron of #BHN www.patreon.com/BigHairyNews=================================Merch available at www.BHNShop.nz Like us on Facebookwww.facebook.com/BigHairyNews Follow us on Twitter.@patbrittenden @Chewie_NZFollow us on BlueskyPat @patbrittenden.bsky.socialChewie @chewienz.bsky.socialEmily @iamprettyawesome.bsky.socialMagenta @xkaosmagex.bsky.social
The Government is blasting the secondary teachers union for calling a strike. Post Primary Teachers' Association members will put down the tools next Wednesday, rejecting a three-percent pay increase over three years. Tens of thousands of healthcare workers are also preparing to walk off the job on two separate days next month. Public Service Minister Judith Collins told Mike Hosking it seems the union spent more time on its marketing, than it did at the bargaining table. She's urging teachers to stop using kids as political footballs and get a union that actually cares about them. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the Mike Hosking Breakfast Full Show Podcast for Thursday 14th of August, then-Covid Minister Chris Hipkins defends his decision not to appear publicly for the Covid-19 Inquiry. Public Service Minister Judith Collins responds to the latest strike action from both nurses and secondary school teachers. All Blacks mental skills expert Gilbert Enoka imparts his wisdom and philosophy from his 23-year career with our top side in his new book 'Become Unstoppable'. 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.
There's a new strengthening of the partnership between our police and security agencies and the FBI. The bureau is opening a stand alone office in Wellington, meaning they're established in all Five Eyes countries. Minister for Defence, SIS and GCSB Judith Collins says it will work on combating terrorism, organised crime, and foreign intelligence threats. "Whether it's people trafficking fentanyl, which is a big focus at the moment for the FBI - but also methamphetamine, which is one of our big focus areas." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Thursday, 31 July 2025, Civil Defence Director John Price has defended emergency warnings sent out across the country - and says there continues to be a tsunami risk. Minister for Defence and Intelligence, Judith Collins, explains why the FBI is opening its own office in Wellington. Oil and gas exploration has been officially unbanned - Energy Resources Aotearoa is hopeful that this will actually lead to some exploration. Former Defence Minister Wayne Mapp weighs in on a warning by the Chief of Navy to his sailors to stop the excessive boozing. Plus, the Huddle debates whether now is the time to shut down Gloriavale after its leader pleaded guilty to assault charges. 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.
On this week's Bradbury Group with host Martyn 'Bomber' Bradbury, a full-on political rollercoaster - a recession biting harder than a cold southerly, 28,000 jobs gone, and 70,000 Kiwis fleeing to Australia, while food prices rocket past wages. The panel of Claudette Hauiti, Barbara Edmonds, Simon Wilson, and Dita De Boni tear into voter suppression laws that even Judith Collins finds dodgy, Māori rights being stripped from 23 laws, and a “tiny win” ending card surcharges sometime next year. Expect sharp critiques of austerity, corporate welfare, and banks that never pay their fair share. As well as that, Moana Maniapoto is this week's special guest, talking about her recent Winston Peters interview, and we have the War on News. Powered by Waatea News.
Tania Waikato joins us tonight on proposed electoral rules to stop the ability to enrol to vote on election day. Judith Collins, as attorney general, said the rule would be a breach of the Bill of Rights, Christopher Luxon said "who cares:Lieutenant-Colonel Anthony Aguilar, a former special forces veteran, was employed as a professional soldier at a food distribution site in Gaza. Aguilar has accused members of the Israel Defence Forces and American colleagues of deliberately targeting and killing unarmed Palestinian civilians.Health Minister Simeon Brown, who's come out quite strong against the NZ Nurses Organisation (NZNO) and the near 40,000 nurses who are striking today, held a press conference repeating a few talking points and phrases such as "striking is not the answer" and "get back around the negotiating table". He also repeatedly thanked nurses who did provide emergency care today.=================================Come support the work we're doing by becoming a Patron of #BHN www.patreon.com/BigHairyNews=================================Merch available at www.BHNShop.nz Like us on Facebookwww.facebook.com/BigHairyNews Follow us on Twitter.@patbrittenden @Chewie_NZFollow us on BlueskyPat @patbrittenden.bsky.socialChewie @chewienz.bsky.socialEmily @iamprettyawesome.bsky.socialMagenta @xkaosmagex.bsky.social
I understand what the Prime Minister is saying about these pay increases for board members at Crown agencies, such as Health NZ and Kāinga Ora, but I'm not buying it. The top payment was $90,000. It's now $160,000. Christopher Luxon says the Government needs to offer higher pay for these board roles so they can attract the best people. But tell that to the 28,000 people who have lost their jobs in the past year. Tell that to the hospital staff striking for more pay. Tell that to the hospital staff who have had a gutsful of staffing levels going south. Tell that to most people in New Zealand, and I think they'll say that the Government couldn't be more tone deaf if it tried. As Labour leader Chris Hipkins is saying, people are struggling to make ends meet and this just shows how out of touch the Government is. To be fair, the Prime Minister is correct when he says that they need to make these roles worth people's while. Because, whether we like it or not, the Crown is competing with the private sector in trying to get the best people. But being correct doesn't always make someone right, and someone needs to tell Christopher Luxon that people don't care what he knows until we know that he cares. There he was again yesterday saying that he understands that people are doing it tough at the moment. He knows. But does he care? The way Public Service Minister Judith Collins puts it is that this is actually a strong move by the Government. Because past governments have been too chicken to pay its board members more, and she says we can't expect these people to work for chickenfeed. I get what Judith Collins is saying too. And I know that, in the scheme of things, it's not as if these increased payments to board members will amount to a massive amount of money. But for me it's all about perception and the message it sends. Yes, people putting their hands up to sit on government boards want to be recognised for their time and effort. But consider how busy the Government has been telling local councils to cut their cloth. Consider how busy the Government's been telling government departments to cut their cloth. Yes, people on government agency boards should be paid what they're worth, but now is not the time for 80% pay increases. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Winston Peters joins Moana Maniapoto for a wide-ranging kōrero – covering foreign affairs and Gaza, the Regulatory Standards Bill and the struggle of ‘ordinary New Zealanders.' Judith Collins spoke with Ryan Bridge on NZ Herald Now today where they spoke of space and a significant increase in the payments for Crown Boards...but noticeably no mention of the Attorney General's statements yesterday that the government was going to breach the Bill of Rights when it came to changing voting lawFor the first time, the number of patched gang members and gang prospects has surpassed 10,000 — with Police Minister Mark Mitchell acknowledging the figure is highly concerning.The tax break for Heated Tobacco Products (HTPs) made by Phillip Morris has been extended for an extra two years. In July 2024, the government cut the tax on HTPs in half, in what it said would be a one-year trial subject to an evaluation but NZ First Associate Health Minister Casey Costello told RNZ the evaluation would now be done in July 2027 and the reduced tax rate would apply to HTPs at least until then.=================================Come support the work we're doing by becoming a Patron of #BHN www.patreon.com/BigHairyNews=================================Merch available at www.BHNShop.nz Like us on Facebookwww.facebook.com/BigHairyNews Follow us on Twitter.@patbrittenden @Chewie_NZFollow us on BlueskyPat @patbrittenden.bsky.socialChewie @chewienz.bsky.socialEmily @iamprettyawesome.bsky.socialMagenta @xkaosmagex.bsky.social
On the Mike Hosking Breakfast Full Show Podcast for Tuesday 29th of July, the Government is getting rid of surcharges when you pay by card. Consumers love it, businesses aren't a fan. Board members' pay is going up by up to 80% in some instances, with ministers justifying it by saying it's about finding the best people. Joel Shadbolt of L.A.B fame is back on the show to talk their newly announced summer schedule and his career growth since leaving teaching behind and going full time as a musician. 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.
More money's discreetly finding its way into the pockets of public sector board members. A quietly released Cabinet document reveals governance board chairs could now be paid more than $160 thousand. Annual fees had previously been capped at about $90 thousand. Public Service Minister Judith Collins told Mike Hosking these people are often responsible for large sums of money and assets. She says if we want good people to reform the public service and get Crown entities humming, we have to pay for it. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A new law on space infrastructure is being described as immediately enhancing national security. The bill's passed under urgency today, and requires a Government permit for anyone wanting to operate ground-based space infrastructure, like a launch pad. Permission can be removed if the security risk can't be managed. Space Minister Judith Collins says there are risks from so much banking and communication being done through satellites. "That sort of information could be pulled off those satellites - or copied." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lawyer Sam Vincent joins us LIVE at 9pm to talk about the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa accusing some Government Ministers and businesses of having complicity in Israel's war crimes. The PSNA have identified Chris Luxon, Winston Peters, Judith Collins who they say have approved NZ military and intelligence support for Israeli war crimes and Rocket Lab's Peter Beck and Rakon's Sinan Altug who have launched spy satellites which Israel uses to target civilians in Gaza and supplied military-grade crystal oscillators to the US to be put in missiles which Israel can deploy in Gaza and elsewhere respectively. These individuals and businesses have been referred to the International Criminal Court by the PSNA. Childcare rebates from the Government's flagship FamilyBoost scheme will rise with eligibility expanded, Finance Minister Nicola Willis has announced. At the election Nicola Willis said that 100,000 families would receive the Family Boost when in truth less that half that number received it and fewer that 50 families received the maximum amount.The right have been screaming isolationist policies for past few years. We've heard "USA first" form the likes of Trump and "UK First" from right wing commentators like Matt Goodwin and the likes of Reform UK. This passionate, foundational, never compromise desire seems to disappear though when Israel gets mentioned by the same groups or people.=================================Come support the work we're doing by becoming a Patron of #BHN www.patreon.com/BigHairyNews=================================Merch available at www.BHNShop.nz Like us on Facebookwww.facebook.com/BigHairyNews Follow us on Twitter.@patbrittenden @Chewie_NZFollow us on BlueskyPat @patbrittenden.bsky.socialChewie @chewienz.bsky.socialEmily @iamprettyawesome.bsky.socialMagenta @xkaosmagex.bsky.social
On the Mike Hosking Breakfast Full Show Podcast for Wednesday 25th of June, a ceasefire between Iran and Israel is on, then off, then on again, as another NATO summit kicks off in the Hague. As we go into another round of pay negotiations, this time with teachers, Judith Collins outlines exactly who gets paid what. Ginny Andersen and Mark Mitchell talk butter and the cost-of-living crisis, whether we should cut regional councils, and if rates should be capped on Politics Wednesday. 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.
Primary school teachers may have less ground to stand on at the bargaining table. They began negotiations yesterday for the first time since losing their pay equity claim in the May Budget. The Public Service Minister says there is a public mantra that teachers deserve to be paid more. But Judith Collins told Mike Hosking it ignores the facts. She says primary school teachers can earn $115 thousand including allowances, after eight years experience. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the Mike Hosking Breakfast Full Show Podcast for Friday 6th of June, the farce in Parliament over the Te Pati Māori MPs is over and we can finally get back to fixing our country. The Super Rugby playoffs begin this weekend, so we need to catch up with the table topping Chiefs ahead of the only Kiwi derby in this round. Kate Hawkesby and Tim Wilson celebrate Newstalk ZB's and the Mike Hosking Breakfast's success at the NZ Radio Awards. 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.
Satisfaction the Privileges Committee stood its ground over Te Pati Māori's viral haka in Parliament. The harshest sanctions in Parliament's history have been handed down, with co-leaders Debbie Ngarewa-Packer and Rawiri Waititi suspended for 21 days. Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke's been suspended for seven. Privileges Committee Chair Judith Collins told Mike Hosking the committee was almost universally appalled by the demonstration and six months' worth of hearings. She says the committee's work was worth it, and it's about time Parliament realised the public is appalled by the antics. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the Mike Hosking Breakfast Full Show Podcast for Wednesday 21st of May, Privileges Committee Chair Judith Collins discusses the adjournment of the vote regarding the suspension of the Te Pati Māori MPs. Mike digs into what exactly it is that Winston Peters doesn't like about foreign business investors being allowed to buy houses that are priced out for the vast majority of New Zealanders. Mark Mitchell and Ginny Andersen do Politics Wednesday and discuss gifts to MPs, the debate, or lack thereof, in the House, and the Budget. 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.
The chair of the Privileges Committee wants Labour's Leader to apologise. Chris Hipkins told TVNZ Judith Collins had publicly condemned “uncivilised behaviour from indigenous people” in relation to Te Pati Māori's actions. Judith Collins told Mike Hosking she never said that. She says it's entirely wrong for him to have said that, and she's called on him to apologise and apparently he's going to think about it. The debate on the proposed punishments for the three Te Pati Māori MPs was moved to June 5 - to leave this week free for the Budget. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
I asked Judith Collins yesterday, just what has become of us? The “us” I was referring to is this country. But I amended that in my mind yesterday afternoon when I read the first review of Jake Tapper's book on Joe Biden. What's become of all of us, is now the question. "Biden didn't recognise George Clooney at a fundraiser", was your headline. Tapper is making money out of a book on a subject he should have been all over four years ago, but wasn't. Most of the American media in particular weren't. They knew Biden was what he was, but it didn't seem to matter then. But now that they can make a buck, it's a story. This was raised at the White House correspondents dinner, so it's not like they aren't aware of how this looks. Jacinda Ardern falls into the same category – destroy the country, run away to Boston, write a book and collect the money. It's shocking. Jannik Sinner, the tennis player in name, and act. He meets the Pope, having cut a deal with the doping authorities not to miss any majors and return to his home tournament a hero. And the daddy of them all is the current American President. He offers White House tours and a dinner if you buy his crypto. How is this possible? He tells you "it's a good time to buy" before he makes an announcement that he knows will move the markets. No one is seemingly doing anything about it. He is about to collect a plane for God's sake! That is quite obviously illegal, and yet, who is it that is going to do something about it? Winston Peters had his head in his hands when Brooke let the big word fly, and he lamented the lack of standards. All around us are seemingly new norms. There are more and more indicators that what was once the right way to go about business now doesn't matter. Punishments that once addressed indiscretions are now laughed at or negotiated away. Moral fibre that kept you on the straight and narrow is not just gone, but jettisoned and replaced by contempt and arrogance. If the President of America can bribe your crypto purchases, while flying on an illegal plane, former leaders can profit from negligence, and the Fourth Estate can pretend to be unbiased while ignoring the news and then cash in on their ineptitude, is it any wonder more and more of us long for the good old days? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Heading into next week's Budget, Judith Collins says she doesn't want any more money for weaponry even if it was offered to her. Phil Pennington spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.
Parliament's Privileges Committee is recommending the harshest ever punishment for Te Pāti Māori's co-leaders, following last year's protest haka in the House. Committee chair Judith Collins spoke to Corin Dann.
Questions to Ministers DANA KIRKPATRICK to the Minister of Finance: What recent reports has she seen on the Government's fiscal position? LAURA McCLURE to the Associate Minister of Education: What recent announcements has he made regarding school attendance? Rt Hon CHRIS HIPKINS to the Prime Minister: Does he stand by all his Government's statements and actions? SAM UFFINDELL to the Minister of Transport: What announcements has he made regarding the Government's crackdown on drunk drivers? Hon BARBARA EDMONDS to the Minister of Finance: Does she agree with Christopher Luxon, when describing FamilyBoost, that "Our view is it doesn't cost much more to administer"; if so, how much has been spent on administering the scheme relative to the amount paid out? Hon MARAMA DAVIDSON to the Prime Minister: E tautoko ana ia i nga korero me nga mahi katoa a tona Kawanatanga? Does he stand by all of his Government's statements and actions? RAWIRI WAITITI to the Minister for Maori Development: Does he stand by his statement that "Over the past 50 years, the Tribunal has made significant contributions to the Maori Crown relationship and informed the settlement of both historical and contemporary Treaty claims impacting generations of whanau across the country"? Hon JAN TINETTI to the Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety: Does she agree with Andrea Vance, who said about the Equal Pay Amendment Bill, "It is a curious feminist moment, isn't it? Six girlbosses - Willis, her hype-squad Judith Collins, Erica Stanford, Louise Upston, Nicola Grigg, and Brooke van Velden - all united in a historic act of economic backhanding other women"; if not, how is unilaterally stopping 33 pay equity claims not a historic act of economic backhanding other women? Dr HAMISH CAMPBELL to the Minister of Immigration: What update can she provide about the recent changes to the Active Investor Plus Visa to attract more global investment to New Zealand? CAMILLA BELICH to the Minister for the Public Service: What impact will recent changes to the Equal Pay Act 1972 have on public sector workers, particularly women? TIM VAN DE MOLEN to the Minister for Veterans: What investments is the Government making to support veterans in Budget 2025? CHLÖE SWARBRICK to the Prime Minister: E tautoko ana ia i nga korero me nga mahi katoa a tona Kawanatanga? Does he stand by all of his Government's statements and actions?
On the Mike Hosking Breakfast Full Show Podcast for Thursday 15th of May, Privileges Committee Chair Judith Collins is on to discuss the punishment suggested for the three Te Pati Māori MPs. Will the meeting between Zelenskyy and Putin in Turkey happen? Former Australian Major General Mick Ryan gives his thoughts on how it will go, if Putin will turn up, and how much of a role the US plays. Auckland FC owner Bill Foley is on to talk A-league ahead of the semifinals this weekend - and if his Vegas Golden Knights can turn around a 3-1 deficit in the NHL playoffs. 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.
Judith Collins calls for “civility” in Parliament after suspending three MPs and attacks on female MPs. Collins praised Act MP Brooke van Velden for standing up for herself after using the c-word. Te Pāti Māori co-leaders Debbie Ngarewa-Packer and Rawiri Waititi face 21-day suspensions without pay. Parliament Privileges Committee chair Judith Collins is calling for “civility” in the House after the decision to suspend three MPs without pay and attacks on female MPs. Collins said she was proud of Act MP Brooke van Velden for “standing up for herself” yesterday when she stirred major controversy by using the c-word in the House while attacking Labour for not condemning a column that used the word “c***” against female ministers. Yesterday, her committee's decision was handed down to three Te Pāti Māori MPs after last year's controversial haka. The committee recommended 21-day suspensions for co-leaders Debbie Ngarewa-Packer and Rawiri Waititi, saying they should be “severely censured”. Te Pāti Māori co-leaders Rawiri Waititi and Debbie Ngarewa-Packer face a heavy censure. It also recommended a seven-day suspension for MP Hana-Rāwhiti Maipi-Clarke. Collins told Newstalk ZB's Mike Hosking this morning the suspension also meant the MPs would go without pay during this time. She confirmed the suspension would be carried out consecutively. Collins said the committee had been “collegial” through the six-month-long process and only butted heads in the end when it came to handing down the penalties. “Even [the Green Party and the Labour Party] are differing from each other. “It's a very severe penalty compared to what has been awarded in the past, it's not only a suspension from the House, it's a suspension of salary. “But then, we haven't seen that level of behaviour before.” She said the committee's decision would be tabled today before it was voted for on Tuesday. She said she expected it to pass. On Brooke van Velden's use of the c-bomb in the House yesterday, Collins said she was proud of the Act MP for standing up for herself and the other women in the House being attacked. “I would say to Brooke, that I wouldn't have used the word myself but I did feel that she did stand up for herself and all the rest of us and I am waiting for someone of the left persuasion… one MP, just one, to come out and say it's not okay to attack someone just because you are not okay with what they do." She called reading the language in the column, which was written by Andrea Vance and published in the Sunday Star-Times, one of the “lowest points” in Parliament she has seen in her 23 years of service. “That and what happened on the 14th of November in Parliament. “It's just the sort of behaviour towards each other that is despicable.” LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Public Service Minister has confirmed she's committed to cutting public service diversity requirements. Minister Judith Collins is looking to bring a draft bill to Cabinet in July, to remove diversity requirements when hiring chief executives. It would also remove their responsibilities to promote diversity. Collins says these requirements are holding the public service back - and she's looking to ensure the right people are hired for the job. "We're also hearing from public servants that they like to think that they are employed on merit, not based on little boxes that have been ticked." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Finance Minister's keeping a cool head, despite being the subject of some colourful language in yesterday's papers. The Post's Andrea Vance wrote a column on Sunday levelling the c-word at Nicola Willis - as well as Judith Collins, Louise Upston, Nicola Grigg, Brooke van Velden and Erica Stanford in response to the Government's pay equity changes. Nicola Willis says she's used to criticism and insults as part of politics, but she's voiced concerns about the implications for other women. "I always think about other young women who want to go into politics, and I don't want them to think that it's okay to have their gender weaponised against them - and I don't want any young women to think there's a difference between girl maths and boy maths. It's called maths." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the Mike Hosking Breakfast Full Show Podcast for Monday the 12th of May, the Government are going back to crushing cars. Will they be more effective than Judith Collins and her three crushed cars in eight years? The Prime Minister is in studio to talk the Coalition of the Willing call over the weekend, the Waitangi Tribunal review and Act agreeing to disagree on guns. Andrew Saville and Jason Pine give their highlights of the sporting weekend and the future of the NZR after bringing in record revenue but still losing $20 million. Get the Mike Hosking Breakfast Full Show Podcast every weekday morning on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
With Judith Collins, Anna Fifield, Paris Marx and Laura McClure
The Defence Minister discusses the plan for a massive boost in defence spending - up to levels not seen since the early 1990s.
New missile systems, better strike capability and a focus on drones and new technology, those are just some of the features of the government's long-awaited Defence Capability Review. Defence Minister Judith Collins spoke to Corin Dann.
On the Mike Hosking Breakfast Full Show Podcast for Tuesday 8th of April, the Government has announced a major defence spend – the highest since WWII. Defence Minister Judith Collins and former Minister Ron Mark share their thoughts. A New Zealand restaurant has is in the top three – worldwide. Famed singer and pianist Bruce Hornsby has been on Mike's interview bucket list for decades, and he's finally on the show. 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.
The Government's promising to spend big in areas of defence, including improving its fleet in the air, and on the land, and sea. The long-awaited Defence Capability Plan was released yesterday afternoon, with $12 billion worth of public spending across four years – $9 billion of which is deemed new spending. It includes plans to bring defence spending up to two percent of GDP, with procurement for maritime helicopters, vehicles, and a replacement plane fleet. The Defence Minister is confident in the work done by Finance Minister Nicola Willis, reassuring they're not spending money New Zealand does not have. Judith Collins is also standing by changes making it easier to enter the armed forces. Since last year most Defence Force roles now only require three years of high school to Year 11, instead of passing Level One credits. More technical roles now only require a Level Two certificate. Collins told Mike Hosking being smart academically is helpful but isn't the first port of call. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Government's keeping its cards close to its chest on how it'll fund a mammoth defence splurge. It's injecting $12 billion over the next four years into building up our Defence Force workforce and equipment. It's signalling it'll go into system upgrades, replacing helicopters - and enhancing maritime strike capability. Defence Minister Judith Collins says the investment includes $9 billion on top of what we already spend on defence. "It is a lot of money, but I also know this - there is no economic security without national security." LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Three Te Pāti Māori MPs, Hana Rāwhiti Maipi-Clarke, Debbie Ngarewa-Packer, and Rawiri Waititi, did not attend the Privileges Committee over their contempt of the House, following their haka in Parliament protesting the Treaty Principles Bill. The party instead are planning on holding their own hearing regarding the matter. Privileges Committee chairwoman Judith Collins, called the no-show “unprecedented” and has given the MPs “one final chance” to attend the hearing. For our weekly catch up, News and Editorial Director and Monday Wire Host, Joel, spoke to Te Pāti Māori's Takutai Kemp about the party's action, and why they are going about the hearing in their own manner. We also spoke about the repeal of Section 7AA of the Oranga Tamariki Act passing its final reading. But first, we discussed the party not attending the Privileges Committee.
Human error and failing to disengage autopilot has been confirmed as the root cause of a New Zealand Navy ship running aground and sinking in the Pacific, a report has concluded. Crew were unaware the ship was on autopilot mode when they tried to adjust course, and key personnel were distracted and not properly trained; the report found. The $100 million HMNZS Manawanui motored into a reef off the coast of Samoa at a speed of 11 knots last October. Defence Minister talks to Ryan Bridge about the report. LISTEN ABOVE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Judith Collins says she believes public service productivity has increased under her Government. It's on track towards the goal of cutting $400 million off contractor and consultant spending - with a forecast it'll cut more than double that figure. The Public Service Minister says it's not a case of just shifting work onto public servants, because the service as whole shrank four percent in the year to June. "Quite clearly, people are working better - but more people are focused, I think, on delivering better results for taxpayers." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tonight on The Huddle, CTU chief economist Craig Rennie and Tim Wilson from the Maxim Institute joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more! Eden Park has won the Auckland stadium battle, with Auckland Council overwhelmingly voted to endorse the Park as the city's main stadium over a new site near the waterfront. Do we agree with this? Has Tamatha Paul done damage to the Greens' election chances with her comments on the police? Or is she playing to her voters? Judith Collins has exceeded her target for consultant cuts, almost doubling the original cuts. Does this not prove the Government's point that there was plenty of fat to cut in the public service? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A census sent out to all government workers is wider reaching than simply identifying cost cutting advice. Thousands of public servants across all agencies have been asked in a census to identify taxpayer value in their work and any changes needed, with results expected in July. The survey's done every five years. Public Service Minister Judith Collins told Mike Hosking how to save money is just one of many focuses. She says it also asks about concerns people have around any unacceptable sexual harassment and bullying, adding it's therefore a two-way exercise. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the Mike Hosking Breakfast Full Show Podcast for Monday 24th of March, we get the first inside look at the discussion and process behind the potential FTA agreement with India. The public service has been asked where they think their sector can make cuts – Judith Collins explained the census as the Minister in charge of our version of DOGE. Andrew Saville and Jason Pine discuss Liam Lawson's weekend in China and the impact of Alex “Grizz” Wylie in the Commentary Box. 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.
RNZ's explainer editor Katie Kenny explains what's been happening with the new gene technology legislation, announced by Judith Collins last year.
China says complaints from New Zealand and Australia over recent Chinese live-fire naval exercises in the Tasman Sea are "hyped up" and "inconsistent with the facts". Defence Minister Judith Collins spoke to Corin Dann.
Three Chinese warships have been docked off the coast of Sydney since last week, and they have since been seen carrying out a live weapons drill. Commercial flights had to be diverted as a result of the exercise, with pilots being told to avoid the area. Should New Zealand be worried? Defence Minister Judith Collins talk to Mike Hosking about China's presence in the Pacific. LISTEN ABOVE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.