Nights for Tuesday 3 February 2026

8:10 Te Papa's unseen national art collection

Aotearoa’s national museum and art gallery displays iconic treasures and taonga, from the giant squid and Phar Lap to the immersive Gallipoli exhibitions created by Weta Workshop.

But when it comes to art, much of our national collection remains out of sight.

The Listener's Paul Little has spoken to critics, artists and gallerists who argue that a significant part of our visual story remains unseen and untold. Paul tells Emile why it's such a missed opportunity.

8:25 Kiwis find bad language on air increasingly offensive

A study by the Broadcasting Standards Authority shows we've become less tolerant of offensive language in broadcasting.

The 2025 research reveals our tolerance has dropped since the last survey four years ago, which is a walk-back from what has been a long-term trend of softening attitudes.

BSA chief executive Stacey Wood breaks down the findings with Emile.

8:45 Shower Thoughts: What is a "best boy" in film credits?

Picture this. You're in the cinema; the movie is over and the credits roll. There's the director, the cast, the music... and a credit to someone called the 'best boy'. But what in the world does a best boy do and what makes him the best?

Tonight, we demystify the title of best boy, as well as many other obscure film jobs, with none other than talented New Zealand filmmaker Rob Sarkies.

9:05 Nights Quiz

Do you know your stuff? Come on the air and be grilled by Emile Donovan 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: Unlocking the mysteries of the wild pigeon

One of the best understood animals on the planet, besides humans, is the pigeon. 

They used to deliver wartime messages but spend most of their time these days pooping in public. 

But what about the wild pigeon?

Nottingham University's Will Smith has been studying them in Scotland's Outer Hebrides since 2019 and joins Emile to share his research.

10:15: The Detail

On The Detail - Where does New Zealand sit in a new world order that ditches traditional international rules and favours the mighty over the tiny? 

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10:45 The Reading

For tonight's reading we return to the final part of Manhunt, a story about a junior officer in the territorials is co-opted into assisting the police in the search for a killer on the run in the Kaimanawa Ranges. 

Manhunt is written by Owen Marshall and told by Jed Brophy. 

11:07 Worlds of Music

On Worlds of Music Trevor Reekie hosts a weekly music programme celebrating an eclectic mix of trans global music, fusion and folk roots.