Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive
Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive delivers the latest news and views to New Zealanders as they wrap up their day. The show takes a straight down the middle approach to news coverage. It airs on Newstalk ZB, a New Zealand radio network. The podcast provides a daily summary of top stories and current events.
Episodes
Gavin Grey: UK correspondent on the death of Sir Sam Neill
Beloved New Zealand actor Sir Sam Neill has died aged 78, as confirmed by his family in a new post. The Northern Ireland-born New Zealand actor was best known for his leading role in the Jurassic Park franchise, Peaky Blinders, The Piano and numerous other films. UK correspondent Gavin Grey said he's had an impact all over the world. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy inform
Shane Solly: Harbour Asset Management expert on what the renewed Middle East conflict means for the markets
Reports indicate the ceasefire in the Middle East has been scrapped and the conflict is starting back up again. The US claims it's struck 140 Iranian military targets in response to an attack on a merchant ship in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran says it's hit multiple US military sites. Harbour Asset Management expert Shane Solly explained further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy in
Perspective with Andrew Dickens: High oil prices are back, baby
Oil prices. Oil prices are back, baby. At the moment, West Texas crude is sitting near US$74 a barrel, while Brent crude is around US$79. Prices are up slightly, rebounding as tension continues between the United States and Iran. Looking at the oil trading charts, West Texas crude has fallen to almost its lowest point in quite some time. But if you look at the futures markets, the expectation is t
The Huddle: Is it fair that MPs get a better KiwiSaver deal?
Tonight on The Huddle, Trish Sherson from Sherson Willis PR and Child Fund CEO Josie Pagani joined on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more! Is it fair that MPs get a better KiwiSaver deal that the rest of us? Is this fair to ensure we get quality politicians? The family of actor Sam Neill today confirmed he died at a Sydney Hospital, aged 78. How will he be remembere
Chris Penk: Defence Minister on New Zealand looking into joining the Ocean of Peace Alliance
The Defence Minister says New Zealand will think carefully about joining the recently signed defence alliance between Fiji and Australia. The Ocean of Peace Alliance was signed by the leaders of Australia and Fiji last week, but concerns have been raised over how it could impact our relationship with China. Minister Chris Penk says working together is important for all Pacific nations and th
Annie Murray: Film Commission CEO on the sudden death of Sir Sam Neill
The film industry is mourning the loss of one of New Zealand's greats, with news of Sir Sam Neill's sudden passing. His family's confirmed Neill died at a Sydney Hospital, aged 78. The Northern Ireland-born actor moved to New Zealand in 1954 at age eight - and began his five-decade acting career in the 70s. He starred in award-winning films and TV in New Zealand and abroad, including J
Full Show Podcast: 13 July 2026
On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast with Andrew Dickens for Monday, 13 July, 2026, beloved New Zealand actor Sam Neill has died at the age of 78. Film Commission chief executive Annie Murray says he was one of the genuinely good guys. On The Huddle with Trish Sherson, Josie Pagani pays tribute to Neill, who was a family friend. Automobile Association fuel spokesman Terry Collin
Graeme Edgeler: constitutional law expert defends current Super scheme for MPs
A constitutional lawyer's defending MPs' generous Super scheme, saying it guards against corruption. Taxpayers contribute $2.50 for every dollar MPs put in - up to $36,000 dollars. Ordinary employers only contribute 3.5 percent of a worker's salary. Graeme Edgeler says MPs who know they'll be safe in retirement are less likely to look for money elsewhere. "It's the 'you're going
Nathaniel Herz Jardine: Christchurch City Councillor on the city installing $200k CBD mural
A Christchurch City Councillor says $200,000 to light up a CBD mural is money well spent - because small touches help bring people into the city. The lights were installed on Press Lane to address concerns it felt uninviting after dark. The Taxpayers' Union says the cash could have been better spent. Councillor Nathaniel Herz Jardine says creating a vibrant city requires choices that cost money. "
Terry Collins: AA Principal Policy Advisor on the warning that fuel prices could go up again
Global conflict other the Iran war is expected to keep knocking up petrol prices. The Automobile Association says prices are unlikely to get any lower for a while. Spokesperson Terry Collins says the Strait of Hormuz is still disrupted, but fewer ships are stuck - and others are sailing alternative routes. Collins says conflict in other countries will also impact supplies. "The e
Duane Leo: PSA National Secretary on the Internal Affairs staff strike
Unionised Internal Affairs staff are taking a stand, striking for the first time in the department's 138-year history. More than 1300 workers walked off the job for two hours today, responding to the latest pay offer. The Public Service Association says it doesn't keep pace with inflation - with members already struggling with the cost of living. National Secretary Duane Leo says they
Thomas Coughlan: NZ Herald political editor on Minister Mark Patterson's planned visit to India
The Associate Agriculture Minister's off to India to talk up Kiwi wool this week. Mark Patterson will meet the Indian Textiles Minister and visit the Bharat Tex conference - the country's largest textile expo. NZ Herald political editor Thomas Coughlan says NZ First has fired back at this plan and labelled the visit a 'taxpayer funded trip'. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privac
Oliver Peterson: Australian correspondent on BHP staff confirming strike will take place this week
Hundreds of BHP workers will walk off the job at Port Hedland on July 16, after talks with the mining giant broke down. Between 150-200 workers represented by the Combined Ports Unions are expected to down tools in what could be the Western Australian mining industry's most significant industrial action for a quarter of a century. Australian correspondent Oliver Peterson says plans are in pl
Jason Pine: Sportstalk host on the All Blacks beating out Italy in Wellington and gearing up for Ireland
A familiar face around the halls of the All Blacks hotel in Auckland ahead of facing Ireland this Saturday. Rieko Ioane has been called into camp to provide injury cover for the outside backs. Coach Dave Rennie says they're looking at an otherwise clean bill of health, with Patrick Tuipulotu and Luke Jacobson - subbed off at halftime against Italy - declared fit. Sportstalk host Jason Pine explain
Paul Anderson: NZSki chief executive on Canterbury’s Mt Hutt seeing a busy Matariki weekend
Snowmaking is proving its worth at ski fields, with the busiest weekend at Canterbury's Mount Hutt in a decade. More than 10,000 people hit the slopes over the long weekend, helped by up to a metre of fresh snow and three bluebird days. Snowmaking boosted the base as much as 1.5 metres in parts. NZSki chief executive Paul Anderson says the tech's become essential - and is here to stay. "It allows
Enda Brady: UK correspondent on Donald Trump's recent comments at the NATO Summit in Turkey
Donald Trump says it's a waste of time talking with Iran, declaring the memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran 'over'. The US President has made the comments at the NATO summit in Turkey, as both sides swap strikes. Trump says his White House negotiators can continue, but he thinks the Iranians are 'liars', calling them cuckoo. UK correspondent Enda Brady unpacked the reactions furthe
Sam Dickie: Fisher Funds expert on Microsoft cutting over 4,000 jobs as a result of AI
Microsoft is cutting 4800 jobs - about two percent of its global workforce - in a sweeping restructure. Most cuts are part of a restructure of its struggling Xbox gaming division. It's the latest in a string of mass layoffs by the tech giant alongside major investment in AI. Sam Dickie from Fisher Funds explained the implications of this move. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy in
Hamish McKay: The Country spokesperson on the damage left behind by the Kaikōura floods
Kaikōura's main route south could be closed several more days, as flooding, debris and rockfall is cleared. State Highway 1's back open north of the township, but it's still closed to Waipara, and the Inland Kaikōura Road also can't be used. The Country's Jamie Mackay explained further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Show Podcast: 09 July 2026
On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Thursday, 9 July, 2026, Transport Minister Chris Bishop explains how he got it so wrong with the Roads of National Significance promise. Waitakere Indian Association president Sunil Kaushal on how many billions of dollars Indians are contributing to our economy. Warriors chief executive Cameron George on the close connection with Australi
The Huddle: Did we think the US-Iran ceasefire was going to last?
Tonight on The Huddle, Thomas Scrimgeour from the Maxim Institute and artist and local Government politician Oscar Kightley joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more! National has recently confirmed some of the Roads of National Significance and similar transport projects will be placed on the back-burner, with this new scheme being rolled out in 'phases'. Did we t
Perspective with Heather du Plessis-Allan: National's roading announcement was a massive letdown
Let's not pretend that this roading announcement is not a massive letdown for anyone who voted for the National Party believing it would deliver the roads it promised. It is a huge letdown. Of the 15 Roads of National Significance promised following the last election, only six have construction dates: Takitimu North Link Stage 1 in Tauranga, Ōtaki to north of Levin, the Hawke's Bay Expressway, War
Cameron George: Warriors CEO on the new 'Wahsworld' makeover coming to the Gold Coast
The Warriors have taken over Australia’s Dreamworld, rebranding it as 'Wahsworld' before their NRL fixture against the Gold Coast Titans. Dreamworld and the Warriors have partnered to create 'Wahsworld' every time the team travels to the Gold Coast to play the Titans - with the official attraction launching on August 1. Warriors CEO Cameron George says he's looking forward to this getting started.
Dr Richard Sullivan: Health NZ Chief Clinical Officer on the review into the Waikato Hospital's Emergency Department death
Health New Zealand has confirmed Waikato Hospital's Emergency Department was under some strain when a patient died. A man who couldn't be revived after being found unresponsive last week had been waiting for hours. A review's found he had an acute unexpected incident that wouldn't have been prevented by more monitoring. Health NZ Clinical Executive National Director Doctor Richard Sull
Gil Barndollar: former US Marine on the US-Iran conflict starting back up again
Strikes have reignited between the US and Iran, with no sign of letting up. Donald Trump's ruled the ceasefire over, saying the US has hit 90 targets in a second day of bombing. He's blaming Iran hitting ships in the Strait of Hormuz, which has now unleashed strikes on Bahrain and Kuwait. Former US Marine Gil Barndollar says Iran's back to targeting US military bases - as it did when war broke out
Chris Bishop: Transport Minister confirms some Roads of National Significance and other transport projects will be put on the back burner
The Transport Minister says it's hard to know what a road will cost until construction begins. Chris Bishop has released a new phased timeline for the 17 transport projects on the Government's to do list - putting five on the back burner. The whole 17 roads are expected to come in at roughly $56 billion. Bishop says these projects will be completed in phases, and there's no market capa
Barry Soper: Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent on the Government looking into joining up with Australia and Fiji's defence pact
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 corr
Sunil Kaushal: Waitakere Indian Association President on the new report examining the economic contributions of Kiwi-Indians
New numbers from the Waitakere Indian Association show Kiwi-Indians contributed more than $37 billion to the economy annually to March 2025. The association argues this demonstrates the community is critical to the success of the India-New Zealand FTA. NZ First has railed against the FTA, saying it'll allow more Indian migrants into the country. President Sunil Kaushal says the numbers
Matt Heath: Afternoons host on the mess in the studio
There's an unidentified mess in the studio, and it's unclear who the culprit is. The Afternoons show took place before Heather's Drive show, and Matt Heath joined in to shed some light on the matter. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gavin Grey: UK correspondent on Nigel Farage resigning and triggering a by-election
Right-wing UK politician Nigel Farage is set to spend more than half a million dollars after triggering a by-election in the electorate where he's already an MP. It comes after criticism over his financial support, after local media reported he had not declared benefits. The Reform UK leader has also faced questions over a five-million pound gift, which he didn't register. UK correspondent Gavin G
John Ambler and Duane Emeny: NZ Jet owner and Air Chathams CEO on the calls to reform the Civil Aviation Authority
A private jet company boss has voiced concerns about what could happen if there's not reform at the Civil Aviation Authority - and he's taken these worries to the Government. NZ Jet owner John Ambler has heard concerns from former and current CAA staff about the organisation's culture. He says it includes an erosion of expertise, and operators fearing they'd be punished for raising concerns.
Full Show Podcast: 08 July 2026
On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Wednesday, 8 July, 2026, Reserve Bank governor Anna Breman tells us why the Official Cash Rate has risen for the first time in three years. Labour leader Chris Hipkins explains the difference between his party and National on solar power policy. Coach Dame Noeline Taurua can barely contain her excitement at being back in charge of the Sil
Jenee Tibshraeny: NZ Herald Wellington business editor on the concerns raised over NZ employment contracts
People are not moving between jobs as seamlessly as they should in a productive economy, thanks to overly restrictive employment contracts. This is the conclusion reached by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), after a major new study spanning 15 countries including New Zealand. NZ Herald Wellington business editor Jenee Tibshraeny explained further. LISTEN ABOVESee o
Remy Wisenberg: Milford Asset Management expert on whether the markets price in the OCR increase
The OCR has been increased for the first time in three years, and it's prompted a divided response among experts. The Monetary Policy Committee's unanimously agreed to raise the cash rate to 2.5 percent. Milford Asset Management's Remy Wisenberg unpacked the reactions further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Huddle: Did the OCR need to go up after all?
Tonight on The Huddle, Phil O'Reilly from Iron Duke Partners and NZ Herald senior correspondent Katie Bradford joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more! The Reserve Bank increased the OCR, for the first time in 3 years. Do we think this was the right call? Do we think this is good news for the state of the economy? Both Labour and National have announced new solar
Perspective with Heather du Plessis-Allan: Anna Breman delivered a refreshingly boring OCR update
The Official Cash Rate has gone up by 25 basis points. This is the first rise we've seen in three years. It was unanimous around the committee table that it needed to happen because of inflation. Even though petrol and diesel prices have fallen sharply since the Iran war ceasefire deal was struck, they're not back to pre-war levels yet and they won't be for some time. That, of course, is inflation
Dame Noeline Taurua: Silver Ferns coach speaks ahead of the team's first Commonwealth Games match
The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games are due to get under way in a couple of weeks, and the pressure's on for the Silver Ferns. The team are in camp currently, and their first match against Scotland will mark 634 days since Dame Noeline Taurua's last match in charge after she was controversially stood down. Taurua says getting back into coaching the side was like 'riding a horse' and she's 'amped'
Dan Peach: blueberry grower on why the US E.coli outbreak proves NZ shouldn't relax restrictions
Blueberry growers have voiced concerns over the prospect of New Zealand relaxing its food import rules following an E.coli outbreak in the US. The outbreak has been linked to a shipment of frozen berries in Chile. The growers fear that MPI changes to berry imports could also bring new pests or diseases onto New Zealand shores. One grower, Dan Peach, says MPI hasn't considered the risks involved in
Nicole McKee: ACT Deputy Leader on the party promising to expand the Three Strikes regime to burglars
ACT expects the prison population to grow under its policy of cracking down on burglars - but says it's necessary. The Party wants a mandatory three-year prison sentence for offenders convicted of burglary three times, claiming judges are too lenient in sentencing. Deputy Leader Nicole McKee says it's clear changes need to be made, and repeat offenders will need to face punishment. "We've sa
Anna Breman: Reserve Bank Governor explains why OCR increase was necessary
The Reserve Bank Governor says Kiwis will ultimately benefit from today's OCR hike - the first in more than three years. The cash rate has been raised to 2.5 percent. Governor Anna Breman says inflation's been eating up household budgets. She says getting inflation back down helps everyone. "It will actually make sure that households get their purchasing power back, they can spend more, they can g
Barry Soper: Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent on the Reserve Bank moving to increase the OCR for the first time in three years
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
Gordon Robison: US correspondent on the US launching new strikes on Iran
Hostilities have ignited again between Iran and the US, undermining the fragile memorandum of understanding. US Central Command claims it's bombed more than 80 Iranian targets - the vast majority being small boats in the Strait of Hormuz. It says this is retaliation for Iran attacking three commercial vessels in the waterway. Middle East correspondent Gordon Robison says it's not clear
D'Arcy Waldegrave: Sportstalk host on Switzerland advancing to the quarter-finals at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
The final quarterfinal spot at the football World Cup has been decided via penalties in Vancouver. The Swiss have eliminated Colombia 4-3 on penalties, after playing out a scoreless match over 120 minutes. They'll meet defending champions Argentina in the final eight on Sunday, who came from 2-nil down to beat Egypt 3-2. Sportstalk host D'Arcy Waldegrave explained further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystud
Chris Hipkins: Labour leader on the party unveiling its new SolarSaver package ahead of the election
Labour says its solar policy will benefit renters and rural communities, not just city-dwelling homeowners. National and Labour's election policies would both let homeowners pay back low-interest loans for solar through their rates. But Labour's plan announced today also lets local lines companies provide loans - repaid back through power bills. Leader Chris Hipkins says this pla
Enda Brady: UK correspondent speaks ahead of Trump appearance at NATO summit
US President Donald Trump is headed to Türkiye for the NATO summit, and anticipation is growing. The Russia-Ukraine conflict is set to be top of mind, but other concerns up for discussion include the US-Iran conflict and America's earlier attempt to acquire Greenland. UK correspondent Enda Brady says more defence deals are in the pipeline, but it's unknown what Trump's mood is. LISTEN ABOVES
Hamish McKay: The Country spokesperson on the impacts of the rain in Kaikōura
Relentless rain is driving more evacuations in Kaikōura, which is under a state of emergency. At least 150 households have been told to evacuate in Kaikōura, most recently from upper Red Swamp. State Highway 1 is closed between Waipara and Ward, and expected to stay shut overnight. The Country's Hamish Mackay explained further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Huddle: Should we be worried about China?
Tonight on The Huddle, former Green MP Gareth Hughes and Jordan Williams from the Taxpayers' Union joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more! Is Erica Stanford right to not put restrictions on VPNs? What did we make of this? Did we think she was going to introduce restrictions? China launched their missile test today - did we over-react? Should we be worried
Full Show Podcast: 07 July 2026
On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Tuesday, 7 July, 2026, Education Minister Erica Stanford on whether she's considered restrictions on VPNs - or not - as part of an under-16 social media ban. Former police senior sergeant Tony Bouchier tells us whether he agrees with the Supreme Court overturning two murder convictions for the Red Fox Tavern shooting more than 40 years ag
Perspective with Heather du Plessis-Allan: Did China break any rules with their nuclear missile test?
Let's talk about the Chinese test of that nuclear-capable missile. More specifically, let's talk about New Zealand's response to it, which was quite full-throated in its criticism of China. I find myself unable to get as worked up about this as Winston Peters because, please correct me if I'm wrong, I can't see that China has actually broken any rules here. Before firing the missile, China alerted
Tim Bean: physique specialist voices concerns with proposed ban on incandescent light bulbs
Genesis is backing a Parliamentary petition to ban incandescent light bulbs, and it's prompted concerns from some. These bulbs are already banned in the Australia, the EU, the US, Canada and many other countries. However, physique specialist Tim Bean says people who are constantly exposed to LED lights have a strong 'blue spectrum' and it interferes with our sleep-wake cycles. "It does disru
Mike Casey: Rewiring Aotearoa CEO on the Government looking to changes laws on plug-in solar panels
Plugging a a solar panel into your own wall is currently illegal in New Zealand, but the Government's looking into changing that. In a post on Facebook, Energy Minister Simeon Brown says work is currently under way to make this change happen. Rewiring Aotearoa CEO Mike Casey has welcomed this move, saying this development would be 'amazing'. "It's something that we thought needed to happen in New
Sophie Moloney: Sky TV chief executive on Sky winning NRL and Warriors rights in new broadcast deal
Has a second NRL team in New Zealand edged closer to a reality after the NRL's new multi-billion dollar broadcast deal? The Australian Rugby League Commission has signed a new seven-year TV rights deal with its existing partners on both sides of the Tasman, including Sky TV, starting in 2028. The NRL wants to increase to 20 teams during that period, with Christchurch considered a candidate for an
Steve Morris: Tauranga City Councillor on NZTA's plan for a new toll point on the Eastern Link
Tauranga residents are up in arms over NZTA's plan for a second toll point on the new Eastern Link. Drivers passing through the Pāpāmoa East Interchange would be charged $1.10, on top of the $2.30 already charged. A public meeting tomorrow's expected to be fiery. City Councillor Steve Morris says it's not fair for people living in Pāpāmoa East. "What's worse is that 80 cents out of that $1.1
Tony Bouchier: criminal defence lawyer on the Supreme Court overturning guilty verdicts in Red Fox cold case
A criminal defence lawyer has highlighted the challenges around convicting people in historic cases. Lawyer Tony Bouchier's comments come after the Supreme Court overturned two guilty murder verdicts in a cold case killing. James Henry Wilson and Mark Joseph Hoggart were found guilty in 2021 of killing Red Fox Tavern publican, Chris Bush. Bouchier's says the evidence wasn't strong enough, especial
Erica Stanford: Education Minister explains why Government not looking to ban VPNs
The Education Minister denies ever considering banning Virtual Private Networks as part of the social media ban for under-16s, but says the tool was talked about. The Post reported this morning Erica Stanford was looking at prohibiting VPNs, which lets internet users mask their location and online address. The Prime Minister and Stanford rejected the claim. She says they discussed VPNs in a differ
Barry Soper: Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent on the Government opening new diesel storage at Marsden Point
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 unce
Murray Olds: Australian correspondent on Australia's reaction to China's ballistic missile test
The Australian Government has raised concerns over China's decision to test their ballistic missile in the Pacific. The missile was fired from a Chinese submarine, landing between Kiribati and Tuvalu. China says it complied with international law - and didn't target any nation. Australian correspondent Murray Olds says this follows Australia inking the Vuvale Union Treaty with Fiji. LISTEN ABOVESe
D'Arcy Waldegrave: Sportstalk host on Belgium beating out the United States in the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Belgium have banished the United States from their home Football World Cup after a crushing 4-1 win in round-of-16 action in Seattle. The eighth ranked side in the world were in command from the outset, taking the lead in the ninth minute. Sportstalk host D'Arcy Waldegrave recapped the action further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mohan Dutta: Massey University professor and Hindutva researcher speaks ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will spend just one day in Auckland as he tours the South Pacific, but one planned event has sparked controversy. A Kia Ora Modi event is planned for that night at Spark Arena, organised by the Indian High Commission - with 12,000 people expected to attend. Massey University professor and researcher Mohan Dutta has raised concerns that the rally will be a 'Hindu
Gavin Grey: UK correspondent on the upcoming court ruling on Marine Le Pen
Later this week, a court verdict will be determine whether nationalist frontrunner Marine Le Pen can stand in next year's presidential election. Recent opinion polls indicate the leader of the National Rally is well-positioned to become France's next head of state. UK correspondent Gavin Grey says if the appeal follows the original verdict, Le Pen will be declared ineligible for public offic
Shane Solly: Harbour Asset Management expert on the 'volatile' state of AI-based investments
It's been a turbulent time for AI-based investments. The AI capital expenditure-leveraged Korean and Japanese share markets have recovered from last week's drop, but experts say things are still 'volatile'. Shane Solly from Harbour Asset Management explained further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Louise Tanguay: Sleep Store co-founder and director on the company turning 20
The Sleep Store is celebrating 20 years of helping families find the right products for their kids. The brand has gone from a kitchen table start-up to filling more than 150,000 orders per year. Co-founder and director Louise Tanguay says it's 'wild' to look back at how much the brand has grown. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Full Show Podcast: 06 July 2026
On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Monday, 6 July, 2026, questions over a team of specialists at Starship Hospital who decide if parents abuse their children. Newsroom investigative journalist Melanie Reid tells us where they've got it wrong. Greens co-leader Marama Davidson explains why the party wants a ban on synthetic nitrogen fertiliser. We celebrate 20 years of the S
The Huddle: Do we agree with Winston Peters' stance on voting?
Tonight on The Huddle, Trish Sherson from Sherson Willis PR and Child Fund CEO Josie Pagani joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more! National is looking to prioritise seven new free trade deals if they get re-elected again. Do we think this is a good idea? Winston Peters says voting is a 'privilege' and only citizens should get to vote. What do we make of t
Perspective with Heather du Plessis-Allan: The All Blacks showed some spark in that first test
How good was that All Blacks test? I want to say I'm a little surprised by the number of commentators moaning about it and saying they're not impressed - but if I'm completely honest with you, I'm not that surprised. Some of the criticism is fair. There were fumbles, there were discipline issues, the French scored first, they threatened throughout the game and it was a very close scoreline in the
Nicola Willis: Finance Minister on the Government's goal to double exports by the 2030s
The Finance Minister is hopeful that New Zealand's exports will grow significantly over the next ten years. If reelected, National says it will pursue trade negotiations with Brazil, Switzerland, Argentina, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Uruguay and the European Free Trade Association. It would seek talks with a further six trading nations over the next decade. Nicola Willis says it's likely the
Ben van Berkel: Wellington Rugby Referees Association president on the organisation not appointing officials this weekend amid abuse
The Wellington Rugby Referees Association has opted not to appoint officials for this weekend’s fixtures amid ongoing abuse. The move follows three instances of verbal abuse of referees during weekend games. Wellington Rugby Referees Association president and chair Ben van Berkel says this follows an accumulation of incidents that took place over the past year. "Referees are a resilient bunc
Stephen England-Hall: Genesis Energy chief revenue officer on the company calling for a ban on incandescent light bulbs
Genesis is calling on the Government to ban incandescent light bulbs as New Zealand lags behind many other countries. It says swapping them out for LED bulbs can save households about $300 a year. Genesis chief revenue officer Stephen England-Hall says he's backing a ban because they're not being taken off the shelves voluntarily yet. He says the difference between the two types
Melanie Reid: Newsroom investigative journalist on the calls to investigate Starship hospital
There's a push to address potential issues with calls made by the child protection unit at Auckland's Starship hospital. A Newsroom investigation's looked into the team responsible for providing a medical perspective on whether parents have abused their children. International experts repeatedly found these doctors didn't consider other explanations, like severe vitamin D deficiencies, or injuries
Tim Groser: former Trade Minister 'encouraged' by Government outlining future trade plan
A former Trade Minister says he's very encouraged by National's election promise that it'll pursue trade talks with seven economies. It says it would prioritise trade talks with Brazil, Switzerland, Argentina, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Uruguay and the European Free Trade Association. It's also promised to advance negotiations with a further six countries over the next decade. Tim Groser says if you don
Barry Soper: Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent on China warning NZ it's planning a missile test in the South Pacific
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. LIST
Oliver Peterson: Australian correspondent on police investigating potential cannibalism in NSW pre-schooler death
New South Wales police are investigating whether a preschooler's death involved cannibalism. A mother has been charged with murder after her 4-year-old son's body was found with significant arm injuries at a property in the Central Coast's Wyong. Police say the 32-year-old arrived at a police station on Saturday afternoon of her own accord. Australian correspondent Murray Olds says th
Jason Pine: Sportstalk host on the All Blacks' victory over France
The Dave Rennie era is off to a strong start, with the All Blacks emerging victorious in their weekend game. The 34-32 win over France in Christchurch saw the All Blacks score five tries to four. Sportstalk host Jason Pine recapped the action - and wondered if the Kiwi side could keep up the momentum for their next game. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Marama Davidson: Green Party co-leader on the party's plan to improve water regulations and phase out fertiliser
The Greens want to beef up water regulations, including clamping down on nitrate levels in fresh water. If elected, the party's promising stronger national standards for fresh water, more robust rules for wastewater discharges and phasing out synthetic nitrogen fertiliser. Co-leader Marama Davidson says farmers need clean water too, and it's important to phase out synthetic fertiliser.
Perspective with Heather du Plessis-Allan: The attention on the Waikato ED case could increase the odds of fixing the problem
If there's any good that comes from this awful case of the man dying while waiting for help in Waikato Hospital's emergency department, it's that at least it's getting a lot of media attention. I don't know if you recall but basically the same thing happened in 2021 at Middlemore Hospital. It was strange to me how little attention it received at the time, especially given everything else that was
Full Show Podcast: 03 July 2026
On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Friday, 3 July, 2026, we ask Chief Victims Adviser Ruth Money if former Lotto presenter Russell Harrison should have been on leave on full pay for five years at the Justice Ministry after being arrested for money laundering. Michael Laws tells us why he's in the race for a comeback as a New Zealand First MP. Conservation Department senior
Perspective with Heather du Plessis-Allan: What real employer would do what the Ministry of Justice did?
If you haven't yet caught up on the drama involving the former Lotto presenter and the gold-bar smuggling operation, you need to hear this because it basically involves your taxpayer money. The chap's name is Russell Harrison. You might remember him from the Lotto draws. He went on to a job at the Ministry of Justice as a Kaiārahi, a Family Court navigator. He took the job in June 2021 and later t
Karen Boyes: Major Electricity Users Group Executive Director on Meridian gaining fast track approval for storage at Lake Pukaki
Meridian Energy's been granted fast track approval to take more water from Lake Pukaki. The Fast-track Panel’s decision also grants permission to permanently install rock armour to boost resilience to wave erosion, when the lake's operating at lower levels. Major Electricity Users Group Executive Director Karen Boyes told Heather du Plessis-Allan that she has mixed feelings about the decisio
Phil King: New CEO of Forsyth Barr stadium on challenges ahead
Forsyth Barr stadium in Dunedin has a new face at the helm. Phil King is taking over as CEO of Dunedin Venues Management Limited, the organisation that owns the stadium. He told Heather du Plessis-Allan that his priority is, 'sort of focusing on our own strengths and delivering a bulletproof wide Dunedin business case to partners and promoters'. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener
Barry Soper: Senior Political Correspondent discusses Indian Prime Minister Modi's visit to NZ
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is due to make his first official visit to New Zealand. His arrival comes amid controversial comments from foreign minister Winston Peters, who says that Indians will be facing unfairly tough immigration laws upon arrival to New Zealand Senior political correspondent Barry Soper told Heather du Plessis-Allan that you would normally expect the foreign minis
Kate McInnes: DOC Veterinarian discusses fears around Bird flu reaching New Zealand
Steps are being taken to protect our most vulnerable bird species - in anticipation of a deadly avian flu variant, arriving on our shores. The highly contagious H5N1 strain has been spreading globally - including across the Tasman. Now the Department of Conservation's starting to vaccinate kākāpō, takahē, tūturuatu, kakī and kākāriki. DOC veterinarian Kate McInnes says the
