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The Pre-Panel for 20 October 2025 

Jesse is joined by The Panel host Wallace Chapman and producer José Barbosa to preview this evening's show.

Relaxed smile portrait of Wallace Chapman on grey background

Photo: RNZ / Jeff McEwan

The Panel with Andie McCombs and Deborah Hart, Part 1

Tonight, on The Panel, Wallace Chapman is joined by panellists Andie McCombs and Deborah Hart.

First up, is it a politically motivated stunt, or a desperate plea for adequate investment? The friction between politicians and union leaders is heating up ahead of this week's planned mega strike.

Senior Doctors Strike in Auckland.

Senior Doctors Strike in Auckland. Photo: Kim Baker Wilson / RNZ

The Panel with Andie McCombs and Deborah Hart, Part 2

In part two, our major cities are dotted with merry go rounds and slides, but their use is on the decline as the population of kids spreads further out.

Then, in honour of National Gardening Week, expert Lynda Hallinan joins the panel with her tips for beginners.

Children walking in the playground with schoolbags.

Children walking in the playground with schoolbags. Photo: UnSplash/ Note Thanun

The Panel Plus

An extra half hour of The Panel with Wallace Chapman, where to begin, he's joined by Nights host Emile Donovan. 

Then: Wallace pays tribute to iconic rock band KISS, after the passing of guitarist Ace Frehley. Long-time broadcaster and KISS fan Robert Scott joins the show. 

Ace Frehley performs with rock group KISS at Super Bowl XXXIII.

Ace Frehley performs with rock group KISS at Super Bowl XXXIII. Photo: AFP