Nights for Thursday 25 September 2025 Nights

How do touchscreens actually work?

technology science

9:35 PM.They're everywhere! But have you ever wondered how touchscreens actually work? Dr Fakhural Alam is a professor of engineering, computer, and mathematical sciences at AUT.

He is currently developing a… Read more Audio
The dangers of driving while distracted

transport

9:25 PM.How big a role does distraction play in New Zealand's poor youth road safety record compared to things like speed, alcohol, or inexperience? Read more Audio
Philosophy Now with Dan Weijers

life and society arts

8:30 PM.Every month on Nights, University of Waikato philosophy lecturer Dan Weijers unpacks some of life's big issues - whether it's love, death, happiness, or whether it's morally right to keep a pet… Read more Audio
Making the outdoors accessible for everyone

environment leisure

8:20 PM.Getting into the outdoors is one of the best things we can do for our bodies and minds. But for many people, there are hurdles such as the fear of being alone, not knowing where to start, or simply… Read more Audio
Can low voter turnout numbers be solved?

life and society politics

8:10 PM.Voting rates have been falling for at least 30 years, affecting local democracies both here and overseas, but what can be done to encourage more people to turn up at the ballot box? Read more Audio

8:10 Can low voter turnout numbers be solved?

Voting rates have been falling for at least 30 years, affecting local democracies both here and overseas, but what can be done to encourage more people to turn up at the ballot box?

Julia Talbot-Jones is Senior Lecturer at the University of Wellington's School of Government. With local elections looming, she says the evidence suggests the downward trend will continue.

She speaks to Mark Leishman.

Photo: LDR

8:20 Making the outdoors accessible for everyone

Getting into the outdoors is one of the best things we can do for our bodies and minds. But for many people, there are hurdles such as the fear of being alone, not knowing where to start, or simply feeling unsure where to start.

The Kiwi Walk & Run Trail Series aims to make getting outside accessible for everyone providing supported events and a welcoming community so anyone can enjoy walking or running safely. Silver Ferns legend and Kiwi Walk & Run ambassador Irene van Dyk speaks to Mark Leishman.

The initiative aims to clean up New Zealand's tramping huts and tracks Photo: Federated Mountain Clubs of New Zealand

8:30 Philosophy Now with Dan Weijers

Every month on Nights, University of Waikato philosophy lecturer Dan Weijers unpacks some of life's big issues - whether it's love, death, happiness, or whether it's morally right to keep a pet goldfish.

Tonight Dan's exploring how we should respond to challenging art.

8.45pm The dangers of driving while distracted

Stand at the side of the road and you'll see drivers passing by on their phones whilst in control of their vehicle.

But how big a role does distraction play in New Zealand's poor youth road safety record compared to things like speed, alcohol, or inexperience?

AA Road Safety spokesperson Dylan Thomsen believes using Do Not Disturb could be a game-changer.

He speaks to Mark Leishman.

Photo: Freestockphotos

9:05 Nights Quiz

Do you know your stuff? Come on the air and be grilled by Mark Leishman as he dons his quizmaster hat.

If you get an answer right, you move on to the next question. If you get it wrong, your time in the chair is up, and the next caller will be put through. The person with the most correct answers at the end of the run goes in the draw for a weekly prize.

9:25 How do touchscreens even work?

They're everywhere! But have you ever wondered how touchscreens actually work? Dr Fakhural Alam is a professor of engineering, computer, and mathematical sciences at AUT.

He is currently developing a smart floor utilising touchscreen principles, which will enhance the safety of elderly individuals by tracking falls. He speaks to Mark Leishman about the science behind touchscreen technology and about its potential.

Movies displayed on airplane passenger's screen in a Airbus A380.

Photo: Philippe Turpin / Photononstop via AFP

9:45 Pacific Waves

A daily current affairs programme that delves deeper into the major stories of the week, through a Pacific lens, and shines a light on issues affecting Pacific people wherever they are in the world. Hosted by Susana Suisuiki.

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