Additionally, associates of a recently disbanded neo-Nazi group were removed from an ANZAC ceremony for booing and heckling the speaker.

Despite the group officially disbanding in January due to hate speech laws, Australian correspondent Murray Olds says the individuals are still active.  

"They still hang out together with secret handshakes and, you know, code words and whatnot, because they've all got IQs of about room temperature," he told Andrew Dickens. 

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"Exhausted mothers after breastfeeding all night would be anxious that we'd wake the baby up when we were screening in the maternity units," Christchurch Hospital's Newborn Hearing Screening Programme co-ordinator Angela Deken told Andrew Dickens.

"And so, the kudos really goes to one of the screeners, Pam Spark, who just kept pushing and trying to find solutions."

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Eftos spoke to Dickens about the discomfort people display when someone is outwardly confident and secure. 

"Why is being a confident woman that knows she's funny and attractive and smart, why is that so confronting to people?", she asked.

Eftos is performing 'Aphrodite' at the New Zealand Comedy Festival on May 15-16 where she will explore complicated feeling towards the collective man, dating, and sexual liberation.

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Earlier this month some of New Zealand’s top exporters and business associations signed an open letter calling on all political parties to back the agreement. 

India New Zealand Business Council deputy chair Tony Martin told Andrew Dickens, "I think deep down, you know, there's a very strong sense from both sides of the political spectrum that this is the right thing for New Zealand to do."

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The All Blacks’ first test at the venue on July 4, and the Warriors’ first NRL match at the stadium in June both quickly sold out, while Robbie Williams and the Foo Fighters are set to perform in late 2026 / early 2027. 

Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge says the One New Zealand Stadium is ready to replace Eden Park as New Zealand's national stadium, despite being half the size.

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It is expected that the Hauraki Rail Trail, that's been shut since January, the Waikato River Trail, and a connecting track on the Tasman Great Taste Trail will need approximately $800,000 to fix. 

"If you think about the Hauraki Rail Trail, it is absolutely spectacular, but it does mean that it is vulnerable to weather events, so there's a bit of a balance," Tourism Minister Louise Upston told Andrew Dickens.

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Washington Bureau Chief for the Guardian, David Smith, was present at the dinner. 

He told Andrew Dickens, "I heard some shouting and people diving under tables, and that kind of rippled like a wave through the room, and all of us, including me and guests at our table, we dived under."

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CEO Carl Taylor said some builders can't even afford to get to their work sites. 

"So, clients are obviously starting to look at pausing their projects, pricing becomes harder to lock in, and the confidence drops, and that's when the activity slows," he told Andrew Dickens.

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The duo is made up of Ash Wallace and Gabriel Everett. 

Ash Wallace joined Andrew Dickens to chat defining genre, the New Zealand music community, and aspirations. 

"I think it's always hard to narrow your own music down," Wallace said.

"You know, you think of all your different influences and tastes, and it's always hard to really pin it down to something."

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Although Iran's military claims the US operation was "completely foiled."

Meanwhile, the historic Artemis 2 mission enters it's fifth day.

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"Once upon a time, Pauline Hanson was the fringe lunatic way out on the lunar right, and now, in South Australia, she smashed the conservative vote down there," Australian correspondent Murray Olds said.

Olds chats to Andrew Dickens about One Nation's unprecedented rise, and solutions to the fuel crisis.

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After getting out of the water on Saturday, Ridler led a convoy of people to the steps of Parliament, where multiple ministers waited, and he was presented with a taonga.

Ridler spoke to Andrew Dickens about the difficult journey, "a good percentage of the time it was very tough," he said. 

"The further we got south, the tougher it got as well with the cold water, jellyfish, and, and long sessions, spending a lot of time in my own head trying to battle through all of that."

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Regions like Queenstown are already facing pressure on their infrastructure with Destination Queenstown and Lake Wanaka Tourism CEO Mat Woods saying they are 'bursting at the seams'. 

He told Andrew Dickens, "we're having to actually release treated wastewater into the Shotover River, which is far from ideal when you consider a 100% pure sort of image that we like to give our international visitors about New Zealand."

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"It's still a pretty tough time for the screen industry, but it is some positive news in the middle of all of that," Screen Production and Development Association President, Irene Gardiner said. 

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He has said he will target Iran’s critical infrastructure if the strait is not reopened before Monday.

Jeffrey Price, senior fellow at the Foreign Policy Institute, John Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, joined Andrew Dickens to chat about what to expect as this deadline rolls around.  

"President Trump is, known to be unpredictable - he's advertised, that his staff has advertised that as a virtue," Price said. 

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Parliament was recalled early to pass reform that would create serious offences for hate in the wake of the Bondi terror attack.  

However, the Opposition and the Greens are refusing to accept the laws in their current form.  

Australia Correspondent Murray Olds told Andrew Dickens the Opposition is saying the timeline is ridiculous, and that the bill is unsalvageable in its current form. 

He says everyone was in favour of fighting antisemitism as hard as they could, but it's now dissolved into a political bunfight.  

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Their classics such as ‘Don’t Forget Your Roots’, ‘The Greatest’, and ‘Please Don’t Go’ are a staple of every backyard barbeque summer get together, and soon a few new songs will be joining the playlists.  

Their fifth studio album ‘Right Here Right Now’ is set to be released in February, but two new singles are already available.  

Frontman Matiu Walters told Andrew Dickens that hands down, it’s their best music ever.  

“Quite often music can get quite tedious and boring if you’re just trying to plough through it all.” 

“But the time feels right and we have some stories to tell, and it’s all captured in this new album and this new music.”  

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Visitor numbers reached about 220 thousand in November, up nearly 30 thousand on the year before. 

Destination Kaikoura Chair Chris Sturgeon told Andrew Dickens tourism and hospitality players says things are booming. 

He says there's a positive feeling throughout the town, and says Kaikoura's beautiful landscape offers tourists a true New Zealand location. 

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US Homeland Security says a federal officer has shot a man in the leg in Minneapolis after being attacked with a shovel as he tried to make an arrest. 

Protests have erupted in the city since an anti-immigration officer shot a woman dead last week. 

US Correspondent Richard Arnold told Andrew Dickens things are very intense. 

He says Minneapolis’ Mayor, Jacob Frey, says the city’s being put in an impossible situation.  

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Netsafe's latest survey shows since 2018, the proportion of ethnicity-based hate speech has risen from 18% to 36%, becoming the most common reason people are targeted. 

Political-based hate has also increased to 25%. 

Netsafe Chief Online Safety Officer Sean Lyons told Andrew Dickens regulation is a really important part of dealing with it. 

He says that when people clearly understand where the laws sit and there’s a framework to deal with that harmful content, then the platforms can better deal with it. 

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The Screen Producers' Association says Netflix, Disney, Apple and Amazon should be forced to commission local programmes or pay into a fund from their local revenue  

President Irene Gardiner says declining ad revenue means TVNZ and Three have cut local productions by $50 million dollars, and Kiwis are missing out on their own stories.  

She told Andrew Dickens that streaming services have completely broken the traditional business model, so they’re looking to them to be part of the solution. 

Gardiner says they’re not asking for charity, just fairness and a level playing ground. 

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He's left halfway through his four-year deal after player frustration simmered and boiled over in a scathing internal review late last year. 

NZ Rugby Chair David Kirk denies a player revolt forced Robertson out. 

But former Chief Executive David Moffett told Andrew Dickens the organisation's a bit of a mess. 

He says you're going to get bigger problems if players get to determine who their boss is. 

Moffett says told Dickens he’s given up trying to understand the organisation’s strategy or purpose. 

He says they currently don't have a chief executive, a coach, and are missing some senior leaders. 

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Its midpoint forecast farmgate milk price for this season now sits at $9 after a string of falls in global dairy prices. 

That's more than 10% lower than last season's final payout. 

Chief Executive Miles Hurrell told Andrew Dickens most farms are intergenerational, so farmers understand the ups and downs of the commodity cycle. 

He says the pace of the northern hemisphere increase in supply may have caught some people out. 

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The goal is to get international travellers out of the main centres to explore all that New Zealand has to offer. 

Round two will focus on the April to June season, when there’s typically fewer travellers and less activity. 

Tourism Minister Louise Upston told Andrew Dickens it’s about spreading visitors throughout the country, making sure they stay in different places and sample our amazing food and wine.  

It’s part of the $10 million fund they announced last year as part of the overall $70 million major events and tourism boost, she said, to the tune of $3.69 million. 

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The American stand up comedian is a staple of shortform video platforms, with over two million follows across Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. 

He’s become known for his crowd work and his distinctive physicality, clambering over chairs and folding himself up as he performs. 

And he’s bringing it to New Zealand, performing two shows at the Sky City Theatre in Auckland tomorrow night. 

Soresi’s style leans towards “wholesome boundary-pushing", which he told Andrew Dickens he plans to push as many as he can whilst performing in New Zealand. 

“Some of it’s traditional, the edgy, the political, but some of it’s emotional, some of it’s like, oh you, you don’t talk about people’s dads like that.”  

These days you’ll see plenty of comedians complaining they can’t joke about anything anymore, but Soresi is among those proving otherwise. 

“I honestly think it’s what I talk about,” he told Dickens. 

“Even when it’s about edgy things or whatever, it’s usually like me, it’s making fun of myself or using myself as the ruler to examine other things.”  

You have to bring your own humanity into it, Soresi explains.  

“I find that if you’re honest about how you fit into the world, you find people aren’t necessarily mad, they might disagree with you, but as long as you’re like, taking in your own foibles as you discuss the topic, you can talk about anything you want.”  

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The Herald has detailed elements of a 'scathing' internal review into the side's 2025 season, with critical feedback on the coaching, culture, and environment. 

Head coach Scott Robertson and his lead assistant Scott Hansen are believed to be at the centre of the critical feedback. 

All Blacks player of the year for the 2025 season Ardie Savea is reported to be seriously unhappy. 

Former All Black Justin Marshall told Andrew Dickens what we want out of the All Blacks is consistency, and everyone can see that there are too many fluctuations, and the results are reflective of that.  

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US Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell says he's now embroiled in a criminal investigation because he didn't cut interest rates as much as Donald Trump wanted. 

Trump denies involvement but is standing by calls for Powell to be replaced. 

RBNZ Governor Anna Breman signed a joint statement in support of Powell, saying he's highly respected, with an unwavering commitment to the public interest. 

But Winston Peters rebuked her for it, saying she needs to stay in her New Zealand lane and stick to domestic monetary policy. 

But Brash, a former New Zealand Reserve Bank Governor, strongly backs Breman, saying that Peters is in the wrong in this situation.  

He told Andrew Dickens it's in everyone's interests for the Federal Reserve to be able to make its own independent decisions, free from interference. 

Brash says the US dollar is the backbone of the world economy and the world monetary policy system, and anything that jeopardises that affects everyone. 

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The project has been debated for years, with concerns over the potential security risks it could pose for the UK. 

Critics fear the embassy, which would be located close to London’s financial district and crucial data cables, would be used as a base for espionage.  

UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Andrew Dickens he doesn’t think the embassy will get the go ahead in the end. 

The argument in favour, he says, is that the UK needs a good relationship with China to get money and investment, but this is a bridge too far. 

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Multiple fires have ravaged 404,000 hectares of land – an area more than five times the size of Singapore.  

Thousands of properties remain without power, and television and radio services to areas like Bendigo and Castlemaine have been knocked out.  

Australian Correspondent Murray Olds told Andrew Dickens it’s unknown how long transmission services will be down, and how big the damage bill will be. 

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Based on current polling, the party is set for another term in government, one of the first times it will have a consecutive run.  

Peters told Andrew Dickens that there’s a whole lot of things going on in New Zealand that New Zealanders do not like, and they’ve sought a voice to express their concerns – NZ First.   

He their position has been on the rise in other parties’ internal polls is because they’ve stuck to the basics and the essentials. 

Peters says they’re focusing on trying to get the economy turned around while still remembering that the country is comprised of all sorts of workers, all of whom need to have a future in New Zealand. 

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Officials in countless countries are condemning the lack of regulation of sexualised content on the app X, formerly known as Twitter, including depictions of children. 

ACT MP Laura McClure, author of the Deepfake Digital Harm and Exploitation Bill, told Andrew Dickens she’s glad to see some action being taken, but the problem is far wider than X and Grok.  

She says there’s hundreds of websites that can do this, so the first thing we need to do as a government or society is make this behaviour illegal.  

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The US President has raised the possibility of intervention in Iran, and his national security team meets today to discuss its options. 

Thousands are feared dead, as the country's regime violently cracks down on anti-government protests. 

US Correspondent Richard Arnold told Andrew Dickens military operations are being considered, including a strike on Iran’s missile programme, or strikes against security services or directly against Iranian leadership. 

He says Iran is publicly threatening retaliation for any military action, which the White House has called laughable. 

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From next year the Electricity Authority will be able to order fines of up to $10 million, or 10% of a company's turnover – up from the current $2 million. 

The fines can be issued if companies distort the market or take advantage of customers. 

Octopus Energy CEO Margaret Cooney told Andrew Dickens one of the issues with lower fines is that players decide whether or not to comply since they could meet the low-level fine. 

She says it's a high value sector, so it’s totally appropriate that fines have increased. 

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21-year-old Matthew Fairbrother clocked up 500 kilometres on the ride on Christmas Day. 

Fairbrother told Andrew Dickens it may be a world record of some sort, as he's not aware of anyone doing something similar. 

He concedes the idea was a bit pointless, but was to put himself to the test and see what he could achieve when his mind was put to something. 

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About 158 thousand Year 11 to 13 students can access their exam results, including Course Endorsements and University Entrance. 

PPTA President Chris Abercrombie told Andrew Dickens literacy and numeracy co-requisites are now incredibly important. 

He says students can't get NCEA without those, which has changed how schools operate. 

Students can also request a review or reconsideration from next month. 

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Nadhim Zahawi is the highest profile member of the UK’s Conservative Party to defect, having served as Chancellor of the Exchequer for Liz Truss and as the Party Chair under Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak.  

However, UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Andrew Dickens, there is a caveat.  

He says Zahawi was asked to resign from his position as Party Chair due to considerable doubt over his income tax returns.  

Liddle says that while Nigel Farage will be pleased there’s another defection, he doesn’t think the Tories will be terribly troubled over their loss. 

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She first broke into the spotlight with the cult hit ‘Housebound’, appeared in the Australian series ‘Wentworth’, and rubbed shoulders with award winners and music royalty in season 3 of ‘The White Lotus’. 

The third season of HBO’s award winning series aired last year, and it seems to have changed O’Reilly’s life. 

“People are really nice to me now,” she told Andrew Dickens. 

“I’m pretty realistic about this industry, y’know, it’s fairly fickle. When you’re the cool kid at school, you’re the cool kid at school, but whether that stays that way, I don’t know.” 

It’s opened a few doors for the Kiwi actress, allowing her to get some things without having to audition “over and over and over and over and over and over again.” 

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Nearly three decades since conscription was scrapped, the plan will see young men and women volunteering for a 10-month military service.  

The new “national service” will focus mostly on 18- and 19-year-olds, and will initially be restricted to 3,000 volunteers, which should rise to 50,000 by 2035.  

France Correspondent Catherine Field told Andrew Dickens the Government has made it clear the service would only be carried out on French soil, and these will not be soldiers sent off to do duty for NATO and other countries. 

She says they’re hoping to perhaps tap into some of the skills young people have that aren’t as common in the armed forces, such as drone operators, counterterrorism surveillance, and even bakers, mechanics, and electricians. 

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Transport Minister Chris Bishop last year confirmed the 'MMA Vision' would leave service in February, saying its cost outweighs the risk, and it hasn't been required in most major incidents.  

But the Maritime Union's secretary Carl Findlay says with new Interislander ferries still three years away, removing the tug could be gambling with lives. 

He told Andrew Dickens for peace of mind and the security of our coast, we really need this vessel. 

Findlay says it’s proven itself time and time again, and Bishop could have a very serious situation on his hands if the funding isn’t reinstated.  

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The Auckland-based manufacturer of high-precision microchips and frequency-control components has received a takeover offer from California-based electronics manufacturer Bourns. 

Bourns is offering $356 million for the business. 

Rakon independent director Chris Swasbrook told Andrew Dickens it's a quiet Kiwi success story – a family business that has scaled globally. 

He says Rakon builds a very clever timing technology that keeps everything from satellites to smartphones ticking, and Bourns is an international conglomerate that's looking to expand. 

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One of the world’s most advanced fighter jets, the US Air Force F-22 Raptor, will appear on all three days of the April air show. 

It’s the only US-built fighter never sold overseas, and this will be its first visit to New Zealand. 

General Manager Ed Taylor told Andrew Dickens the demonstration will showcase the aircraft’s full capabilities, and it'll be unbelievably loud and ground-shaking. 

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Hundreds of people have so far been killed amid a deadly crackdown on anti-Government protestors. 

President Donald Trump's warning the US is considering very strong options to intervene, and Iranian leaders are vowing to fight back if attacked. 

Anti-regime activist Leila Dadian told Andrew Dickens she hopes this is the end of Iran's Islamic Republic. 

She says the Iranian people have just one demand: democracy. 

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The protests escalated as protesters were killed and the internet was blacked by the Government. 

UOA international relations professor and human rights expert Dr Maria Armoudian joined Andrew Dickens to chat about the ongoing situation.  

She said, "they don't have a problem arresting, jailing, killing people. And so yes, they are losing their legitimacy in that way as well, but it's also a signal of a weaker and weakened government because a competent and confident government doesn't have to respond this way."

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Hunter co-founded '12oz', an AI platform tackling NZ's drug and alcohol issues which won her a Crimson Education scholarship and the Deloitte Individual of the Year award. 

Hunter plans to major in sociology and political science at Columbia. 

She joined Andrew Dickens to chat about her career goals, socially conscious businesses, and the brain drain.

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Proteins saw the largest increase, and dairy's price increase slowed but still remained above the average. 

Although, Brad Olsen says the latest numbers give him hope for better food costs through this year. 

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A Beehive press release claims that approximately two million households and 165,000 small business customers will benefit.

Energy minister Simon Watts chats to Andrew Dickens about the new platform and a focus on increased transparency for consumers across industries. 

"We think the average household's probably going to save about $360 a year," he said. 

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US Correspondent Richard Arnold joined Andrew Dickens to chat Minneapolis and Iran.

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Gunmen killed 15 people at a Jewish event at the popular Sydney beach last month.  

Australia's Prime Minister has asked former High Court justice Virginia Bell to lead the Commonwealth Inquiry, with a report expected back by year's end. 

Australia Correspondent Murray Olds told Andrew Dickens the report will give recommendations regarding law enforcement, border control, immigration, and, very importantly, security and intelligence agencies.  

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The 37-year-old was protesting against the Trump administration's crack down on immigration in the Minnesota city.  

The city’s mayor is calling it reckless, unnecessary, and demanding ICE leave Minneapolis.  

But federal officials are backing the agent, claiming the woman attempted to run over the officer. 

US Correspondent Richard Arnold told Andrew Dickens the video footage contradicts much of what the federal officials claim.  

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They’ve sold more than 20 million albums, captivating listeners with their soulful sound and roof-raising live performances. 

They’ve returned to tour the world 30 years after their global explosion, and they’re kicking it off in 2026 with a March show in Auckland. 

Adam Duritz, founding member and frontman, told Andrew Dickens one of the things keeping them going after 30 years is “bloody-minded stubbornness”.  

“I dreamed of doing this my entire life,” he said. 

“I feel pretty lucky about the situation, and also pretty determined still.” 

“I really love it – it's all I ever wanted to do.”  

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Last night the company confirmed that half of the affected patients had been contacted, leaving tens of thousands of people still uncertain.  

Meanwhile, it’s been revealed that the Privacy Commission was aware of the security vulnerabilities as of six months ago. 

One of those who had his data leaked, Mike told Andrew Dickens his concern is less about his medical information being leaked, but rather his personal details. 

He says he’s not sure what data has been leaked, but things like his name, date of birth, NHI number, and potentially his address may all be compromised, which could be used in dangerous ways. 

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Mayor Phil Mauger called in for a chat about the city’s growth and what’s to come in the future. 

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He was a great New Zealand character and one of our longest-serving mayors, with terms in Waitakere and Invercargill. 

He died yesterday, aged 78.  

He's being remembered as making people proud to be from Invercargill. 

MP Penny Simmonds told Andrew Dickens he was a compassionate man, and recalls when a Chinese student died in a car accident. 

She says he jumped straight on a plane to Dunedin to meet her to support the overseas family and was always there for others. 

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DOC and Project Jonah crew have returned to the site of yesterday's stranding, helping cool the creatures in the rising sun. 

Some mammals appear to still be stuck on the high tide line, with only a small window of time to get them out to deeper water. 

Project Jonah Volunteer Manager Louisa Hawkes told Andrew Dickens they've had a tough night. 

She says that six whales died overnight, but 15 are still alive, and the rest of the pod appears to have swum off and stayed in deeper water. 

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The UK military supported the seizure of the second. 

Russia says the tanker was only temporarily flagged to Russia, but no state has the right to use force against properly registered vessels in other countries' jurisdictions. 

UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Andrew Dickens the response from Russia was more moderate than expected.  

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Most victims of the blaze at Le Constellation were teens. 

Local authorities say the bar hadn’t had safety checks, investigations, or audits for five years. 

Europe Correspondent Jo McKenna told Andrew Dickens the French managers of the bar are being investigated for murder and arson.  

She says prosecutors and police say they’re not a flight risk, but there are demands for them to be detained. 

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The event returns to Auckland this February, setting sale in Waitematā Harbour. 

Liv Mackay is the team’s strategist, reading the wind, calling the moves, and helping steer our team to the front of the pack. 

She told Andrew Dickens it’s about performing in that final, and they haven’t quite performed yet. 

But, Mackay said, they’re ready to fight for it this year. 

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Mayor Tim King joined Andrew Dickens for a chat about the impact the weather events had on the area, and what things are looking like for the summer. 

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The popularity of medications like Ozempic and Wegovy is continuing to rise as more and more turn to the drugs in order to drop weight.  

But patients are reporting that the hunger returns after they stop taking the medications, and many return to their previous weight within a few years. 

The Weightless Clinic Bariatric Physician Dr Lara Courtenay told Andrew Dickens that no matter how you lose weight, whether through exercise, diet, or medication, the body wants to put the weight back on. 

It does this through increasing hunger and slowing the metabolism, she says, so it’s important to have proper wrap around support when using weight loss medications.  

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The UK and France yesterday made a commitment to defend Ukraine at a meeting attended by 35 nations. 

Ukraine Ambassador to New Zealand and Australia, Vasyl Myroshnychenko told Andrew Dickens this hinges on the US.  

He says American leadership's instrumental – Ukraine can't achieve peace without US commitment to European security. 

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The privately-owned platform has started notifying affected GP clinics. 

College of GPs President Luke Bradford says much of the information is eight to nine years old. 

He told Andrew Dickens Northland appears to be the most-affected region. 

Bradford says although it doesn't have anything to do with Whangārei Hospital, it seems be predominantly files out of its systems. 

He told Dickens they mostly don't appear to include lab results, medicines, or notes of personal conversations with doctors. 

Bradford says they've been told its inwards letters, predominantly coming from specialist appointments in the hospital system. 

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Meth-testing company Safe and Healthy Home Solutions says it picked up detectable residue in about half of properties it tested between 2023 and 2025. 

Safe and Healthy Homes Solutions Director Miles Stratford told Andrew Dickens most have a very low level of contamination, which won't have much impact on wellbeing. 

He says the most contamination is in places where meth was manufactured. 

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The US launched strikes over the weekend and took President Nicolas Maduro into custody, shipping him back to New York under duress and detaining him on drug-trafficking charges. 

It’s pressuring Venezuela to end drug smuggling and let in American oil companies. 

US President Donald Trump has floated the idea of the US subsidising energy companies for the rebuilding of the country's oil production and distribution infrastructure. 

US Correspondent Richard Arnold told Andrew Dickens Trump has been focused almost entirely on the oil, saying, among other things, that they’re going to get the oil “flowing the way it should be”.  

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Over this term the party's reached as high as 15% in some surveys, but it dropped to 7% in the last 1News Verian poll of 2025. 

Swarbrick told Andrew Dickens she’s proud of the plans they’ve put on the table and thinks they’re in a really good place going into election year.  

She says New Zealanders have agency, and so they shouldn’t just watch the polls and think that’s their future set in stone. 

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Thames-Coromandel District Mayor Peter Revell joined for a chat about the region’s recovery, rates, and all the gorgeous places you can visit on your summer roadtrip. 

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The Australian video-game retailer's proposing shutting its 38 New Zealand stores and its Distribution Centre. 

Staff reportedly have until Monday to feed back on the plan. 

Retail NZ's Carolyn Young told Andrew Dickens the retail climate's been really challenging over the past few years.  

She says losing EB is not a small thing. 

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The inquest found the teen had probably been attempting to imitate sexual acts seen online in 2024. 

Advocate Holly Brooker told Andrew Dickens New Zealand's done little to regulate the online space.   

She says other countries are moving forward, while we lag behind. 

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The nocturnal, flightless parrots reproduce in tune with rimu, which have a mast season of extra growth every three or four years. 

The Department of Conservation says there are 83 breeding-aged females this season, up from 55. 

Kakapo Recovery Manager Deidre Vercoe told Andrew Dickens this year's mast is looking great. 

She says this is when there is more fruit on the tree, and this year they have the most in 28 years. 

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President Nicolas Maduro and his wife are being detained in New York after being captured by US forces over the weekend in a violent attack.  

Vice President Delcy Rodriguez has taken over the reins, with some normality returning to the country 

But France24 Latin American Correspondent Noris Argotte Soto told Andrew Dickens the streets are tense. 

She says there are formal, uniformed security forces, as well as highly-armed citizen militia.   

She says people are afraid to be jailed by this regime. 

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President Nicolas Maduro was taken in a US military operation over the weekend, and is soon to stand trial in New York on drugs and weapons charges.   

Keir Starmer told the BBC he will shed no tears over the end of Nicolas Maduro's regime, but is not prepared to comment on the US military action in Venezuela. 

But UK Correspondent Rod Liddle told Andrew Dickens Starmer is under a lot of pressure to condemn the actions of the US. 

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Their sentences range from cyberbullying awareness training to eight-month suspended prison sentences. 

Some of their posts suggested Macron was transgender, born a man, and were viewed tens of thousands of times. 

Some linked her 24-year age gap with her husband Emmanuel Macron to paedophilia. 

France Correspondent Catherine Field told Andrew Dickens that among the guilty are an elected official, a school teacher, and a woman who described herself as “a medium”.  

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The two-week long tennis tournament begins today, and the competition is hot. 

Elina Svitolina, Emma Nacarro, and Stan Wawrinka are some of the world-class names taking to the court this year. 

Tournament Director Nicolas Lamperin told Andrew Dickens it’s the atmosphere around centre court that makes Auckland unique among the tennis tournaments happening around the world. 

He says he’s never seen fans dining around the court anywhere else, and while originally he was concerned players might complain about it, it’s something they remember about the city. 

“They love the fact that fans are so engaged.” 

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Cotality’s January Home Value Index shows that property values were down 1% in 2025 – a drop of 17% from the 2022 peak. 

Regional performance varied, with Aukland and Wellington remaining weak, but Southland districts and provincial centres such as New Plymouth and Queenstown seeing increases.  

Cotality’s Chief Property Economist Kelvin Davidson told Andrew Dickens that the reason they’re forecasting increases is because a number of factors that restrain house prices are starting to turn around. 

He says mortgage rates are down, the economy is turning around, and unemployment should come down, which should give households a bit more confidence to act in the housing market.  

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A response to the Taxpayers’ Union shows $9.4 million has been spent since 2023 on 65 influencers across global markets. 

They were engaged to promote campaigns ranging from destination marketing to Minecraft downloadable content and online shopping promotions. 

Taxpayers’ Union Executive Director Jordan Williams told Andrew Dickens that when you’re spending so much money, it’s not good enough for Tourism New Zealand to give the middle finger to transparency.  

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US forces seized President Nicolas Maduro in Caracas in the weekend, who today denied drug and weapons charges in a New York court, alongside his wife  

He told the 92-year-old judge he is an innocent, decent man, and still Venezuela's leader.  

1News US Correspondent Logan Church told Andrew Dickens the US has levelled charges against Maduro for several years. 

But he says the trial will take some time, as the wheels of American justice do not turn quickly, and there’s a mountain of evidence to parse through. 

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The privately-owned health platform has now identified who's affected. 

Health Minister Simeon Brown says it needs to do better at informing the public what's happening. 

But he told Andrew Dickens the notification process will be complex and needs to be quick but accurate. 

Brown says he's spoken with the Privacy Commissioner about how they'll support that. 

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Foreign Minister Winston Peters made the government's first statement following the invasion, saying in a post on X: "New Zealand is concerned by and actively monitoring developments in Venezuela and expects all parties to act in accordance with international law."

As an ally of the United States, eyes are on how New Zealand will react to the strikes. 

Former Defence Minister Wayne Mapp spoke to Andrew Dickens about how New Zealand should respond to the developing situation. 

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Personal information and sensitive medical records are now on the dark web after the hackers, who call themselves 'Kazu', issued a low-ball ransom demand of $60,000.

Liz MacPherson spoke to Andrew Dickens about how people and companies can protect their data. 

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"There was this rolling applause, standing ovations. It was tremendous, it really, it gave you goosebumps," Australian correspondent Murray Olds said.

Olds spoke to Andrew Dickens about the response, and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's response to Donald Trump's invasion of Venezuela. 

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Water Safety NZ's CEO Greg Scanlon joined Andrew Dickens to analyse how we fared in the water last year, and how to stay safe for the remainder of the summer. 

"Look at the common sense things you can do to keep yourself and your friends and your family safe," Scanlon said.

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The US has accused Maduro of leading a criminal drug-trafficking organisation.

A mix of celebration and protest have spread through Venezuelan communities, but the question remains on whether the US is breaking international law by intervening.

International relations expert at the University of New Haven Dr Matthew Schmidt joined Andrew Dickens to discuss. 

"In the end there are some things that would give a third party military the right under international law to intervene - this isn't one of them," Schmidt said.

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The Professional Firefighters Union is set to strike again today at 12pm - but only for one hour. 

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Manage My Health is an app which allows patients and their GPs to privately communicate, send prescription information and share test results. 

Due to a cyber attack, 120,000 of the app's 1.8 million kiwi user's data has been compromised. 

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But when it comes to some of your most private data, like doctor's appointment notes and test results, you'd probably be right to be a bit more concerned. 

This is the case for users of Manage My Health, a patient portal where up to 120,000 users' data has been compromised by overseas hackers. 

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But after an injury disrupted her 2024, she's once again dominated this year. 

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This marks three years in a row that road deaths have seen a reduction, due in large part to Operation Open Roads. 

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Tents that got hit by the weather, covered in mud, with festival-goers who just don't want to deal with packing it back in their cars. 

But the clean up still has to be done, so what happens to all the rubbish left behind? 

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It says these organisations - including Doctors Without Borders - have failed to meet new requirements to hand over details of international staff in the territory. 

But the Israeli Embassy says the combined contribution of these organisations make up less than 1% of total aid entering Gaza. 

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Molly Pardoe - who goes by the stage name DJ SuperGran - is making history as the oldest performer to take the stage at Gisborne's Rhythm and Vines Festival.

She also chairs festival partner charity, SuperGrans Tairawhiti Trust.

Pardoe says music has always been part of her life, and this is another chance to turn up the volume on what she loves.

She told Andrew Dickens that it was an incredible experience, and she wouldn't trade it for anything.

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The country's most successful modern motorsport champion, Scott Dixon, claimed his sixth IndyCar Series championship and his fourth 24 Hours of Daytona victory in 2020. 

With 59 victories and six series championships, the “speedster” has been a hero to young fans while tirelessly fundraising for children’s charities like CanTeen and St Jude.

He told Andrew Dickens that, "I love New Zealand, love flying the flag whenever I can, and hopefully doing it well."

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Former judge Coral Shaw has led a range of public sector reviews, notably, chairing the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in State and faith based care.

She served as a district court judge before becoming the first female employment court judge from 1999 to 2009.

She told Andrew Dickens that her career has been gruelling but rewarding, as she announced her retirement on air. 

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He hosted the Mornings Show on ZB for 33 years, and after retiring in 2019, he started his podcast which is running to this day. 

When asked about his commitment to the industry, he told Andrew Dickens that, "Radio is radio. It represents everything that I that I ever wanted to be, to be perfectly honest."

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Xero founder Rod Drury, of Ngāi Tahu, has supported multiple infrastructure and philanthropy projects - particularly in Queenstown Lakes District. 

He told Andrew Dickens that the title, "Doesn't kind of roll off the tongue yet, that's for sure."

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Police Commissioner Richard Chambers will be joining beat patrols in the city tonight.

Chambers says he wants to back up staff who were working alongside Fleming a year ago, and to remember her.

Nelson Mayor Nick Smith told Andrew Dickens that it was an incredibly tragic start to a difficult year, and people in Nelson are keen to move on.

He says they can't wait to put 2025 behind them and to get into 2026.

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The zero-rate increase has been put forward by Northland Regional Council for its 2026/2027 financial year and would affect 100,000 ratepayers.

Chairman Pita Tipene told Andrew Dickens that council had been looking for savings and reductions that would not  impact the services they can provide. 

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Foxton residents are being asked to urgently conserve water, and thousands of homes are without power in Manawatu, Horowhenua, Kapiti Coast and north of Westport.

State Highway 57 is closed south of Palmerston North, and motorists on the Desert Road are being asked to take extra care.

MetService forecaster Thapi Makgabutlane says conditions should be relatively more settled, after today.

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However, accidental overdoses and spiked drugs are the major issue with hospital visits for cocaine, ketamine, methamphetamine use. 

Know Your Stuff General Manager Casey Spearin told Andrew Dickens that, "We work with the end user to say, 'will you take this?' and if so, let's try and keep you safer."

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Thousands have descended on Waiohika Estate vineyard for the three-day music and camping festival - running since 2003.

Festival-goers remain in high spirits - despite heavy rain last night and light rain forecast today.

Live Nation Festivals Director Kieran Spillane told Andrew Dickens the team is well prepared for the time, between now and New Year's Day.

He says they have 350 security guards, Police patrols, 30 paramedics, and drug and alcohol breath testing.

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A 21-year-old man's appeared in court, but Police are still looking for other people involved.

K Road Community Safety co-founder, Karen Ritchie, told Andrew Dickens that public violence, anti-social behaviour and drug-taking are far too common.

She says it's an awful time, where people and businesses are having to deal with this type of behaviour.

A fight in Auckland's Wiri on Sunday night also put two people in hospital.

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Thousands of festival-goers have descended on Waiohika Estate vineyard for three-day music and camping festival - running since 2003.

Gisborne Mayor Rehette Stoltz told Andrew Dickens that locals once loathed the event but it's now embraced by almost everyone.

He says the young people who attend bring millions of dollars into the local economy, and bring a vibrancy to town.

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Auckland Transport's head of road maintenance Alan Wallace joined Andrew Dickens to chat about how people can best avoid the roadworks.

Wallace said, "everything we're doing, we're trying to do it in a way that minimises how it affects others." 

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He told Andrew Dickens that the party is focused on gaining more confidence from the public, and says he will still be the Labour Leader when the election rolls round. 

'Our our public support's been, really building, and we've got some real momentum going into this campaign'

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Russia has bombarded Kyiv and other parts of Ukraine with strikes by missiles and hundreds of drones - knocking out power and heat in parts of the capital.

Kyiv based Foreign Policy and Security Expert, Jimmy Rushton, [told Andrew Dickens that this is a continuing pattern of attacks.

He says Russia's goal is to force Ukrainians to pressure their Government to surrender. 

He says despite having no power in the height of winter, Ukrainian people are strong and won't give in. 

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Ministry of Education figures reveal nearly 68 thousand students enrolled in courses in this field in 2025 - up from about 49 thousand in 2021. 

PPTA President, Chris Abercrombie, told Andrew Dickens that parents are more aware of their children's goals. 

He says students are less likely to take subjects because they’re told to - and more likely to choose courses matching their own aspirations.

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This is the first visit to Trump's Mar-a-Lago by Zelenskyy, and the talks aim to narrow the issues on the US sponsored peace plan.

US Correspondent Richard Arnold told Andrew Dickens that while Zelenskyy has been negotiating peace, Putin has been launching drones against civilian targets over Christmas.

'Putin stepped up the Russian attacks through the holiday period, with at least 1810 drones fired.'

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Waikato Mayor Aksel Bech is encouraging Kiwis to take a trip to the Waikato over summer, saying that there's more going on than people may think. 

'The Waikato region's got lots to offer, not just future facing, but, some of the old-time charms as well'

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Central Otago Mayor Tamah Alley joined Dickens to talk about her focus for 2026, the potential for a Tarras Airport, local wineries and upcoming summer events.

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Higgins was always put off by joining the world of music, until he discovered Synthony. 

"With Synthony, I thought, wow, it's like Cirque du Soleil. It's a brand, I could trademark in 100 countries, which I did. I could then schedule dates and venues, at will and use local orchestras and young talent who are grateful for the opportunity and not be at the behest of global agencies and management," he told Dickens.

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The Races are expected to have 15,000 attendees. 

Savage joined Andrew Dickens to chat about the big day.

"I will just be imagining and preparing to go for a lovely day out at the races and there happens to be a wedding thrown in between race two and three," she said. 

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Whereas, Australia Correspondent Murray Olds told Andrew Dickens, "young people are running running 100 miles an hour away from the conservative side of politics."

And, questions of rising antisemitism continue as a car with Hanukkah decorations, belonging to Rabbi Effy Block, was firebombed on Christmas Day.

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"We're expecting strong performance and we remain optimistic," she said. 

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Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Sarah Ferguson were both absent for the Sandringham Christmas service.

Two anti-hate social media campaigners were denied entry to the US as the State Department accuses them of trying to supress free speech.

And, 115 people were arrested in Turkey for alleged planned New Years attacks connected to ISIS.

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The decision now sits with the Commerce Commission as they decide if the merger will increase or decrease competition in the market.

Both companies are already low-cost providers, so, it is hoped the proposed merge could lower prices for consumers.

Customers have been awaiting a fuel price drop for a while now, as oil prices have fallen, but the change has not been seen at the till. 

AA Fuel spokesperson Terry Collins told Andrew Dickens, "it's the largest margin I've seen between landed price and retail price, and these companies, what they need to do is not just offer discounts and specials on particular days, but we need to see across the board drop in our fuel prices currently."

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Although, NZ Cruise Association CEO Jacqui Lloyd told Andrew Dickens that eco-regulations and increased costs have slowed the industry. 

"While it's great to have the ships in port, it is disappointing in the numbers that are coming in," Lloyd said.

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However, due to the impacts of cyclones, storms and COVID - the area's businesses are still struggling. 

Far North District Mayor Moko Tepania told Andrew Dickens that tourism this summer is key to boosting Northland's struggling businesses.

'We need you all to come up here and spend your money because our businesses bloody need it.'

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Five different locations will offer food and quality time for those living within City Mission housing, and those who use its services.

Missioner Murray Edridge told Andrew Dickens that it's been the hardest year many have experienced, but tomorrow's a time to come together.

He says Christmas can be difficult because it reminds those struggling of what they don't have.

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New Zealand is one of his first stops on his longest night of the year.

Santa rolled out a dad joke - as he described what kids have been asking him for this year.

He says remote control vehicles are a big thing - but he's not sure how remote children want to be from the vehicle.

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The price of sirloin and porterhouse steaks and lamb chops rose about 25-percent in the past year, and beef mince and sausages more than 10-percent.

But poultry and pork have stayed at or below the rate of inflation.

Infometrics Principal Economist Brad Olsen told Andrew Dickens that a summer salad's more affordable.

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The Department of Justice has released thousands of documents and images.

Emails from 2020 say Trump's listed as a passenger on Epstein's private jet to places including Palm Beach and Washington.

US correspondent Richard Arnold says they weren't to the infamous Epstein Island.

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Fifteen people were killed and more than 40 others injured when two gunmen opened fire during a Jewish Hanukkah celebration on the beach.

Many local businesses sheltered victims during the attack and have struggled in the days since.

Australian Correspondent Murray Olds told Andrew Dickens that the area's slowly coming to terms with a new reality.

He says cafes are open and people are back surfing.

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It reduces or removes 95 percent of export tariffs, offers targeted temporary work visas - and gets preferential treatment for our  apples and manuka honey.

I comes after nine months of negotiations.

Peters says it gives India too many concessions on immigration and investment, and does little for this country's dairy sector.

Winston Peters told Andrew Dickens not enough time was given for engagement, because of the  time frame set by the Prime Minister.

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The Telecommunications Forum has been running their re-mobile scheme since 2014, diverted almost a million phones since then.

The nationwide shutdown of 3G is leaving a large number of mobile phones obsolete, so many people are looking to get rid of their phones.

TCF Chief Executive Paul Brislen told Andrew Dickens that, 'if they can be reused, we get them recycled.'

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It's followed nine months of negotiations, ending with India agreeing to lower or remove tariffs on 95-percent of our exports, with wins for fruit, meat, wool, coal and forestry sectors.

Little's changed for dairy - with duty free access only for certain protein products and those for re-export.

Todd McClay told Andrew Dickens that all our exporters will benefit.

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Governor Jeff Landry has said that he will fight to make Greenland part of America. 

European correspondent Catherine Field told Andrew Dickens that the Danish Prime Minister is 'absolutely furious.'

"She has said national borders are are rooted in international law, you can't just annex another country."

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Leaky pipes, Golden Mile chaos, and of course, they got themselves a brand new mayor out of national politics.

Tory Whanau quit the mayoralty race, headed to Melbourne, and now Andrew Little is in office. 

He told Andrew Dickens that he's looking forward to next year, saying, "There's some pretty exciting things scheduled for 2026."

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However, the slowly recovering economy is an early Christmas gift ahead of next year's election.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon joins Andrew Dickens to discuss the key talking points of the year in politics, and discuss what Kiwis can expect to see from the government as we head in to the new year.

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Fifteen people were killed in crashes between Christmas Eve and early January last summer.

The toll has topped 11 for five consecutive years.

National Road Policing Manager Superintendent Stephen Greally told Andrew Dickens that too many drivers are focused on getting to the front of the queue.

He says that risk taking causes carnage on too many occasions.

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The charity is receiving daily pleas for help from people escaping family violence - and is currently caring for 29 pets.

Founder Dame Julie Chapman told Andrew Dickens that more than half of women delay leaving family violence - because they're scared to leave pets behind.

She says the charity takes pets in for up to four months and covers all costs, while people rebuild their lives in emergency housing or women's refuge.

https://www.petrefuge.org.nz/

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The newly released Transnational, Serious and Organised Crime Strategy aims to make New Zealand the hardest place for criminals to do business.

Initiatives include options for setting up a new dedicated department, and developing cross-agency data sharing. 

Casey Costello says it's not a rehash of Labour's 2007 plan, which was within Police and petered out without results. 

She says this is a long term sustainable model. 

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Just over a week ago, 15 people were killed at a Hanukkah celebration - when two gunmen opened fire. 

The New South Wales Parliament's been recalled to debate a suite of measures proposed by state premier Chris Minns. 

Australia correspondent Murray Olds says the federal Government's under pressure - because it seems like Minns is the one in charge. 

Olds says Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's said he'd follow New South Wales on the prospect of a Royal Commission of Inquiry - leaving a lot of people asking where's his leadership. 

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Reuters reports the US Coast Guard is actively chasing the vessel in international waters, to make it the third tanker seized in less than two weeks.

President Donald Trump last week ordered a full blockade of sanctioned oil shipments in and out of Venezuela. 

US Correspondent Richard Arnold told Andrew Dickens that it's not clear what the US plans to do with the tankers.

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Crime crackdowns in the CBD and changes to boost events at Eden Park are all part of a push to get Auckland City humming again.

Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown joins Andrew Dickens to discuss the progress made this year, and talk about what we can expect to see next.

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Today news of two more measles cases in New Zealand was released bringing the total known measles cases to ten. 

Dr Angus Chambers said to Andrew Dickens that low immunisation rates can be partially attributed to Covid and systematic issues. 

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The ad featured clips from Ronald Reagan's 1987 national radio address which focused on foreign trade.

In retaliation US President Donald Trump slammed Canada with an additional 10% tariffs on goods imported from Canada to the United States. 

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US President Donald Trump will also be in attendance meaning a potential face-to-face meeting with Luxon.

Geopolitical analyst Geoffrey Miller told Andrew Dickens, "They do need to keep their heads down a little bit because they can't risk antagonising Donald Trump."

This weekend the US President raised Canada's tariffs by an extra 10% after being angered at an anti-tariff advertisement.

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The album was divided into two parts titled 'AS ABOVE' and 'SO BELOW'. The latter was released in June but the release of 'AS ABOVE' this week will complete the album. 

Lou'ana is a trained jazz singer obtaining a Bachelor of Jazz Performance from the New Zealand School of Music.

She won the 2021 Best Pacific Female Artist Award with her debut album 'Moonlight Madness'. 

Lou'ana's album 'Disco Witch' will be released on October 31.

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Deva Mahal is the daughter of legendary Blues Singer Taj Mahal, a factor that she says does not impede her music.  

She said that “[Taj Mahal] has always taught us it’s not following in his footsteps; it’s standing in his light”  

The Wellington-based artist has hinted that her next project will be released this October. 

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It seized almost 400 thousand dollars' worth of scam equipment last year. 

Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Scott Simpson told Andrew Dickens that people can now report text scams with a single click. 

He says there have already been 665 thousand of those reports so far this year. 

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With nearly half the games decided by 7 points or less, the recent games have been tight and entertaining, leading to a boost in viewer numbers. 

Super Rugby Pacific CEO Jack Mesley says, 'law innovation’ and ‘close games and unexpected results’ have helped Super Rugby gain its recent boost in audience. 

Crowd numbers are also up by 6% this year, despite fewer games. This increase is expected to continue next year.  

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Foreign Minister Winston Peters has put millions of dollars in developmental aid on hold - saying trust needs to be restored. 

The island nation signed a comprehensive strategic partnership with China, without reference to New Zealand, despite our two countries' official special relationship. 

International Relations Expert Robert Patman says the timing of his current visit to China, isn't great. 

He says he's sure Luxon will make the point the Cook Islands were informed well before this visit. 

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Chris Luxon is due to meet President Xi Jinping this afternoon after 871 million dollars of commercial agreements have been signed so far between Kiwi businesses and our Chinese counterparts. 

New Zealand China Council executive director Alistair Crozier told Andrew Dickens that today's meeting between leaders will be more than pleasantries. 

He says there is a lot to discuss, and it will come down to a respectful exchange of views. 

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The Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers has said he won’t ‘rule in or rule out’ any changes to future tax plans, including raising the GST, something the treasurer has clearly said he is against.

Australian Correspondent Murray Olds says, “there’s no doubt, you have to have to have some reform over here.”

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Hundreds have been injured and killed over the past week, with both sides trading punishing strikes. Israel has bombed nuclear and civilian targets in Iran - and Iranian missiles hit an Israeli hospital overnight.

US Correspondent Richard Arnold told Andrew Dickens that Donald Trump has very publicly been trying to negotiate an end to the conflict, with domestic politics playing a part.

He says Trump is dealing with division in his own political ranks over the issue and he's been going back and forth on US involvement.

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She entered the record books last week as the Black Fern's all-time leading try scorer when she scored seven try's in a row against the United States. 

She joins the show to discuss her latest achievement. 

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She has been a central figure in children's programming for more than 35 years. 

Cato talks to Andrew Dickens about the honour. 

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It comes as he's battling stage-four bowel cancer. 

He talks to Andrew Dickens about what the honour means to him. 

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ACT Leader David Seymour has officially been sworn in, taking over from New Zealand First Leader Winston Peters. 

He is the first ACT Party member to take on the role. 

David Seymour joins the show for his first official interview with Newstalk ZB as Deputy Prime Minister. 

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Lindsay received the honour for his services to business and philanthropy, noting his work at Sistema and his efforts as part of the Lindsay Foundation.

He founded the plastic business in 1982. 

He was made a member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2012, and was inducted into the New Zealand Business Hall of Fame in 2020 in recognition of his contributions to business.

Brendan Lindsay joins the show to discuss his appointment. 

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Sixty-three Kāinga Ora tenancies have been terminated in the past 10 months. 

Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka says it's a result of tenants exhibiting abusive, threatening, or persistently disruptive behaviour. 

Former Monte Cecilia Housing Trust CEO Bernie Smith joins the show to discuss the crackdown. 

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Experts are saying a post-covid anti-vaccine movement is contributing to the rising numbers. 

So far the disease has been confirmed in 30 states. 

US Correspondent Richard Arnold joins the show to discuss how the country's tackling the outbreak.

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US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth is pushing for a rise of 3.5 percent.

He says it's a protection measure against the threat of China.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says his country will determineits own defence policy.

Australian Correspondent Murray Olds joins the show to discuss this and Trump’s new steel tariff.

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She's built a career as a multi-instrumentalist, in demand session player and songwriter spanning multiple contents. 

Lisa has a new EP out today called 'New Girl Syndrome'. 

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High protein, low calorie recipes with the ingredient at its centre are going viral. 

Sales are now through the roof, with Woolworths up 50 percent in the past three months. 

Owner of organic cheese maker, the Cheese Wheel, Kevin Jenkins talks to Tim Beveridge about the craze. 

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Experts will now be able to run things in their own way as an overhaul of apprenticeships is taking shape.

An independent, industry-led model will be introduced early next year. 

Vocational Education Minister Penny Simmons joins Tim Beveridge. 

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The Government's announced an overhaul of vocational training after widespread criticism of Te Pūkenga's attempt, with some labelling it a disaster. 

Motor Trade Association head of advocacy, James McDowell, talks to Tim Beveridge about the change. 

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They discuss the Government's amendments to the Anzac Act, Anzac services and the Dawn Service today. 

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It will give Police extra search powers for affiliates throughout the region. 

Napier City councillor and former police detective Keith Price talks to Tim Beveridge about the issue. 

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Shadow defence minister Andrew Hastie says the country's not reliable under Donald Trump. 

Australian Correspondent Murray Olds tells Tim Beveridge Hastie could be the next leader of the Liberal Party should they lose in May's election. 

Olds gives an update the direction the election's heading in and Anzac Day commemorations. 

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US President Donald Trump posted to Truth Social, "Vladimir, STOP!" after Russia sent 70 missiles and 145 drones toward Ukraine - an attack Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said was aimed at pressuring the United States. 

US Correspondent Richard Arnold talks to Tim Beveridge about what this means for the war, reactions from European leaders and tariffs. 

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People have been told to keep windows and doors closed and stay away from the area. 

Newstalk ZB reporter Emily Ansell talks to Tim Beveridge about the fire, issues with National's tax break promise and South Auckland's long awaited Mill Road project. 

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That's because Kieran McAnulty's member's bill to make amendments to the Shop Trading Hours Act has recently passed its first reading at Parliament.

MPs in the past have tried and failed at making changes to legislation, including Act's Cameron Luxton, who talks to Tim Beveridge. 

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0:03Auckland councillors and independent weather forecasters were among those seeking answers over the weekend with severe thunderstorm warnings issued hours into the event overnight on Saturday.

Dozens of homes were flooded before emergency phone alerts picked up. 

Auckland councillor for Waitakere Ward Shane Henderson talks to Tim Beveridge. 

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky calls Russia's President Vladimir Putin's words "empty" as he says there have been more than 46 Russian assaults since the start of the day. 

Foreign policy and security analyst Jimmy Rushton talks to Tim Beveridge about the truce.

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Oscar Piatri crossed the line to win the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and lead the driver's championship.

Motorsport expert and former McLaren race member Bob McMurray talks to Tim Beveridge about the race. 

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You might know him from hits 'The boys light up', or 1991's 'Reckless' - James was the frontman for Australian Crawl.

In the late 80s James began his solo career and went on to release album Hard Reyne - featured the hits "House of Cards" which was #17 on the ARIA Charts and "One More River" #22 on the ARIA Charts.

James Reyne talks to Tim Beveridge about the tour. 

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While in London they'll be a focus on trade and defence during the meeting with his counterpart Kier Starmer. 

The UK is only a 7th largest trading partner with with a 20% increase in exports last year.

British New Zealand Business Association president Philip Wood talks to Tim Beveridge about the visit. 

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The two countries have a friendly relationship, and Russia is now telling Australia to stay out of Indonesian affairs.

Australian Correspondent Murray Olds called it a "blunt warning from Jakarta." 

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US border agents put 28 Venezuelans on a bus to Texas airport last night, where they would be taken to the infamous Salvadoran prison CECOT. 

But the Supreme Court ordered a pause on the deportations. 

US Correspondent Richard Arnold talks to Tim Beveridge about the unfolding situation and state department cut backs. 

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Jeff Bezos' Blue Origins has successfully launched its first rocket into orbit overnight, while Elon Musk's SpaceX has been launching a pair of landers towards the moon. 

Rocket Lab, meanwhile, has been launching a second Varda Pioneer Spacecraft into orbit. 

Beck told Tim Beveridge he's never had the capital of his two main competitors, owned by the two wealthiest people on the planet, and he probably never will. 

He says the lack of money has forced Rocket Lab to innovate, which has become its strength. 

In other space developments, India has docked two spacecraft for the first time, while stranded NASA astronaut Suni Williams has made her first spacewalk on the ISS. 

She and her colleague Butch Wilmore aren't expected back on Earth until late March at the earliest. 

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Between constant interruptions and heckling, name calling, and a haka towards the end of last year, 2024 was filled with events that drew concern about the behaviour of our MPs. 

Speaker of the House, Gerry Brownlee, told Tim Beveridge that since there is now a party of reasonable size that wants to make cultural expressions that recognise their voters, they need to ask how that fits in. 

He says there’s a lot of tension surrounding it, and they’re looking at ways in which they might formalise some aspects so that there isn’t the element of surprise or ambush. 

Brownlee says that in the end, New Zealand has a very safe Parliament, and people shouldn’t lose sight of that. 

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Not only is it Auckland’s hosting debut, but it’s also the first time the new high-speed titanium T-Foils will be seen in action, having been trialled for the last two years.  

Nat Fortier, SailGP’s Global Director of Communications, told Tim Beveridge that the last speed record was under 100kph an hour, but now they’re seeing the boats hit just over 100kph. 

She says they’re all hoping they’ll see that kind of speed out on the water this weekend. 

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Whole neighbourhoods have burned to the ground and many evacuated families don't know when they can return home.  

Meanwhile, local authorities warn the gusts could pick up again next week.  

Fire and Emergency New Zealand's Thomas Harre has worked in California.  

He told Tim Beveridge the environment's very complex in terms of its terrain, fuel types, and vegetation types, as well as the number of communities affected.  

Harre says that makes it very difficult to extinguish, especially combined with the current weather conditions. 

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Thousands are expected to descend on Eden Park over the next two nights, to see country music star Luke Combs. 

The city's also placing host to Sail GP over the next two days and Auckland FC is taking on Melbourne FC at Mount Smart Stadium tomorrow night. 

MetService forecaster Hordur Thordarson told Tim Beveridge it should be a mostly settled weekend for most parts of the country, including Auckland. 

He says there'll be an easterly flow, reasonably warm temperatures and the odd shower, but lots of fine spells as well. 

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ASB is slashing its rates this morning following a move by Westpac yesterday afternoon. 

Many borrowers have been moving to floating or short-term fixed rates, anticipating further OCR cuts. 

But latest forecasts show bank economists now expect the Reserve Bank to start hiking the OCR again next year. 

Infometrics Principal Economist Brad Olsen told Tim Beveridge the latest changes to advertised rates are driven more by bank competition, than by the Reserve Bank. 

He's expecting a lot of competitive pressure between the banks this year as they jockey for market position. 

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New data shows 70% of Level 1 students passed NCEA last year, down from 82% the previous year. 

It's partly due to the new 20-credit foundational literacy and numeracy requirement. 

Erica Stanford told Tim Beveridge there was a cohort of students who were getting enough credits but couldn't pass the requirements throughout the year. 

She says it's why more investment was announced to target young people in 169 schools in term four. 

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From Darleen Tana’s dramatic exit and Golriz Ghahraman’s shoplifting scandal, to the death of Efeso Collins and Marama Davidson’s cancer diagnosis.  

Co-Leader Chlöe Swarbrick told Tim Beveridge that it’s been tough. 

“I do spend a lot of time reflecting on the actions that I take, and whether I’m the best person to be doing this job,” she said. 

“I can tell you that I feel confident that we’ve done the best that we possibly could with those circumstances, with our values being the guiding star.” 

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