The Panel for Friday 26 September 2025

The Pre-Panel for 26 September 2025 

Emile Donovan and producer Tessa Guest preview this evening's show.

Photo: RNZ / Jayne Joyce and Jeff McEwan

The Panel with Nalini Baruch and Ed Amon Part 1

Tonight, on The Panel, Emile Donovan is joined by panellists Nalini Baruch and Ed Amon. 

First up, migrant bus drivers say English language test for the skilled residence visa are completely unrealistic, leading many to fork out large sums for testing or even considering heading back home. 
Then, it's been confirmed the National MP Carl Bates is under formal investigation for failing to declare 25 properties linked to him and his family to parliament's register of pecuniary interests. It's a story that has gone a little under the radar this week, but commentator Byrce Edwards says parliament is too slack in dealing with MPs interests and she should be paying more attention.  

According to data from AT, the number of assaults against drivers in the first six months of 2024 rose to 33, up from 21 over the same period a year earlier. Photo: RNZ / Blessen Tom

The Panel with Nalini Baruch and Ed Amon Part 2

In part two, Winston Peters will reveal to the world at the UN if New Zealand formally recognises Palestine. Why the stringing out of the decision? Is it all political theatre? And what impact will it have?  
Then, Panel listener Dave responded to our call for great travel stories and he has a dozy about cycling the Karakorum highway. 

Photo: RNZ / Anneke Smith