Podcasts about newstalk zb

Newstalk ZB political correspondent Barry Soper joined Francesca Rudkin to discuss the big political news of the week. Paul Henry debuts his political career, the new ferries receive names, NZ First's convention makes headlines, and the Green Party calls for union membership as default setting for new employees. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kevin Milne feared he might “never see my wife again” as she drove off in a car with Sir Sam Neill for horse-riding lessons, but the equally shy pair were instead like “two 15-year-olds on a first date”. The former Fair Go presenter this morning shared a touching story of when his wife Linda Milne helped the future movie superstar prepare for his role in the 1979 Australian period drama My Brilliant Career. Linda's experience matched the contrast between the “commanding characters that the great man played and the quiet, almost shy, person he was personally”, Milne told Newstalk ZB's Saturday Mornings with Jack Tame. Tributes for the Kiwi star of the big screen best known for his leading role in Jurassic Park have been shared around the world since he died aged 78 of pneumonia in a Sydney hospital on Monday. “I've a story that goes back to when Sam had just become a household name in New Zealand [after] he had played the lead role of Smith in Sleeping Dogs [in 1977]”, Milne told Tame. The couple had known Neill for a year or two when he called asking if Linda could coach him on how to manage a horse on hills, as he'd just landed a role in My Brilliant Career. Sam Neill needed to hone his horse-riding skills for a starring role in 1979 Australian period drama My Brilliant Career. “Sam was a lad of gentle charm and exceptionally good looks. For Linda, a very shy 22-year-old, the thought of spending an afternoon on her own with the gorgeous Sam Neill freaked her a bit. “Anyway, they head off in the car together, two gorgeous people on the journey to where Linda kept her horse. I feared I might never see my wife again.” But Linda quickly discovered the accomplished actor whose future credits would include The Piano and Hunt for the Wilderpeople was “every bit as shy as she was”. “As they drove along, not only was she struggling to get a sentence out to Sam, but the star of Sleeping Dogs was having equal difficulty thinking of what to say to her. “They were like two 15-year-olds on a first date. For a long time, she says, there was awkward silence.” A stop at the dairy helped break the ice when his wife Linda Milne, left, helped actor Sam Neill prepare a role in 1979's My Brilliant Career, says former Fair Go presenter Kevin Milne, centre. Also pictured is Tommie Milne, the youngest of Kevin and Linda Milne's four children. Photo / Hagen Hopkins Fortunately, a shop came into view, Milne said. “Sam broke the ice … ‘Shall we stop at the dairy and I'll buy some Summer Rolls?' A very sweet offer from the movie star, which Linda accepted. “Communications must have improved enough for Linda to show Sam how to handle a horse on hills, because the following year we watched him do it up on the big screen, so strikingly, so elegantly in the highly successful My Brilliant Career.” Cherie Howie is an Auckland-based reporter who joined the Herald in 2011. She has been a journalist for more than 20 years and specialises in general news and features. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The idea of a celebrity running for office is nothing new. All over the world, ex TV stars, movie icons, and comedians try their hand at a new role: politician. This week, Election 2026 has been rocked by the announcement that ex-broadcaster Paul Henry will be entering the fray – running for the Act Party. There have been countless headlines, interviews, and analysis since the surprise move. But, is it that surprising? Why do we get so swept up in name recognition and does it ever really work out well? Today on The Front Page, Newstalk ZB political reporter Ethan Griffiths is with us to explain how much star power really matters at the ballot box, whether high‑profile names actually change votes, and what history can tell us about how this latest twist might play out. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The All Blacks are facing a tough challenge this weekend. They're facing Ireland at Eden Park, aiming to continue their 52 match strong unbeaten record at the stadium. Dave Rennie has made a few changes to the squad ahead of the match – adding more bulk to the backline with Tupou Vaa'i shifted to blindside. Newstalk ZB's Voice of Rugby, Elliott Smith told Ryan Bridge that by and large, the All Blacks have picked a pretty strong side for this test. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Green Party says unions are to thank for workplace rights Kiwis now see as a given. Co-leader Marama Davidson's announced a members bill to make union membership the default, which is also a Party election policy. Membership would still be optional, but workers would need to opt-out, not in. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper says this proposal feels like a step backwards, given which other countries have compulsory unions. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newstalk ZB's Night Host Marcus Lush felt the 5.9 magnitude earthquake from his Invercargill studio. The quake struck 40km north of Te Anau at 9.14pm this evening at a depth of 53km. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has assessed the quake and says strong currents are possible on the West Coast of the South Island from Milford Sound to Puysegur Point. It has downgraded its tsunami warning to an advisory. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

National says Labour must take a clear stance on rates caps, with the Government planning to introduce legislation before the election. Labour's Chris Hipkins has told Newstalk ZB his party's yet to decide on a position. He says the policy is "good retail politics" but adds councils will need ways to fund core services. Local Government Minister Simon Watts told Mike Hosking they want to make sure that when they implement a policy, it's enduring and there is certainty for businesses and households. He says the problem is that Labour has previously indicated that they would vote against the legislation, but are now saying they don't have a position. Watts says he just wants to know where they stand on this. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ACT's newest - and best known - political prospect says the party has a perception issue he's hoping to fix. Former broadcaster Paul Henry's announced he's standing as a list candidate this election, and is gunning for portfolios if their campaign is successful. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper unpacked the reactions to the announcement from both sides of the political aisle. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's more evidence the mass exodus to Australia appears to be turning a corner. Latest Stats NZ figures show net migration from New Zealand to Australia last year was down 8.4% compared to the year before. Newstalk ZB analysis of official Australian data has revealed a similar trend. Massey University sociologist Paul Spoonley told Mike Hosking there's a feeling the tide is turning, which can in turn prompt more people not to go. He says the perception, feeling, and media coverage all play into whether people choose to move to Australia. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former broadcaster Paul Henry recently confirmed he plans to run for the ACT Party this election, and leader David Seymour has expressed confidence in him. Henry has announced he's running as a list-only candidate, and has resigned from TVNZ's board. The famed former broadcaster failed in a National bid for Wairarapa in 1999. He says he wants to be a minister - but won't name a portfolio. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper explained further. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kiwi screen legend Sir Sam Neill has died, aged 78. News of the Jurassic Park star's death was confirmed today on social media. "It is with immense sadness that the whānau of Sam Neill share the news of his passing on Monday 13th July, in Sydney Australia,” the post read.A growing number of NZers are experiencing homelessness with 33,000 children are living in "severe housing hardship" and NZ has seen a dramatic increase since 2022David Seymour filled in for Christopher Luxon on Newstalk ZB this morning where he spoke about the Indian FTA and why Winston Peters is so very against it, the economy and the failure of the RoNS++++++++++++++++++++Like us on Facebook.com/BigHairyNetwork Follow us on Twitter.com/@bighairynetworkFollowing us on TikTok.com/@bighairynetworkSupport us on Patreon www.patreon.com/c/BigHairyNewsCheck out our merch https://bhn.nz/shop/Donate to our work https://bhn.nz/shop/donation/

This video is the sound of the Norwegian football team and its fans doing the Viking row to celebrate Norway's win over Brazil at the FIFA World Cup. The synchronized rowing chant that accompanies the Norwegian football team's appearances is the viral phenomenon of the 2026 World Cup - who saw that coming? - and Norway's star striker Erling Haaland has become the darling of the Cup thanks to his unstoppable scoring pace and refreshingly goofy, unscripted personality. On the field he has already scored seven goals, just one behind Lionel Messi, and his performances have been instrumental in getting Norway to their first World Cup quarterfinal - which is being played against England in Miami right now. Haaland is turning out to be just as valuable to football and the FIFA World Cup as he is for his country. Every FIFA World Cup needs players who capture the imagination, and Erling Haaland has become one of the defining figures of the tournament. His goals and physical presence make him one of football's biggest stars, but it's his personality which truly sets him apart. In an era where many athletes deliver carefully rehearsed answers, Haaland comes across as refreshingly genuine. He jokes, admits frustration when things go wrong and celebrates with unfiltered enthusiasm. Rather than predictable clichés, he allows fans to see the person behind the player. This authenticity creates a stronger connection with audiences than polished media training ever could. For any World Cup, this matters. A tournament is built as much on memorable personalities as unforgettable matches. Fans don't just remember goals; they remember the players who made them feel something. Haaland has the ability to attract casual viewers like me, inspire young fans, and gives us all a reason to get behind Norway. Yes - I am so sorry to all the England fans out there - I'm right behind the Norwegians this morning! I've also been drawn in by the way the Norwegian team embraced their Viking heritage from the beginning. It was a Newstalk ZB listener who pointed out to me their Viking themed World Cup team photo. I loved it. Add a new, fan-created version of the tradition Viking row, and how could this team not delight and fascinate audiences around the world? As sport becomes more and more driven by social media and personal storytelling, honest communicators are more valuable than ever. In New Zealand, we've seen this with the Black Ferns, who are great at what they do, and just as importantly - allow their personalities to shine on and off the field. They entertain the converted, and constantly draw new fans to women's rugby simply by being themselves. Haaland does this too. His extraordinary talent will always command attention, but it is his authenticity which makes him stand out. For a World Cup seeking unforgettable moments and new heroes, he offers both. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The All Blacks have overpowered Italy with a dominant second half to claim a 47-17 Nations Championship win in Wellington. The hosts' 14-10 lead at the break blew out with 5 second half tries, including a hat-trick to Will Jordan as he became the All Blacks leading test try-scorer. Wing Josh Moorby and loose forward Anton Segner debuted off the bench. Newstalk ZB rugby commentator Elliott Smith recapped the 'incredible' action in Wellington. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand could soon have its second formal ally, as the Government considers joining Australia and Fiji's defence pact. Anthony Albanese and Sitiveni Rabuka inked the deal on Monday, promising to come to each other's defence in an attack. Prime Minister Chris Luxon's confirmed Cabinet's pondering signing up, and he's spoken to both leaders about it. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper explained what we know so far. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're going to start today's show talking about smoking. It's back in the headlines after a recent bust saw more than a million cigarettes seized and five people arrested as part of efforts to crack down on the black-market tobacco trade. And the issue of excise tax is back under the spotlight with Associate Health Minister Casey Costello telling Newstalk ZB she would consider a review of it. She's since told RNZ she has no intention of reducing tobacco excise, nor had she talked about it. What she did or didn't say aside - we started thinking about the issue of smoking and the best way to break the supply of illicit cigarettes and tobacco. Janet Hoek is an Otago University public health professor and spokesperson for the Health Coalition Aotearoa expert advisory group on smoking and she chats to Perlina. [picture id="4NETEZ5_120699547_l_jpg" crop="16x10" layout="full"]

The Reserve Bank moved to increase the OCR, prompting concern from some over what it could mean for the economy. The central bank raised the cash rate to 2.5 percent - the first hike in more than three years. Some economists thought inflation could surge as high as 4.8 percent this quarter. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper says inflation needs to be brought under control - so this was the right move. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Reserve Bank moved to increase the OCR, prompting concern from some over what it could mean for the economy. The central bank raised the cash rate to 2.5 percent - the first hike in more than three years. Some economists thought inflation could surge as high as 4.8 percent this quarter. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper says inflation needs to be brought under control - so this was the right move. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government's celebrating the new diesel storage tanks opening at Marsden Point. The Northland site will store 93 million litres emergency reserve, ordered at the peak of the fuel crisis, in April. It paid Channel Infrastructure to upgrade its tanks. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper says the Government's looking to boost up emergency supplies following the uncertainty of the Middle East conflict. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

China's understood to have warned our Government it's planning a nuclear-capable missile test within the next 24 hours in the South Pacific. Newstalk ZB understands China's told the Beehive today of the imminent test - the same day Australia and Fiji inked a new defence pact. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper says it's unknown when exactly this test will take place. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge Full Show Podcast, Monday, 6 July 2026, National outlines the trade deals it wants to strike in its second term. Meat Industry Association Chair Nathan Guy tells Ryan which country is at the top of his list. Business correspondent Vicky Pryce, out of the UK, fills us in on the latest with Andy Burnham as his policy platform begins to take shape. The All Blacks gave us a nail-biter on Saturday. Newstalk ZB sports reader Adam Cooper gives a post-match autopsy. Plus, UK correspondent Gavin Grey explains why Prince Harry didn't invite his wife and kids on his UK visit. Get the Early Edition Full Show Podcast every weekday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government has made decisions on tightening immigration settings for Indian nationals, but concerns have been raised ahead of a visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi later this month. Speculation indicates Modi will visit on July 12, and Winston Peters has accused National of restricting immigration settings for India. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper explained further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

World-class honours have been dished out to select New Zealand restaurants, with hopes they'll lead to a much-needed boost for the industry. Queenstown's Essence has been crowned our only two star Michelin restaurant - alongside 14 others awarded a single star, like Auckland's Tala and Christchurch's Inati. Ninety-five other venues received the Bib Gourmand and Michelin Selected accolades. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper explained how this development will boost tourism. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

World-class honours have been dished out to select New Zealand restaurants, with hopes they'll lead to a much-needed boost for the industry. Queenstown's Essence has been crowned our only two star Michelin restaurant - alongside 14 others awarded a single star, like Auckland's Tala and Christchurch's Inati. Ninety-five other venues received the Bib Gourmand and Michelin Selected accolades. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper explained how this development will boost tourism. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Tuesday, 30 June, 2026, we talk to Destiny Church leader Brian Tamaki about police taking his guns away but struggle to get a straight answer. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Cameron Brewer tells us what's being done to make corded blinds safer for children. Newstalk ZB cricket reporter Andrew Alderson on how the Black Caps celebrated a historic test series win against England. And on The Huddle, Phil Goff and Maurice Williamson on the problems with our hospital emergency departments after the death of a patient in a toilet while waiting for hours. 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.

David Seymour claims the Auditor General has credibility issues, after releasing a scathing report into the Healthy School Lunches Programme. Only half of last year's lunches complied with the Ministry of Education's nutrition standards. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper explained the data further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Prime Minister's remaining reticent about accusations against the country's top cop. The Police National Integrity Unit and IPCA are looking into historic sexual allegations from Police Commissioner Richard Chamber's former partner. Chris Luxon says he can't comment on the allegations. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper explained further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every time I take a drive on the South Island's Great Coast Road (SH6), between Westport and Greymouth, it never fails to cast me under its spell. It's like a heady, implausible mix of Hawai'i and Ireland; of Maui's Road to Hana and the Wild Atlantic Way. On one side, the raw, unbridled foam-flecking power of the ocean tempest; while across the road, fortress-like mountains piercing the sky, draped in thick, lush rainforest. It's a knock-out medley of elemental scenery to thrill all senses. Curiously, the winter months are arguably the best time to savour the Great Coast Road because visitor numbers are thinner yet the weather is typically better. Winter is often the West Coast's driest season with average winter temperatures generally higher than Christchurch and Queenstown. If you're launching your on-road exploratory from Westport, make a date with one of the Pounamu Pathway experience centres. Westport's revitalised Coaltown Museum has reopened as the Museum of Kawatiri, the second experience centre to open along the Pounamu Pathway. Designed and created by Wētā Workshop, it's a stirring celebration of the heritage and intrepid endeavour of the Buller people, underpinned by the lure of pounamu, coal and gold. As you'd expect from Wētā Workshop, there's a lot of tricked-up technological wizardry powering this immersive experience. Heading south along the Great Coast Road, four seasons in one day vividly powered proceedings, with forbidding storm clouds scudding across the sky before yielding to bright sunshine along the gloriously carved coastline, seemingly under assault from the pounding surf. The highway skirts the ancient limestone cliffs of Paparoa National Park and there's a feast of outdoorsy treats to pick and choose from, along the way. If you're up for some hikes, my first suggestion would be Fox River and the Inland Pack Track, starting from the car park at the mouth of the river. Built in 1867 during the gold rush to avoid dangerous coastal travel, the Inland Pack Track gives access to some of the finest features of Paparoa National Park. If the weather is behaving, a great sampler is the 4 hour return walk to the Ballroom Overhang, a colossal 100-metre-long limestone outcrop, that has provided a safe place to shelter for centuries. There are several river crossings along the way, only ankle-deep unless there's been heavy rain. But if the weather has been fine, it's a gem. Another salivating option that isn't so weather-dependent is the Pororari River Gorge loop walk. Doubling as the entry/exit point for the Paparoa Great Walk, the river track follows a spectacular limestone gorge with two main features – a river with huge rocks set amongst deep pools, and beautiful forest featuring subtle changes from subtropical to temperate. It's a two-hour walk, running the gamut across every shade of green. Even the gently flowing water resembles liquid jade. It's a drop-dead gorgeous walk. Keep an eye out for those famous giant snails, Powelliphanta. Their oversized shells come in an array of patterned colours, from reds and browns to yellow and black. (Hurricanes supporters.) They adore earthworms and suck them up through their mouth just like we do with spaghetti. Back on the highway, the karst-strewn landscape of Punakaiki is just five minutes away. Nestled at the base of the thickly forested Paparoa Ranges, the hillsides are thickly stitched in rimu, beech and matai trees, in addition to the striking nikau palms. The national park's visitor information centre is situated on the highway roadside – and after its $40m the monumental transformation, it's now home to the Paparoa Experience. Opened 18 months ago and operated by the local hapu, Ngāti Waewae, this magnificent multi-media exhibition centre was designed by Gibson International. Blending Māori culture with history and geology, it's beautifully crafted and thoroughly entertaining, thrusting you deep into the natural riches of the area, offering all manner of insights on the formation of the Paparoa range, the incredible fossil records like the 30 million year old whale backbone and the karst landscape beneath your feet. A great touch is the blowhole encounter, where you stand inside the surge chamber to feel the blast of wind and waves. But what I really loved is the 180-degree cinematic experience that transports you deep into the wild wonder of Paparoa National Park, celebrating the untouched beauty of the region and the conservation programmes underway to preserve it for future generations. Right across the road, the biggest blockbuster of all is of course an intimate encounter with nature's theatre at Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. remarkable geological formations, which resemble layer upon layer of pancakes, is the result of many centuries of weathering. The formal term for this fantastic tableau is stylobedding. When the tide is high, nature's inter-play of stone and sea is operatic, with the ocean surging into the caverns and booming ferociously through the blowholes. Even the showy waterworks of Las Vegas or Dubai struggle to match this multi-sensory spectacle. Once again, the winter months make this a far less peopled experience. Peckish? Head straight to the Pancake Rocks Café and whistle up their Pancake Stack. It would be rude not to. Freshly fuelled, there's more enchanting hiking options on offer in the area, but the one trail not to miss is the 30 minute Truman Track, which weaves its way through pristine native forest, taking you right to the edge of the Tasman Sea coastline, with a dramatic seascape. It's a banger of a bush walk starting off the highway in a thick forest of podocarp and rātā trees towering above thickets of vine and nīkau palms. The track then transitions through typical West Coast coastal flax flats before climaxing with that blow-your-hair-back seascape, with a sweeping viewing platform elevated above the cliff overhangs and booming ocean. Those overhangs are unstable sandstone bluffs. Previously topped with limestone, that has already been weathered away and now the sandstone remains under relentless attack. A stairway provides access to the beach at low tide, but do not trifle with the ocean at high tide or when the seas are rough. If you're wondering, the track is named in honour of Jim Truman who ran Truman's Department Store in Greymouth. He had a bach opposite the original track which he substantially enhanced. Just before Rapahoe and Runanga, on the approach to Greymouth, one of the money-shot lookout points on the Great Coast Road is the roadside stop by the Strongman Mine Memorial. The immense coastal vista is operatic, with the long sprawl of 9 Mile Beach unfurling before you. Look closely from this lookout and you'll spot a tucked away property, set back from the beach on a terrace, surrounded by ravishing nature's embrace. Best of all, you can stay here! Strung across two acres, Breakers Boutique Accommodation began life as Dr. Barry Dallas' house in the 1970s. He was a Greymouth doctor and also served as Mayor. The story goes that this was Harbour Board land and wasn't meant to have been built on. But hey, when you're the mayor….! Fast forward to today and after many renovations, Jan and Stephen Roberts are the owners of this dreamy property, with dress-circle views over the pounding ocean and the sublime canvas of 9 Mile Beach. There's a variety of accommodation offerings on-site, all very high-spec, stylish and homely, including in the main house, overlooking nature's pageantry. An adjacent wing includes the Nikau Sunset Room, boasting a supremely cosy super-king bed, luxurious bedding and linens and comfortable sitting area, perfectly-positioned for viewing splendour. The guestroom is decorated in warm neutral colourings, using native recycled timbers and beach stones. Be sure to make time to admire the rich trove of art on display around the property, showcasing some of the finest creatives in the area, including Shades of Jade in Greymouth. Their master carver is Jeremy Dalziel. Greymouth's Leftbank Gallery and Punakaiki Crafts are also prominent, as are Kotuku Pottery's exquisite pieces. Jan and Stephen are the most splendid hosts and environmental guardians, somehow managing to distil the essence of gold-standard West Coast hospitality, with a glorified art gallery of local works, including Stephen's magnificent photography; a profusion of first-hand tips on the best walking trails to explore; and on-site dining. Jan whipped me up the most divine homemade pizza for dinner and laid-on a generous breakfast offering, fortifying me for the day ahead. A private track leads down from the Breakers property to Nine Mile Beach. Nine Mile Creek flows down by the bottom of the track, which is backed by a fabulous waterfall. At low tide, dabble in the rock pools at Mussel Point, replete with colourful starfish and millions of mussels. There's also a little blue penguin colony on this beach, which Breakers actively supports through the West Coast Penguin Trust. In-the-know advanced surfers also adore this beach because it has a powerful left break. But I was quite content to remain languid, luxuriating and lounging above the beach, feasting on the ocean panorama as a famed fireball sunset set the Tasman Sea ablaze. Needless to say, it's a photographic feast. Bask in the brilliance of Breakers Beachfront Accommodation. It embodies the best of the West. You will never want to leave. www.breakers.co.nz Mike Yardley is Newstalk ZB's resident traveller and can be heard each week on Saturday Mornings with Jack Tame. LISTEN ABOVEGreat Coast Road SH6 Photo Tourism West CoastPhoto by Mike YardleySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ACT's leader says the party will be ramping up its messaging as it heads towards polling day. The party's holding its AGM and its first rally of election year today, less than a week after TVNZ's Verian poll showed the party at its lowest point since entering Government. David Seymour says the party's been heavily focused on the work of governing - and has its sights on another term in power. Newstalk ZB political reporter Azaria Howell says the party will be unveiling its new deputy leader today - as well as some new policies. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Winston Peters is accusing National of discriminating against Indian citizens in the Indian free trade deal - a shocking about-turn from earlier criticism. The NZ First leader previously claimed the deal would lead to open-slather immigration. But he now says National's abruptly changed course by tightening immigration settings against Indian citizens. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper recapped the debate further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Opportunity Party is seeing steady growth and would be a hair's breadth from Parliament on the latest 1News Verian poll numbers. It scored 4.6 percent support, up 1.3 percent from the last poll. The centrist party says it would be willing to work with either the right or left block. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper explained what these results could mean for the party's future. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's thought the way is becoming increasingly clear for Andy Burnham to become the next British Prime Minister. Sir Keir Starmer has already stepped down as leader of the British Labour Party, outlining his plan to relinquish his position as PM. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper says Burnham's made a name for himself in UK political circles and he's got the right form. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris Luxon is in damage-control mode today, after Campaign Chair Simeon Brown made some strong comments at the Party's annual conference over the weekend. Brown's likened the two minor coalition parties to children, and has warned that voting for them doesn't help National. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper says National's at risk of losing votes to ACT and NZ First, according to current polling. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzy Cato is a cornerstone of Kiwi children's entertainment. Her TV shows and podcasts are beloved by children and adults alike – ‘You and Me' in particular holding a special place in the hearts of the audience who grew up with it. It delivered over 2000 episodes since it began in 1993, and is credited as one of the first children's programmes to weave te reo Māori into everyday conversation. And now, 33 years later, Cato has released a brand-new season of the beloved show on YouTube, saying it's needed in an increasingly fast-paced world. “We've had so many parents say, oh I wish there was something like ‘You and Me', that was slow and gentle and conversational, and would provide kids an oasis the way they had as children,” she told Newstalk ZB's Jack Tame. They've released nine new episodes over the last month or so, and Cato says they've already been getting amazing feedback from parents. “So many of our kids are, you know, so used to, to a faster pace,” she said. “We are getting feedback that the programme is still engaging kids, so that they will be zooming around the room and then they'll come to sit down and actually enjoy some interaction with Auntie Suzy.” 33 years is a bit of a gap, but it was easy enough for Cato to get back into the swing of things when making this new season. “We were very, very lucky – Rex Simpson was an amazing creator,” she told Tame Simpson was the executive producer and director behind programmes like ‘What Now', ‘Play School', and of course, ‘You and Me'. “[He] created such good templates,” Cato explained. “So it was easy to use that template, and we didn't have to change a thing basically." Suzy received a little birthday surprise when she came in for the chat. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The National Party is addressing party faithful at its annual conference ahead of the election. National's campaign boss has compared ACT and NZ First to bickering children - but he saved the strongest criticism for Labour and the Greens and said the opposition parties would 'ruin' the country's books. Prime Minister Chris Luxon will soon address the conference and announce a Kiwisaver-related election policy. Newstalk ZB political reporter Ethan Griffiths explained further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Mike Hosking Breakfast Full Show Podcast for Friday 19th of June, Finance Minister Nicola Willis talks the state of the economy after the Q1 GDP number and makes a comment about Shane Jones' trip. Wellington's Chamber of Commerce celebrates the cancellation of the Golden Mile project but still wants something to be done about Courtenay Place. We preview the Super Rugby Final with the Hurricanes' Malcolm Gillies and Chiefs' Simon Graafhuis and celebrate yet another Warriors sellout —this time in Christchurch— with Cameron George. Tim Wilson and Kate Hawkesby Wrap the Week – discussing the holiday and the new business that's popped up near Newstalk ZB. 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.

New Zealand's economic recovery had been gaining momentum before the Iran war and fuel crisis hit. Today's figures show GDP rose 0.8 percent in the March quarter. That was driven by manufacturing, business services and wholesale trade, particularly production of equipment and food. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper says there's still indicators the economy could rebound - assuming the US-Iran peace deal holds up. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand First's leader claims people implicated in an MBIE scandal should be jailed. Immigration Minister Erica Stanford says she was misled about ballooning costs for a border biometrics tech upgrade, which was axed with about $33 million dollars lost. The Public Service Commission and MBIE are undertaking reviews. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper explained further, and speculated on the possible consequences for the officials. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reviews - and a potential employment process - over how officials advised on a now-scrapped $32-million-dollar project are set to take place. Immigration Minister Erica Stanford says a report shows officials deliberately withheld information on a border biometrics upgrade, launched in 2018 without ministerial sign-off. Stanford says she's extremely disappointed 'creative accounting' was used. Newstalk ZB reporter Azaria Howell explained what could happen next. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Prime Minister assures the Government won't get ahead of itself at news of a Middle East peace deal. The US says it's reached agreement with Iran, under which military action will end, naval blockades will lift and the Strait of Hormuz will reopen. It's scheduled for signing this week, but there are conflicting messages on what's next. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper unpacks what this could mean going forward. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on the Sunday Panel, Newstalk ZB host Roman Travers and Managing Director at 818, Chris Henry, joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more! The Opportunity Party has launched a bid for the Mount Albert electorate ahead of the 2026 election. Do we see this going anywhere? Do we think Kiwis are looking for an alternative to the status quo? Is it time to cut the perks for MPs? The job commands a lot of time and there's a clear need for a travel allowance, but Heather du Plessis-Allan claimed earlier that the perks need to be examined. Do we agree with this? Six months after the Australian Government introduced its world-first social media ban, young people say it is not working. Are we surprised by this? What changes need to be made? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The High Court is quashing earlier court directions to return gang patches to some members. Open Justice reports two men caught wearing patches in separate incidents were prosecuted, and in each the presiding judge ruled they could get back their insignia. The Solicitor-General appealed those directions. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper outlined the terms of the ruling. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Labour's started unveiling some new policies ahead of the election, and they made a new announcement regarding public transport. It's promising to campaign on a weekly fare cap - $20 for Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch - and $10 elsewhere. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper questions whether this is an affordable move. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Labour leader Chris Hipkins has defended using a generous publicly funded private superannuation scheme to pay off the mortgage of his family holiday home. Hipkins confirmed he pays the maximum contribution, but he also contributes to KiwiSaver, meaning the full amount of contribution will not be paid towards the super scheme that owns his home. MPs are allowed to direct these savings into private superannuation funds, which Hipkins has done. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper explained further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Based in the Parliamentary Press Gallery since 1980, Barry Soper has covered every New Zealand Prime Minister since, earning a reputation for his sharp questioning, wit, and deep institutional knowledge of Wellington politics.” Barry's contribution to New Zealand journalism saw him recognised in this year's King's Birthday Honours, where he was named an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit. He's had a long and fascinating career and continues it still as Newstalk ZB's senior political correspondent. His book, ‘One Last Question, Prime Minister', now in its fourth print, was our excuse to have a most enjoyable conversation in episode #331. And as always, we finish in The Mailroom with Mrs Producer. File your comments and complaints at Leighton@newstalkzb.co.nz OR Carolyn@newstalkzb.co.nz Haven't listened to a podcast before? Check out our simple how-to guide. Listen here on iHeartRadio Leighton Smith's podcast also available on iTunes:To subscribe via iTunes click here See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Roy Morgan's newest poll shows the National-led Government is still leading among prospective voters. Support for National increased 5 percent to 30.5 percent, support for NZ First dropped 0.5 percent to 11 percent and support for ACT dropped 0.5 percent to 10 percent. Meanwhile, support for Labour dropped to 26.5 percent, and support for the Greens increased 1.5 percent to 12.5 percent. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper says this was a big drop for some parties, but it's still too early to tell how things will play out. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new lease on life for the gas industry, with the Government's $200 million exploration fund already catching the eye of private companies. Newstalk ZB can reveal there have been 11 expressions of interest since January. Resources Minister Shane Jones expects the bulk of approved projects to be based in Taranaki. Energy Resources Aotearoa Chief Executive John Carnegie told Heather du Plessis-Allan it's a vote of confidence in the sector, and particularly the region. He says it counters the myth there's no natural gas and shows there are still people looking seriously at opportunities. Carnegie says we simply can't wait until the gas shortage becomes even more severe for homes and businesses before starting to rebuild our supply. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Prime Minister is standing by New Zealand's planned defence spending, after Pete Hegseth's accused New Zealand of freeloading off the American military. The US Secretary of War has used a global security summit in Singapore, to call on US allies to lift defence spending to 3.5 percent of GDP. He says New Zealand's goal to bring defence spending to 2 percent of GDP within the next eight years doesn't go far enough. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper says New Zealand's economy isn't big enough to invest that kind of money into defence spending. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“We choose our defence spending and no one else,” the Prime Minister says as the United States continues to pressure other nations, including New Zealand, to increase military spending. Speaking with Heather du Plessis-Allan on Newstalk ZB's Mike Hosking Breakfast, Christoper Luxon has backed New Zealand's defence spending. Luxon denied New Zealand is “freeloading” off America after US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth fired comments at New Zealand over the weekend. “We choose our defence spending and no one else,” Luxon said. “I'm damn proud we're doubling [the budget] it's been run down over 30 years and it's a big job building it back.” He said spending 2.5% of the country's GDP on defence was “a start and a good place for us to get to” in wake of recent conflict. Luxon confirmed New Zealand is going to maintain its nuclear-free position. “It's [nuclear-free] one of the best things we've done. “I'm very proud and it isn't changing while I'm prime minister. Period.” Over the long weekend, US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth told the Shangri-La Dialogue defence and security conference that New Zealand was “freeloading” off the US military. The claim came in response to a question from Kiwi journalist Anna Fifield, after Hegseth said allies that “refuse to stand up and carry their weight for our collective defence will face a clear shift in how we do business”. At the Singapore conference, Hegseth said he expected allied governments to spend 3.5% of GDP on defence. Last week's Budget outlined how New Zealand will boost defence spending to just over 2% of GDP over eight years. Fifield asked Hegseth if that meant New Zealand was considered a “free rider”. Hegseth said 2% of GDP was not enough, so “2% is freeloading” – though he also said New Zealand and the US' relationship had been “a very fruitful one for a very long time”. Allies couldn't just say: “‘Oh, we've been friends for a long time, so let's work together',” Hegseth said. “It's: ‘We've been friends for a long time so you better have the same visibility as we do, because if we don't, our alliance is meaningless'.” Hegseth also said he didn't have anything against New Zealand and was looking forward to working with New Zealand's Defence Minister and ”enhancing capabilities". Defence Minister Chris Penk was in the audience. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The boss of Auckland's port is still upbeat, despite another drop in cruise visits. Data released to Newstalk ZB shows a 3% national reduction this season. Auckland's dropping by 12%, but Port of Auckland CEO Roger Gray told Mike Hosking he predicts this is rock bottom, and things will pick back up next season. He says they've already got 66 bookings secured. Cruise visits to the South Island are meanwhile increasing by nearly two dozen. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s show: Jono’s petty court battle finally ends… with a very unsatisfying outcome Behind the scenes, the big boss puts pressure on Mike Hosking We somehow end up live on Newstalk ZB! A listener got in trouble at work after being told to twerk on their lunch break Megan Papas gets told off by a teacher at school drop-off One of us accidentally booked the exact same date as our partner… awkward Join the Itty Bitty Hitty Committee HERE!Instagram: @THEHITSBREAKFASTFacebook: The Hits Breakfast with Jono, Ben & MeganSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.