Podcasts about Lisa Owen

Washington DC correspondent Zach Montellaro spoke to Lisa Owen about Donald Trump riding a high after his trip to the NATO summit in the Netherlands. NATO's Secretary General Mark Rutte was full of praise for the president who he called "daddy", referring to Trump's handling of the Israel-Iran conflict. The US president has long demanded all members in the alliance bump up their defence spend.

Families are booking holidays a year in advance to get an affordable escape and airlines and accomodation providers are wise to people sneaking off a day or so before official school holidays, one travel agent told Checkpoint. Air New Zealand expects more than 745,000 to take to the skies over the july break; 465,000 domestic and 280,000 international travellers. Associate Minister for Education David Seymour has previously warned parent condoned truancy, like taking days off to bag cheap flights, could result in prosecution. Managing Director of World Travellers Motueka Silvana Gottini spoke to Lisa Owen.

The head of a provincial referees assocation has said fewer people are putting their hands up to referee, with side line abuse escalating. Horowhenua Kapiti Rugby Football Union has cancelled all club and college games this weekend after a referee officiating a college match "was subjected to serious verbal abuse and physical intimidation". The union earlier this year warned it would consider cancelling games after someone threatened to stab a referee. Referee in Horewhenua Kapiti and secretary for Horowhenua-Kapiti Rugby Referees Association Quentin Hathaway spoke to Lisa Owen.

Danish tennis player Holger Rune has put some of his mangled rackets up for sale, with a price tag close to $12,000 for charity. With news of Rune's new online venture sports reporter Felicity Reid scoured the internet to find some other unusual items sports stars have parted with. She spoke to Lisa Owen.

A music licensing organisation is chasing up hundreds of businesses a week asking them to pay-up for the tunes they are using, so that artists get what they are owed. A Hawkes Bay florist told Checkpoint she was called by One Music to see if she was paying licence fees, which she was not. Despite only listening to the radio on her phone out the back of her shop, the music licensing organisation told her to buy a licence or turn the music off. Onemusic Director, Greer Davies spoke to Lisa Owen.

A huge catch-up bill has left one Watercare customer stressed out and "pissed off' and she says the problem is still not fixed. Checkpoint has revealed that more than 13 thousand Watercare smart meters are not working properly. It means customers have been gettting zero use bills; bills that claim they havent used a single drop of water in a month or in some cases months. Watercare said the problem is specific to a particular smart meters. They have installed about 40,000 of them since 2022, and there's a fault with about a third of them. Watercare chief financial officer Angela Neeson spoke to Lisa Owen.

The fragile ceasefire between Israel and Iran is still holding , but Iran's supreme leader remains hidden in a bunker, fearing assassination. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has gone to ground, issuing no public statements. The conflict has left some citzens, who had hoped for regime change, conflicted. Sahar Zand, a British-Iranian journalist who spent the first 12 years of her life in Iran, before fleeing with her mother to avoid political persecution, spoke to Lisa Owen.

Moana Pasifika may have had their best season on the field to date, but off field financial dramas are plaguing the franchise. Reports have emerged that Moana have been larely reliant on tax payer funds to survive, and that funding is now under threat of being pulled. Sports reporter Jonty Dine spoke to Lisa Owen.

Australia correspondent Nick Grimm spoke to Lisa Owen about a push in Australia for schools to do more to tackle declining standards among their students by doing more to improve their writing skills.

A Hawkes Bay florist has had her music listening habits nipped in the bud. Francie Croy listens to tunes on her phone while she works at her Waipukurau store. The florist was contacted by a music licensing organisation and told to turn the music off at the flower shop or buy a licence. The fee comes from OneMusic, which issues licences for certain music to be played in a commercial setting, so artists get their royalties. That includes music played while people are on hold on the phone, at a hairdressing salon, music radio in the background at the office or thumping tunes on the factory floor, there is a cost to anything outside of personal use. E-Central Flowers owner Francie Croy spoke to Lisa Owen.

Parents who raised concerns about what they say is a dangerous school bus stop near Nelson have been told most of their children dont qualify for the free ride. Some students have to cross the busy 100km/h state highway 60 near Mapua to get to the bus, something parents believe is an accident waiting to happen. They asked for the Ministry of Education to move the stop one kilometre up the road, to a safer area for kids taking the bus to Waimea and Garin colleges in Richmond. Since then one of the schools has told families the Ministry is looking at taking most of the students off the free school bus service because they dont actually qualify for it. Sarah Taylor, a mum of two who's been leading the charge to change the bus route, spoke to Lisa Owen.

After being humiliated in their first two FIFA Club World Cup games, Auckland City produced a miracle in Nashville, drawing 1-1 with South American giants Boca Juniors. Sports reporter Jonty Dine spoke to Lisa Owen.

Asia correspondent Katie Silver spoke to Lisa Owen about Thai citizens being banned from crossing the land border into Cambodia as relations between the Southeast Asian countries break down, as well as a tourist who fell from an active volcano in Indonesia who has been found dead.

Middle East correspondent Perry Wilton spoke to Lisa Owen about US efforts to seal a ceasefire betwen Iran and Israel, which have seen a rocky start. However, the ceasefire appears to be holding, with both Iran and Israel claiming victory after 12 days of strikes.

Retirement commissioner Jane Wrightson believes the government should be considering means testing what is currently a universal benefit, an idea she concedes is unpopular. Data from the 2023 census shows more than 9000 people aged over 65 earn more than $200,000 a year. Another 33,000 earn between $100,000 and $200,000. Treasury estimates superannuation costs the government about 18 cents of every dollar it collects in tax, or more than 24 billion dollars this year. Honorary Associate Professor of Economics at Auckland University, Susan St John, spoke to Lisa Owen.

New Zealand sprint queen Zoe Hobbs has broken the New Zealand and Oceania 100-metre record once again at the latest World Athletics continental tour event in the Czech Republic. Hobbs produced an electric return to form with a time of 10.94 seconds, her first sub-11 second performance in nearly two years. Sports correspondent Dana Johannsen spoke to Lisa Owen.

Australia correspondent Nick Grimm spoke to Lisa Owen about the push for the incoming social media ban for those aged under 16, which is now set to be expanded to include Youtube.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has arrived in the Hague where he will join more than 30 world leaders, including US president Donald Trump, for what is expected to be one of the largest and most expensive NATO summits in history. Reporter Jamie Tahana spoke to Lisa Owen from the Hague.

GPs and specialist nurses will soon be able to diagnose and prescribe medication for ADHD. At the moment they need the written recommendation of a psychiatrist or paediatrician to start prescribing medications for Attention Deficit Hyper Activity medications, and that can take months. Now Medsafe and Pharmac have announced a rule change. From next year GPs and nurse practioners will be able to diagnose and start adults on treatment. Dr Anna Skinner, the Chief Clinical Advisor for Primary Care at Health New Zealand spoke to Lisa Owen.

An Auckland state house tenant is unfairly being forced to choose between her two dogs or a roof over her head according to an advocate for the family. The Favona family, a grandma, mum and son has a pair of mixed breed dogs and say Kainga Ora has told them to get rid of the dogs or risk losing their home. The family claims its been upfront with the agency, about having the dogs and there's been no complaints about Nema and Sophie. An Animal Sanctuary that's helping them rehome the dogs says the family got into problems when they filled out a Kainga Ora pet policy form, and indentified the dogs as Pitbulls even though they are mixbreed and not pure bred. Anna Dahlberg, who runs Paws Awhile Animal Sanctuary spoke to Lisa Owen.

The Wellington Phoenix have helped make a goalkeeper's dream come true. Football Fern Victoria Esson has signed with the A-League club on a one season deal, allowing her to play professionally for the first time at home. Sports reporter Felicity Reid spoke to Lisa Owen.

Washington DC correspondent Zach Montellaro spoke to Lisa Owen about US President Donald Trump's announcement of a ceasefire between Irsrael and Iran, which has been met with scepticism. As well as a historic heatwave that has been hitting the US.

A group of students is leading the charge to change the name of Christchurch's Rolleston Avenue, because of the dark history associated with its name sake. The Hagley College students have appealed to the city council to ditch the street name and get rid of a statue of William Rolleston. In 1881, Rolleston, the Native Affairs Minister, ordered hundreds of British troops to invade the Māori settlement of Parihaka in Taranaki. During the invasion village women were raped, men were attacked and occupants kicked off their land. In 2017 the government officially apologised for atrocities committed during the ransacking of Parihaka. Christchurch City Councillor Tyla Harrison-Hunt, who whakapapas to Te Atiawa, a group among the Māori living at Parihaka, spoke to Lisa Owen.

An Australian broadcast network has been criticised for zooming in on a crying child during Carlton's AFL shock loss to North Melbourne on the weekend. Sports reporter Bridget Tunnicliffe spoke to Lisa Owen.

Lisa Owen is joined by our correspondent in Singapore, Katie Silver

The Acting Prime Minister is warning against rushing to judgment on the United States' airstrikes on Iran, saying the rest of the world is not waiting to hear New Zealand's position. David Seymour has stepped in for Christopher Luxon at this week's post-Cabinet press conference, and he was pushed for a response on the strikes. Mr Luxon is in Europe for the NATO summit this week, where the Middle East is likely to dominate proceedings. Political reporter Giles Dexter spoke to Lisa Owen.

A defence force hercules is on route to an undisclosed location in the Middle East, to help evacuate New Zealanders from the conflict zone if its able to. Some air space has been closed since the bombing started between Israel and Iran. The plane will remain on standby in the region to assist if and when possible. President Trump claims US stealth bombers have "totally obliterated" key iranian nuclear facilities. Iran has warned of dangerous consequences. International law expert Associate Professor Anna Hood from the University of Auckland spoke to Lisa Owen.

The celebrations are continuing in red and black country following the Crusaders Super Rugby triumph at the weekend. Crowds are gathering in central Christchurch this afternoon to catch a glimpse of the players with the Super Rugby trophy, back in their hands after a forgettable 2024 season. Reporter Adam Burns spoke to Lisa Owen.

The 33-man squad was announced today at the Coastal Rugby Club in South Taranaki - home of returning Captain Scott Barrett. There were a number of other returns and some suprises in coach Scott Robertson's line-up which is set to take on France in next month's three-test series. RNZ's Jamie Wall spoke to Lisa Owen.

A banks pensinsula business group wants to make drink spiking test kits available at local pubs and clubs after serious concerns about womens safety were raised in an online chat group. A Lyttleton woman posted about drinking spiking on a closed facebook page prompting a flood of others to share their experiences including allegations of cat calling, stalking and harassment. The issues have been raised with the community board. Chair of the Lyttleton Harbour Business Association Sabrina Saunders spoke to Lisa Owen.

One of the organisations vetting KiwiSaver hardship withdrawals has said applications to dip into the retirement fund have more than doubled in the past two years. This comes as some fund managers have expressed concern about social media "how to guides" advising people to go into more debt or fudge their financials so they can crack open the retirement piggy bank early. Inland revenue figures show that in April 2025 hardship withdrawals were up $300 million on the year before. Public Trusts acts as a supervisor for various KiwiSaver schemes and decides which hardship withdrawals are signed off. General Manager of Corporate Trustee Services David Callanan spoke to Lisa Owen.

Tensions flare across the Middle East with the prospect of full-scale war between Iran, Israel and the United States looming. Iran has warned the US to brace for retalliation following its strikes on three key Iranian nuclear sites at the weekend. Meanwhile America said any attack on its personell or bases will be met with "devastating" force. The United Nations Security Council has called an emergency session in New York, at Iran's request. Middle East correspondent Perry Wilton spoke to Lisa Owen.

Australia correspondent Nick Grimm spoke to Lisa Owen about how there is fresh doubts about the viability of a planned ban on social media for those aged under 16 and the 50th anniversary of the release of the movie Jaws.

Washington DC correspondent Zach Montellaro spoke to Lisa Owen about how President Trump is keeping the world guessing about whether or not the US will join Israel in attacking Iran, and how international student visa applicants are now required to unlock their social media accounts for screening. He also spoke about how one of America's most iconic sports teams is set to be sold for a record breaking deal.

A growing number of people are turning to the Government for help just to keep the roof over their head. Data shows almost 400,000 households are receiving the accommodation supplement, which helps when rent or mortgage payments are unaffordable. It's costing bilions of dollars a year, and some are suggesting we need a better way. Money correspondent Susan Edmunds spoke to Lisa Owen.

Paul Gallen certainly isn't holding back as he prepares to finally square off in the ring with Sonny Bill Williams next month in Sydney. Sports reporter Jonty Dine spoke to Lisa Owen.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has been fielding questions about New Zealand's relationship with the Cook Islands as his government cuts nearly $20 million in funding to our Pacific neighbour. Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters confirmed the funding freeze after the Cooks signed partnership agreements with China without consulting New Zealand. Deputy political editor Craig McCulloch spoke to Lisa Owen from Shanghai.

A dispute over school boy rugby is kicking off; with claims a proposed new competition is discriminatory and could lead to an arms race where colleges aggressively recruit top players to the detriment of the game. A collective of South Island boys' schools confirmed they're looking to launch a new first XV competition as part of wider efforts to improve educational outcomes for young men. Dozens of other principals are rallying against the plan. Darfield High School principal Andy England spoke to Lisa Owen.

A group of Auckland dog lovers are planning legal action over a decision to ban off leash pooches at a popular suburban park. Auckland Council is currently reviewing dog rules at dozens of local and regional parks and beaches. Dog Lovers of Monte Cecilia spokesperson Jonathan Sweeney spoke to Lisa Owen.

Run It organisers have come under criticism from a coroner who said it should not be considered a sport. Bruce Hesketh has slated the competition as a perilous activity that makes no attempt to mitigate head injury. Sports reporter Jonty Dine spoke to Lisa Owen.

People in Kaikoura wanting to to sit their licences are being driven out of town, having to go hundreds of kilometres away to get pratical test. A mobile testing unit comes to Kaikoura regularly but that's only for licence renewals and theory exams, so this means a trip to Blenheim or Rangiora. Kaikoura doesn't have an approved practical test route despite locals saying they have all the elements they need, including roundabouts. Mayor Craig Mackle spoke to Lisa Owen.

The father of Sophia Crestani, who was crushed to death at an over-crowded Otago student house party, is calling for a liquor store in the heart of Dunedin's student quarter to shut an hour earlier. Bede Crestani is campaigning for a safer student environment through the Sophia Charter for Community Responsibility and Wellbeing. He spoke to Lisa Owen.

The Prime Minister is rattling through a blitz of business promos on his first day in China, showcasing New Zealand's wares, and pitching it as a tourist destination. Deputy political editor Craig McCulloch spoke to Lisa Owen. 

A senior doctor has said she's kept awake at night by having to ration care at Whangarei hospital which she says is understaffed and under resourced. Others say it's frustrating, exhausting and like being on the deck of the Titanic. Senior Northland doctors, who are union members walked off the job and onto the picket line this morning, on a 24 hour strike, after a break down in negotiations over pay and conditions. All hospitals in the region, including Whangarei Hospital and its emergency department are still open, although Te Whatu Ora says some planned treatment and appointments are being disrupted. Checkpoint called the Whangarei doctors who were striking and they spoke to Lisa Owen about thieir experiences.

Things are heating up ahead of game two of State of Origin tonight. While Queensland need a win to keep the series alive, the spotlight has instead fallen on coach Billy Slater for controversial comments made regarding his late predecessor. Sports reporter Jonty Dine spoke to Lisa Owen.

The man who was given a restraining order for stalking British tennis player Emma Raducanu earlier this year has been caught trying to apply for tickets for this month's Wimbledon Championships. Tournament organisers blocked the man's attempt to enter the public ballot and have promised beefed up security for the event. It comes as another British player, Katie Boulter, has revealed the scale of online abuse she's suffered, including death threats. Sports reporter Dana Johannsen spoke to Lisa Owen.

The price of butter has seen a number of schools ditch traditional fundraisers in favour of selling blocks of butter instead. Westgold has been supplying the 250 gram blocks which go for $4, and schools get to keep $1 a block. It's a bargain compared to supermarkets where some 500 gram blocks are hitting $11. But Kaitangata School in South Otago has manged to cash in on the deal, raising thousands. Teacher and parent at the school, Brittany Morrison spoke to Lisa Owen.

Asia correspondent Erin Hale spoke to Lisa Owen about a volcanic eruption in Indonesia that has left many tourists, including New Zealanders, stranded in Bali, meanwhile two suspects have been arrested after an Australian tourist was shot and killed in Bali.

Chiefs fans have been told that cow bells are not welcome at the Super Rugby Pacific final in Christchurch on Saturday. The Waikato supporters are known for enthusiastically ringing the metal bells that were traditionally tied around cows necks. But the Crusaders have warned fans metal bells will be confiscated at the gate at Apollo Project stadium, and they may be melted down. Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge spoke to Lisa Owen.

United Kingdom correspondent Edward O'Driscoll spoke to Lisa Owen about global genetic testing company, 23andMe being fined millions by a UK watchdog over a massive data breach, as well a cyclist who suffered devestating facial injuries now being the owner of a 3D-printed face.