Politics
Why the government shouldn't bring oral nicotine pouches to NZ
Tobacco and nicotine companies want to introduce oral nicotine pouches, claiming these are a "cleaner way to enjoy nicotine".
What are nicotine pouches and should we be worried?
First we needed to worry about cigarettes .. then vapes .. and now nicotine pouches. Nicotine pouches are pretty much what they sound like - a sachet filled with nicotine - either from tobacco or… Audio
What's going on at Auckland's Sanctuary Mahi Whenua Gardens?
An Auckland community is disputing the development of housing on the site of the Sanctuary Mahi Whenua Gardens. The gardens are based on the old Unitec campus site in Mount Albert and have existed for… Audio
People face losing cars they call home as welfare changes hit
Many facing 'imminent homelessness' don't qualify for emergency housing anymore, the Citizens Advice Bureau warns. Audio
'Shameless right-wing stunt': Union slams Willis fudge campaign
The Taxpayers' Union campaign features the slogan 'A treat today - A tax tomorrow'. A union is calling it a stunt. Audio
Hemp industry rules loosened in sweeping law change
The announcement is being made by the Regulation Minister at the Hemp NZ Food Factory.
Morning Report Essentials for Thursday 11 December 2025
The Taxpayers Union is taking aim at government spending with a campaign that has finance minister Nicola Willis at its centre; The latest State of Cancer report says treatments are better and death… Audio
UK: Rayner returns, Customs Union, Starmer hosts Zelensky
UK correspondent Harry Taylor joins Kathryn with news from Britain. Audio
New app for government services released
The Government has released a new app it says will make it easier and safer for people to access government services. Digitising Government and Public Service Minister Judith Collins spoke to Ingrid… Audio
Taxpayers Union taking aim at government spending
The Taxpayers Union is taking aim at government spending with a campaign that has finance minister Nicola Willis at its centre. Taxpayers' Union chair and former finance minister Ruth Richardson spoke… Audio
Hipkins not backing either Willis or Richardson in debate
Nicola Willis says she wants a "civil, substance-based debate" with her early 90's predecessor, while Labour's leader says whoever wins, "the whole country will lose". Audio
Labour remains most popular party in new poll, but coalition could still govern
The coalition just scrapes back into power in a new poll, with gains for the Greens but Labour and NZ First down.
Duelling RMA reforms: How does the coalition's plan differ from Labour's?
Analysis - There are key differences, but the main thrust of how it works is based on the same principles as the model set out under Labour.
Parliament chamber shut to public for rest of year after protest
Parliament's Speaker Gerry Brownlee called the decision "very disappointing" but necessary after Palestine protesters disrupted proceedings and indicated they intended further action.
Court rules carers of disabled children are govt employees
Christine Fleming cares for her adult son and was one of the two parents who took the legal action. Her lawyer, Paul Dale KC spoke to Lauren Crimp. Audio
Minister mulls options as carers ruled government employees
Louise Upston has asked for advice after the Supreme Court ruled two people caring for their disabled children were government staff. Audio
Morning Report Essentials for Wednesday 10 December 2025
Nicola Willis and Carmel Sepuloni joined Morning Report this morning for the Weekly Political Panel; The Government has released its long-awaited overhaul of planning controls, saying it will save New… Audio
Weekly Political Panel: Nicola Willis and Carmel Sepuloni
Nicola Willis and Carmel Sepuloni joined Morning Report this morning for the Weekly Political Panel. Audio
RMA reforms signal end of resource consent 'lottery' - property council
Its chief executive says reducing 100 plans down to 17 will lead to more consistency and clarity of decisions. Audio
