Podcasts about Victoria University

As schools and homes continue to dispose of asbestos contaminated play sand - the government is being urged to investigate how this happened. Chris Peace, a Senior Lecturer in Workplace Health and Safety at Victoria University spoke to Corin Dann.

From the streets of New York to around the world, the "Mamdani effect" is taking shape. Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani won the city’s mayoralty earlier this month, sparking a new era with an election turnout higher than any race in 50 years. But this isn’t just an American story. The energy around this movement, its bold ideas on justice, economics, and climate, is resonating with Gen Z far beyond the US. Victoria University of Wellington senior lecturer Dr Mona Kewel joins The Front Page to explain how Mamdani is flying in the face of reactionary Republican politicians we’ve seen rise to power in the US in recent years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode ‘Does minor aggression have a major impact?' we confront a sensitive but crucial area: the effects of intimate partner violence and aggression on children. Dr. Jane Gilmour and Professor Umar Toseeb are joined by Dr. Hedwig Eisenbarth from Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand, the lead author of the paper The Impact of Less Severe Intimate Partner Aggression on Child Conduct Problems, published in JCPP Advances. This paper focuses on lower levels of violence, so they use phrases like ‘minor' or ‘less severe'. This phraseology, of course, does not imply that they are considered acceptable.  They explore how attachment theory, social learning, and even genetic factors may intersect with a child's experience of aggression in the home. The discussion covers the importance of the home environment, the need for intervention, and the complex challenge of studying these behaviours across different cultures. More information Read the Open Access paper from JCPP Advances ‘The impact of less severe intimate partner aggression on child conduct problems' Hedwig Eisenbarth, Karina Clavijo Saldias, Paul E. Jose, Johannes A. Karl, Karen E. Waldie https://doi.org/10.1002/jcv2.70024

This week on the Wednesday Wire: For our weekly catchup w/ the Green Party Wednesday Wire Host Max spoke with MP Ricardo Menendez-March about The Green Party's pledge to revoke, what they consider, the most destructive fast-track mining consents handed out by the current government, the adjustments to the Clean Car Standard, and the official passing of the Regulatory Standards Bill into law. News and Editorial Director Joel spoke to Geoffrey Bertram, a visiting scholar and retired lecturer at the Victoria University of Wellington about the passing of the Regulatory Standards Bill, and what this means heading forward. Max spoke with John Minto from the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa, to discuss the UN Security Council voting 13-0 in favour of implementing US President Donald Trump's plan for a lasting peace in Gaza. And Joel spoke to Peter Thompson, an Associate Media and Communications Professor at the Victoria University of Wellington, and board member of the Better Public Media Trust, about ACT MP Laura McClure's member's bill, proposing the disestablishment of the Broadcasting Standards Authority.

Recently, ACT Party MP, Laura McClure, has launched a member's bill, proposing the disestablishment of the Broadcasting Standards Authority, or BSA. This member's bill follows a complaint laid to the BSA regarding Sean Plunket's online media network, The Platform. Plunket says the content of his show does not meet the requirements of the Broadcasting Act, and that the BSA had “"woefully and egregiously overstepped its bounds". The BSA, however, says Plunket's show clearly meets the requirements of the ACT. News and Editorial Director Joel spoke to Peter Thompson, an Associate Media and Communications Professor at the Victoria University of Wellington and board member of the Better Public Media Trust, about this member's bill and what the bill is proposing.

Recently, the controversial Regulatory Standards Bill passed its third and final reading. The bill has raised concerns amongst many for a variety of reasons, including its lack of recognition of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, the risks it poses to the environment, and what opponents say is its ‘narrow neoliberal framework'. The bill, during public submissions, received 156,000 submissions, with over 98% voicing their opposition to the proposed legislation. News and Editorial Director Joel spoke to Geoffrey Bertram, a visiting scholar and retired lecturer at the Victoria University of Wellington about the bill, why it is so polarising, and what the passing of this bill means heading forward.

Recently, the controversial Regulatory Standards Bill passed its third and final reading. The bill has raised concerns amongst many for a variety of reasons, including its lack of recognition of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, the risks it poses to the environment, and what opponents say is its ‘narrow neoliberal framework'. The bill, during public submissions, received 156,000 submissions, with over 98% voicing their opposition to the proposed legislation. News and Editorial Director Joel spoke to Geoffrey Bertram, a visiting scholar and retired lecturer at the Victoria University of Wellington about the bill, why it is so polarising, and what the passing of this bill means heading forward.

What makes the All Blacks the most successful international sporting team of all time? For Gilbert Enoka, who spent 23 years shaping their mindset and culture, the answer begins within. In September, when Luke walked into Aleda’s leadership conference in London, the Head Coach of the United States Women’s National Team, Emma Hayes, was clutching Gilbert’s book in her hands. She looked up at Luke and said, “You have to read this.” (Emma’s recent episode is here.) In this episode of Empowering Leaders, after reading the book as prescribed, Luke sits down with the legendary mental skills coach whose work has transformed how the world thinks about leadership, pressure and performance. From his early years in an orphanage to two decades guiding the All Blacks, Gilbert shares timeless lessons about resilience, self-belief and the quiet power of structure and humility. He explains why you’ll never rise above your opinion of yourself, how great leaders “nail it not nearly it,” and why there can be no external gains without an internal shift. One of our favourite bits (because we do this here at Aleda) is when Gilbert reminds us not to rush past our successes but to instead “vent our joy” just as we vent our problems. You’ll hear Luke mention NBA great Steve Kerr’s recent episode - listen (or listen again) here. Learn. Lead. Collaborate. Start your leadership journey today. Head here to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time. Book a discovery call today. Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recently, ACT Party MP, Laura McClure, has launched a member's bill, proposing the disestablishment of the Broadcasting Standards Authority, or BSA. This member's bill follows a complaint laid to the BSA regarding Sean Plunket's online media network, The Platform. Plunket says the content of his show does not meet the requirements of the Broadcasting Act, and that the BSA had "woefully and egregiously overstepped its bounds". The BSA, however, says Plunket's show clearly meets the requirements of the Act. News and Editorial Director Joel spoke to Peter Thompson, an Associate Media and Communications Professor at the Victoria University of Wellington and board member of the Better Public Media Trust, about this member's bill and what the bill is proposing.

This week on the Wednesday Wire: For our weekly catchup w/ the Green Party Wednesday Wire Host Max spoke with MP Ricardo Menendez-March about The Green Party's pledge to revoke, what they consider, the most destructive fast-track mining consents handed out by the current government, the adjustments to the Clean Car Standard, and the official passing of the Regulatory Standards Bill into law. News and Editorial Director Joel spoke to Geoffrey Bertram, a visiting scholar and retired lecturer at the Victoria University of Wellington about the passing of the Regulatory Standards Bill, and what this means heading forward. Max spoke with John Minto from the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa, to discuss the UN Security Council voting 13-0 in favour of implementing US President Donald Trump's plan for a lasting peace in Gaza. And Joel spoke to Peter Thompson, an Associate Media and Communications Professor at the Victoria University of Wellington, and board member of the Better Public Media Trust, about ACT MP Laura McClure's member's bill, proposing the disestablishment of the Broadcasting Standards Authority.

Today marks the 15th anniversary of the Pike River mine disaster that killed 29 men. Despite reforms following the incident, New Zealand's workplace health and safety record remains poor, with fatality and injury rates among the highest in the developed world. Workplace injuries and illnesses cost the country an estimated $5 billion each year. Victoria University workplace health and safety lecturer Dr Chris Peace told Kerre Woodham that putting ACC in place has taken away a lot of stress and angst, but a strong regulatory system needed to be put in place and wasn't. He says that the legislation imposes a duty of care on businesses, but the problem is that most people don't understand what that amounts to. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

15 years ago, 29 men went to work and never returned home. The Pike River mine explosion shocked New Zealand and the world, prompting three inquiries, a new regulator and new laws. But new research shows New Zealand workers are still more likely to die than those in Australia or Britain. The Public Health Communication Centre Aotearoa report said this country kills twice as many workers as Australia and four times as many as Britain, on a per capita basis. The number of work-related deaths has not substantially reduced since 2010. Victoria University of Wellington workplace health and safety lecturer Dr Chris Peace joins The Front Page to talk about our poor safety standings and what needs to change. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tonight, on The Panel, Wallace Chapman is joined by panellists Cindy Mitchener and Andrew Clay. First up, the fallout continues from the IPCA's bombshell report into allegations against Jevon McSkimming. Police Commissioner Richard Chambers was quick to minimise the scandal to a few bad actors in an otherwise healthy system. Jan Jordan, emerita professor of criminology at Victoria University, doesn't buy it. Then, new adaptation guidelines suggest no more property buyouts, and much less support for those hit by bad weather. Martien Lubberink, Associate Professor of Accounting and Capital at Victoria University of Wellington says a tough reality is sinking in for homeowners.

What should leaders actually do with AI this year? In this conversation, futurist and CEO Dr Ayesha Khanna gives Luke clear, practical steps for small teams and big organisations: start with personal productivity, build safe team workflows, then move to data-driven pilots that serve customers first. Ayesha explains why governance must sit beside innovation, what recent AI experiments really tell us, and how great leadership in the AI age is defined by ethics, upskilling, and a true growth mindset. She shares lessons from her failed startups and her incredible work teaching AI skills to girls and women. Ayesha believes there’s “something remarkable about everyone” and it shows. Listen in as Luke and Ayesha also touch on quantum computing, Singapore as an iconic national transformation, and Ayesha’s refreshingly human rules to live by including “multitasking is a sin” and taking regular tech and AI fasts. Learn. Lead. Collaborate. Start your leadership journey today. Head here to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time. Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The story of the Redcoats, as they were known, has been told in a new book Garrison World by Victoria University history professor Charlotte Macdonald.

Hornet-watcher Phil Lester is a professor of ecology and entomology at Victoria University of Wellington.

Few leaders have captured the world’s attention quite like Jacinda Ardern has! As Prime Minister of New Zealand, she became known for her compassion, her decisiveness, and her ability to lead through crises with grace. Now, after stepping away from politics, Jacinda is finding new ways to influence change - through her work at Harvard, her continued advocacy for kindness and integrity in leadership, and her role as a mother navigating what balance really means. In this episode of Empowering Leaders, Luke Darcy speaks with Jacinda about what she’s learned in reflection, the human cost of leadership, and how we might build a future shaped by empathy rather than fear. Learn. Lead. Collaborate. Start your leadership journey today. Head here to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time. Book a discovery call today. Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 What's the episode about? In this episode, hear Dr Jessica Young on assisteddying, the New Zealand End of Life Choice Bill, culturally responsive research, end of life care and decision making, and sociological approaches.Who is Jessica?Dr Jessica Young is a Senior Research Fellow at Victoria University of Wellington and the University of Auckland, and an adjunct senior lecturer in the Australian Centre for Health Law Research, Queensland University of Technology.She is a sociologist specialising in death, dying andassisted dying. She completed her PhD in 2020 at the University of Otago and received a prestigious post-doctoral fellowship from the Cancer Society of New Zealand.Since the End of Life Choice Bill was introduced in NewZealand, Dr Young has been building a programme of research to investigate multiple facets of assisted dying.  She leads and contributes to several projects on assisteddying, most recently ‘Exploring the early experiences of the assisted dying service in Aotearoa', funded by the Health Research Council. Dr Young has led impactful research in end-of-life care, securing over $3 million in competitive funding.  She is the founder and co-chair of New Zealand'sAssisted Dying Research Network and was appointed by the Director-General of Health to the Support and Consultation for End of Life in NZ (SCENZ) Group (2021–2023). Her work has directly shaped national policy: 13 of her team's recommendations were adopted in the Ministry of Health's 2024 End of Life Choice Act Review.She has published over 40 peer-reviewed articles, six editorials, and three book chapters.  To ensure her research goes beyond academia, she activelyengages with media. She is passionate about improving end-of-life experiences for patients, whānau/families and health practitioners. Committed to ethical, inclusive, and culturally responsive research, she seeks to involve tangatawhenua (indigenous people of NZ), stakeholders and communities. You can find Jessica on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-young-7097a722/ The book introduced in the episode introduction is Death, Commemoration, and Cultural Meaning Past and PresentEdited by Robert Spinelli and Robyn S. Lacy. How do I cite the episode in my research and reading lists?To cite this episode, you can use thefollowing citation: Young, J. (2025) Interview on The Death Studies Podcast hosted by Michael-Fox, B. and Visser, R. Published 1 November 2025. Available at: www.thedeathstudiespodcast.com, DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.30507878 What next?Check out more episodes or find out more about the hosts! Gota question? Get in touch.

It's not often you get to say you've found 40 new species in one go - but that's exactly what a group of Kiwi scientists has done in Fiordland with the discovery of new marine sponges. The finding came as a huge surprise to Professor James Bell, a marine biologist from Victoria University, who says the results exceeded all expectations. He joins Jesse.

Billionaire Bill Gates is shifting his tone on climate change, cautioning against a 'doomsday' future view. In a lengthy online memo, the Microsoft co-founder says he still believes it is a major problem needing solving. But Gates says innovation and breakthroughs shouldn't come at the expense of funding global health or development. Victoria University adjunct professor of climate change, Adrian Macey, says he agrees. "I see what he's saying is - don't assume it's going to be Armageddon if we sail past the 1.5 degrees, which we have already, but think about the positive things you need to do." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An interview with Dr. Ben Mallett — a senior scientist at the Paihau-Robinson Research Institute and co-founder of JxB Space Systems, a bold new space startup positioning New Zealand at the forefront of next-generation spacecraft propulsion.Ben has been instrumental in developing superconducting magnet systems now operating aboard the International Space Station as part of the recently launched Heki mission. He led the creation of a superconducting flux pump. — a device that energizes spacecraft magnets using drastically less power than traditional systems. This is a milestone not just for New Zealand space tech, but for global efforts toward sustainable space propulsion.Ben holds a Bachelors and Doctoral degrees in Physics from the the Macdiarmid Institute and Victoria University of Wellington.Beyond the lab, he was selected into a global space accelerator program in 2023, where he helped shape the commercial vision for JxB while continuing to break technical ground. Ben just won the 2025 KiwiNet Research Commercialisation - Breakthrough Innovation Award  this month. Hosts:  SpaceBase Founder Emeline Paat-DahlstromResourcesPaihau-Robinson Research InstituteHeki Mission - a technology demonstration mission to the International Space Station (ISS) that launched in September 2025.CHIASMA - connecting university students to STEM industriesSupport the show

What does it take to lead with clarity in a world that celebrates complexity? Jeremy Kodomichalos spent over a decade helping shape Google’s strategy and operations across Australia and New Zealand. He’s known for his calm, collaborative approach to leadership - one grounded in curiosity, problem-solving and humility. In this conversation, Jeremy reflects on the lessons that shaped his path - from the sacrifices of his Greek immigrant family to the early mentors who opened doors and taught him the power of asking the right questions. He shares insights from his time at Procter & Gamble and Google, and why he believes perfection is overrated, simplicity is underrated, and psychological safety is the foundation of high-performing teams. Jeremy offers up key lessons on leadership, gratitude, and the importance of staying grounded while striving to grow. Learn. Lead. Collaborate. Start your leadership journey today. Head here to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time. Book a discovery call today. Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Up to 100-thousand union members across health and education are on strike today. The action prompted Public Service Minister Judith Collins, to pen a letter to New Zealanders - saying the strikes are more about politics than outcomes. The ‘mega strike’ is being tipped to be the largest in our history. So, as nurses, doctors, and teachers take to the picket line, we’ll take a look back at industrial action in Aotearoa, and whether it’s all actually worth it. Today on The Front Page, Victoria University of Wellington emeritus professor Gordon Anderson, is with us to discuss the history of labour laws in New Zealand. 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.

To celebrate it's 50th anniversary Nick Mills chats to Victoria University's Robyn Phipps, Dean of the Faculty of Architecture and Design Innovation. They discuss the rich history of the programme, the success stories that have come from it, and how the next fifty years look for the faculty. They also talk about the celebrations and the exhibition - which is open till November 4th. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when a data scientist steps into the boardroom and the locker room at the same time? Adam Driussi, co-founder and CEO of Quantium and chairman of the Canterbury Bulldogs, shares how he’s using artificial intelligence to shape both business and sport. Adam explains why leaders shouldn’t feel “aged-out” of AI, how simple it is to get started, and the surprising ways he personally uses it - from strategic planning to preparing for difficult conversations. He also shares a real-life example of AI potentially saving Quantium a million dollars a year in support costs, and reflects on how society needs to balance the power of technology with the human need for trust, judgment and connection. The conversation also touches on Adam's experience in the Aleda Connect leadership program, including the leadership feedback that completely changed the way he approaches team culture. Learn. Lead. Collaborate. Start your leadership journey today. Head here to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time. Book a discovery call today. Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textIn this episode of Midlife Sparkle, I chat with my friend and powerhouse fitness professional, Nikki Ellis, about strength, health, and living alcohol-free in midlife. Nikki has spent more than 30 years in the fitness industry as a personal trainer, sessional academic at Victoria University, and founder of Cinch, a multi-award-winning boutique training studio in Melbourne's northeast. She's passionate about helping women discover their power through resistance training, movement, and mindful choices - including rethinking their relationship with alcohol.Nikki shares her refreshingly honest journey from “mummy wine culture” to living a mostly alcohol-free life. After a moment that made her realise how alcohol was holding her back, she stopped drinking completely in 2023. What followed was a deeper sense of clarity, confidence, and connection to herself.We talk about how alcohol affects women physically and mentally, especially in midlife. Nikki explains how alcohol impacts muscle recovery, hormone balance, sleep, and fat metabolism - all critical factors for women navigating menopause and beyond. Even small amounts of alcohol can reduce muscle protein synthesis by up to 37%, disrupt hormones like cortisol and growth hormone, and make it harder to lose fat and build muscle. It's confronting but empowering knowledge that helps women make informed choices about their health.Our conversation also dives into the emotional and social aspects of drinking. Nikki opens up about the rituals tied to alcohol - pouring that glass of wine while cooking dinner or celebrating a big milestone - and how she found joy in replacing those moments with alcohol-free alternatives that still felt special. We discuss the growing movement toward non-alcoholic drinks, the need for more inclusive hospitality options, and how the cultural shift away from alcohol is beginning to mirror what happened with smoking decades ago.What I love most about Nikki's story is her self-awareness and honesty. She admits moderation doesn't work for her and that she feels better without it. Her story is about empowerment, not perfection - a reminder that small, intentional choices can create huge shifts in our wellbeing and mindset.Key Takeaways and Actions: If you're rethinking your relationship with alcohol, start by paying attention to your habits and triggers. Notice when and why you reach for a drink, and experiment with swapping it for something alcohol-free. Keep your rituals - make them special - but remove the alcohol.If you train regularly or want to feel stronger, remember that alcohol affects muscle recovery, hormone balance, and sleep. Prioritise your energy, clarity, and strength instead. Finally, be patient and kind to yourself. Changing your relationship with alcohol is not about restriction - it's about creating a life that feels good every day.

How do you stay driven and ambitious... without burning yourself out on your way? In this episode of Empowering Leaders, Luke Darcy sits down with Dr Tim McGrath, Senior Director of Player Health and Performance for the NFL’s Washington Commanders. With a career spanning the AFL, NRL, NBA and now the NFL, Tim has spent decades helping athletes and teams find the balance between relentless ambition and sustainable success. He shares what he’s learned about leadership in high-pressure environments, the warning signs of burnout, and why the best leaders know when to ease off the throttle. Tim also opens up about authenticity, emotional intelligence, how consistency is the key to success - and many other traits that keep great teams steady through the highs and lows. Learn. Lead. Collaborate. Start your leadership journey today. Head here to find out more about our signature, cross industry collaboration program, Aleda Connect. Curated and facilitated by experts, running for 8 fortnightly sessions, Aleda Connect is the learning experience of a life-time. Book a discovery call today. Empowering Leaders is proudly partnered with Victoria University. Find more information about studying at VU here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A climate expert has claimed the Government's reduced methane targets are 'unambitious'. The goal for 2050 has been slashed to a range of 14-to-24 percent below 2017 levels - about half the former target. Agricultural methane emissions won't be taxed. Victoria University's Nathanael Melia says by investing more into research, New Zealand could have aimed for higher. "We're using brand new science and brand new thinking to find out what we should do with our unique makeup to do these sorts of things. We're being a leader here and I think the Government could have been a bit more of a leader." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's growing support for a call to decriminalise drugs in order to reduce harm. The Drug Foundation's released a report calling drug laws of the past 50 years a 'colossal failure'. It is pushing for decriminalising use - and more investment in health and addiction services. Victoria University criminology professor Fiona Hutton says the status quo isn't working. "Things like drug overdoses are rising, addiction hasn't really been properly addressed, things like methamphetamine use are causing real harm in our communities." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We are always excited about the next technological solution. But what if it does not come? Or what if it comes only for the few, or with terrible side-effects? And while we are waiting for the easy tech fix, are we neglecting what we can do now to better our lives?Many of our previous guests have been excited about the prospect of radically extending our lives, and some have been optimistic about the prospect of achieving this in our life time, perhaps even within a few decades. We are Levity, the real longevity podcast after all.Todays guest thinks that we should be less excited about radical longevity, and radical enhancements in general. And he does not think radical life extension is on the horizon.Nicholas Agar is a New Zealand philosopher specializing in ethics. He holds a BA from the University of Auckland, an MA from Victoria University of Wellington, and a PhD from the Australian National University. As of 2022, he is a Professor of Ethics at the University of Waikato. He is a prolific writer and the author of How to think about Progress, and Truly Human Progress, to mention two recent books.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction03:38 The hype and the reality06:02 Too much enthusiasm for radical life extension -- or too little?17:15 Distribution worries -- more life only for the rich?23:06 Pessimism about distribution and feasability29:00 Structural reasons for bad science and big promises33:30 Is it wise to spend money on radical life extension?37:13 Should we die if we have had good life?48:48 Deat as tool for solving housing crisis58:27 Liberal eugenics01:06:45 How to attract funding -- hype + conservative grant proposals01:09:40 What is enhancement?01:25:30 A mechanical Roger Federer with robot arms01:38:12 Is it bad to cease to exist? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Crampton is a Professor of Paleontology and Stratigraphy at Victoria University and joins Nights to explain.

This week on the Monday Wire: For our weekly catch-up with the ACT Party, News and Editorial Director and Monday Wire Host, Joel, spoke to MP Simon Court about the government's recent energy reforms, and about the three New Zealanders aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla who have been intercepted by Israel. Producer Alex spoke to Doctoral Candidate at the University of Auckland Luke Bird about concerns around Sportwashing with the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the United States in the midst of human rights concerns under the Trump Administration. Joel spoke to the National President of the Tertiary Education Union or TEU, Julie Douglas, about the University of Auckland, Massey University, and the Victoria University of Wellington, all announcing they will not be using software to detect AI in student's work, and what this means heading forward. Following their chat with Douglas, Joel also spoke to Shahper Richter, a Senior Marketing Lecturer at the University of Auckland, about using “interactive oral assessments” or IOA's, as a way to combat AI in testing students. Whakarongo mai!

This week, an underwater mystery connecting New Zealand and Ireland - the puzzle of the disappearing sponges of Lough Hyne. In the late 1990s/early 2000s James Bell was doing PhD research on the sponge communities that coated the underwater cliffs of this small sea inlet in West Cork. When he returned 15 years later, they had vanished. Why did they disappear, are they starting to recover, and can they be helped to return? Now a Professor at Victoria University of Wellington, these are the key questions that James, and PhD candidates from his lab, have been working to answer. Sign up to the Our Changing World monthly newsletter for episode backstories, science analysis and more.In this episode:00:00 – Divers return, introduction to Lough Hyne and its scientific history.02:50 – James Bell on his early research at Lough Hyne and the surprising disappearance of sponge communities.05:15 – Gabi Wood and Kea Witting get ready to dive at Whirlpool Cliffs.06:30 – James Bell explains the unique tidal regime of Lough Hyne that means it has many diverse habitats.09:00 – Gabi Wood is collecting water samples to study sponge feeding and nutrient levels.11:00 – What caused the sponges to disappear.14:00 – Kea Witting is investigating sponge community recovery.21:00 – Experiments to help the sponges return…Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

The family of the man Wellington's Gordon Wilson Flats are named after is backing plans to redevelop it rather than knock it over. The government have carved out a section of the law so the earthquake prone abandoned heritage building can be demolished by Victoria University. Nick James reports.

Weekly shoutout: A new essay on HowlRound by theatermaker and friend of the show, Anne Mason! -- Hi there, Today I am delighted to be arts calling author Monica Macansantos! (monicamacansantos.com) About our guest: Monica Macansantos is a Filipino writer from Baguio, and is currently a Marguerite and Lamar Smith Fellow with the Carson McCullers Center in Columbus, Georgia. She is the author of the essay collection, Returning to My Father's Kitchen (Curbstone/Northwestern University Press, 2025), and the story collection, Love and Other Rituals (Grattan Street Press), 2022. She was a 2024-25 Shearing Fellow with the Black Mountain Institute at UNLV, and her work has appeared in Colorado Review, The Hopkins Review, Bennington Review, River Styx, Electric Literature, Literary Hub, and Katherine Mansfield and Children (Edinburgh University Press), among other places. She earned her MFA from the Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas at Austin, and her PhD in Creative Writing from the Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand. Her work has been recognized as Notable in Best American Essays 2016 and 2021-2023. RETURNING TO MY FATHER'S KITCHEN, now available from Northwestern University Press/Curbstone Books: Purchase from Northwestern University Press: https://nupress.northwestern.edu/9780810148390/returning-to-my-fathers-kitchen/ From Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/p/books/returning-to-my-father-s-kitchen-essays-monica-macansantos/ Purchase from Book People in Austin, which sells signed copies of the book! https://bookpeople.com/book/9780810148390 Also from Monica, LOVE & OTHER RITUALS, a collection of stories: https://www.monicamacansantos.com/loveandotherritualsselectedstories.html Thanks for this amazing conversation, Monica! All the best! Arts Calling is produced by Jaime Alejandro. HOW TO SUPPORT ARTS CALLING: PLEASE CONSIDER LEAVING A REVIEW, OR SHARING THIS EPISODE WITH A FRIEND! YOUR SUPPORT TRULY MAKES A DIFFERENCE! Much love, j artscalling.com

For hayfever sufferers, spring can bring a whole load of unwelcome symptoms. Victoria University of Wellington professor Rewi Newnnam spoke to Corin Dann

David Harland - an international diplomat who has devoted decades to finding ways to overcome armed conflict - is one of this year's Victoria University of Wellington's Distinguished Alumni. 

It's one small step for SpaceX, one giant leap for New Zealand's fledgling space industry. A rocket bearing a first-ever experiment built in Lower Hutt has lifted off from Cape Canaveral. The mission, called Hēki, will plug onto the outside of the International Space Station. Scores of scientists and others watched the launch on a screen at a Victoria University facility in Lower Hutt this morning. Phil Pennington reports.

Kiwi students will soon be learning more about AI in the classroom, potentially as a specialist subject in year 13. It's part of a major curriculum shake-up which the Education Minister says will better prepare students for the future workforce. Professor of AI at Victoria University, Alistair Knott spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

A tech hub based at Victoria University in Wellington is proving to be a success in its first year - contributing $11.9 million to the economy and supporting 127 fulltime jobs in that time. 

A Victoria University academic has apologised after making public comments suggesting dairy industry leaders should be hanged. Dr Mike Joy, a senior research fellow at the Wellington university and freshwater advocate, made a LinkedIn post suggesting the dairy industry was putting people at risk nitrate contamination of drinking and groundwater. The Country's Jamie Mackay explained further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More than 20 AI experts have signed an open letter urging the government to better regulate the use of artificial intelligence here. Victoria University senior lecturer in AI Dr Andrew Lensen spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

The efforts of physicist Ratu Mataira to deliver almost limit less energy through nuclear fusion have been recognised by Victoria University in Wellington in its Distinguished Alumni awards for the brightest and boldest innovators. 

More and more of us are reaching for low or no-alcohol beers. As the market grows, the options are also expanding – but brewing beer without alcohol fermentation presents a tricky puzzle. In traditional beer brewing the conversion of sugars into ethanol and carbon dioxide through yeast fermentation is a key part of the process. How can you get the same flavour into beer without it? A team at Victoria University of Wellington, including the head of research and development at Garage Project, have begun an interdisciplinary research project to address this. They're hoping to develop a brand-new yeast strain, one that will recreate delicious beer flavours, but without the alcohol.Sign up to the Our Changing World monthly newsletter for episode backstories, science analysis and more.…Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Tune in to The Business of Government Hour with host Michael J. Keegan as he dives into the transformative power of generative AI in the government sector! How is this cutting-edge technology already reshaping public services? What steps can agencies take to foster a culture of safe experimentation while managing risks? And how can they scale AI initiatives from pilot projects to enterprise-wide adoption? Join us for an insightful conversation with Professor Alex Richter from Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand, author of the IBM Center report, Navigating Generative AI in Government. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Israel's Prime Minister is currently holding a meeting of his security cabinet to discuss plans to take over all of the Gaza Strip. Ilan Noy from is Victoria University in Wellington who holds dual Israel and New Zealand citizenship - and says the impacts of the disaster in Gaza will be felt for generations to come.

Mistrust, fear and systematic barriers, these are the reasons why Victorians experiencing racism are hesitant to report the incidents, according to a new study by Victoria University. It also found that almost eight in ten people didn't know where or how to report racism, while nine in ten people believe that reporting would result in no change. What could be done to encourage people to speak up against racism? Wing Kuang spoke to Associate Professor Mario Peucker from the research team.

Imagine a company that has been pursuing its goal for fifteen years, with mixed progress, if you could call it that. The company, Trans Tasman Resources (TTR) has invested over $85 million toward a deep sea mining project off the South Taranaki Coast. It's Executive Chairman Alan Eggers is a qualified geologist who gained his degree at Victoria University, Wellington. But it's not all been plain sailing... Eggers lays it out in a most interesting interview which covers matters political, racial, social and financial, and helps to understand why New Zealand is poorly served in its search for the success it deserves. It just might share some of the reasons the country comes up short in other areas, like infrastructure and health. File your comments and complaints at Leighton@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.

An earthquake expert says powerful aftershocks are still possible after the massive quake off Russia's coast. Victoria University expert in geophysics Professor John Townend spoke to Corin Dann.

During World War II, sonar operators discovered a ‘false seabed' that appeared to move upwards during the nighttime. In fact, the sound waves were bouncing off huge numbers of small critters. This daily movement is the largest animal migration on the planet, consisting of deep-water animals that hide in the ocean's twilight then move to the surface after sunset to feed. By far the most abundant fish in this crowd are the lanternfishes. New Zealand researchers are investigating what impact lanternfish migration has on the life cycle of fish we like to eat, and how it may also play a huge role in the Earth's carbon cycle. Sign up to the Our Changing World monthly newsletter for episode backstories, science analysis and more.Guests:Professor Jeff Shima, Victoria University of WellingtonAlisha Gill, Victoria University of WellingtonNiamh Smith, Victoria University of WellingtonLearn more:Read the article for this episode: Lanternfish: small fish, big impactBelow the twilight zone, in the deepest parts of the worlds' oceans, including in New Zealand waters, scientists continue to discover new critters.The deep ocean makes up the majority of the living space on our planet, where life down there has evolved to cope with the pressure, cold and darkness.The Southern Ocean absorbs a huge amount of carbon, but scientists are concerned that may change as the planet warms.Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details