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
Perspective with Heather du Plessis-Allan: Here's why political parties shouldn't rush laws
Now, just for the avoidance of doubt, let me tell you what happened here with this mistake that led to 30,000 people missing out on Winter Energy Payments and benefits. It happened because Louise Upston passed a piece of legislation so fast, under urgency, in just two days last year that no one had time to spot the fact the law contained a mistake. What happened was that the law required MSD, the
Full Show Podcast: 11 September 2026
On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive with Andrew Dickens Full Show Podcast for Friday, 11 September, 2026, Immigration Minister Erica Stanford takes a swipe at Winston Peters as campaigning heats up. We hear about what it'll take to save Orana Wildlife Park in Christchurch. A powerful voice in the "front row club", Sean Fitzpatrick, gives us his view on Codie Taylor's reinstatement as All Blacks
Sean Fitzpatrick: Former All Blacks captain on 4th test against Springboks
The All Blacks will face off against the Springboks in their fourth test on Sunday, September 13, at 9am with the hopes of bringing the score to 2-2. "It'd be nice to be able to draw the series, which will be a lot better feeling," Former All Blacks hooker and captain Sean Fitzpatrick told Andrew Dickens. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Perspective with Andrew Dickens: Will the CRL be worth the wait?
It's a massive weekend for Auckland as the much-awaited CRL, the City Rail Link, finally opens to the public. And there is excitement. Five and a half billion dollars and 10 years of chaos have come to this. The question will be asked: was it all worth it? Firstly, I have to say it never needed to be so expensive because it never needed to be this late. The idea of a rail link between Auckland and
Dave Morkal: New York firefighter chats 25 years after he was at ground zero on 9/11
Firefighters from the New York City Fire Department flew out to New Zealand to do the Sky Tower walk today to commemorate the 343 firefighters who were killed 25 years ago on September 11th, 2001. New York firefighter Dave Morkal was on ground zero that day, and he joined Andrew Dickens to discuss. "As soon as we got there it was work is on. This is what we have to do. We have
Dr Ken Hughey: Orana Wildlife Trust Board co-chair on financial woes
Beloved museums and zoos in New Zealand, like Wellington Zoo, Orana Wildlife Park, and MOTAT, are struggling to keep the lights on. Orana Wildlife Trust Board co-chair Dr Ken Hughey joined Andrew Dickens to discuss the financial difficulties facing them and other similar attractions. The financial struggles are not contributed to visitor numbers, which Hughey says are increasing, but instead
Erica Stanford: Immigration Minister chats increasing discourse
The Association of Migration and Investment Conference is going on right now prompting significant political debate about immigration policy ahead of the election. NZ First wants to restrict birthright citizenship and prevent asylum seekers from accessing work, while Labour wants to introduce a citizenship pathway for children born to undocumented parents and a longer permanent residency pro
Tohu Harris: Former Warriors captain on Warriors v Dolphins
The Warriors are set to face the Dolphins at the Go Media Stadium tomorrow in round one of the NRL finals. Former Warriors captain turned real estate mogul Tohu Harris joined Andrew Dickens to discuss. "From what we've seen from the Warriors this year and how they've defended, I'm quietly confident." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Enda Brady: UK correspondent on the UK's air traffic control head being under pressure to quit following recent glitch
Chaos in UK airports, after an hours-long air traffic control outage led to the cancellation of at least 2,000 flights and left passengers stranded. National Air Traffic Services CEO Martin Rolfe has faced criticism following the outage, and there's growing calls for him to lose the role. UK correspondent Enda Brady says this latest incident cost airlines millions and industry experts and pa
Sam Dickie: Fisher Funds expert on the AI researcher quitting Anthropic and warning of the tech's risks
An artificial intelligence researcher who worked with Anthropic recently quit the industry, and accused the AI giants of 'gambling with our lives' to grow the technology. Jacob Coxon spent the past three years pre-training AI models, beginning at OpenAI and moving to Anthropic, but has since claimed neither of the big companies are 'acting responsibly'. Fisher Funds expert Sam Dickie says this is
Jamie Mackay: The Country host on the market volatility potentially impacting red meat sector
New data shows red meat prices are likely to remain strong, but there's a growing risk of market volatility. Beef + Lamb New Zealand has warned the margins are likely to tighten, and they've cited rising input costs and the risk of dry El Niño conditions creating additional pressure. The Country's Jamie Mackay explained further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Huddle: Does the Government have to share in the blame for the MSD situation?
Tonight on The Huddle, Auckland Councillor Maurice Williamson and senior NZ Herald correspondent Katie Bradford joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more! Apple has unveiled their new foldable iPhone - retailing for over $4,000 on the low end? Is this worth the price? Speaking of pricy things - would we pay $250 for a Te Pati Māori jacket? What do we make of
Full Show Podcast: 10 September 2026
On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Thursday, 10 September, 2026, Social Development Ministry boss Debbie Powers explains why she's fronted on a winter energy payments bungle - and not Louise Upston. We ask David Seymour if ACT's plan to abolish the Waitangi Tribunal is realistic. It's up and up for the Wahs. The marketing boss on how the NRL club's battling to satisfy the
Perspective with Heather du Plessis-Allan: Will ACT's big plan actually scrap the Waitangi Tribunal?
You know what ACT's Waitangi Tribunal policy is? In my opinion, it's the kind of policy you release when you don't actually want to do the thing the policy gives the impression you're going to do. ACT's headline policy is that it will scrap the Waitangi Tribunal, which many people, including me, may see as a good idea because the tribunal has gone completely off piste. It has started to resemble a
Chris Wilkinson: First Retail Group managing director on New Zealand’s largest Kmart opening today
New Zealand's largest Kmart has opened today, at Auckland's Westgate Town Centre. The new store will be the retailer's first to debut the new Plan C+ format with checkouts at the front, and New Zealand's third 24-hour store after Sylvia Park and Manukau. First Retail Group managing director Chris Wilkinson says this new store is unlikely to draw people away from Sylvia Park, as both outlets have t
Peter Griffin: BusinessDesk tech columnist on Apple unveiling its first foldable iPhone
Apple revealed its first foldable iPhone today, alongside the new iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max and some other new products. The new 'Duo' product will be available by the end of next month - but Kiwis will have to pay at least $4199 for one on the low end. BusinessDesk tech columnist Peter Griffin says we're all holding onto our phones for longer, and there's no need for most people to rush into upgr
Glenn Harris: Warriors COO of Commercial and Marketing on the growing demand for Warriors merch ahead of Dolphins clash
People can't get enough of the Warriors this week, as finals fever grips fans all over the nation. Saturday's big finals clash against the Dolphins at Mount Smart Stadium has seen historic demand, and jerseys and other merchandise are flying off the shelves. Warriors COO of Commercial and Marketing Glenn Harris says everyone wants to be a part of the 'togetherness' and that's reflected in what the
David Seymour: ACT Party leader on the party's bid to scrap the Waitangi Tribunal if elected
The ACT Party is looking to scrap the Waitangi Tribunal if elected, and leader David Seymour has claimed its original purpose has gone. The party intends to limit the Tribunal to claims lodged before September 2008, and then it would be dis-established for good once those are sorted. Seymour explained that he's looking to remove the Tribunal's jurisdiction over 'contemporary claims', where activis
Debbie Power: MSD chief executive on the review into the Ministry's thousands of payment errors
A double-pronged mistake meant more more than 30,000 benefit payments were incorrectly suspended. A review has found superannuitants were wrongly made to confirm their circumstances to get the Winter Energy Payment in legislation passed under urgency. The high number of confirmations meant processing delays, and people’s benefits didn't continue when they should have. The Ministry of Social Develo
Barry Soper: Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent on the report into the MSD payment errors
The Ministry of Social Development wrongly cut financial assistance in over 30,000 cases, according to new reports. A recent review has found several Winter Energy Payments, main benefits, and supplementary assistance were mistakenly paused - and the Ministry has since issued an apology. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper says Labour's Chris Hipkins has been quick to cond
Oliver Peterson: Australian correspondent on the new reports revealing Australian cars are stolen for parts to send to Iran and Russia
New data from the Insurance Council of Australia has revealed the latest stats around car theft, as well as a growing black market propped up by sanctions. Organised crime groups are reportedly stealing Australian cars and stripping them down to sell off the parts in Iran and Russia. Australian correspondent Oliver Peterson says there's a sophisticated network behind these growing cases, with many
Jason Pine: Weekend Sport host on the changes the All Blacks could make ahead of Springboks clash in Baltimore
2-1 down in the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry series flying to Baltimore across the aisle from the Springboks isn't exactly how the All Blacks wanted to head into their fourth matchup. The Kiwi side is down a few key players, with Ardie Savea, Quinn Tupaea and Luke Jacobson out of commission following some injuries. Weekend Sport host Jason Pine speculated about the kinds of changes the team could make
Jos Ruffell: Garage Project co-founder on how the Australian excise tax break impacts Kiwi brewers
Kiwi brewers have voiced frustration with Australia's excise tax break for their brewers - and claimed it gives them benefits that New Zealand companies can't get. This means New Zealand-produced beer is taxed more than its Australian counterpart, and this dispute between the trans-Tasman partners has been a point of contention for over a decade. Garage Project co-founder Jos Ruffell says their br
Gavin Grey: UK correspondent on the UK announcing sanctions on West Bank settlements
The UK has moved to the imports of goods from Israeli settlements in the illegally occupied West Bank. France, Canada and Spain are among the 12 countries imposing similar sanctions - but Australia and New Zealand haven't followed suit as of yet. UK correspondent Gavin Grey says the Government is being quite tough on this situation, with Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband using 'extraordinary' la
Jenee Tibshraeny: NZ Herald Wellington business editor on ACC Minister Scott Simpson promising a crackdown on fraud
The Government is looking to crack down on ACC-based fraud, but questions have been raised over the details of this move. ACC Minister Scott Simpson recently promoted that number of fraud investigations launched by ACC increased '12-fold' from two in the 2023 calendar year to 24 in 2025. In the eight months to the end of August this year, it launched 38 investigations. NZ Herald Wellington bu
Jeremy Hutton: Milford Asset Management expert on KMD Brands' share price going up after 'brutal' few months
After a tough year for KMD Brands, the company's luck is turning around on the share market. The company behind Kathmandu and Rip Curl saw its share price go up by 17 percent, largely driven by Australian entrepreneur Josh Rudd buying 6 percent shareholding. Milford Asset Management expert Jeremy Hutton outlined what this could mean for the company - and whether a full takeover is possible. LISTEN
Full Show Podcast: 09 September 2026
On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive with Andrew Dickens Full Show Podcast for Wednesday, 9 September, 2026, we try to find out what 10,000 striking public service workers want. Labour's "Office of AI" idea - what will it cost? We ask NZTA what can be done to combat vandalism of its mobile speed camera trailers. And on The Huddle, we ask Tim Wilson and Mark Sainsbury if cutting the red tape
The Huddle: Will cutting red tape for alcohol licensing cause more harm than good?
Tonight on The Huddle, Tim Wilson from the Maxim Institute and former broadcaster Mark Sainsbury joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more! The Government has confirmed they'll be cutting some of the red tape around the hospitality sector - a move that's been welcomed by industry experts. Do we think this is a good idea - or could this cause extra harm? At le
Perspective with Andrew Dickens: These MSD stats are nothing to be proud of
The One News Thomas Mead demolition derby this week has been on the MSD. It's led their news. Thomas has breathlessly reported after an inquiry under the Official Information Act revealed a number of rejections of Special Needs Grants for urgent and essential emergency costs. The inquiry found these rejections were increasing, and more than 8000 people were declined on the basis food was deemed 'n
Richard Hills: Auckland Councillor on the growing backlash to fast-track developments in Auckland
Anger at residential fast-track developers spilled over at an Auckland Council meeting, with many residents voicing disapproval with these proposals. Councillors voted unanimously to investigate ways to tell those planning such projects that they aren’t wanted. Auckland Council planning committee chair Richard Hills says these projects are putting a lot of pressure on communities - and their
Al Gillespie: Waikato University law professor on the UK Government's new sanctions on West Bank settlements
An international law expert says New Zealand is no longer aligned with international counterparts on illegal Israeli settlements in the Occupied West Bank. The UK is the latest among a dozen countries - including France, Spain and Canada - to sanction the settlements over the 'ethnic cleansing' of Palestinians. Waikato University's Al Gillespie says our approach towards Palestine is more conservat
Chris Rodley: Head of Driving Regulation at NZTA on the mobile speed cameras getting vandalised following initial rollout
The country’s 10 mobile speed camera trailers have been vandalised at least 18 times since they were rolled out last September, according to new reports. Data shows that these cameras were graffitied 11 times, the trailers have been damaged at least six times - and there's been one incident of the tyres on a camera trailer getting slashed. Head of Driving Regulation at NZTA, Chris Rodley, sa
Fleur Fitzsimons: PSA National Secretary on the strike action from nearly 10,000 public service workers
Public servants hope their message on pay and conditions for the Government has come through loud and clear. About 10,000 union members from MBIE, Internal Affairs, NEMA, and the Ethnic Communities and Social Development Ministries, went on strike today - after months of fruitless bargaining. Public Service Association National Secretary Fleur Fitzsimons says Chris Luxon claims he has a lase
Dylan Firth: Brewers' Association Executive Director on what the new Government report on the hospitality sector means for businesses
Cheers for a Government report on hospitality, according to some industry experts. A Ministry for Regulation review has found bureaucratic red tape and complexities could be scaled back. It's found food safety checks were sometimes disproportionate to risk, and unnecessary costs from building requirements. Brewers' Association Executive Director, Dylan Firth, says district licensing committe
Barry Soper: Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent on the new hospitality sector changes being made by the Government
The Government's following a Ministry of Regulation recipe for more straightforward hospitality rules. A review's outlined the costly and cumbersome problems faced by food and drink operators. Ministers are now working with industry players on a Hospitality Action Plan, with the aim of developing more consistent templates and tools. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper voic
Gordon Robison: US correspondent on the US launching attacks on multiple Iranian tankers after recent missile attacks
The US has launched attacks against five Iranian tankers, in response to Tehran taking aim at an American warship. This is the latest in a series of tit-for-tat attacks between the US and Iran, and the US military has indicated they're not looking to slow things down. US correspondent Gordon Robison says this follows several attacks last week - and it's a sign that this back and forth has no
D'Arcy Waldegrave: Sportstalk host on Ali Williams advertising for new Commissioner for privatised domestic netball league
The new yet-to-be-named privatised domestic netball league has advertised for a fulltime Commissioner. Ali Williams has posted the job ad on his LinkedIn profile, calling for candidates to 'own all aspects of building the organisation' - from player contracting and stakeholder relations, through to marketing and fan engagement. Sportstalk's D'Arcy Waldegrave explained further. LISTEN ABOVESee omny
Reuben Davidson: Labour's science, technology and innovation spokesperson on the party's bid to launch an 'Office of AI'
Labour is campaigning on stronger checks and balances to manage the growing risks of artificial intelligence. The party's proposing establishing an 'Office of AI' to co-ordinate policy across Government, including clearer copyright rules, safe adoption for small businesses, and forcing data centres to secure their own renewable energy supply and pay connection costs. Labour's science, techno
Enda Brady: UK correspondent on King Charles confirming Harry and Meghan will be non-working royals
King Charles has made it clear that Harry and Meghan will remain non-working royals. The King recently authorised a letter to senior British officials claiming that the pair, who recently returned to the UK, will not use the titles His or Her Royal Highness. UK correspondent Enda Brady says it's likely Charles felt the need to clarify that Harry and Meghan aren't representing him or the roya
Paul Bloxham: HSBC chief economist speculates about future increases to Australia's OCR
Growing inflation and a changing economy could inspire Australia's Reserve Bank to start putting the OCR up again, according to one expert. Australia's current official cash rate is currently at 4.35 percent, but the central bank is due to make an announcement later this month. HSBC chief economist Paul Bloxham outlined when the next increase could come - and whether there's more in the pipeline.
Jamie Mackay: The Country host on on Labour claiming it wants to make changes to the Emissions Trading Scheme
The Labour Party has pledged to review the Emissions Trading Scheme if elected, and claims the current price is 'too low' to drive down reductions. In an earlier announcement, leader Chris Hipkins said the party would make changes to the scheme - and that they wouldn't campaign on pricing agricultural emissions, a departure from their earlier stance. The Country's Jamie Mackay has admitted h
Paul Spain: Gorilla Technology CEO on Nvidia's CEO claiming AI has matched human capability
One of the biggest names in the world of AI has claimed that the technology can match human capabilities, but one expert has warned us not to get too excited. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang recently declared that OpenAI's new Astra model has brought about the start of 'artificial general intelligence' earlier this week, and pointed out the technology was aided by Nvidia's chips. Gorilla Technology CEO Pa
Full Show Podcast: 08 September 2026
On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Tuesday, 8 September, 2026, National lays out its taxing tourists plan. Labour leader Chris Hipkins tells us why he's been playing "hard to get". A royal watcher on King Charles' "brutal" letter to Harry and Megs. And on The Huddle, we ask Gareth Hughes and Jordan Williams if Wellington Zoo should be shut down. Get the Heather du Plessis-
The Huddle: Did Labour make the right call with the ETS pledge?
Tonight on The Huddle, Jordan Williams from the Taxpayers' Union and former Green MP Gareth Hughes joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more! Nearly 3,000 people have voiced support in an open letter for growing Bathurst Resources' Stockton site in order to keep operations going and ensuring 289 workers keep their jobs. What do we make of this fight? What cou
Perspective with Heather du Plessis-Allan: Wellington Council's got another thing to worry about funding
Tell you what, if you think Wellington doesn't have enough problems already, let me tell you about a new one: Wellington Zoo. Wellington Zoo needs $14 million for its lion enclosure. It's urgent. It's not something that can be deferred. Wellington City Council needs to cough up the money. What's more, Wellington Zoo may not be a going concern as early as the middle of next year, which means Wellin
Jessie Creedmore: Buller petition organiser on the growing support to expand Bathurst Resources' Stockton site
Buller residents are rallying behind the district’s biggest employer - Bathurst Resources. The mine company is seeking fast-track approval to expand the Stockton site, warning operations could otherwise stop by March - gutting over 200 jobs. An open letter in support has attracted 3,000 signatures - about a quarter of the district's adults. Organiser of the petition, Jessie Creedmore, says w
Victoria Arbiter: royal correspondent on King Charles clarifying Harry and Meghan remain non-working royals
Snippets leaked to the British press about royal couple Harry and Meghan's plans in the UK may have spurred King Charles to take a firm stance, according to new reports. The King released a letter clarifying the Duke and Duchess of Sussex remain private citizens and won't resume royal duties. They can't use the titles His or Her Royal Highness. Royal correspondent Victoria Arbiter says there'd bee
Annabel Reid: Rotorua Daily Post reporter on the ongoing investigations into Rotorua triple homicide
Locals can only watch and wait as Rotorua police investigate a triple homicide after a woman and two children died last night. Emergency services arrived to find the children's bodies in a Glenholme property, and the woman died soon after. A man's appeared in the District Court charged with assault in a family relationship - to reappear next month. Rotorua Daily Post reporter Annabel Reid sa
Louise Upston: Tourism Minister on the Government proposing an International Visitor Levy instead of a bed tax
National's promising councils a share of the International Visitor Levy instead of a bed tax. It wants to split revenue from the $100 levy - currently going to conservation and tourism. It would ring-fence $150 million a year for that, letting councils divvy out the remainder based on their number of international guest nights. Tourism Spokesperson Louise Upston says New Zealand's citi
Barry Soper: Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent on National promising International Visitor Levy as an alternative to bed taxes
National's pledging cash for councils - instead of a bed tax - to deal with growing tourism and related infrastructure issues. The party's promised it'll hand over a share of revenue from the newly announced International Visitor Levy, divvied up according to a council's visitor nights. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper says Auckland mayor Wayne Brown has voiced disapproval wi
Sam Emery: Australian correspondent on the trial over alleged murder of Australian brothers beginning in Mexico
The alleged killers of two Australian brothers and one American are on trial for murder in Mexico. Australian brothers Jake and Callum Robinson and their American friend, Jack Carter Rhoad, were reportedly shot dead after being robbed at a surfing hot-spot in Baja. Australian correspondent Sam Emery says three suspects are on trial for the murders, and the case is expected to run for four weeks. L
Chris Hipkins: Labour leader on the party's plan to reform the Emissions Trading Scheme
Chris Hipkins is criticising his party's former policy on pricing farm emissions. Labour has released a pledge to review and reform the Emissions Trading Scheme - saying the price is too low. It wants farmers to adopt new tech to reduce emissions, and isn't campaigning on making them pay for agricultural emissions, as it did for nearly two decades. Hipkins says he's not convinced it would've worke
D'Arcy Waldegrave: Sportstalk host on Liam Lawson getting a third chance in Spanish Grand Prix
Formula One driver Liam Lawson has been handed the keys to a Red Bull again - this time for the Spanish Grand Prix on Monday. This marks his third consecutive opportunity warming Isack Hadjar's seat, as the latter continues recovering from a wrist injury. Sportstalk host D'Arcy Waldegrave speculates further ahead of next week's race. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gavin Grey: UK correspondent on Germany's AfD winning historic victory in state election
Germany's AfD has come out on top in this weekend's state elections, with the party winning 43.8 percent of the vote. This is the first time a far-right party has won control of a state since World War II. UK correspondent Gavin Grey says these are only preliminary results, but this result is sending 'alarm bells' among the nation amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystud
Shane Solly: Harbour Asset Management expert on the Asia-Pacific market reactions to the Middle East conflict
The US and Iran have launched more tit-for-tat strikes over the weekend, resulting in oil prices going up - but what has it done for the markets? Experts indicate the Asia-Pacific market is still going strong, with the index going up by 1.1 percent. Harbour Asset Management Shane Solly explained further - and revealed why Korean chipmakers are helping things grow. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/li
Katherine Rich: BusinessNZ Chief Executive on the new report warning NZ to spend more on medicines
BusinessNZ's calling for a funding reset on medicines, with a new report highlighting the long-term benefits of investing more into healthcare. The report shows every dollar invested into medicine returns $1.93 to the economy. BusinessNZ CEO Katherine Rich explained that there's long-term benefits into investing more, including boosting productivity and improving the quality of life for New
The Huddle: Should Labour and Hipkins be worried after the latest poll?
Tonight on the Huddle, Trish Sherson from Sherson Willis PR and Josie Pagani from Child Fund joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more! NZ First's Winston Peters has indicated NZ Super should be restricted to citizens only. Do we see this winning votes - or is this a step too far? Should immigrants who've worked and contributed still be given something?
Full Show Podcast: 07 September 2026
On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Monday, 7 September, 2026, Chris Hipkins wouldn't front so we asked Opportunity leader Qiulae Wong what she makes of her party's drop in the latest poll, as well as Labour's. Warriors legend and TV star Shaun Johnson on why playing a finals match at Eden Park wouldn't be a smart move. Bob Hendrix explains what his mushroom coffin is all a
Perspective with Heather du Plessis-Allan: Is Labour really in it to win it here?
Yeah, so it's not good for Labour in the latest Taxpayers' Union-Curia poll. They've now fallen to 26 percent, which is below the 27 percent they got at the last election. Now, this is not a surprise to me, and it shouldn't be a surprise to you, because we've been saying consistently on this show all year that Labour was going to come down in the polls once the policy started being released. Basic
Nicola Willis: Finance Minister responds to National dropping below 30 percent in new poll
Both major parties took a hit in the recent Taxpayers’ Union-Curia poll, with both Labour and National dropping below 30 percent. National holds the lead at 29 percent, while Labour has tumbled to 25.9 percent - and the Greens have jumped to 13.9, ACT is on 10.5 and Opportunity has fallen all the way to 4.5 percent. National's Nicola Willis says the party is committed to reminding voters tha
Bob Hendrix: Loop Biotech inventor and founder on the company's new biodegradable mushroom coffins
Kiwis will soon have the option to be buried in biodegradable coffins, with the new service hitting the New Zealand market this week. The coffins are made from mycelium and upcycled plant fibres - and they take a week to grow in the lab. These coffins are the project of Dutch biotechnology company Loop Biotech, and founder and inventor Bob Hendrix says they can also be nutrition for the soil itsel
June Ranson: Woburn International CEO on NZ First calling to restrict NZ Super to citizens only
There's agreement migrants’ access to superannuation needs to change, but not in the way New Zealand First is proposing. The party wants it to be subject to citizenship from 2029. It says superannuation for migrants who become residents aged 50 or older - now costs more than a billion dollars a year. Immigration expert and Woburn International CEO, June Ranson, says these are often highly skilled
Simon Kebbell: Port of Tauranga CFO on the port getting approved for an expansion
A long-awaited project at Port of Tauranga has the green light. The Stella Passage development will extend container berths and wharves, after getting fast-track approval, subject to conditions. Payments will also be made to the local marae as part of 'cultural mitigation'. Port CFO Simon Kebbell says it'll be two and a half years before it's finished. "It's probably going to take six months to st
Qiulae Wong: Opportunity leader on the party dropping to 4.5 percent in new poll
Opportunity's not letting polling figures get it down. The latest Taxpayers’ Union-Curia poll has the Party slipping below the Parliament threshold - on 4.5 percent. National leads at 29, Labour's down to 25.9, but the Greens have climbed to 13.9, ACT is at 10.5 percent and NZ First is on 8.4. Opportunity leader Qiulae Wong says they'll keep working to earn Kiwis' trust. "If we can't get any
Barry Soper: Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent on Labour taking a drop in popularity in latest poll
Labour's leader has little to say about the party's plunge in popularity in the Taxpayers’ Union-Curia poll. It's lagging behind National's 29 percent - on 25.9, making it the lowest poll result for Labour since July 2024. Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper says National has also dropped two points, so it's not good news for either major party. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/li
Oliver Peterson: Australian correspondent on the Government looking to fine social media companies over teen ban
Social media companies could be facing hefty fines if they don't do enough to keep under-16s off their sites under a new bill, according to the Australian Government. The fines would be aimed at sites like TikTok, Instagram and Facebook, and the bill is designed to boost the eSafety Commission’s information gathering powers. Australian correspondent Oliver Peterson says concerns have been raised t
Jason Pine: Sportstalk host on the Springboks beating out the All Blacks 29-24 in Soweto
A reduced All Blacks squad of 36 has travelled to Baltimore for Sunday's fourth and final rugby test of the series against the Springboks. Three players have been ruled out after suffering injuries in the third match - Ardie Savea has a dislocated shoulder, Quinn Tupaea picked up a knee knock, and Luke Jacobson injured an elbow tendon. Sportstalk host recapped the team's defeat in Soweto, and spec
Shaun Johnson: Former Warriors halfback ahead of this weekend's playoff against the Dolphins at Mt Smart
It's been a big season for the Warriors, as they await their upcoming qualifying final this weekend. The Kiwi side will host the Dolphins next Saturday at Go Media Mt Smart, and they're guaranteed another home final irrespective of that result. Former Warriors halfback Shaun Johnson says the side's been 'grinding hard' all season, and he's hoping the second NRL home final will take place at Mt Sma
Perspective with Heather du Plessis-Allan: Was WADA right to punish Nick Kyrgios here?
Now let's talk about Nick Kyrgios' punishment. He's been banned from playing professional tennis for a month after being busted with cocaine in his system. His punishment is very much at the low end of the scale. He was facing a ban of up to four years. It was downgraded, firstly, because he was using cocaine recreationally. He snorted a few lines the night before he was due to play in Mallorca. H
Full Show Podcast: 04 September 2026
On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Friday, 4 September, 2026, two psychiatrists get permission to use a party drug to treat trauma. We speak to one of them - Dr G. The Privacy Commissioner on retailers putting up walls of shame of suspected shoplifters. Sav's saucy selfie - plus more from the veteran rugby man's travels in South Africa. And on the Sports Huddle, Adam Coope
Neil Barnes: All Blacks senior assistant coach chats team before third Springboks test
The All Blacks return to Gauteng province for their third test against the Springboks at FNB Stadium in Soweto on Sunday at 3.10am. South Africa evened the score Cape Town last week adding extra pressure to this week's test. All Blacks senior assistant coach Neil Barnes told Heather du Plessis-Allan, "it's a hell of an occasion and the boys are in a good place, to be honest." LISTEN AB
Dean Bell: Original Warriors captain chats ahead of final regular season match
The Warriors are facing off against the Sea Eagles at 5pm on Saturday for NRL Round 27 at Go Media Stadium Mt Smart, Auckland. The original captain of the Warriors joined Heather du Plessis-Allan to discuss the match. "We've got to sort of look forward to these playoffs with a lot of hope, you know it's not going to surprise us if they're at the grand final day and they lift the trophy, but
Perspective with Heather du Plessis-Allan: 'Putting up a wall of shame is an act of desperation'
Okay, do you want to hear something straight out of the "you would have been better off just saying absolutely nothing" file? This one's from the Privacy Commissioner. Michael Webster has warned small retailers, such as dairies, about putting up "walls of shame" featuring people they say have shoplifted from them. You know the ones. You go into the dairy and there's a mood board of dodgy-looking p
Michael Webster: Privacy commissioner says shops shouldn't post photos of thieves
The privacy commissioner has warned retailers like dairies not to put up walls of shame, photographs of shoplifters due to privacy risk and reputational harm - especially for children. Privacy commissioner Michael Webster explained to Heather du Plessis-Allan some of the potential concerns. "The first... is you could potentially break the law, the second, the wrong person could be
Dr Gary Wynn: Psychiatrist chats ecstacy treatment for PTSD
Medsafe has approved two New Zealand-based psychiatrists to begin prescribing ecstasy for patients who are resistant to normal medications. The psychiatrists will be able to provide pharmaceutical-grade MDMA to patients within their clinics, but not to take home. One of the psychiatrists permitted to prescribe the medication, Dr Gary Wynn, joined Heather du Plessis-Allan to discuss the
Dan Mitchinson: US Correspondent discusses the Lindsay Clancy trial
The controversial Lindsay Clancy trial has reached the jury deliberation stage with one juror preventing murder trial verdict. If the jury does not reach a verdict and the judge declares a mistrial, prosecutors will need to decide whether to retry the case. "The prosecution is kind of in serious trouble at this point, and the best thing they can hope for is a mistrial if they're lucky," US C
Simon Court: ACT infrastructure spokesman says 'lowest-cost safe option' will be prioritised
ACT has announced their new transport infrastructure policy barring public art being funded from transport budgets, and requiring the “lowest-cost safe option” for new transport projects to be publicised alongside the preferred option. The party gave examples, including the nearly $631,000 spent on a 12m-high sculpture at the Piarere roundabout on the Waikato Expressway. ACT infrastructure spokesp
Enda Brady: UK correspondent on the launch of robotaxis in London
Londoners are now able to hire driverless taxis, with rides in Wayve’s autonomous vehicles available through the Uber app. The chances of landing one will be slim at this stage, as there's only 15 vehicles so far licensed. UK correspondent Enda Brady also revealed that the cars will come with a licensed human driver sitting in the front seat to take the controls if the need arises. LIS
Sam Dickie: Fisher Funds expert on the concerns raised over growing Government debts
Long-term Government borrowing costs have hit significantly high levels all over the world, and experts are discussing the long-term implications of this. The US, Japan, Germany and many other countries have reached the highest levels of Government debt in nearly two decades, inspiring economists to coin the term 'debt doom loop'. Sam Dickie from Fisher Funds explained further. LISTEN ABOVESee omn
Hamish McKay: The Country spokesperson on the recent outbreak of Madagascar ragwort
The Madagascar ragwort is an invasive and highly toxic pasture weed, and reports show that it's spreading and could pose a threat to farmers. It was previously thought to have been confined to Northland, but a discovery in the Wairarapa region has prompted concerns. The Country's Hamish Mackay explained further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
