Bold Types is a new book cataloguing the indie bookstores of Aotearoa New Zealand. It was released on the 2nd of October through Ugly Hill Press. Bold Types is a collaboration between Deborah Coddington, editor Jemma Moreira and photographer Jane Ussher, and is a tribute to booksellers, publishers, writers, photographers, illustrators and readers alike. It is currently #8 on the top 20 Nielsen Indie bestselling list. Beth had a kōrero with Deborah and Gemma about the process of creating Bold Types over two years.

Featuring Travelling Tunes with Dr Kirsten Zemke, Viewmaster with Litia and writers for The Spinoff Alex and Casey, and From The Crate with Cam thanks to Southbound Records. Whakarongo mai nei!

Platform for Palestine is an online raffle fundraiser with local artists, designers, jewellers and tattoo artists in Tāmaki Makaurau.   It has brought together artists - including Claudia Kogachi, Sung Hwan Bobby Park, and Taarn Scott, tattooists - including Thom Hinton, Barby World, and Cyril, jewellers - including Shannen Young, PL.AT.FO.RM._, and Wilbur Hsu, and designers - including Lela Jacobs, Goldi, and Outerlines. As well as many more.  The fundraiser will be launched online and at The Keep, 504 Karangahape Road, tomorrow and will run until the 31st October.  All ticket sales will be donated to Kiwi Trust for Palestinian Children Relief, to provide urgent aid to children in Gaza.  Sofia caught up with some of the organisers of the initiative, Ningyi, Yuyi, and Sophia about the kaupapa

Cam from Southbound Records selects some vinyl this morning on From The Crate including a lovely Ryuichi Sakamoto album. Whakarongo mai nei! 

A.R.K from From Outside joins for Fancy New Band thanks to NZ on Air Music!!! This one is sick, you don't want to miss it! 

This week on Travelling Tunes, Kirsten chats to Jonny about songs of freedom and the use of music in civil rights and activism. Whakarongo mai nei!

Today on Various Artists! Pl.at.fo.rm._ for Palestine is an online raffle fundraiser with local artists, designers, jewellers and tattoo artists in Tāmaki Makaurau, taking place on Saturday 26th October. Sofia chatted with he organisers of the initiative, Ningyi, Yuyi, and Sophia about the kaupapa. Beth caught up with Deborah Coddington and editor Jemma Moreira about Bold Types, their new book cataloguing the indie bookstores of Aotearoa New Zealand.  And for Stage Direction, Beth and Sofia had a kōrero with Katie Burson and Georgie Llewellyn about How To Art, a show that blends physical theatre and clowning to challenge the conventional notions of creativity and value in the art world. Showing at Basement Theatre Studio from November 12-16th, tickets from basementtheatre.co.nz. And, as always, your weekly Arts Guide detailing all the cool happenings around Tāmaki Makaurau.  

Another Morning Glory with Lucia, thanks to the Tuning Fork, featuring extreme excitement for some upcoming gigs ~ expect to hear her favourite bands, Fontaines D.C., Amyl and the Sniffers and Mannequin Pussy. A.R.K does an awesome set for Fancy New Band thanks to NZ on Air Music. 

Jonny is joined by The Spinoff's senior writer Alex Casey and staff writer Tara Ward to countdown the remaining 20 of the Top 100 New Zealand TV shows. Alex and Tara have been covering television for The Spinoff for a decade now, and detail some of the tribulations the faced in curating the list such as a lack of proper archival of NZ's film media. If your favourite show didn't make the list you should head along to The Spinoff's live event on Thursday 31 October at Q Theatre, where Casey will be joined by Kura Forrester, Rhiannon McCall and other Spinoff writers to delve into the weird and wonderful (or forgotten) shows that missed out. 

Katie Burson and Georgie Llewellyn chatted with Sofia and Beth about How to Art, on at Basement Theatre Studio from November 12-16th. You can get tickets here!

Featuring Political Commentary with Dr Bryce Edwards and Breakfast Food with Lucinda Bennett. Whakarongo mai nei!

Concerns have been raised about the ethics of cross-breeding animals, due to the negative implications that can arise through these breeding practices, following the popularity of a Sphinx and Munchkin cat hybrid overseas, called the XL Bully Cat. News and Editorial Director, Joel, spoke to Associate Professor in the Faculty of Law at the University of Auckland, Marcelo Rodriguez Ferrere, about the ethics of cross-breeding, and how lax New Zealand's regulations are about the practice.

Wire Host Caeden spoke to Andre Fa’aoso from the Yale Daily News about polling numbers two weeks out from the election and former Radioactive host Tom Unger about the threat of political extremism this election.

For our weekly catch-up with the Labour Party Wire Host Caeden spoke to Willie Jackson about the independent commissioner being appointed to Wellington City Council, the government’s review of Ihumātao, and the cuts at Whakaata Māori.

Mōrena! A fun little show with awesome tunes to wake you up on this lovely October morning! Whakarongo mai!

For our weekly catch-up with the Labour Party, Wire Host Caeden speaks to Willie Jackson about an independent commissioner being appointed to Wellington City Council, the government’s review of Ihumātao, and cuts at Whakaata Māori.  For States of the States this week they speak to Andre Fa’aoso from the Yale Daily News about polling numbers less than two weeks out from the election and they speak to Tom Unger, political activist and former political show host at Radioactive, about political violence in the US ahead of the election. And they speak to Amanda Turnbull, Lecturer in Cyber Law at the University of Waikato, about the negative environmental and social impacts of AI.  News and Editorial Director, Joel, speaks to Associate Professor in the Faculty of Law at the University of Auckland, Marcelo Rodriguez Ferrere, about the concerns surrounding New Zealand's lax regulations regarding cross-breeding companion animals. And for City Counselling, Tuesday Wire host Castor speaks to Councillor Julie Fairey about progress on Maungawhau train station and power outages on the Western line. 

Wire Host Caeden spoke to Andre Fa’aoso from the Yale Daily News about polling numbers two weeks out from the election and former Radioactive host Tom Unger about the threat of political extremism this election.

Maungawhau station, formerly Mt Eden station, closed in July 2020 for reconstruction as part of the City Rail Link. Delays during the COVID-19 lockdowns extended the construction process, and the station is now expected to reopen in early 2024.  Starting on October 14th, Western line trains have been running at reduced frequency to allow for testing at the station, indicating that the station may be almost completed. Trains across the city have also been affected by unplanned disruptions over the past few months, most recently on the Western line with a series of power outages.  For City Counselling this week I asked Councillor Julie Fairey about the timeline on Maungawhau station, the upcoming Te Waihorotiu and Karanga-ā-hape stations, and power outages across the rail network.

Kell and Constantine of L.A-based multi-hyphanate label Canary Sound Werk beam into the studio to chat about the label's first output, the new EP My Device from duo L.A./Berlin duo Xen Model. Check out the rest of the mahi Canary get's up to via their website and keep an ear out for further releases! In the interview, Constantine references a book on techno by DeForrest Brown Jr. a.k.a. Speaker Music. 

The coalition government has recently been debating cutting funding entirely for school lunches, but instead have made a significant cut while continuing to keep lunches.  There have been concerns raised by Health Coalition Aotearoa about the new supplier, Compass Group, stating a potential worse quality of food and inadequacy of future supply. Sasha spoke to policy researcher from The University of Auckland and the spokesperson of Health Coalition Aotearoa, Kelly Garton, about the new supplier of school lunches and the implications this has for schools and children’s nutrition.

Oto reached out to Sinead O’Flynn, the agriculture campaigner at Greenpeace Aotearoa, for the organisation’s take on the government’s recent changes to Freshwater management policy. This was after a number of ministers announced a new amendment to the Resource Management Amendment Bill covering Freshwater and Other Matters that would prevent local councils from notifying their freshwater plans until the Government replaces the National Policy Statement on Freshwater Management. Advocates and local government spokespeople have criticised the move, saying that it will strip power away from local councils and that the current freshwater management policy statement isn’t sufficient enough to protect Aotearoa’s water resources. 

Social media is blamed for many ill effects that plague modern life, and unsurprisingly a recent research conducted on New Zealand women aged eighteen to twenty-four has found that social media use correlates with poor body image. At this period of life, it is common for debilitating eating disorders to develop. The research has found there to be a weak link between social media and poor body image, however this still raises questions about future legislations and the complexity of the relationship between young people and social media. Sasha spoke to Honorary Senior Lecturer in Nutrition Rashjiri Roy, from the University of Sydney Australia, about her recent study and other implications.

Featuring  What's Up? with Steve Abel of the Green Party and the Aural Emporium!

For their regular catch-up, Oto spoke to the Green Party’s Ricardo Menéndez March about former MP Darleen Tana’s removal from Parliament, updates to the Three Strikes Law and the government’s changes to freshwater protections. He spoke to Sinead O’Flynn from Greenpeace Aotearoa for a follow-up conversation about the changes to freshwater policy. And he spoke to Dr Steffen Albrecht, Research Fellow at the School of Computer Science at the University of Auckland, to discuss about a study of his analysing the use of A.I in predicting respiratory disease outbreaks during flu seasons. Sasha spoke to Honorary Senior Lecturer in Nutrition Rashjiri Roy from the University of Sydney about her recent research linking poor body image with social media use And he spoke to Kelly Garton, Policy Researcher from the University of Auckland and spokesperson for Health Coalition Aotearoa about cuts to funding for school lunches.

Featuring a guest interview with Canary Sound Werk label crew Kell and Constantine about the label's debut release, My Device by Xen Model and local-legend DJ Gutta a.k.a Leo takes over the last hour of the show. This will be my last One to Four as Bridge returns next week! Arohanui, Molly xoxo

As of yesterday, former Green party MP, Darleen Tana, has been removed from parliament after the greens agreed to invoke the Waka jumping legislation at their last general meeting. The removal of Darleen Tana from parliament concludes a lengthy saga following her eviction from the Green Party amidst allegations of migrant worker exploitation at her husband’s business. Despite invoking the Waka Jumping Law in the end, the Greens continued to reach out to Tana and insist that she voluntarily resign instead. Tana refused to do so, as she still maintains her innocence even after numerous investigations into her involvement in the allegations. For their weekly catch up, I spoke to Green Party MP Ricardo Menendez-March about the removal of Darleen Tana from Parliament and the party’s decision to invoke the Waka jumping law. They also talked about recent updates to the three strikes legislation, as well as changes to the resource management act that would restrict the ability of local councils to manage their freshwater policy.

Recently, a study was conducted at the university of Auckland analysing the use of A.I in predicting the prevalence of respiratory disease outbreaks during flu seasons in Aotearoa. Forecasting models are essential for hospitals in predicting admissions and subsequently allocating resources and beds. However, during peak flu periods, and, most notably the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, hospitals across Aotearoa have been largely underprepared for respiratory disease outbreaks, hence why experts have called for improvements to be made to traditional forecasting models.  Oto spoke to Dr Steffen Albrecht, a Research Fellow at the School of Computer Science at the University of Auckland and author of the study, to talk about the study and how A.I could help disease forecasting models in hospitals across Aotearoa. 

Lots of heart-wrenchers today... whoops x thanks for tuning in! Spotify playlist here, but listen on bandcamp / otherwise if you can :) Ngā mihi nui to The Tuning Fork, as always

Jonny chats to Serebii about his upcoming album Dime and play a first-spin of the leading single Might As Well Be Watching. The full album is due for digital and vinyl release in March 2025, so keep your eyes and ears out!

On the 23rd of October, a nationwide hui will be held by thousands of workers in 12 different places in the country, following policies coming into place since the current government took power last year that impacts workers’ rights, such as abolishing fair pay agreements, and mass job cuts in the public sector. According to RNZ’s tracker, 2000 public service jobs have been cut from the period of December last year to June this year, with 7000 being cut from the public sector. News and Editorial Director, Joel, spoke to the President of the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions (NZCTU), Richard Wagstaff, about the plans for the nationwide hui, and what the NZCTU hope to get out of this day of action.

Oto played a variety of experimental Bumiputera Hip-Hop and Psych-Rock while Jaycee was recovering from a flu he contracted from Oto the week before.  Oto also chatted with Aliya, a former member of the NiceGoblins collective here in Tāmaki Makaurau currently working as an independent filmmaker in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Kaitlyn reports in from Q Theatre to cover the Great Camp-In with Camping cast Tom Sainsbury, Chris Parker, Kura Forrester and Brynley Stent. The comedic cast of the upcoming Silo Theatre production spent the evening sleeping in tents on the Q Theatre stage to get into the zone for the upcoming play (which has very little to do with actual camping and more to do with high camp). Listen back to hear the shenanigans from the night before and how the campers felt the following morning!

Julien Dyne chats to Jonny about the upcoming Circling Sun and Romi Wrights gig at Double Whammy this Friday. Whakarongo mai nei!

For Dear Science this week, our expert Dr Cushla McGoverin chatted to us about monarch butterfly migration, underground worms and snails, and new discoveries regarding the Tasmanian tiger genome. 

Oto talked to Aliya, a former member of the NiceGoblins collective who now works as a filmmaker in Jakarta, Indonesia, about their creative process and their experiences working as an Asian creative in Aotearoa.

This week on the Tuesday Wire For Dear Science this week, our expert Doctor Cushla McGoverin chatted to us about Monarch Butterfly Migration, Worms and Snails, and the Tasmanian Tiger genome.  In our weekly catchup with the National Party, Wire host Castor spoke to MP Katie Nimon about polling numbers and catering spending.  On the Green Desk, Jack Marshall heads to The Shed to talk to some tinkers.  And Producer Joel spoke to the President of the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions, Richard Wagstaff, about a nationwide hui occurring tomorrow over worker’s concerns regarding legislation the government has implemented since forming a government last year.

Jonny starts of the morning with an interview with Serebii about his upcoming album Dime and play a first-spin of the leading single Might As Well Be Watching. Kaitlyn reported in from Q Theatre to cover the Great Camp-In with Camping cast Tom Sainsbury, Chris Parker, Kura Forrester and Brynley Stent. The comedic cast of the upcoming Silo Theatre production spent the evening sleeping in tents on the Q Theatre stage to get into the zone for the upcoming play (which has very little to do with actual camping and more to do with high camp). Julien Dyne then phoned in to chat to Jonny about the upcoming Circling Sun and Romi Wrights gig at Double Whammy this Friday. To round off the morning was Ready Steady Learn, brought to you by Waipapa Taumata Rau University of Auckland. Dr Kiri Dell spoke about the Faculty of Engineering and Business School's collaboration with iwi in the Whareponga Valley to address climate change related challenges facing the Ruātoria region of Tai Rawhiti. 

Earlier this month, the Electoral Commission released political parties’ annual financial statements, however, Te Pāti Māori had failed to release theirs. Since failing to do so, the party has since been referred to the police over the matter, with updates from last week from the police saying they were continuing to assess the matter. For our weekly catch up, News and Editorial Director, and Monday Wire Host, Joel, spoke to Te Pāti Māori’s Takutai Kemp about the party’s lack of a financial statement. They also discussed Green Party MP, Teanau Tuiono’s Restoring Citizenship Removed by Citizenship (Western Samoa) Act 1982 Bill passing its first reading with unanimous support from the select committee. The bill would allow Samoans born between 1924 and 1948 to have reinstated New Zealand citizenship, following a 1982 ruling by the then National government that those born in the previously New Zealand-occupied territory of Western Samoa as non-New Zealand citizens. Finally, they discussed  21 new te reo Māori names being allocated for sites around the Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board area.

Jenna phones in from Time Out in Maungawhai to talk about New Zealand author Damien Wilkins' new book Delirious. Whakarongo mai nei!

On Friday, staff at the University of Auckland held a strike on campus, over ongoing conversations with the University regarding bettering working conditions and improving pay for staff. This follows similar protest action that happened on campus THREE weeks ago, with members as a part of THREE different universities striking on the same day. These rallies were attended by 4,000 Te Hautū Kahurangi | Tertiary Education Union members overall, making this strike action the largest since staff from all EIGHT universities striked two years prior. News and Editorial Director, and Monday Wire Host, Joel, spoke to the organiser of the Tertiary Education Union, Nicole Wallace, about the most recent strikes at the University of Auckland, and what this means moving forward.

Last week the Green Party unanimously agreed to use the Waka Jumping legislation to remove former Green MP Darleen Tana from parliament.  The party has historically been against the legislation, with a long-standing history of opposing waka-jumping laws and their use.  For our weekly catch up with the ACT Party’s Simon Court, Producer Evie asked what the ACT party’s views on this decision were, considering the ACT Party was the last to use the legislation in 2003, removing Donna Awatere Huata who was accused of fraud.  They also discuss Gore district council’s plan to designate the entire region as a site of cultural significance, which the ACT party strongly opposes, calling it a ‘land grab.’  And finally, they talk about the University of Auckland introducing a compulsory course focused around Te Tiriti o Waitangi for all students - which the ACT party has been vocally opposing. 

Featuring Loose Reads and Fashun with Penelope Noir, whakarongo mai nei!

The government is reintroducing a ‘social investment agency’, an organisation last seen during Bill English’s National government.  The agency assesses the cost of individuals to the state, largely the cost of beneficiaries. Once this is assessed the government steps in to prevent those deemed most costly from creating these costs. This includes managing individuals' benefits, putting a limit on what they can spend and sanctioning them if they miss support sessions or meetings.  The move is largely created to save the government costs, rather than addressing poverty and disadvantage at the root.  Teaching fellow at the University of Auckland, Dr Eileen Joy says this approach completely ignores the systemic causes behind disadvantage. Producer Evie spoke to Dr Eileen Joy about the system, how it’s implemented and what impacts it will have.

On Saturday, student nurses rallied across multiple cities in the country; in Auckland, Whāngarei, Hamilton, Mt Maunganui, Napier, New Plymouth, Palmerston North, Wellington, and Nelson, over petitioning for the government to implement paid training. News and Editorial Director, and Monday Wire Host, Joel, spoke to the Delegate of the New Zealand Nurses Organisation, Shannyn Bristowe, about the recent rallies, and concerns that studying nursing is gradually becoming a lot less accessible to New Zealanders.

Listen back to hear Political Science student Castor recount a recent lecture on relations between Aotearoa and China on Lecture Me, thanks to Blue Hills Books!

This week on the Monday Wire. For our weekly catch up, News and Editorial Director, and Monday Wire Host, Joel, speaks to Te Pāti Māori’s Takutai Kemp about the party failing to release an annual statement, the Samoan Citizenship bill, and 21 new te reo Māori names being allocated for sites around the Māngere-Ōtāthuhu Local Board area. For our weekly catch up with the ACT Party’s Simon Court, Producer Evie talks about the Green Party using the Waka Jumping legislation to remove Darleen Tana from parliament, Gore district council’s plans to make the region an area of cultural significance and the University of Auckland’s new compulsory paper surrounding Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Joel speaks to the Organiser of the Tertiary Education Union, Nicole Wallace, about the recent union member strikes at the University of Auckland. Evie speaks to Professional teaching fellow at the University of Auckland Dr Eileen Joy about the government’s approach to social welfare ignoring systemic causes. And Joel speaks to the Delegate of the New Zealand Nurses Organisation, Shannyn Bristowe, about the recent student nurses rallies that happened across the country. Whakarongo mai!

Kirsten in the studio bringing some old favourite tunes and new releases. With guests The DeSotos playing a couple of tunes live. 

A fire evacuation sets the mood for chaos on another Friday Morning Glory with Lucia thanks to the Tuning Fork!  BADMAW play for Fancy New Band thanks to NZ on Air Music. 

The Secret Life of Plants is a new group exhibition at Melanie Roger Gallery.  The exhibition borrows its title from the 1973 book, with the same name, by Peter Tompkins and Christopher Bird. The book documents “controversial experiments that claim to reveal unusual phenomena associated with plants, such as plant sentience and the ability of plants to communicate with other creatures, including humans.” Exhibiting the works of Rosa Allison, Georgia Arnold, Heidi Brickell (Te Hika o Papauma, Rangitāne, Ngāi Tara, Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Apakura), Ruth Ige, Tessa Laird, Layla Rudneva-Mackay, Star Gossage (Ngāti Wai, Ngāti Ruanui), Ann Shelton and Sarah Smuts-Kennedy, the artists embrace “the secret life of plants” within their practises with works exploring ideas of mysticism, healing, growth and spirituality.   Sofia had a kōrero with gallerist and curator, Melanie Roger, about the show, the artists, and its themes.

"Jazz fusion for the people" group BADMAW join for Fancy New Band following yesterday's release of their debut EP and in preparation for their gig on the 26th of October! Check it out!  Thanks always to NZ on Air Music ❤️

Episodes is a new graphic novel by author Alex Scott, released through Earth’s End Publishing on October 14th. It is a delicately interwoven tale of identity, desire and coming of age even in adulthood, as well as a critique of our media-obsessed society. Beth caught up with Alex about the creative process.

Today on Various Artists... Sofia had a kōrero with gallerist and curator Melanie Roger about a new group exhibition at Melanie Roger Gallery, The Secret Life of Plants.  Beth had a kōrero with author Alex Scott about her new graphic novel, Episodes, out via Earth’s End Publishing. And for Stage Direction this week: Alice Canton is in to chat with Donna Brookbanks about her latest show, Green Fingered.  And as always, your weekly arts guide! 

For Stage Direction this week, Alice Canton is in to chat with Donna Brookbanks about Green Fingered on at Basement Theatre next week. You can get tickets here!

Featuring Travelling Tunes with Dr Kirsten Zemke, a guest interview with WHO SHOT SCOTT about his new single The Data, and Viewmaster with the cast of n00b.

WHO SHOT SCOTT aka Zaidoon Nasir joins Jonny in the 95bFM studio for a first spin of his new single THE DATA and yarn about his anticipated upcoming EP BRAIN (SIDE B). Whakarongo mai nei!

Jonny is joined by the producer/co-creator and lead actor of the n00b series Rachel Fawcett and Max Crean. Listen back to learn about how the show's genesis on TikTok and how the transition to television has changed the series. Whakarongo mai nei!

For our weekly catch-up with the Labour Party, Wire Host Caeden speaks to Carmel Sepuloni about the recent 1-News-Verian poll, the Western Samoan Citizenship Bill gaining unanimous support at select committee, and the divorce law change known as ‘Ashley’s law’ that was passed through Parliament yesterday. For States of the States this week they speak to Andre Fa’aoso from the Yale Daily News about presidential candidate Donald Trump’s mental fitness after a recent rally, celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day, and a recent letter sent by the Biden administration threatening to withhold arms from Israel.  They speak to Liz from Student Justice for Palestine Otago about a video showing pro-Palestine students in a hostile stand-off with campus security.  And they speak about changes to the Tīkapa Moana Protection Bill with the University of Auckland’s Dr Simon Thrush and Forest and Bird’s Bianca Ranson.  For City Counselling this week, Sofia speak to Councillor Shane Henderson about the Ports of Auckland using the Fast-track Bill to convert the Captain Cook and Marsden wharves into a waterfront attraction and Council’s new roaming dog squad.  She also speaks to University of Auckland Law Professor, Mark Henaghan, about the Family Proceedings Amendment Bill passing its third reading yesterday.

Ports of Auckland has said the Fast-track Approvals Bill is the only way to keep its promise to Auckland Council regarding its deal to sell the Captain Cook and Marsden wharves back to Council to be converted into a waterfront attraction. Ports of Auckland has committed to exiting Cook and Marsden in the period two to five years, saying the Fast-track would allow them to ‘honour that commitment to the city’.  The Fast-track Approvals Bill, since its introduction, has been subject to much criticism, with concerns surrounding its impact on the environment and a lack of public consultation.  Additionally, earlier this month Auckland Council introduced a new roaming dog squad to address the increase in dog attacks and roaming incidents in Auckland over the past year.  Sofia spoke to Councillor Shane Henderson about both of these topics.

For States of the States, 95bFM's US election coverage, Wire Host Caeden speaks to Andre Fa’aoso from the Yale Daily News about presidential candidate Donald Trump’s mental fitness after a recent rally, celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day, and a recent letter sent by the Biden administration threatening to withhold arms from Israel.

Featuring Political Commentary with David Slack, Breakfast Food with Lucinda Bennett and The Aural Emporium. Whakarongo mai nei!

A few tracks from artists from the Laneway 2025 lineup, such as Charli xcx, Fcukers, Clairo, and Vera Ellen, and other upcoming gigs coming to Tāmaki Makaurau, such as Strawpeople, at the Hollywood Avondale on the 18th of October, and DARTZ, coming to Double Whammy on the 5th of December! And Wire Host, Castor, comes in for a quick chat about the League of Legends Finals? Whakarongo mai!

For States of the States, 95bFM's US election coverage, Wire Host Caeden speaks to Andre Fa’aoso from the Yale Daily News about presidential candidate Donald Trump’s mental fitness after a recent rally, celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day, and a recent letter sent by the Biden administration threatening to withhold arms from Israel.

Tāmaki Makarau singer-songwriter Nganeko joins bFM to discuss their latest sirenic single 'Simple Illusions' produced by Brandon Haru and Brent Parks.  Born from a trasitional period of life of "finding my feet": Simple Illusions explores vunerability and the creation of walls and boundaries that are ultimately just an illusion. As Nganeko puts it: "we keep ourselves in a rut sometimes and just gotta do something... go outside!"  Listen to Nganeko chat with Sofía about sonic inspirations, Casio watches, and hit chemical manufacturing film Dark Waters. 

For our weekly catch-up with the Labour Party Wire Host speaks to Labour Deputy Leader Carmel Sepuloni about the recent 1-News-Verian poll, the Western Samoan Citizenship Bill gaining unanimous support at select committee, and the divorce law change known as ‘Ashley’s law’ that was passed through Parliament yesterday.

For our weekly catch-up with the Labour Party Wire Host speaks to Labour Deputy Leader Carmel Sepuloni about the recent 1-News-Verian poll, the Western Samoan Citizenship Bill gaining unanimous support at select committee, and the divorce law change known as ‘Ashley’s law’ that was passed through Parliament yesterday.

Thanks tuning fork

Apathy, distress and hopelessness are common things to joke about among young people. Doomscrolling and bedrotting are among some of the terms used to describe general apathy and lack of motivation towards our current world. New Zealand has one of the highest reported news avoidance rates in the world at sixty-percent choosing to not seek out news. New Zealanders are frustrated with the quality of news reporting and negative news stories, fuelling a worsening mental state. Social Media also has a part to play in how people receive news, now mainly focused on pop-culture icons rather than real journalism.  Sasha spoke to Doctor Alex Beattie, a lecturer in Media and Communication about why New Zealanders actively choose to ignore the news and apathy within the youngest generations. We also spoke about a new era of escapism versus a culture of overproduction in our society.

Featuring an interview with Steve Diggle of the Buzzcocks. 

Over the weekend, the government announced a number of amendments that would be made to the Hauraki Gulf Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill. The amendments included the addition of 19 new marine protection areas, 12 of which are high protection areas, but would also allow the continuation of authorised customary fishing in High Protection areas by authorised fishers. While Conservation Minister Tama Potaka, who introduced the amendments, has lauded the bill for protecting the biodiversity of the Hauraki gulf while allowing local fishers to provide for their communities, the Hauraki Gulf Forum and numerous conservation groups have said bill will do the exact opposite, by opening critical areas of the gulf up to commercial fishing and threatening the region’s already endangered marine life.  For their weekly catch up, I spoke to the Green Party’s Ricardo Menendez-March to discuss the recent amendments to the Hauraki Gulf Marine protection bill and the party’s take on it.  They also discussed the recent 1news Verian poll showing that 40% of New Zealanders thought that Aotearoa was in a worse state today than it was last year, and the Samoan Citizenship Bill by Greens MP Teanau Tuiono getting passed in the select committee and moving on to it’s second reading.

Recently, the HMNZS Manawanui sank off the coast of Samoa, after hitting a reef and catching fire.  Following the sinking, the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) announced a Court of Inquiry, after being called on by a Samoan International Relations expert based in New Zealand. Usually, similar incidents regarding major maritime vessels would be investigated by Maritime New Zealand, and may also be referred to the Transport Accident Investigation Commission. However, as the Manawanui was a naval vessel engaged in governmental activity, the NZDF is holding the inquiry. News and Editorial Director, Joel, spoke to a Professor in the Faculty of Law at the Auckland University of Technology (AUT), Paul Myburgh, about what this inquiry could mean. As well as this, an estimate of up to 200,000 litres of diesel has leaked into the ocean from the wreckage. New Zealand's Deputy Chief of Navy, Commodore Andrew Brown, says that there is currently no evidence that the spillage has come from the main fuel tanks onboard, which appear to be intact. This comes as the Chief of the Navy, Rear Admiral Garin Golding, told RNZ’s Morning Report that roughly 950 tonnes of diesel fuel was onboard when the HMNZS Manawanui sank. They also spoke to a Lecturer in the Department of Marine Science at the University of Otago, Dr Bridie Allan, about how much of a concern the spillage is so far, and what the environmental implications of the spillage could look like.

The Ministry for the Environment and Stats NZ just released Our Air 2024, a three yearly report featuring data on air pollution levels and its impacts. The report found that, while concentrations of various particulates had reduced, and overall air quality in Aotearoa had improved, air pollution had a much greater contribution to diseases and birth defects across the country than previously expected.  Oto spoke to Dr Joel Rindelaub, a senior lecturer in Chemical sciences at the University of Auckland, to discuss the report and the impacts of air pollution on the human body.

For their regular catch-up, Oto spoke to the Green Party’s Ricardo Menéndez March about the recent amendments to the Hauraki Gulf protection bill and the impacts of commercial fishing, the recent 1news Verian poll showing that 40% of New Zealanders think Aotearoa is in a worse state today than it was last year, and the Samoan Citizenship Bill drafted by fellow Greens MP Teanau Tuiono getting getting passed in the select committee and moving on to it’s second reading. He also spoke to Dr Joel Rindelaub, a senior lecturer in Chemical sciences at the University of Auckland, to discuss the recent report by the Ministry of Environment and Stats NZ analysing air pollution in Aotearoa and its Impacts. Sasha spoke to Doctor Alex Beattie, Lecturer in Media and Communication at the University of Victoria who is a lead author on a research discussing why New Zealanders avoid the news. News and Editorial Director, Joel, spoke to Professor in the Faculty of Law at the Auckland University of Technology, Paul Myburgh, and  Lecturer in the Department of Marine Science at the University of Otago, Dr Bridie Allan, about an Court of Inquiry being called for the sinking of the HMNZS Manawanui in Samoa, and the subsequent oil spillage that has occurred due to the incident

Listen back to Lucia's interview with Rich Peppiatt, director of the KNEECAP biopic set for release in New Zealand on 24 October. The semi-fictitious film chronicles the origin of Belfast's riotous Gaelic rap trio KNEECAP. Fans of the Irish lads rejoice because they'll be making their Aotearoa debut next year at the Powerstation. Whakarongo mai nei to hear about how the film came to be and behind-the-scenes insights.

This week in our weekly catchup with the National Party Wire host Castor discussed the impact and response to the Auckland Anniversary and Cyclone Gabrielle floods last year. The government is overhauling the current emergency management system, based on feedback from those affected most severely by flood damage.  They asked Katie Nimon about the new emergency management system, and about the government’s commitment to emissions reduction as extreme weather events become more common. 

Oto had a Kōrero with Tāmaki Makaurau singer songwriter Geoff Ong to talk about his latest single "Where Will We Go When The Ocean Comes?" - a driving synth-pop anthem written about climate change. They also talked about Geoff's musical process and his thoughts on Asian representation in the local music scene.

A loooovely Morning Glory! Feelings of nostalgia are strong today... thanks for all the love! Spotify playlist is available here but support artists on bandcamp / otherwise if you can! x Ngā mihi nui to The Tuning Fork as always ❤️

Listen back to Lucia's interview with Rich Peppiatt, director of the KNEECAP biopic set for release in New Zealand on 24 October. The semi-fictitious film chronicles the origin of Belfast's riotous Gaelic rap trio KNEECAP. Fans of the Irish lads rejoice because they'll be making their Aotearoa debut next year at the Powerstation. Whakarongo mai nei to hear about how the film came to be and behind-the-scenes insights.

Starting off Breakfast this morning was a chat between Lucia and the director of the KNEECAP biopic Rich Peppiatt. The film wowed audiences at the NZIFF and is set for release in Aotearoa on the 24th of October. Jonny played a first spin of Nadia Reid's new single Baby Bright, followed by a phone call with the legend herself to talk about the upcoming album Enter Now Brightness. Dr Gertjan Verdickt talks artificial intelligence and investor forecasting on Ready Steady Learn thanks to Waipapa Taumata Rau The University of Auckland. Whakarongo mai nei ~

On this week's Green Desk we have part two of a special on The State of Wellington, recorded down in the capital inside Parliament’s cafe. If you’ve read the news in the past month, the capital is being buffeted by gnarly headwinds. Not off the Cook Straight but rather from pesky employees working from home. But are sunny days ahead for Wellington?

Among the various inquiries into the government’s response to last year's Auckland Anniversary and Cyclone Gabrielle flooding was Te Weu me Te Wai, a report assessing the floods' impact on marginalised communities and identifying potential changes the government could make. Wire host Castor spoke to Associate Professor George Laking, one of the report’s authors, about the issues with the current system and the report’s recommendations.

Dr Gertjan Verdickt talks the relationship between people and A.I. when it comes to investment forecasting on Ready Steady Learn.  Thanks to the smart folks at Waipapa Taumata Rau The University of Auckland.

The STAR community group covers an area in West Auckland, mostly along the coastline. It was set up to respond to the large storm events at the start of last year and encourage residents to support one another.  Wire host Castor spoke to Dorothy Wilson from the group about the impact on the ground, and what people want to see from the government in a new emergency management system.  Wire host Castor began by asking about the immediate fallout of the weather events last year.

A year and a half ago Cyclone Gabrielle made landfall, thrashing the North Island with widespread damage.  The disaster left many without a home, and over a year on houses are still red stickered, people are left waiting for insurance assessments, and climate change is still causing extreme climate events.  Earlier this month the Otago region was affected by major flooding, damaging homes and other community centres.  Associate Professor at the University of Auckland, George Laking says that extreme weather events like these impact people’s homes, whānau and livelihoods, and in the wake of them it’s paramount to consider people’s mental health.  Following Cyclone Gabrielle, Laking identified five key health priorities that should be prioritised in natural disaster responses.  Producer Evie spoke to Laking about these responses, how they related to Cyclone Gabrielle, and how they could be better applied in the wake of the Otago floods. 

Suri from Time Out Bookstore talks to us about A Sunny Place for Shady People from Argentinian writer Mariana Enríquez. This is Enríquez's first short story collection since The Dangers of Smoking in Bed was shortlisted for the International Booker Prize. The stories in this most recent collection weave the occult, ghosts, love, queer counterculture and Argentina's turbulent and brutal past. 

Earlier this month New Zealand Navy Ship HZMS Manawanui ran aground, caught fire and sank off the coast of Samoa.  The defence force says there has been no oil contamination into the reef the boat sank in, but Samon Authorities say 200,000 litres of diesel has leaked from the boat, with locals also concerned about the environmental impacts of the ship sinking.  For their weekly catch up Producer Evie spoke to the ACT Party’s Simon Court about the government’s response to the incident.  They also talk about the government scrapping $30 million from the Te Ahu o te Reo Māori language programme for teachers. Which Education Minister Erica Standford says was cut to fund more Maths education.  And finally they discussed a treaty principals debate between David Seymour and Ngāti Toa leader Helmut Modlik, in which Seymour claims Māori ceded sovereignty   

This week's show featured new music from The Smile, The Linda Linda's, Geordie Greep and more.

@OoGuN is back in studio to help us mark what would be the 86th birthday of the one and only Fela Aníkúlápó Kuti, as well as Seun and Mádé Kuti, and share funky highlife and afrobeat 7"s and many more treats besides, including . Press the button!

All over the place as usual with blasts from the past as well as brand new tunes, getting stuck in the blues hole and a few tunes for the country fundamentalists.

Finn's show!  Thanks to the wonderful NZ Maritime Museum - Hui te Ananui a Tangaroa - for sponsoring the show!  

Cory Champion aka Borrowed CS chats with Hunter about 'Rise N Shine' their new 12" featuring Steve Spacek & Mara TK.

Featuring Lecture Me thanks to Blue Hills Books, Implausible Deniability with Stella and Dear Finn. Whakarongo mai nei. 

Just in time for summer, Stella fills us in on sunscreen, sunburn and the science behind staying sunsafe - whakarongo mai nei!

For Stage Direction this week, Alice Canton speaks to Moss Patterson about Tempo Dance Festival on at Q Theatre until the 20th October. More information here! 

Featuring Travelling Tunes with Dr Kirsten Zemke and Viewmaster with Litia.  Whakarongo mai nei!

Resetting the Coordinates is the first anthology/reader of performance art of Aotearoa New Zealand. It invites the reader into its lively, 50-year critical survey of Aotearoa’s globally unique performance art scene. It includes 18 chapters by researchers that explore the post-object and performance art of the late 1960s to the rich vein of Māori and Pacific performance art from the early 1990s. It discusses the work of Jim Allen, Phil Dadson, Peter Roche and Linda Buis, performance art initiatives in post-earthquake Christchurch and queer performance art, among many other topics. Beth caught up with Professor of Visual Art at the Auckland University of Technology, Dr Christopher Braddock, about Resetting the Coordinates.

New Painting is a new exhibition at Gow Langsford Onehunga by Shane Cotton (Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Rangi, Ngāti Hine and Te Uri Taniwha) opening tomorrow. Cotton is an internationally renowned artist whose career has spanned over three decades. His practice is underpinned by recurrent questioning of his own bicultural identity, and our collective cultural identity in Aotearoa.  In these new works, Cotton explores the collision of Indigenous and European time systems, placing ancestral figures in surreal, cosmic landscapes, exploring hybridities, transformation, and the nature of history. Accompanying the exhibition is an essay by writer Anthony Byrt, Super Radiance, which explores this new body of work further. You can read Byrt’s essay here. I had a kōrero with Shane about the exhibition and the ideas behind these works. 

Sofia had a kōrero with Shane Cotton (Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Rangi, Ngāti Hine and Te Uri Taniwha) about New Painting, a new exhibition at Gow Langsford Onehunga. Beth caught up with Professor of Visual Art at the Auckland University of Technology, Dr Christopher Braddock, about Resetting the Coordinates, the first anthology/reader of performance art of Aotearoa New Zealand. For Stage Direction, Alice Canton joins us in-studio to chat to Moss Paterson about Tempo Dance Festival, on at Q Theatre until the 20th October.  And, as always, your weekly Arts Guide!

Dr Kirsten Zemke is here to yarn about dark 'n dusty Gothic Country. Running through Jonny Cash to contemporary artists such as Sons of Predition, Gothic Country is all about tales of woe. Catch these sounds on soundtracks such as True Detective, Twin Peaks, Fargo and True Blood. 

Litia phones in to give us the rundown on what to watch next week! 

Musician and activist Ema I'u comes up for Fancy New Band between working on her new album and going to Samoa to perform at the Commonwealth Heads Of Government Forum for the initiative she formed Holding Space Aotearoa / Songwriters for Climate! Thanks to NZ on Air Music ❤️ 

Resetting the Coordinates is the first anthology/reader of performance art of Aotearoa New Zealand. It invites the reader into its lively, 50-year critical survey of Aotearoa’s globally unique performance art scene. It includes 18 chapters by researchers that explore the post-object and performance art of the late 1960s to the rich vein of Māori and Pacific performance art from the early 1990s. It discusses the work of Jim Allen, Phil Dadson, Peter Roche and Linda Buis, performance art initiatives in post-earthquake Christchurch and queer performance art, among many other topics. Beth caught up with Professor of Visual Art at the Auckland University of Technology, Dr Christopher Braddock, about Resetting the Coordinates.

For State of the States, Wire Host Caeden spoke to Andre Fa’aoso from the Yale Daily News about recent events on the Yale campus and the political implications of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.  Sofia spoke to honorary academic at the University of Auckland and climate scientist Dr Kevin Trenberth about the science behind these hurricanes.

For our weekly catch-up with the Labour Party Wire Host Caeden spoke to Deputy Leader Carmel Sepuloni on the environmental impact of the sunken naval ship, Manawanui, and the projects chosen for the fast track legislation.

For State of the States, Wire Host Caeden spoke to Andre Fa’aoso from the Yale Daily News about recent events on the Yale campus and the political implications of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.  Sofia spoke to honorary academic at the University of Auckland and climate scientist Dr Kevin Trenberth about the science behind these hurricanes.

Zoë is back on Breakfast (for one day only)! Featuring Political Commentary with Dr Bryce Edwards and an interview with Mousey, plus an absolutely gorgeous acoustic set of tracks from Mousey's upcoming album The Dreams of Our Mothers' Mothers! Whakarongo mai nei ~

Dr Bryce Edwards spoke to Castor about the list of projects included in the National Government's Fast Track Amendments Bill, whether the list of projects match up to the public's expectations of the bill, and the environmental risks posed by the bill. 

¡bienvenidos!  A little bit of everything, a little bit of nothing. Whakarongo! Mohamad Karzo - C’est La Vie Marlena Shaw - Where Can I go?, California Soul, I’m Satisfied Nathan Haines - Squire for Hire, RIGHT NOW featuring Marlena Shaw Willie West - Baby, Baby I Love You, After The Storm Grace Slick - Didn’t Think So, Often As I May, Nature Boy Carlos Dafé - Cantar Com o Coraçā, Bem querer  Kia ora The Tuning Fork !  

This week marked a year since the October 7th Hamas attack on Israel.  As a result of Israel’s war on Gaza, over 41,000 Palestinians have been killed, including over 16,000 children.  Since October 7th, protests have been held across Tāmaki, particularly in the CBD, in support of Palestine.  Producer Sofia began this week’s catch up with Councillor Julie Fairey asking whether Auckland Council had an official stance on Israel’s war on Gaza.

On 7 October, Radio Mother Host, Joel, spoke to Beth Torrance, who is releasing her debut EP, Tiny Flowers, on the 18 October! Following the release, she she will be going on tour in various places in the North Island, such as here in Auckland, Raglan, Thames, and Wellington. They chatted to her about the release, and what to expect! Pre-orders of the Tiny Flowers CD are available via Flying Out Records, or you can pre-save a digital copy via the link in their Instagram, @beth.torrance. Tickets to her EP tour are available via Undertheradar.

Ngā mihi nui Mousey for the gorgeous acoustic set and for the kōrero with Zoë about her upcoming album The Dreams of Our Mothers' Mothers and Exploding Rainbow Orchestra tonight! What a gorgeous way to start the morning.

Yesterday students, staff, and alumni across the University of Auckland and Auckland University of Technology rallied in support of Palestine. Wire Host Caeden spoke to protest organisers Layan Khalil and Ayyan Ali as well as protest attendees on why they were marching.

Featuring Spaced Out with the Stardome and a guest interview with Mayzie about her new album with Oceans Luminosity. Whakarongo mai nei! Thanks to The Beer Spot!

Aneeka is holding down the fort whilst Jonny is away and it's a jam packed show! Featuring What's Up? with deputy leader of the National Party Nicola Willis, an overview of the APRA AMCOS Silver Scrolls 2024 and kōrero with winner Anna Coddington, an interview with Andrew of Salmonella Dub and Aneeka drops the lineup for Laneway 2025 - holy moly! Vera Ellen phones in to chat with Aneeka about all the excitement. Whakarongo mai nei ~

Aneeka and Vera Ellen have a yarn following the Laneway 2025 lineup announce! We're bloody excited for next year and over-the-moon that some of our favourite artsits will be performing on the same day at Western Springs. Mā te wā Vera and good luck for the tour through China! Catch Vera, Charli XCX, Clairo, Beabadoobee, RNZŌ, and heaps more at St. Jerome’s Laneway on Thursday 6 February 2025.

Andrew phones in to talk to Aneeka about the upcoming Salmonella Dub SoundSystem tour with Whirimako Black and the Mighty Asterix and just released single EP ‘Never Too Late – We’ve Got This Gift’. Whakarongo mai nei!

Aneeka speaks to Nicola Willis about the Fast Track Approvals Bill, including projects like sea bed mining and looming cuts for critical health services. 

Homelessness is not a new issue, but rather a persistent one, and will never go away unless our society confronts it directly. This is an issue which affects all of us, as no one is guaranteed housing or basic needs.  Work and Income have declared changes to their emergency housing as of August. These changes make it harder for those experiencing homelessness to receive the help they need, as they now need to fill a criteria to receive this help. The Kickback Organisation, a charitable trust focused on delivering support for those experiencing homelessness, are advocating for parliament to pass legislation to support those at risk of homelessness. Similar legislation has been successful in Wales. Sasha spoke to Aaron Hendry from Kickback about their campaign efforts, and their event at their charity on Karangahape road.

Aneeka chats to Anna Coddington following the awards ceremony last night for the APRA AMCOS Silver Scrolls 2024. Anna Coddington's waiata Kātuarehe, co-written with Noema Te Hau III, Ruth Smith and Kawiti Waetford won the Kaitito Kaiaka/APRA Silver Scroll Award. Whakarongo mai nei!

There is no doubt that adolescent depression psychological issues have been on the rise for the last couple years. Researchers have investigated many factors for this, such as Covid-19, or in the case of the GUiNZ study, factors present in pregnancy. GUiNZ, or Growing Up in New Zealand is a long-term study of child development. This study has located a multitude of factors that may develop adolescent depression. This research could help guide mental health interventions within children and adolescents. Sasha spoke to a Professor from the School of Psychology, and co-author of the research paper, Karen Waldie, about the new study which links perinatal risk scores with adolescent development of depression and other mental illnesses.

On Thursday the 19th September, the Ministry of Justice opened consultation on changing jury trials to improve flexibility and increase thresholds for when individuals can opt to use a jury trial. The proposed changes would allow individuals to opt for jury trials up to and until their case review hearing, and increase the required seriousness for offences before a jury trial can be used. Producer Josef spoke to Associate Professor of Evidence and Criminal Procedure at the University of Auckland, Scott Optican, about jury trials, and the balancing of interests that comes with setting jury trial procedures.

Crazy deep cuts of techno, lots of variation, not your average techno night.

Jarod McTaggart is a Masters student at the School of Biological Sciences. Jarod is studying towards a Masters in Science, Biosecuirty and Conservation. Jarord and Jonny chat about pekapeka/bats, echolocation and the co-evolution between pekapeka and moths.  Thanks to The University of Auckland!

Sof plays some old and new favourites... many of which appear on some killer compliations she's had on repeat. If you wanna deep dive into those, check out:  Wallpaper Mach 1.5- Limitless Luxury (1999) Fingertracks: Vol. 1 (2019) A Decade Deeper (2018) Thanks to The Tuning Fork xx

Featuring a whole bunch of awesome goodness, firstly that we're heading to MOTAT for their 60th Birthday. Hooray! Join us for 95bFM at MOTAT's 60th Birthday on Sunday 20 October 2024 - Aneeka and Nicholas will be broadcasting live from 9AM to 12PM. Plus an interview with Amy Mansfield about her new play, H.R. The Musical, and Ready Steady Learn thanks to the smart folks at Waipapa Taumata Rau - University of Auckland.

Tonight on Spaced Out Josh Aoraki gives us the update on extra-terristular news, in particular what's happening with NASA spacecraft Voyager II. Thanks to The Stardome!

Recently, Stats NZ released their findings for August 2024s employment indicators. The statistics show that younger New Zealanders, between the ages of 15 - 30, are struggling to get into the job market, as employers continuously choose those from older age demographics. News and Editorial Director and Monday Wire Host, Joel, spoke to Chief Executive and Principal Economist at Infometrics, Brad Olsen, about these findings, and why it is so difficult for young people to enter the job market here in Aotearoa.

A total of 149 projects have been selected for fast tracking through the government's new Fast-track Approvals Bill. There’s a variety of projects on the list, in sectors including farming, infrastructure, energy, and mining.  The fast track approvals bill went through public consultation without a public release of the list of projects.  This meant the public didn’t have specific details when submitting on the bill.  Now the 149 projects on the list have been revealed, a number of environmental concerns have arisen over projects that were successfully opposed in the past.  Forest and Birds Richard Capie calls this an assault on Aotearoa’s democracy.  Producer Evie spoke to Capie about the list of projects and Forest and Birds concerns around them. 

The topic on the table today - Leopard Print! When did it start? Is it tacky, classic or out of vogue?

The data of New Zealand's rainbow community has, for the first time, been incorporated as a part of the country’s 2023 Census. This is a huge win for the country’s LGBTQIA+ community, as queer people have been advocating for decades for their inclusion in Census data, which would in turn help aid in better resourcing for the country's rainbow community. News and Editorial Director and Monday Wire Host, Joel, spoke to the Workplace Services Development Lead at InsideOUT Kōaro, a queer national charity group, Rosie Leadbitter, about the data, and what this means for New Zealand’s queer population moving forward.

Jenna from Time Out Bookstore talks to us about the new book from Becky Manawatu called Kataraina - it's an intense read and follows on from Aue, whilst taking a different stylistic tack.  This Saturday is also Aotearoa New Zealand Bookshop Day and it's happening all across local bookstores in Tāmaki Makaurau in 12th October 2024!

Jim White spoke to Jonny about the self-titled debut album from The Hard Quartet, released last Friday as well as how the supergroup formed and an exciting tour planned for next year. Whakarongo mai nei ~

A total of 149 projects have been selected for fast tracking through the government's new Fast-track Approvals Bill. There’s a variety of projects on the list, in sectors including farming, infrastructure, energy, and mining.  The bill has been contentious since its introduction, with many concerns surrounding its potential effects on the environment. 19 projects on the list are mining related, with many of them successfully opposed in the past by environmental agencies, and even the supreme court.  For their weekly catch up Producer Evie spoke to the ACT Party’s Simon Court about the newly unveiled list, and why some of these projects have been included on it.  They also talked about emails to David Seymours office that were revealed by Newsroom last week, showing the party leader was invited to King Tuheitias Koroneihana earlier this year, despite repeated claims he did not receive an invite.

This week on the Monday Wire... For our weekly catchup with the ACT Party's Simon Court, Producer Evie spoke to Court about the list of Fast Track Approval Bill projects being unveiled, and the revelation by Newsroom that emails show ACT Party Leader, David Seymour, was invited to Kiingi Tuheitia's koroneihana, despite repeated claims he did not receive an invite. Evie also spoke to the Group Manager Conservation Advocacy and Communications of Forest and Bird, Richard Capie, about the Fast Track Approvals Bill going through public consultation without a public release of the list of projects entailed in the bill. News and Editorial Director, and Monday Wire Host, Joel, spoke to the Chief Executive and Principal Economist at Infometrics, Brad Olsen, about Stats NZ findings showing young New Zealanders are struggling to enter the job market. and Joel spoke to the Workplace Services Development Lead at InsideOUT Kōaro, Rosie Leadbitter, about data from rainbow communties in the country being inplimented in the 2023 Census for the first time.  Whakarongo mai!

Featuring Fashun with Penelope Noir, an interview with The Hard Quartet around the release of their debut album, and Loose Reads with the lovely folks at Time Out Bookstore. Whakarongo mai nei ~

Lee's away this week but there's a great show nonetheless!

William Barrett (Heresiarch) and Emma Bernard (Ludus) chat with Hunter about BIRDPARTY, their new collaborative project and self titled album.

Litia has returned from Fiji, and is back to tell us all about Nobody Wants This the new romcom series on Netflix starring Kristen Bell - it's juicy, silly and worth a binge!

Featuring a guest interview with Ladyhawke following the second lineup drop for The Others Way, Travelling Tunes with Dr Kirsten Zemke, and Breakfast Food with Lucinda Bennett!

Holy smokes! The second lineup drop for The Others Way is out of this world, listen back to Jonny chat to legend Ladyhawke about all the goodstuff lined up for this year's festival. 

 Last Friday, the winner of the Walters Prize for 2024 was announced, as chosen by this year’s international judge Cameroonian Berlin-based Professor Bonaventure Soh Bejeng Ndikung.  The $50,000 Walters Prize - which is now awarded every three years - was decided this year between artists Owen Connors, Juliet Carpenter, Brett Graham and Ana Iti. On Friday, artist Ana Iti (Te Rarawa) was announced as the winner for her sculpture and sound installation entitled ‘A resilient heart like the mānawa’, which is currently on display alongside the other candidate’s works at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki.  Sofia caught up with Ana about celebrating the win, the creation process behind ‘A resilient heart like the mānawa’, and what’s next for her and her practic

Dr Kirsten Zemke chats to Jonny about the Caribbean genre Calypso on this week's Travelling Tunes!

For Stage Direction this week, Alice Canton speaks to Ravi and Jayshri Ratnam about Tiffin Box on at Basement Theatre from the 8th-12th October. You can get tickets here. 

Clementine returns to the bFM studio to play their new tracks (think Modern Baseball) for Fancy New Band! Thanks heaps to NZ on Air 

Artist Ana Iti (Te Rarawa) has been announced as the winner of the $50,000 Walters Prize 2024 for her sculpture and sound installation ‘A resilient heart like the mānawa’. Sofia had a kōrero with Ana about celebrating the win, the creation process behind this work, and what’s next for her and her practice.  Beth had a kōrero with curator James Gatt about from elsewhere, a collaborative exhibition currently showing at Te Uru Gallery which aims to address the notion of being ‘from elsewhere’. For Stage Direction this week: Alice Canton is in to chat with Ravi and Jayshri Ratnam from Prayas Theatre about Tiffin Box on at Basement Theatre from next week. And to round-off the show, we have your arts guide - giving you the low-down on artsy happenings in Tāmaki this week!

Another Friday morning with Lucia brought to you by the lovely Tuning Fork!  Clementine joins for Fancy New Band thanks to NZ on Air Music.   

For our weekly catch up with the Labour Party Wire host Caeden speaks to Labour education spokesperson, Jan Tinetti, on education unions opposition to charter schools, the reallocation of te reo Māori funding towards the maths curriculum, and the government’s new plan to lift school attendance rates.

Featuring David Slack on Political Commentary, Breakfast Food with Lucinda Bennett, Nick at the Haka World Record event last Sunday, and a Q&A with Auckland Transport on how to avoid parking tickets!

Listen back to all the excitement last Sunday as Aotearoa claims the Guinness World Record for largest Haka.

Joel celebrates the beginning of October, as in their (lowkey correct) opinion, October is the second best month of the year! Whakarongo mai! 

In this Morning Glory we practice exercising free will with Sofía. Neive Strang and Jaz Paterson join along for a interviews about their new singles A Sweet Dive and What Am I Meant To Do. A quick brazillian interlude includes tracks from: Erasmo Carlos - Minha Gente, Sábado Morto Arthur Verocai - Caboclo, Velho parente, A Outra Gracias a Tuning Fork 

For City Counselling this week, Producer Sofia spoke to Councillor Shane Henderson about Council's progress on emergency response systems and the buyout scheme for homeowners impacted by floods. 

Wire host Caeden spoke to University of Sydney’s Lisa Asher on the declined Foodstuffs merger and what it means for grocery prices and the supermarket duopoly.

Lucinda Bennett chats to Jonny about the new supermarket out at Westgate -  Foodie Asian Supermarket. 

For States of the States, 95bFM’s United States election coverage, Wire Host Caeden spoke to Andre Fa’aoso from Yale Daily News about the only vice presidential debate of the election.

David Slack chats to Jonny about Nicola Willis' stance on Capital Gains Tax.

Around Mid September, the coalition government issued a directive to departments across the public sector to refocus the delivery of services so that they would be prioritised on the basis of need instead of race. In line with this, the government scrapped a policy requiring government agencies to ensure at least 8% of their annual procurement contracts were awarded to Māori businesses, as well as a Hawke's Bay health initiative granting free GP visits to young Māori and Pasifika. The decision has been criticised by experts and members of the public, who say that ethnicity focused initiatives are needed to address health and wealth gaps between certain ethnic groups and the wider population of Aotearoa.  Oto spoke to Clair Mills, A senior lecturer at Te Kupenga Hauora Maori, the department of Maori health at the University of Auckland, and a medical specialist trained in public and population health, to discuss why Ethnicity focused-health initiatives are necessary.

Recent statistics have shown that the population of Aotearoa is steadily growing older, with the number of people over the age of 65 expected to hit 1 million by 2028. In line with this, discussions have begun on how New Zealand’s healthcare system can be adapted to better accommodate for the ageing population of Aotearoa, particularly in the field of end-of-life care. As such, a team of researchers from the University of Auckland and Waikato have begun a project examining the current state of palliative care in Aotearoa and how clinicians can help kaumātua and whānau to make better decisions. Oto spoke to Julie Harrison, an Associate Professor in Accounting and Finance at the University of Auckland who is part of the study, to discuss her research and findings.

Oto reached out to Paula Lorgelly, a professor of Health Economics and Population Health at the University of Auckland for an expert opinion on the end of Free Covid Test distribution.  From Monday this week onwards, Rapid Antigen Tests would not be provided from pharmacies freely and would instead need to be purchased directly from retailers. A pack of 5 covid tests would cost $16.99 at Chemist Warehouse, for example.

Last week, infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop and Health Minister Shane Reti announced that the planned redevelopment of the new Dunedin Hospital would need to be scaled back, based on projections that the upgrade costs could reach or exceed $3 billion New Zealand dollars.  Advice given to Te Whatu Ora, Health New Zealand, has been to either reduce the scale of the hospital’s infrastructural development or to develop the project in stages. The decision has been widely criticised, both by the general public and local government officials in Dunedin, who say that the announcement contradicts the coalition’s promise to continue a project started by the previous Labour government to rebuild Dunedin hospital to full capacity and capabilities. For their weekly catchup, I spoke to the Green Party’s Ricardo Menendez-March to discuss the decision to roll back on the development of Dunedin Hospital. They also had a kōrero about the end of free covid test distribution and the government’s sign off on changes to increase speed limits.

For their regular catch-up, Oto spoke to the Green Party’s Ricardo Menéndez March about the scaling down of upgrades to Dunedin hospital, The end of free covid tests and the recent sign off on speed limit changes. He spoke to Paula Lorgelly from the University of Auckland for an expert opinion on the end of free COVID test provision. He spoke to Julie Harrison, also from the University of Auckland to discuss a research project she was involved in examining costs for Kaumatua in elderly life care. And he spoke to Clair Mills from Te Kupenga Hauora Maori to discuss the government’s directive to adjust health services to focus on need instead of ethnicity. 95bFM News and Editorial director, Joel, spoke to Professional Teaching Fellow in the Faculty of Education and Social Work at the University of Auckland, Brian Marsh, about rising statistics of violence in schools, and how this relates to the Covid-19 lockdowns. And they also spoke to Professor of Health Economics at the University of Auckland, Paula Lorgelly, about Associate Health Minister, Casey Costello’s, tax cuts for Heated Tobacco Products.

Recently there has been a spike in reported violence within schools across the country. In March, The Education Review Offices’ Education Evaluation head, Ruth Shinoda, discussed a report into the findings with RNZ, saying that New Zealand ranks amongst the worst for disruptive behaviour in classrooms, with this only increasing in the past few years. In 2022, 29% of the total number of students stood down in schools were due to physical assaults on other students, with 3% being stood down for physical assaults on staff members. News and Editorial Director, Joel, spoke to Professional Teaching Fellow in the Faculty of Education and Social Work at the University of Auckland, Dr Brian Marsh, about this rise in violence, and how these rising statistics stem from students being in isolation during the Covid-19 lockdowns.

Associate Health Minister, Casey Costello, is pushing for smokers to switch to Heated Tobacco Products, otherwise known as HTPs, as an alternative to other forms of smoking, for what she says is a part of a solution to try work towards Smokefree 2025. The plan, which aims to get 7000 people to switch to HTPs, will result in a cut of 50% to excise tax to the products at a cost of up to $216 million. Currently, tobacco giant, Philip Morris, owns a Monopoly of HTPs in New Zealand, which would mean that this company will solely profit off of the tax cuts. Many are concerned that Costello is prioritising profits over actually working towards lowering tobacco usage within Aotearoa. As well as this, Philip Morris’ HTPs, known as IQOS’ have recently been pulled from shelves over being classified as vapes, and therefore going against Labour’s vaping regulations, which require vaping products to have child safety mechanisms, as well as having removable batteries.  News and Editorial Director, Joel, spoke to Professor of Health Economics at the University of Auckland, Paula Logelly, on Costello’s push for HTPs, and whether she believes that Costello is putting money over people’s health.

Featuring Isthmus'n That with Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson and Ready Steady Learn thanks to Waipapa Taumata Rau University of Auckland.

Part two of deep beach house rarities followed by a pinch of zest

Alesha Wells a Doctoral student at the School of Psychological Medicine joins Jonny for Ready Steady Learn to yarn about a current trial of LSD microdosing in late-stage cancer patients at the University of Auckland.  Thank to the smart folks at the University of Auckland!

Oto and Jaycee talked to local artist, romiin, of Filipino origin to discuss his songwriting process, collaborations with international artists and ventures into the world of DJing. They also tried some snacks that Jaycee brought back from his trip to Canada.

Elle catches up with MACEY about his newest single, 'before you have to go'. Together they discuss the writing of the single, its themes, and his relationship with music. MACEY also brought along his guitar to play the song live!

Last week, the government announced that planned developments to Dunedin’s hospital may exceed the planned budget of $1.88 billion, and reach as much as $3 billion. As such, ministers Chris Bishop and Shane Reti announced that the plans may require reductions or an extended timeframe.  The announcement was met with mass opposition both on social media and in public, with some 35,000 protestors turning out on the streets of Dunedin on Saturday to march against the change. The current government has been controversial for a range of its other policy decisions as well, particularly for how these policies shape up to campaign promises and expectations.  While under delivery on campaign promises is not uncommon in politics, it can hurt a party when it comes to re-election, especially when it comes to regions like Dunedin which may see less directed policies than major centres like Auckland.  Wire host Castor spoke to PhD candidate and researcher at the University of Otago, Michael Swanson, about the politics of this government and how the Dunedin hospital development plays into things moving into the next election.

While at the Ottawa Blues Fest Grimes spoke with bFM-alumni legend, Charlotte Ryan, about performing live on stage among other things before heading over to New Zealand in December 2012. This clip comes from the many tapes, CDs, and MP3s that build up the bFM Archive.

Jaycee came back from Canada for the 9th episode of WALAO! with some decadent snacks that him and Oto tried on air. They also had a lovely kōrero with romiin, a local artist of Filipino origin, about his musical process and plans for the future.

A trip hop vibe for your Tuesday Morning Glory!! We also listen to Elle's beautiful kōrero with MACEY about his newest single, 'before you have to go'. You can listen back to that interview here! Kia ora The Tuning Fork x

On Dear Science this week, our expert Professor Allan Blackman spoke to us about neuroscience findings under scrutiny, new information about the Franklin expedition, and the failure of Thalidomide. 

The government has finally delivered on a long talked about policy, a major crackdown on truancy in schools.  Associate Education Minister David Seymour announced a three part ‘STAR’ plan, to be put in place by the beginning of the 2026 school year. There are various consequences for students absent between five and 10 days, but for students absent for 15 days, parents may be fined and prosecuted.  Many schools and teachers have taken issue with the policy, saying everyone wants their child at school, but the root of the issue can often be much deeper.  For their weekly catch up Producer Evie spoke to the ACT Party’s Simon Court about the crackdown, and why the government believes it will be effective.  They also talk about public submissions on the oil and gas ban reversal bill, which are open for only four business days, considerably shorter than submission time for most bills.  

This week on The Wire... For our weekly catch up with the ACT Party's Simon Court, Producer Evie spoke to Simon Court about the government's crackdown on truancy, as well as public submissions on the oil and gas exploration bill. Evie also spoke to Greenpeace Executive Director, Russell Norman, about concerns surrounding the four day submission time on the same bill. News and Editorial Director and Wire Host, Joel, spoke to the spokesperson for Peace Action Wellington, Valerie Morse, about Foreign Minister, Winston Peters, addressing the UN General Assembly, and whether his calls are enough to address Israel’s war on Gaza and attacks on Lebanon. Evie spoke to The University of Auckland’s Gavin Ellis about job cuts at Whakaata Māori, and what this means for our media landscape. Joel spoke to Senior Lecturer at the School of Management at the Victoria University of Wellington, Stephen Blumenfeld, about a study showing the positives of a hybrid working model, as Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, urges public services workers to go back to the office. And Producer Sofia from the Thursday Wire last week spoke to Agriculture Campaigner at Greenpeace Aotearoa, Sinéad Deighton-O’Flynn, about Fonterra’s recent yearly profit announcement and Fonterra’s use of palm kernel. Whakarongo mai!

Morning Glory host Lou heads down to MOTAT to check out their new exhibition - Whakatangi Puoro | Make Music! Check out what all the noise is about and see for yourself these school holidays.

Last week job cuts were confirmed at Whakaata Māori as part of ongoing  budget cuts to the organisation.  The national indigenous broadcaster is set to lose $10.3 million provided in the previous government’s budget.  The cuts have resulted in the probable axing of the broadcaster's TV bulletin, with a plan to move to online content by March of next year.  In parliament Former Broadcasting Minister Willie Jackson pleaded with the government to invest in Whakaata Māori, calling the move yet another attack on Te Reo.  The cuts come off the back of a tumultuous time for Aotearoa’s media space, following the closure of Newshub and major cuts at TVNZ.  Producer Evie spoke to the University of Auckland’s Gavin Ellis about the cuts at Whakaata Māori, the effect they’ll have on te ao Māori media, public access to news and the direction our media sector is moving in.

The crown mineral amendment bill was introduced to parliament last Tuesday. Public submissions on the bill close tomorrow (Tuesday 1st October). This gives the public only four business days to make their submission on the bill, significantly shorter than the average submission time.  The bill is aiming to reverse the ban on offshore oil and gas exploration, something the coalition government campaigned on.  The government has also cut down the normal six month select committee process, wanting the bill to be passed before the end of the year.  Greenpeace says the short public submission time on the bill shows the government has a complete disregard for people in New Zealand who care about climate change.  Producer Evie spoke to Greenpeace Executive Director Russell Norman about his concerns surrounding the four day submission time on the bill, and what impacts the ban reversal will actually have on the environment. 

Featuring Loose Reads with Suri from Time Out Bookstore, Fashun with Penelope Noir, and Morning Glory host Lou heads along to MOTAT to check out their new exhibition called Making Music! Whakarongo mai nei.

This Monday morning Elle kicks off with some Pale Saints, Minnie Riperton and The Velvet Underground. She's joined by a co-pilot for the second hour of the show, with surprise guest Heidi Simpson! They spoke about the current state of pop music, phone addictions and all the music they have been loving lately. 

Suri chats to Aneeka about the new novel from 2018 Booker Prize winner Olga Tokarczuk titled The Empusiam - a centenarian response to Thomas Mann's The Magic Mountain. For lovers of folkloric horror with a touch of comedy, and feminist parables.Whakarongo mai nei! 

Sam gets heavy this week with some high-octane, guitar-oriented tunes to end the weekend with. 

For Daylight Saving Sunday, Def Jim presents a bodyclock-soothing (not!) stew & brew of jazz tempos, from the urgent Young Turk jab'n'parry of the New York Contemporary Five via funky grooves from Joey Baron to Dojo-calm meditations from Quest. And that ain't the half of it.

Alice Canton and Rutene Spooner join Beth in-studio to chat about Be Like Billy, a show on at Te Pou Theatre as a part of Kōanga Festival. Tickets through Te Pou’s website.

Tuva'a was on wake-up duties this morning whilst Jonny holidays! Featuring Travelling Tunes with Dr Kirsten Zemke thanks to Drake Street Studios,  and a bunch of epic music!  

Arrrrrrr - talkin' sea shanties aren't we? Ahoy to Drake Street Studios!

Chaos Magic is an exhibition by Matt Joils currently on at Window Gallery. Based in Tāmaki, Joils is a painter whose works draw from visual elements found organically online and graphic design in the urban wild.  In response to Mark Fisher’s publication ‘Capitalist Realism’, the exhibition consists of a series of a small-scale abstract painting installation and a large depiction of Garfield.  Sofia spoke to Matt about his practice and the exhibition, on until October 18th.

Ngā Taonga Tūturu: Treasured Māori Portraits is a new exhibition showing at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki.  Co-curated by Senior Curator of Māori Art, Nathan Pōhio, and Curator of Historical New Zealand Art, Dr Jane Davidson-Ladd, the exhibition brings together whakairo and oil paintings from the gallery’s collection, offering insights into the significance of tūpuna representations within te ao Māori.  Sofia had a kōrero with co-curator, Dr Jane Davidson-Ladd, about the exhibition.

Sofia had a kōrero with co-curator, Dr Jane Davidson-Ladd, about Ngā Taonga Tūturu: Treasured Māori Portraits, a new exhibition showing at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki. The exhibition brings together whakairo and oil paintings from the gallery’s collection, offering insights into the significance of tūpuna representations within te ao Māori.  Beth spoke with Ross Deans, Jodie Yawa McMillan and Madi Macdonald about Through the Lens: Gendered Reflections, an exhibition of photography by women artists spanning a period of over 40 years including works by alumni of the University of Auckland Waipapa Taumata Rau. Sofia had a kōrero with Matt Joils about his exhibition, Chaos Magic, currently showing at Window Gallery. In response to Mark Fisher’s publication ‘Capitalist Realism’, the exhibition consists of a series of a small-scale abstract painting installation and a large depiction of Garfield. For Stage Direction, Alice Canton and Rutene Spooner join Beth in-studio to chat about Be Like Billy, a show on at Te Pou Theatre as a part of Kōanga Festival. Tickets through Te Pou’s website.. And, as always, they round off the show with your weekly Arts Guide, keeping you up-to-date with all the must-see artsy goings-on in Tāmaki.

Through the Lens: Gendered Reflections is an exhibition of photography by women artists, spanning a period of over 40 years. The collection includes visual works by alumni of the University of Auckland Waipapa Taumata Rau, including Yvonne Todd, Lisa Reihana, Marti Friedlander, Ann Shelton and Fiona Pardington. The works highlight the seminal role that women have played in the evolution of photography in Aotearoa. Beth spoke to Ross Deans, Jodie Yawa McMillan and Madi Macdonald about the exhibition and curatorial process. RSVP to a special preview of Gendered Reflections at Old Government House on October 2nd, 5:30pm: [email protected].

Hey team! Fun little morning glory vibe, includes "One dance" by Drake Thanks to The Tuning Fork 

Good morning! a serving of the soundtrack of But I'm a Cheerleader (1996) that Joel recently watched, and their first show back after being wildly sick! Whakarango mai!

Public Service Minister Nicola Willis has directed ministry bosses to tighten up on working from home.  Heart of the City has said workers returning to the office will help struggling businesses in Auckland's city centre and that Auckland Council could lead the way to revitalising the CBD.  However, after reviewing its working from home policies, Council has decided it is not going to change its flexible working arrangements.  Additionally, this week a large rubbish bin graveyard in central Auckland has sparked public outrage.  This comes after Council’s removal of public bins as a part of Council’s cost-saving drive, promising to save ratepayers $9 million by getting rid of 30% of the region’s public bins.  Sofia spoke to Councillor Julie Fairey about both of these topics. 

Catch up on Political Commentary with Bryce Edwards and get your gastronomical fix on Breakfast Food with Lucinda Bennett. Whakarongo mai nei ~

UNICEF and the Global Coalition for Youth Mental Health have launched an open letter calling for greater investment and action on child and youth mental health globally, urging a coordinated multi-sectoral response of at least $200 billion US dollars. The letter has been signed by over 40 businesses and organisations including Jo Malone London, Pinterest, lululemon, and Spotify.  Sofia spoke with UNICEF Aotearoa’s Communications Director, Tania Sawicki Mead, about the letter and why mental health support needs more funding.  She began the interview asking her what the key demands of the letter were.

This week on Political Commentary, Dr Bryce Edwards phones in from sunny Pōneke to chat about Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau's backtracking on comments on Newstalk ZB about selling her car to pay personal bills. 

Wire Host Caeden speaks to Andre Fa’aoso from the Yale Daily News on the latest United States election polling numbers and the execution of Marcellus Williams for State of the States.

Wire Host Caeden speaks to Andre Fa’aoso from the Yale Daily News on the latest United States election polling numbers and the execution of Marcellus Williams for State of the States.

Catch up on Political Commentary with Bryce Edwards and get your gastronomical fix on Breakfast Food with Lucinda Bennett. Whakarongo mai nei ~

For our weekly catch-up the Labour Party Wire Host Caeden speaks to mental health spokesperson Ingrid Leary on Mental Health Awareness Week and broader mental health policy in Aotearoa.

Dan from DARTZ phones in from Pōneke to chat to Jonny about the just announced show 95bFM Presents DARTZ and Dune Rats at Double Whammy happening on the 5th of December! We bloody stoked to be hosting Welly's most chronic and beloved boy band alongside Aussie punks Dune Rats. Listen in and see you there.

Over the last two years, there have been a multitude of mechanical failures regarding the inter-islander ferries between the North and the South Island, which has brought great attention to the government. KiwiRail has requested a one-point-seven billion dollar funding request for a project to see the ferries repaired and ensure capacity for train transport as well. Unfortunately, the government has declined the funding request, which could seriously impact the travel potential of goods and services, not to mention general transport, between the North and South island. For this week’s Get Action! Sasha spoke to Dave Macpherson from The Future is Rail about a petition he started to ensure replacement Cook Strait ferries can carry trains. If you’d like to sign this petition, click here.

Featuring Spaced Out with The Stardome and an interview with HINA about her new single Hinātore - whakarongo mai nei! Thanks to The Beer Spot!

Featuring What's Up? with Green Party MP Steve Abel, an interview with DARTZ following the announce of 95bFM presents DARTZ and Dune Rats at Double Whammy, Thursday 5 December, and the Aural Emporium! 

Jonny talks to Steve Abel of The Green Party about the Government's introduction of new legislation to the house to reverse the ban on offshore drilling. Listen back here!

Recently, the United States Federal Reserve has cut interest rates by 50 basis points, citing signs of economic slowdown and lowering inflation rates. This decision, although overseas, is heavily connected to New Zealand as almost all state economies are tied to the United States. Following this decision, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand may choose to follow in the same footsteps. This decision may reduce or slow the current recession, which New Zealand is already in the midst of, worse than the two-thousand and eight financial crisis. However, the odds of igniting consumer price may also increase leading to asset inflation additionally increasing. Sasha spoke to professor of Business and Economics Robert MacCulloch from the University of Auckland about a deeply complicated issue, which affects all New Zealanders.

Hole Erth, Chaz Bear’s eighth full-length studio record as Toro y Moi released earlier this month on the 6th of September. Hole Erth was also the 95bFM Album of the Week two weeks ago, I had a quick chat with Chaz via the internet about the new album. Whakarongo mai nei!

A stacked show featuring an interview with Toro y Moi and guest mix from estoc ahead of Nympho this Friday night!!! 

Listen back to estoc's next-level mix to get you in the mood for Nympho this Friday at Neck of the Woods! It's packed full of bangers. 

A guest mix by Darion Squire featuring lo-fi trap and selected rarities - plus the new Floating Points and Yaeji.

Eased into the show with some Joni Mitchell, Nagisa Ni Te, and Ami Koita... working up to a bit of Strawpeople, Headache, and Massive Attack... gorg. Sof chats with Rita Mae about her newest single "Poster Child". You can listen back to that kōrero here!  Ngā mihi nui to The Tuning Fork x

Featuring the announcement of Reb Fountain's tour celebrating her new single Come Down, plus an interview with Reb herself, Ready Steady Learn thanks to Waipapa Taumata Rau/The University of Auckland, and a special announcement ~ Joan As Policewoman is returning to Aotearoa in May 2025!

On Dear Science this week, our expert Dr. Cushla McGoverin chatted with us about pandas' diets becoming less varied, concentrating COVID-19 in one place during testing, and the development of porous liquids. 

Last week, the government revealed statistics showing a drop in crime in Auckland’s CBD, the reduction accredited to increased police presence under this government.  Crime isn’t the only issue facing the CBD, with recent data showing that hospitality spending in Auckland’s CBD is down compared to previous years. Challenges faced by hospitality businesses have been particularly evident since COVID lockdowns, with some heritage businesses permanently closing in recent months.  The government has also been tabling discussions of increasing the parliamentary term from three to four years. While several previous governments have discussed such a change, some issues have prevented it from going ahead.  In our weekly catchup with the National Party’s Katie Nimon, Wire host Castor asked her about these issues facing the CBD, and about the potential for a four-year parliamentary term, starting off with crime in the CBD. 

A 95bFM Special Announcement! Reb Fountain is playing at the Hollywood Avondale on 9th November to celebrate the release of her new single Come Down. Listen back to Jonny and Reb yarn about the new single and some of the exciting things in store for Reb fans. 

Oto talked to Tāmaki Makaurau singer-songwriter of Bangladeshi origin, Sabreen, just after the release of her most recent single: Countryman.  Countryman is a song that takes listeners on a narrative journey through the life of Joe Kum Yung, a retired miner of Chinese origin who came to Aotearoa in the early 20th century, who was murdered by a white supremacist. Oto talked to Sabreen about the process she went through in writing the song, as well as why Joe Kum Yung's story resonated with her.

PhD candidate Isurie Akarawita gives us the info on her doctoral thesis on Smart Chewing Robots ~ and how robots can help circumvent the emotional bias present in human studies on how we enjoy our kai.  Thanks to The University of Auckland!

Sof has a kōrero with Rita Mae about her newest single "Poster Child" and her time overseas. Whakarongo mai! 

This week on the Tuesday Wire... For Dear Science our expert Doctor Cushla McGoverin chatted to us about pandas eating better in the past than they do now, using light to spot COVID, and separating liquids using other liquids. In our weekly catchup with the National Party, Wire host Castor spoke to MP Katie Nimon about hospitality spending and the potential for a four-year parliamentary term.  They also spoke to general manager of the Restaurant Association, Nicola Waldren, about hospitality spending in Aotearoa and what more the government could do.  And on the Green Desk, Jack Marshall spoke to lecturer of sustainable architecture at AUT, Priscilla Besen, about solutions to Aotearoa’s energy crisis.

Featuring Loose Reads with Time Out Bookstore and Fashun with Penelope Noir. 

The government has outlined its upcoming changes to the law to clarify whether a worker is an employee or a contractor. The changes would restrict contractors from challenging their status in the employment court.  This comes following a case brought to the employment court in 2022, in which four Uber drivers were granted the rights of employees, rather than of contractors as they were employed. Thus allowing these drivers to be entitled to protections such as guaranteed hours, leave, kiwisaver contributions and the right to unionise.  Uber appealed the decision, but were dismissed. Now the government wants to adjust the law to prevent this from occurring again.  For their weekly catch up Producer Evie spoke to the ACT Party’s Simon Court about this change, and the concerns that have arisen around it.  They also talked about the gang patch legislation passing into law, including last minute additions to the bill and how it will be imposed.  

Abby chats to Jonny about the new book from Airana Ngarewa (Ngāti Ruanui, Nga Rauru, Ngāruahine). Ngāti Pātea/Pātea Boys is a bilingual book in reo Māori and English about a group of boys growing up in Pātea and is a fantastic resource for those on their reo Māori journey - perfect for Te Wiki o te Reo Māori.  Thanks to Time Out Bookstore!

Unions say that the government's change to employment law restricting contractors from challenging their status in the employment court, is a step in the wrong direction.  The change comes off the back of the landmark decision by the employment court to grant four contract uber drivers the status of an employee. The government now wants to prevent this from happening again.  E Tū Union National Secretary Rachel Mackintosh says this change will lock in the exploitation which Uber’s current model relies on.  Producer Evie spoke to Mackintosh about why the government is implementing the changes and how it will negatively affect workers.   

For their weekly catch up with Te Pāti Māori, Oto spoke to Mariameno Kapa-Kingi about Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori last week, Gang patch legislation passing into law, and New Zealand supporting a UN resolution, calling for an end of Israel’s occupation of Palestine. He spoke to Nicole Wallace from the Tertiary Education Union to discuss a recent series of proposed cuts to short postgraduate courses at the University of Auckland. And he spoke to John Minto from Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa to discuss Israel’s exploding pager attack in Lebanon last week, as well as New Zealand voting in favour of the UN General assembly resolution demanding an end to Israel’s occupation of the Palestinian territories. For their weekly catch up, Evie spoke to the ACT Party’s Simon Court about restricting contract workers from challenging their employment status, and the ban on gang patches passing into law.  She also spoke to E Tū National Secretary Rachel Mackintosh about the same planned changes to the contractor employment law, why the Union opposes these, and what negative impact she believes it will have.

This week's show featured new music from The Voidz, Jamie xx, The WAEVE and more. Sam also takes a look at the reissue of Dam Native's classic album Kaupapa Driven Rhymes Uplifted.

We're celebrating Te Wiki 2024 'Ake ake ake – A Forever Language with some new discoveries and blends fusing the excellent reo vocals and rare groove classics.  @amomaipihama @tipenemusic @CheyMilne @AnnaCoddington Mauri ora!

Blind Mango Chutney is your host this week, playing tracks from the new album by by Avondale quartet Damp 4, and introducing special guest selector Mark de Clive-Lowe, talking about his music, and his new base in Tokyo. And Miss Dom pops in to do the vinyl guide — even gets to ask Mark a question!

Joe Locke aka P.H.F. joins Hunter to discuss "SUFFER', his tweflth long player.

Aubrey O'Grady is currently studying a Bachelor of Education (Honours) specialising in Inclusive Education. This week on Lecture Me, Aubrey tells us about a lecture from EDUC759: Inclusivity Practices in Neurodiversity taught by Professor Missy Morton. Whakarongo mai nei ~  Thanks to Blue Hills Books!

This week on The Saturday Spring Aubrey talks inclusive education and neurodiversity on Lecture Me thanks to Blue Hills Books, Stella hops on Implausible Deniability, and Finn solves all our problems on Dear Finn. 

Catch up on all things telly with Litia!

For Stage Direction this week, Alice Canton speaks to Freya Silas Finch about A Slow Burlesque. More information about the show is here. 

On Various Artists this week! Sofia had a kōrero with artist Fiona Jack about Public Clay, an exhibition of hers currently on at Melanie Roger Gallery. Beth had a kōrero with artist Tia Ansell about her exhibition Building Patterns, currently showing at Suite Gallery. Sofia also spoke with the director of Show Me Shorts Film Festival, Gina Dellabarca, about the programme this year. Beth had a kōrero with artist Otis Frizzell about his and Mike Weston’s exhibition, Identity Crisis. And for Stage Direction this week: Alice Canton is in to chat with Freya Silas Finch about A Slow Burlesque, on at Basement Theatre from the 3rd to 19th October.

Lucian Rice joins Lucia in the studio to play stripped-back versions of two of his songs ahead of his upcoming EP: Right Now, Forever! Thanks to NZ on Air Music ❤️  

Jonny speaks to Danny Haimona (aka Danny D) of Dam Native about the re-issue of one of Aotearoa's seminal hip hop albums Kaupapa Driven Rhymes Uplifted, which happens to be our Album of the Week this week. Originally released in 1997, the album continues to shape approaches to reo Māori rap and contemporary music. Whakarongo mai nei!

Featuring Travelling Tunes with Dr Kirsten Zemke thanks to Drake Street Studios, a guest interview with Michael of Sub Depot ahead of Reggae Rodeo's 10th Birthday bash at Galatos, an interview with Dam Native regarding the re-issuing of Kaupapa Driven Rhymes Uplifted, and Viewmaster with Litia. 

Kirsten breaks the cardinal rule of 95bFM (according to Jonny) and plays emo on-air. Kirsten runs us through the history of the emo genre and it's origin in the hardcore punk scene in D.C during the 1980s. Whakarongo mai nei! Thanks to Drake Street Studios!

Show Me Shorts Film Festival is Aotearoa New Zealand's leading international short film festival.  With its mission to connect New Zealand audiences with short films, the festival brings together 126 screenings of 85 short films at 40 cinema venues across Aotearoa this year. Sofia spoke with the Festival Director, Gina Dellabarca, about the programme for this year. 

Public Clay is an exhibition by Fiona Jack currently on at Melanie Roger Gallery.  Fiona Jack is a conceptual artist based in Tāmaki Makaurau where she is the Head of School at Te Waka Tūhura Elam School of Fine Art at Waipapa Taumata Rau the University of Auckland.  As Jack’s first solo exhibition with Melanie Roger Gallery, the exhibition presents a new series of ‘earth posters’ made in collaboration with Naarm/Melbourne-based poet, Sholto Buck, as well as a new collaborative work with Tāmaki Makaurau-based artist, Elizabeth Pointon. Sofia spoke to Fiona about this exhibition, her practice, and these collaborative projects.

Jonny and Michael chat about the upcoming tenth anniversary birthday bash for Sub Depot at Galatos this weekend! It's gonna be a goodie!

Wire Host Caeden speaks to Yale Daily News’ Andre Fa’aoso on the anti-immigrant rhetoric from the Trump campaign towards immigrants in Springfield, Ohio as well as the apparent second assassination attempt against Donald Trump this campaign.

Joel spoke to Marshall Lorenzo about his upcoming, award-winning solo sketch comedy show, Baby Gorgeous. This is the second run of the show, after its original run earlier this year in both Tāmaki Makaurau and Te Whanganui-a-tara. The show stars Lorenzo himself, who has written and also produced the piece. As well as this, Lorenzo has quite the CV; having written Canada’s Drag Race, and being the former head of the Canadian comedy award-winning troupe, The Sketchersons. They spoke to Lorenzo about Baby Gorgeous, and what people can expect. Tickets are available via iTicket, and via the Baby Gorgeous website.

Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori, some hyperpop, and a chat with Marshall Lorenzo, the writer, producer, and star of the award-winning solo sketch comedy show, Baby Gorgeous. Whakarongo mai!

Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown has revealed a proposal to build a second harbour bridge between Pt Chevalier and the North Shore as a cheaper alternative crossing option.  This would involve using the naturally existing lava flow at Meola Reef to support a new bridge across the Waitematā Harbour crossing to Kauri Point on the North Shore.  In response, critics have questioned the investment, whether the proposal would solve issues of traffic congestion, and have raised concerns regarding environmental implications, disrupting suburban areas, and iwi consultation.  Additionally, Auckland Council received criticism earlier this week over information revealed through an Official Information Act request by the Auckland Ratepayers Alliance that Council spent over $250k on repairing four sets of stairs on Milford Beach.  Sofia spoke to Councillor Shane Henderson about both of these topics.

Wire Host Caeden speaks to Labour spokesperson for Police, Ginny Andersen, on Auckland CBD crime rates, banning gang patches, and the Minister for Firearms not ruling out re-introducing the type of firearms that were banned after March 15th.

Lucinda chats snaaaaaacks - yum! Forget chippies and sweets, Lucinda reviews healthy snacks such as fresh dates and more.

For our weekly catch-up with the Labour Party, Wire Host Caeden speaks to Labour’s Ginny Anderson about retail crime in the CBD, banning gang patches, and the Minister for Firearms not ruling out bringing back high-powered semi-automatic firearms.  For States of the States this week they speak to Yale Daily News’ Andre Fa’aoso about the situation in Springfield, Ohio after several weeks of Republican-led anti-immigrant rhetoric and the second assassination attempt against former president and Republican candidate Donald Trump. And they speak to University of Otago Senior Lecturer Leon Goldsmith about the device explosions in Lebanon that have killed at least twenty-six people and injured thousands more.  For City Counselling this week, Sofia speaks to Councillor Shane Henderson about Mayor Wayne Brown’s proposal for a second harbour bridge from Point Chevalier to the North Shore as well as Council spending over 250K on beach stairs on Milford Beach. She also speaks to Professor of Law at the University of Waikato, Leilani Tuala-Warren, about a recent proposal by Vanuatu, Fiji and Samoa to recognise ecocide as a crime against humanity and whether Aotearoa should support the proposal.

Today on Breakky - Political Commentary and Breakfast Food. 

David and Jonny chat Shane Jones' invective language directed towards the Green Party and the rising use of demeaning rhetoric amongst politcal actors.

"Music to slit your wrists to..." - anonymous texter/ obvious fan Listen to Sofia's show for a a dive into fairy-esque music to celebrate the harvest moon to Floating Points and the first introduction into jazz-rock NZ duo Pacific Eardrum + interview with Kane from Office Dog about bodies of water interwoven with their new EP Doggerland. Go down the wikipedia rabbit hole of Doggerland here and the EP here! Riki Gooch - Ngaa Tuuhono Swamp Dogg - Sleeping Without You Is a Dragg Ebony Lamb - My Daughter My Sister My Son Pratt & Moody - Lost Lost Lost  Jane Birkin - Harvest Moon Pacific Eardrum - Active Factor, Sitting on a Daisy, Listen/ Whakarongo  Floating Points - Birth4000, Fast Forward, Movement 4/5 FKA twigs - Eusexua Ranea - Rangiātea Mixed Breed - Gotta Go Home Playlist here, but bandcamp is always a better alternative if you can! Gracias a Tuning Fork

Facial Recognition Technology is an emergent biometric payment system that intends to simplify the process of paying for groceries, similar to Amazon’s ‘just walk out’ initiative a few years ago. There are issues to this being actually adopted, mainly with fears of private security being violated in addition with information related to your face being stored within the company’s database. Additionally, with the rise of Artificial Intelligence Deepfakes, scammers could utilise this technology which is inherently linked to your face. Sasha spoke to Associate Professor Laszlo Sajtos at the University of Auckland Business School about facial technology being at New Zealand’s doorstep.

Listen back to hear listeners swap poodles and all sorts.

Listen back to hear Russell talk about the legendary life of the recently passed Doug Hood, as well as his outstanding contribution to music in Aotearoa. Thanks to AudioCulture - the noisy library of New Zealand music.

Featuring Aural Emporium, a guest interview with Strawpeople and a chat to Arthur Ahbez about his most recently released single!

Jonny chats to the legendary duo The Strawpeople ahead of their upcoming (and nearly sold out) show at The Hollywood Avondale. 

The New Zealand government has recently provisionally approved the Monkeypox, or MPOX vaccine in New Zealand. This comes after two new cases being linked to the Queenstown Winter Pride festival.  The overall risk of MPOX to New Zealand still remains low, despite the World Health Organisation Director-General declaring MPOX outbreak a public emergency of International Concern. Despite this, the virus may still prove deadly without proper vaccination or treatment. Sasha spoke to Associate Professor Mark Thomas from the University of Auckland Molecular Medicine and Pathology about the recent adoption of an MPOX vaccine.

Jonny chats to Arthur Ahbez about his brand new single A Simple Medication - listen back to get the goss on the new album set to drop at the start of November too!

Professor Melinda Webber from the Waipapa Taumata Rau University of Auckland talks to Jonny about Mātauranga Māori, the bodies of knowledge within Te Ao Māori, and modern health treatment. Professor Webber's new research looks specifically at Haora and how people's wellbeing is impacted and benefited by cultural practices and participation. 

On Dear Science this week, our expert Professor Allan Blackman spoke to us about the ten winners of the ig Nobel Prizes. You can read more about them here. 

Elle chatted with Molly Payton about her debut album YOYOTTA! Molly discusses the themes of the album, collaboration with her close friends and her new experiences performing in the UK. 

Oto interviewed members of local music and art collective, The Light Beings Network, featuring Ray Leslie and Awggey, to talk about the journey as a group and the plethora of creative endeavours they're involved in. 

Catch up on Breakfast! Listen back to Isthmus'n That, the weekly bFM catch up with Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson, and learn something new from the smart folks of Waipapa Taumata Rau University of Auckland on Ready Steady Learn. 

On Friday the 13th September, Pharmac opened consultation for funding of the medication, Enhertu, for HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer. This comes following the $604 million funding boost allocated to Pharmac to fund and widen access to various medicines.  Trials have shown that the drug can reduce risks of breast cancer patients death by 27%. Producer Josef spoke to the Chief Executive of Breast Cancer New Zealand, Ah-Leen Rayner, about the drug's funding, and what more can be done for breast cancer patients.

A top selection of funk and disco tunes.

For this episode of episode of WALAO! Oto played a variety of Hip-Hop tracks from all across Southeast-Asia.  He also interviewed some members from the local Tāmaki Makaurau music and arts collective, The Light Beings Network, featuring artists Ray Leslie and Awggey who also joined us in the studio.  Oto also played some tracks by the Burmese Hip-Hop collective, Rap Against Junta, who use their music as a means of resistance against Myanmar's military dictatorship.

Elle chatted with Molly Payton about her debut album YOYOTTA! Molly discusses the themes of the album, collaboration with her close friends, and her new experiences performing in the UK. 

The government recently announced proposed changes to the Marine and Coastal Area Act, which, among other changes, would require iwi to prove continuous and uninterrupted occupation of a coastal area since 1840 to make a claim. The proposed changes were reviewed by the Waitangi Tribunal, and the resulting report was released yesterday. In their weekly catchup, Wire host Castor asked Katie Nimon about the government’s reaction to criticisms in the report. They also asked about the government’s policies on Māori wards. Last year the National Party campaigned on putting Māori wards to referendums, with the goal of ‘restoring democracy’. Since asking councils to vote on the issue, all but two of Aotearoa’s local councils have voted to retain their wards. Local government minister Simeon Brown has expressed some discontent at this response, implying that the government may push for binding referendums.  Wire host Castor spoke to National’s Katie Nimon about these issues in their weekly catchup, starting with the Marine and Coastal Area Act.

This week on the Wire... For our weekly catch up with Te Pāti Māori, News and Editorial Director and Monday Wire Host, Joel, spoke to Mariameno Kapa-Kingi about updates regarding the Treaty Principles Bill, as well as Te Pāti Māori MP, Hana-Rawhiti Maipa-Clarke, being a recipient of the One Young World Politician of the year award. For our weekly catch up, Producer Evie spoke to the ACT Party’s Simon Court about a government directive to create a public service that delivers on ‘need not race’, and the draft treaty principals bill being tabled at cabinet for the first time. Producer Evie also spoke to the Public Service Association’s Janice Panoho about what the government has labelled ‘a colourblind public service’, and some of the concerns that come with us. Host Joel spoke to Associate Professor in the Department of Public Health at the University of Otago, Caroline Shaw, regarding a new study showing that ‘decarbonising’ transport would have a signficant impact on health; mental and physical. Producer Evie spoke to the University of Auckland’s Associate Professor in the Faculty of Law Treasa Dunworth about her request for an inquiry to be made into whether New Zealand is sharing intelligence to aid Israel in its war on Gaza. And finally, Host Joel spoke to the National Secretary for Retail and Finance at First Union, Rudd Hughes, about the Woolworths strikes that took place last week, with extra walkouts being planned for the 17th of September. Whakarongo mai!

Featuring Fashun with Penelope Noir and Loose Reads catch up with Time Out bookstore~ plus the announcement of our new album of the week, Kaupapa Driven Rhymes Uplifted by Dam Native. The legendary 1997 album has been re-released and pressed to vinyl!

Last week, workers at Woolworths walked out of their stores,with another strike being planned for tomorrow afternoon over ongoing negotiations between First Union for better pay and working conditions for workers. On Friday, News and Editorial Director, Joel, spoke to the National Secretary for Retail and Finance at First Union, Rudd Hughes, about Tuesday’s walkout. They started off by asking Huges why there was a walkout of over FORTY stores.

Suri from Time Out joins Jonny to chat about a brand new book - Help Wanted by Adelle Waldman. A workplace satire set in a dystopian alternate reality, it follows the underling employees of an Amazon-type workplace and the daily minutae that dictate the experience of the working class strata.

Last week the government announced a directive to create a public service that delivers based on ‘need not race’ - fulfilling a coalition agreement secured by Act and New Zealand First.  The Government says it’s concerned that public servants have been using race as a proxy for need. Despite this the coalition government has introduced things such as free bowel cancer screening for those over 60, but due to Māori and Pasifika’s increased risk of cancer, this applies for those over 50. Completely negating the incentive now being pushed.  For their weekly catch up producer Evie spoke to the ACT Party’s Simon Court about why what they are calling a ‘colourblind public service’  is being pushed forward.  They also talked about the Treaty Principals bill which a draft of was tabled in cabinet for the first time last week.  

 A group of three lawyers is calling for a first-of-its-kind inquiry into whether New Zealand spy agencies are helping Israel's war in Gaza.  In a letter to the inspector-general of intelligence and security (IGIS) on Thursday, they said the country was in danger of aiding international crimes.  The request has four parts, covering previous investigations that have been undertaken by the watchdog, along with Aotearoa’s connections to countries like the US and UK who have been proven to aid Israel.  Producer Evie spoke to Associate Professor in the Faculty of Law at the University of Auckland, Treasa Dunworth, one of three lawyers pushing for this inquiry about what triggered these concerns, and how the inquiry would be undertaken.

The Public Service Association says that the ‘needs not race’ based directive to government agencies is putting all that progress that has been made to improve the lives of Māori at risk.  With the government directing all government agencies that public services must be delivered by need and not race disregards the systemic disadvantages experienced by Māori and Pasifika.  The PSA’s Janice Panoho says that the move will set back Māori for generations at a time when they remain one of the most disadvantaged groups in Aotearoa.  Producer Evie spoke to Panoho about these concerns and what impacts she believes this directive may have. 

You know what time it is! It's time to wake up with Elle. Or, if you have a better sleep schedule than her, you can listen back to this whenever you wish. We started out with some instrumental heavy long tunes from Bowery Electric, Eiko Ishibashi, Phuture and Phuture. For your last hour, we have some guitar music from distraction4ever, Vista Kicks and the Marching Girls.

Last week, the ACT Party announced its outline for the Treaty Principles Bill, which is set to go through a SIX month long committee process. For our weekly catch up with Te Pāti Māori, News and Editorial Director, Joel, spoke to Mariameno Kapa-Kingi about the new developments of the bill, what the reception has been like, and the estimated price of how much the bill is set to cost taxpayers. They also spoke to her about Te Pāti Māori MP, Hana-Rawhiti Maipa-Clarke, being a recipient of the One Young World Politician Award, an award set up to acknowledge promising young politicians between the ages of 18 and 35 internationally, and what this means for the young MP, and Te Pāti Māori as a whole.

with guest selector Red Robin

This week's show featured new music from Fazerdaze, Michael Kiwanuka and more.

Frances Chan features the ‘newskill’ of Louis Cole’s latest jazz-classical crossover album and the ‘old’scool’ wisdom of Mike Nock with an interview and a look back over his career. Mike Nock will be inducted into the NZ Music Hall of Fame on 8 October 2024. Setlilst: Louis Cole – Cruisin’ for P Louis Cole – A Pill in the Sea Jacob Mann Big Band – Breaking News Shuffle Thundercat ft Louis Cole – Bus in These Streets Louis Cole – Shallow Laughter : Bitches Louis Cole – Let it Happen Snarky Puppy ft Knower – I Remember Anatole Muster ft Louis Cole – Auntie Mabel Louis Cole – Wizard Funk Louis Cole – Weird Moments Mike Nock interview Yusef Lateef ft Mike Nock – Sister Mamie (Live at Pep’s, 1964) Almanac ft Mike Nock, Bennie Maupin – Double Split The Fourth Way – Everyman’s Your Brother Mike Nock – Vale John  

 A huge announcement! 95bFM presents Wiri Donna at Double Whammy! Wiri Donna phones in from Pōneke to talk about the upcoming tour to celebrate the release of the EP In My Chambers. Whakarongo mai nei!

Once Were Gardeners is an exhibition by artist and carver Ngaroma Riley, currently showing at Season Gallery. It comprises a group of painted carvings that draw inspiration from a lecture of the same name by the late Moana Jackson. The carvings reflect on and celebrate precolonial Māori life, and emphasise the fact that a core meaning of the term Māori is ‘natural’. Beth had a kōrero with Ngaroma about Once Were Gardeners and the carving process.

Jonny talks to Mel about her new album and tour.

Sofia spoke with artist Séraphine Pick about her exhibition Rider Instinct currently on at Te Uru Gallery. With several of the works exhibited with ceramic components and found objects, Rider Instinct brings together selected works from Pick’s practice: works on paper and her ‘combined paintings’. Beth had a chat with artist and weaver Ngaroma Riley about her exhibition Once Were Gardners showing at Season Gallery. It comprises a group of painted carvings that draw inspiration from a lecture of the same name by the late Moana Jackson. And for Stage Direction today, Alice Canton chats to Oli Mathieson and Paige Downard from Black Grace about the show, The Next Wave, on at the Herald Theatre. To round off the show, we have your weekly Arts Guide!

Rider Instinct is an exhibition by Séraphine Pick currently on at Te Uru Gallery.  Over the course of her 30-year career, artist Séraphine Pick has become one of the most celebrated painters in Aotearoa.  With several of the works exhibited with ceramic components and found objects, Rider Instinct brings together selected works from Pick’s practice: works on paper and her ‘combined paintings’.  Sofia spoke to Séraphine about the exhibition and her practice. 

Kirsten and Jonny talk about hype man, rapper and radio DJ Fat Man Scoop and his discography in the wake of his passing this week. 

Featuring an interview with Mel Parsons, a chat with Wiri Donna about the just-announced tour of Aotearoa, Travelling Tunes with Dr Kristen Zemke, and Viewmaster with Litia.

This week on Viewmaster, Litia recommends Jake Gyllenhaal's new show on Apple TV - Presumed Innocence. Bingeworthy TV! Whakarongo mai nei ~

For State of the States, our weekly 95bFM US election coverage, Wire Host Caeden speaks to Yale Daily News’ Andre Fa’aoso on yesterday’s Harris/Trump Presidential debate and Taylor Swift’s endorsement of Kamala Harris.

Wire Host Caeden speaks to Labour Party Deputy Leader Carmel Sepuloni on the government signalling a shift in their foreign policy stances, the allocation of 6 months in select committee for the Treaty Principles Bill and Bird of the Year.  They speak to Yale Daily News Andre Fa’aoso about yesterday’s Harris/Trump Presidential debate and Taylor Swift’s endorsement of Kamala Harris.  And they speak to the University of Auckland’s Dr Tatjana Buklijas about the fast track legislation in a democratic context.  For City Counselling this week, Producer Sofia speak to Councillor Julie Fairey about how Auckland Council’s celebrating Te Wiki o te Reo Māori next week and Council’s emissions reductions targets She also speaks to ActionStation Director, Kassie Hartendorp, about the Treaty Principles Bill and a campaign ActionStation has launched in response, Together for Te Tiriti. 

Mōrena! Whakarongo mai!

Featuring Political Commentary, Breakfast Food, Natural Ange, an interview with MC Slave of Fat Freddy's Drop about their new album, and Katie of Dateline phones in from Pōneke.

Wire Host Caeden speaks to Senior Lecturer at the University of Auckland, Dr Tatjana Buklijaš, about the fast track legislation within the context of democratic participation on infrastructure decisions. 

For our weekly catch-up with the Labour Party, Wire Host Caeden speaks to Deputy Leader Carmel Sepuloni about the government signalling a shift in their foreign policy stances, the allocation of 6 months in select committee for the Treaty Principles Bill and Bird of the Year.

This week on the Wednesday Wire... For our weekly catchup, News and Editorial Director, Joel, spoke to The Green Party's Ricardo Menéndez March about recent changes to the treaty principles bill to include acknowledgements to Iwi and Hapu, government pay parity cuts for relief ECE teachers and concerns over Nicole McKee’s gun law reforms. For our bi-weekly segment Get Action! Wednesday Wire Host, Oto, spoke to ActionStation’s Kareana Kee, about their petition calling for TVNZ to review their coverage of Israel’s war on Gaza. Producer Sasha spoke to spokesperson from Student Justice for Palestine Pōneke, Frank Mackenzie, about the Victoria University of Wellington Foundation divesting in Israeli bonds. and Oto spoke to Associate Professor in Commercial Law at the University of Auckland, Gehan Gunasekara, to discuss the implications of the IRD sharing taxpayer data with social media firms.

Earlier this week, ACT leader David Seymour announced that the basic outline of the treaty principles bill, which would be introduced to parliament in November later this year, would include acknowledgements saying that iwi and hapū had specific rights to their lands.  This comes after more than 400 Christian leaders in Aotearoa signed a joint letter condemning the bill and asking MPs to strike it down, as well as Prime Minister Christopher Luxon making an official statement saying that he wouldn't support the bill beyond its first reading. For our weekly catch up, News and Editorial Director, Joel, spoke to the Green Party’s Ricardo Menendez-March to discuss the recent changes to the treaty principles bill and whether or not it guaranteed protections for Iwi and Māori. We also talked about government cutting pay parity agreements for relief teachers at Early Childhood Education Centres, as well as Concerns over Nicole McKee's efforts to reform gun laws

On the 29th of August, TVNZ aired a news story covering the recent Israeli raids into the West Bank in Occupied Palestine, which they described as the “largest counter-terrorism strike” in the West Bank in 10 years.  The raid, which persisted for a week, killed at least 30 Palestinians, two of whom were confirmed to be children.  Many of those who witnessed the coverage said that this new story, like others by TVNZ, used biassed media framing to depict the Israeli Defence Forces favourably while ignoring Palestinian civilian casualties and the context of the occupation.  For this week’s Get Action! Wednesday Wire host Oto spoke to Kareana Kee who launched a petition calling for TVNZ to review their coverage of Israel’s war in Gaza.

Featuring What's Up with MP Nicola Willis, Aural Emporium, and heaps of tunage. 

Following a consistent year of pressure, the Victoria University of Wellington has announced its divestment from all Israeli government bonds and shares. The foundation has previously reported having close to $50,000, which they have divested following major Student sit ins and pushback. The divestment is only the first step in a long process of boycotting Israel, however there is continued student backing and a recent petition attempting to further progress the severing of ties to Israel.  Sasha spoke to spokesperson for Student Justice for Palestine Poneke, Frank Mackenzie about how continued student pressure led to University of Victoria Wellington divesting from Israeli bonds and stocks.

We convinced Jon Toogood to takeover Drive! What an epic show - brought to you by The Beer Spot.

Researchers have estimated that Long Covid could be costing the New Zealand economy $2 billion a year. The finding follows an Australian study which calculated the economic impact of Covid in Australia. Producer Josef spoke to one such researcher, Professor of Health Economics, Paula Lorgelly, about the study, Long Covid, and what New Zealand can do about it's economic costs.

Today on Breakfast ~ a first spin of the brand new single from Fazerdaze - Cherry Pie! We're looking forward to the new album at 95bFM. Plus, a 95bFM announcement! We're stoked to be presenting Nathan Haines at the Powerstation. New research on the effects of vaping from the University of Auckland is the topic of Ready Steady Learn. 

Jonny chats to Nathan Haines (and son Zoot) following the announce of 95bFM Presents Nathan Haines at the Powerstation! It's been 10 years since the last Nathan Haines album, and Jonny and Nathan catch up on everything that has happened between then and the release of the new album Notes. Check it out, and all the fantastic collabs with NZ artists, here. Head along to the Powerstation on Saturday 2 November to catch Nathan Haines live.

Morgan Seal joins us from the Lung Group from the Bioengineering Institute for Ready Steady Learn thanks to The University of Auckland. Morgan's research focuses particularly on inflammation of the lungs due to vaping and the difficulties in researching health impacts without long case studies. Additionally, Morgan discusses how mathmatical models can help map out changes in physiology amongst people who vape, particularly teenagers. 

In a special session for Southeast-Asian singer songwriters, Oto spoke to Aeriqah, a singer songwriter from Singapore, to discuss their songwriting process and experiences as a queer musician in the Singaporean music scene, as well as their most recent musical ventures in Melbourne, where they're currently based.

This week on Dear Science, our expert Allan Blackman chatted to us about genetic fingerprints, mobile phones and brain cancer, and foods that can make you live longer. 

Oto spoke to Singaporean singer songwriter, Aeriqah, to discuss their songwriting process and journey in Singapore as a queer musician, as well as their most recent musical ventures in Melbourne.

Keeping it chill for your Tuesday Morning Glory - thanks for tuning in! x

Last week the government announced its new transport plan, focusing primarily on car and road developments and their flagship ‘roads of national significance’. This focus on roads and car developments has led the government to pull funding from other areas, such as public transportation, walkways, and cycleways.  Last week, the commerce commission also released its first annual grocery report, identifying issues with a lack of competition in Aotearoa’s grocery sector and increased prices faced by consumers. The report advises that the problems stem from a lack of regulation, which enables the supermarket giants to act as they please.  This week in our catchup with the National Party, Wire host Castor spoke to Katie Nimon about the government’s new transport plan and the commerce commission’s first annual grocery report. 

A new study into how New Zealand seafood product manufacturers display claims such as ‘dolphin friendly,’ ‘sustainably fished,’ and ‘responsibly caught,’ on their products has lead to concerns that these companies may be ‘greenwashing,’ as the claims are too ambiguous, being contradictory, and going against international best practice and the New Zealand Commerce Guidance. The study suggests that such claims are hard to verify, and may mislead consumers. News and Editorial Director, Joel, spoke to Senior Research Fellow in Epidemiology and Biostatistics at the University of Auckland, Kathryn Bradbury, about the study, and what needs to change to adequately inform consumers of the products they are purchasing.

To add to the contention surrounding David Seymour's revitalisation of charter schools, new documents have revealed that the bill may go against international labour obligations and fair trade agreements.  A select committee report revealed a late addition to the charter schools bill, blocking staff at the schools from joining Multi-Employer Collective Agreements, which enable employees to be tied to unions.  This sparked controversy, with opposition MPs concerned about the omission of this information from the select committee and the public.  For their weekly catch up, Producer Evie spoke to the ACT Party’s Simon Court about why staff should be prohibited from these collectives, and why the information was withheld from the public.  She also asked him about new concerns surrounding Nicole McKee and firearms reform, in which McKee used her power as a Government minister to reduce regulation for gun clubs — without any public consultation. And finally they talked about the ACT party’s views on 43 out of 45 councils voting to hold a referendum on their Maori wards, rather than disestablishing them. 

This week on the Monday Wire... For our weekly catch up, Producer Evie spoke to the ACT Party’s Simon Court about new concerns about the charter schools bill, a rushed gun reform bill and the final council consensus on Māori wards.   For our weekly catch up with Te Pāti Māori, News and Editorial Director and Monday Host, spoke to Mariameno Kapa-Kingi about the passing and tangihanga of Kīngi Tūheitia, and the crowning of Kuini Nga wai pono i te po as the new monarch. Evie spoke to Tui Kaumoana-Steedman, a University of Auckland kaiārahi, Waikato descendant, and whānau of the Kiingitanga about the new Maori monarch Kuini Nga wai pono i te po. Joel spoke to Senior Research Fellow Epidemiology and Biostatistics at the University of Auckland, Kathryn Bradbury, about a new study showing seafood product manufacturers are ‘greenwashing’ their merchandise through positive environmental claims. And Evie spoke to Etuini Ma’u Senior lecturer in the Department of Psychological Medicine at the University of Auckland about poverty leading to an increased risk of dementia.

Dementia is expected to double in the next 20 years in Aotearoa, but for Pasifika and Māori, it’s expected to triple.  New research shows the risk of developing dementia is 60% higher for people living in the most deprived areas of NZ compared to those in the least deprived areas. Because of the disproportionate representation of Māori and Pasifika in lower socio-economic groups, the risk of those developing dementia also sits at a disproportionately high level.  Senior lecturer in the Department of Psychological Medicine at the University of Auckland, Etuini Ma’u led the public health expert briefing that took a deep dive into the research.  Producer Evie spoke to Ma’u about the factors of poverty that lead to this increased dementia risk, and how these can be combated on both an individual and wider structural level.  

On the 13th of August, Māori King, Kīngi Tūheitia Pōtatau Te Wherowhero VII, who had reigned as Māori King since 2006, passed away, being laid to rest on the summit of Taupiri Maunga. Various political party members from across the political spectrum attended the tangihanga of Kīngi Tūheitia, alongside thousands of others attendees at Tūrangawaewae marae in Ngāruawahia. For their weekly catch up, News and Editorial Director, Joel, spoke to Te Pāti Māori’s Mariameno Kapa-Kingi about Kīngi Tūheitia’s passing, and the legacy he has left. They also touched on Kaipara Mayor, Craig Jepson, denying a request for a minute’s silence at a meeting for Kīngi Tūheitia’s passing. Finally, they spoke to her about the crowning of Kuīni Ngā Wai hono i te pō as the new Māori monarch; the youngest daughter of Kīngi Tūheitia, at the tangi.

Last Thursday, following a six day tangihanga to honour the passing of Kīngi Tūheitia, a new Māori monarch was selected. That monarch is his youngest child and only daughter, Kuini Nga wai pono i te po. Kuini Nga wai is 27 years old making her the second-youngest Māori monarch to be appointed, and only the second female monarch of the Kiingitanga.  Kuini Nga wai’s ascension to the throne signals a new era and forward movement for the Kiingitanga.  Producer Evie spoke to University of Auckland kaiārahi, Waikato descendant, and whānau of the Kiingitanga, Tui Kaumoana-Steedman about how Kuini Nga wai was selected for the role.  They also discussed how she may take the Kiingitanga in a new direction, what issues she’ll be aiming to highlight, and how her rule may have an effect on Aotearoa as a whole.  

An extra-special Jazz Show this week with the entire 95bFM jazz team in the studio ahead of Herbie Hancock’s shown in Auckland and Wellington on Oct 8 and 9.  Blind Mango Chutney hosts with the whole crew playing favourites and telling stories about their most-loved and best-remembered Herbie Hancock moments — including Miss Chan's, freshly back from LA, where she caught Herbie's special show at the Hollywood Bowl for the 50th anniversary of his milestone 'Head Hunters' album.

RIP Sérgio Mendes, Happy anniversary to @herbiehancock "Thrust" LP, Isleys @TheRealRonIsley "Live it up" LP, Jackson 5 "Dancing Machine", Ohio Players "Climax" (50!), and Talking Heads "Stop Making Sense", Rebbie Jackson "Centipede" (40), and Dwele "Rize" (20!). We are also joined by talented artists La Coco and Gene Rivers in studio. Salute!

This week's show featured new music from Leon Bridges, Terrace Martin, Melodownz, Fat Freddy's Drop and more.

Wire Host Caeden speaks to Labour’s Shanan Halbert about Labour’s attendance at Palestine protests in Tāmaki Makaurau and the newly announced National Land Transport Programme and its lack of support for public transport. And for State of the States this week, they speak to Yale Daily News’ Andre Fa’aoso about the ballot measures, college political campaign groups, and the recent school shooting in the state of Georgia. For City Counselling this week, Sofia catches up with Councillor Shane Henderson about changes to Auckland Council’s committee structure, a proposal to introduce fortnightly rubbish collection, and what the government’s National Land Transport Programme means for Auckland She also speaks to Associate Professor at the Department of Tourism at the University of Otago, Julia Albrecht, about the government introducing an increase to the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy.  She also speaks to the National Chair of Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa, John Minto, about the UK government suspending arms shipments to Israel and whether Aotearoa New Zealand should follow its lead. 

Earlier this week, the government announced it would raise the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy from $35 to $100, starting October 1st.  The policy has been met with criticism, with the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment among others saying the implementation of this increase to $100 could be a deterrent for visitors.  Producer Sofia spoke to Associate Professor at the University of Otago Department of Tourism, Julia Albrecht, about this announcement and how it might impact tourism in Aotearoa New Zealand. She started the interview asking her what the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy is.

Earlier this week, in response to councillor feedback, Mayor Wayne Brown announced a new committee structure for Auckland Council and made changes to the Auckland Transport Board. This restructuring intends to streamline decision-making and put Council’s focus on delivering the new Long-term Plan.  Additionally, the decision on a proposal to move rubbish bin collection to a fortnightly service could be decided next month.  The proposal is part of Council’s Waste Management and Minimisation Plan to reduce waste and carbon emissions. Producer Sofia asked Councillor Shane Henderson about both of these topics as well as what the newly announced National Land Transport Programme means for Auckland.

The UK government has decided to suspend its exports of parts for fighter jets, helicopters and drones to Israel, saying there is a clear risk the equipment could be used to commit serious violations of international law. In response, Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa has renewed its calls for the New Zealand government to suspend exports of Rakon bomb components to the US for the bombs it sends to Gaza. This comes as over 40,000 Palestinian people, including over 16,000 children, have been killed in Israel’s war on Gaza since October 7th.  Producer Sofia spoke to the National Chair of Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa, John Minto, about the UK government suspending arms shipments, whether Aotearoa New Zealand should follow its lead, and the New Zealand government’s response.  She started the interview asking why the UK has suspended its arms shipments to Israel.

For our weekly catch-up with the Labour Party, Wire Host spoke to Shanan Halbert about the Palestine protests in Taamaki Makaurau and the new national land transport programme.

For States of the States this week Wire host Caeden discusses ballot measures, college election campaign groups, and the recent school shooting in Georgia with Yale Daily News' Andre Fa'aoso,

For our weekly catch-up with the Labour Party, Wire Host spoke to Shanan Halbert about the Palestine protests in Taamaki Makaurau and the new national land transport programme.

Dad jams and DJing for 45 hours!? Whakarongo mai!

New Zealanders continue to protest Israel’s attacks on Gaza and on Israel’s illegal occupation of West-Bank, mainstream New Zealand media continue a narrative of double standards. A recent report made by TVNZ, presented the Israeli military operation on the illegally-occupied West Bank. The report focused on Israeli narratives, justification and propaganda, with nothing coming from the Palestinian side to put such an issue into perspective. TVNZ presented an inversion of the truth. I spoke to John Minto of the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa about appalling mainstream media reporting on Palestine, as well as the government’s silence on the issue and a justification for the ongoing rallies.

For their regular catch-up, Oto spoke to the Green Party’s Ricardo Menéndez March about the National Land transport Programme, the Ministry of Education removing information on charter schools from their website and the party’s nomination for bird of the year. He spoke to Professor Christine Rubie-Davies from the University of Auckland to talk about the practice of streaming in classrooms and the Kōkirihia initiative led by Ngāi Tahu which looks to replace it with High expectation teaching and mixed ability classrooms. And he spoke to Researcher Leueta Mulipola from the University of Auckland to talk about a study she conducted on anger studying anger through the lens of Samoan youth in Aotearoa. Sasha spoke to John Minto from Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa about double standards in New Zealand's media coverage of Israel’s war on Gaza. He also spoke to Professor Barry Barton from the University of Waikato about the government’s intention to reverse the oil and gas exploration ban.

Following a call of urgent action from energy minister Simeon Brown and the coalition government, the government intends to reverse the ban on oil and gas exploration beyond onshore Taranaki.  This decision comes after Simeon Brown declared New Zealand to have an energy shortage, leading to the highest wholesale electricity prices of comparable countries. At the same time however, there has been a continual increase in solar panel power which may solve New Zealand’s energy crisis. Sasha spoke to Professor Barry Barton from the University of Waikato about the governments’ intention to remove the oil and gas exploration ban.

A new study was published by Leueta Mulipola, a masters graduate in Public Health at the University of Auckland, which was published in the Australian and New Zealand Health Journal of Public Health. The study, incorporating the Samoan concept of Talanoa in it’s methodology, explored feelings of anger among the lens of New Zealand-born, Samoan youth, partially motivated by the transition from Fa’aSamoa, the Samoan way of life, to westernised contemporary society here in New Zealand. Oto spoke to Leueta to talk about her study, and how anger is expressed amongst Samoan youth in Aotearoa.

The government recently announced its New National Land Transport Plan for 2024- 2027. The plan would consist of a $32.9 billion package, largely going towards the development of new roads, many of which are part of the Roads of National Significance programme, as well as maintaining and repairing existing highways and improving public transport in Aotearoa’s major cities. Based on the it's large expenditure on road and highway development, the Greens issued statements calling out the plan for increasing car dependency and the potential for greater emissions shortly after it was announced.  For our weekly catchup, Oto spoke to Green Party MP Ricardo Menendez-March about the party’s take on the National Land Transport plan.  They also had a chat about the Ministry of Education removing information on previous iterations of charter schools from their website, as well as the party’s nomination for bird of the year and why it’s important.

In our catchup with the National party this week, Wire Host Castor asked MP Katie Nimon about several issues in the recent week of politics. Firstly, I asked about the death of Kiingi Tuheitia and the government’s response. I then asked about the potential arrival of Candace Owens, a far-right speaker from the United States who has been known for engaging in anti-semitism and holocaust denial.  Castor then asked about a recent submission by the parliamentary commissioner for the environment, Simon Upton, regarding the government’s second draft emissions reduction plan. The submission makes several critiques of the government’s attitude towards emissions reduction, particularly criticising its promotion of short term solutions which could end up offloading responsibility onto future generations.  In our weekly catchup with the National Party, Castor spoke to MP Katie Nimon about each of these issues, starting off with the recent passing of Kīngi Tūheitia. 

This week on the Tuesday Wire...  For Dear Science this week, we chatted with our expert Doctor Cushla McGoverin about bats with glowing toes, glue sealing wounds inside the body, and new technology to make green and yellow lasers.  In our weekly catchup with the National Party, Wire Host Castor spoke to MP Katie Nimon about the death of Kiingi Tuheitia, Candace Owens potentially visiting Aotearoa, and the government’s second draft emissions reduction plan.  They also spoke to Doctor Timothy Welch about the government’s recently announced transport funding allocation.  With the return of the Green Desk, Jack Marshall talked to Sophie Journee from the Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust about the waterways in an Auckland golf course.  And News and Editorial Director, Joel Armstrong, spoke to Staff Researcher at Child Poverty Action Group, Harry Yu Shi, about a recent report showing Aotearoa has poor child poverty statistics compared to European countries.

While Jaycee was away, Oto talked to local Tāmaki Makaurau Pop-Punk outfit Club Ruby and had an extensive chat with them about their musical process, unique marketing strategies and experiences working as Asian musicians in the local scene.

It's a shining Tuesday morning! Spring has sprung! Tune in for a bunch of sunny music, and the Ready, Steady, Learn catch up thanks to The University of Auckland. 

This week on Dear Science, our expert Doctor Cushla McGoverin chatted to us about bats with glowing toes, glue to seal wounds inside the body, and a discovery allowing for more green and yellow lasers. 

Jonny is joined by Isa Seow, a PhD candidate at the School of Computer Science. Isa discusses how the introduction of congestion charges in the busiest cities in Aotearoa may impact individual privacy and conflict with the Privacy Act. Listen back to learn about how the law needs to catch up to developments in surveillance technologies! Your weekly dose of learning is brought to you by University of Auckland. 

After some time away from 95bFM, reporter Jack Marshall made his triumphant return to the bFM newsroom where he’s taking up his role as host of The Green Desk.  This week on the Green Desk, Jack goes spotlighting with Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust at an Auckland golf course to find nature thriving in its waterways.

The latest poverty report, authored by the Ministry of Social Development Principal Advisor, Bryan Perry, shows New Zealand is behind regarding child poverty statistics, when compared with European nations. News and Editorial Director, Joel, speaks to Staff Researcher for Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG), Harry Yu Shi, about the findings of the report, and what policy proposals CPAG have outlined to mitigate the statistics.

Tāmaki Makaurau pop-punk outfit Club Ruby came down to the studio for an extensive chat with us about their origins as a band, songwriting process and experiences working as Asian musicians in Aotearoa.  They also teased an unreleased track and brought some snacks that we ate on air for the first ever ASMR/Snack review on WALAO!

The government announced its transport budget yesterday, a record 32.9 billion dollars, mostly going towards the campaign promise of ‘roads of national significance’. This focus on large highway projects has led the government to pull funding from other areas, such as public transport, walking, and cycling. Wire host Castor spoke to Senior lecturer of Urban planning at the University of Auckland, Doctor Timothy Welch, about the government’s funding allocation and its potential impact on congestion and the environment.

Recently, the government has amended gang legislation that would allow police officers to enter private properties of repeat offenders showcasing emblems, patches, and insignia. The New Zealand Law Society sent an open letter, sent by the society’s vice president, David Campbell, outlining their concerns for the proposal. The concerns raised include how gang insignia is identified, which if the clause is taken literally, could be interpreted as printed reproductions of logos, which could make it illegal to own newspapers or certain books with gang insignia in it, increasing in the risk of someone to be criminally liable around someone in possession of gang memorabilia, concerns that the amendment will have detrimental effects to communities and whānau in which gang members reside in, as well as infringing on rights protected by the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990. News and Editorial Director, Joel, spoke to the Convenor for the New Zealand Law Society’s Criminal Law Committee, Chris Macklin, about the committee’s open letter and the ethics of the amendment.

Last week Te Whatu Ora, Health New Zealand announced they were offering voluntary redundancies to admin and advisory staff. This follows 268 roles already being cut from Te Whatu Ora’s commissioning team.  The organisation has said that the “majority of their expenditure is on people costs, and Health NZ needs to review its size and structure.” Adding that “they are providing the opportunity for eligible staff to consider voluntary redundancy ahead of likely formal change consultation processes over the coming months.”  However many health staff say a cut to admin will put more pressure on the already understaffed and overworked nurses, doctors and primary care workers.  New Zealand Nurses Organisation Chief Executive Paul Goulter says Te Whatu Ora did not follow the correct consultation processes before arriving at the conclusion that there should be redundancies.  He added that any reduction of staff will impact on the people who remain. Saying removal of supporting roles means that other staff must pick the work they’re doing, something he calls unacceptable.  Producer Evie spoke to Goulter about Te Whatu Ora’s voluntary redundancies and the impacts they will have on other healthcare workers. 

Last week Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones announced that levies paid by the fishing industry will be slashed by nearly $5 million dollars.  The levies are used to manage the environmental impacts of commercial fishing. This includes monitoring fish populations, making sure observers are on boats, and researching the impacts fishing is having on the wider ocean environment.  The same day, Jones announced a bill that will extend coastal permits for marine farms by 20 years.  It was opposed by Labour, the Greens and Te Pāti Māori due to environmental concerns. Greenpeace says that Jones is prioritising private commercial gain over the wellbeing of the oceans.  Producer Evie spoke to Greenpeace’s Ellie Hooper about the changes made by Shane Jones and the potential environmental impacts they could have on our oceans.  

Featuring a chat with The Nomad celebrating his first single release in ten years and get the Loose Reads update from Time Out Bookstore.

Suri from Time Out joins Jonny for Loose Reads today! Suri reviews Alphabetical Diaries by Sheila Heti, an experimental take on the memoir format. In Alphabetical Diaries, Heti alphabetically orders 10 years worth of journalled sentences (with the aid of an Excel spreadsheet). The book is the product of a decade of editing, so that only Heti's favourite sentences remained. Whilst some letters contain many entries, others such as Q only contain one. It's a blend of literary criticism and a peep into an author's most intimate thoughts. 

Jonny chats with The Nomad about his first single release in ten years - Momentum ft Mich​è​le Ducray. Exciting stuff! The single is the first new material from The Nomad in a decade and we hope there's more to come. Whakarongo mai nei!

The Minister of Health has admitted that Aotearoa’s Health System is in a ‘crisis’. There are vast staff shortages, many staff raising issues of burnout, long wait times, delayed diagnoses and an increase in telehealth services.  Last week Te Whatu Ora announced voluntary redundancies for admin and advisory staff, which follows the axing of 268 roles from the organisation's commissioning team.  For our weekly catch up producer Evie spoke to the ACT party’s Simon Court about how the government is addressing the crisis the health sector faces while continuing to cut roles.  They also talked about how the government is dealing with the current energy crisis, in which shortages of power are pushing up industry prices. This includes the proposed import of liquified natural gas.  But she started off by asking him about Te Whatu Ora’s voluntary redundancies.

Calls have been made to deny the visa of far-right figure, Candace Owens, from visiting New Zealand as a part of her scheduled speaking tour at the end of the year. Owens, who has a history of Islamophobia, homophobia, and anti-semetism, recently, on recent videos uploaded to her YouTube channel, questioned key elements of the Holocaust, such as the well-documented human experiments conducted by Nazi doctor, Josef Mengele as “bizzare propaganda,” calling the Holocaust “an ethnic cleansing that almost took place”. News and Editorial Director, Joel, spoke to Co-Founder of Dayenu: New Zealand Jews Against Occupation, Justine Sachs, on calls for far-right figure and Holocaust denier, Candice Owens.

For our weekly catch up, Producer Evie talks to the ACT Party’s Simon Court about more cuts to the health sector and the government’s solutions to the ‘energy crisis’. News and Editorial Director, and Monday Host, Joel, speaks to Convenor for the New Zealand Law Society’s Criminal Law Committee, Chris Macklin, about the government's new amendments to gang patch legislation. Evie speaks to Chief executive of the New Zealand Nurses Organisation, Paul Goulter about Te Whatu Ora offering voluntary redundancies. Joel speaks to Co-Founder of Dayenu: New Zealand Jews Against Occupation, Justine Sachs, about calls for far-right figure and Holocaust denier, Candice Owens’ visa to be denied entry to Aotearoa. And Evie talks to Greenpeace’s Ellie Hooper about Shane Jones slashing fishing levies by FIVE million dollars.

This week's show featured new music from The WAEVE, Phoebe Rings, The Smile, Jamie xx and more. 

Tāmaki Makaurau's Louisa Nicklin joins Hunter to break down 'The Big Sulk', their new album produced by Shayne P. Carter. ~ Thanks to NZ On Air Music ~

Another Plato's classic, traversing multiple genres and featuring multiple guests, including the one and only Frank Booker

Day One Hāpai te Haeata is a film project which provides rangatahi with the tools, guidance and opportunities to share stories on screen. In providing a range of initiatives to help young filmmakers learn, make, and connect with other storytellers to take their first steps into the film industry, Day One is passionate about uplifting and amplifying youth voices.  Next week Day One has a screening at the Hollywood Avondale for Day One Shorts - a screening of 8 funded short films made by young emerging filmmakers that explore cultural, social, and political issues.  Sofia spoke with Executive Director Chris Widdup about Day One and the short film screening next week.  She started their kōrero asking Chris what the kaupapa of Day One Hāpai te Haeata is.

TGIF!  Sofia had a kōrero with the executive producer of Day One Hāpai te Haeata, Chris Widdup, about Day One Shorts - a screening of 8 funded short films made by young emerging filmmakers that explore cultural, social, and political issues at the Hollywood Avondale on Tuesday.  Beth had a kōrero with artist Sandra Bushby about an exhibition currently on at Sumer Gallery, Pouring Light.  And for Stage Direction this week: Alice Canton is in to chat with Georgia-May Ross from Auckland Fringe Festival about the programme this year.  And to finish the show we have your weekly arts guide! 

Pouring Light is an exhibition by artist Sandra Bushby currently showing at Sumer Gallery. It’s an exploration of the interplay of light and colour, comprising a series of oil paintings as well as watercolours and (goo-arsh) gouache. Sandra draws inspiration from the late Joanna Margaret Paul, in particular her poem Blue Fleur with the Stations of the Cross (1971). The works in Pouring Light combine the visual with verbal poetry. Beth caught up with Sandra at Sumer Gallery to kōrero about Pouring Light and her artmaking process.

For Stage Direction this week Alice Canton is in to speak with Georgia-May Ross about Auckland Fringe Festival this year. You can get tickets here.

Earlier this year, Treaty Negotiations Minister Paul Goldsmith in a private meeting with Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones and seafood industry representatives discussed potential changes to the Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) Act 2011, which is a piece of legislation that replaced the controversial Foreshore and Seabed Act 2004.  The Takutai Moana Act allows Māori to apply for certain customary rights over the foreshore and seabed under customary marine title.  The government intends to change section 58 of the Act which currently requires an applicant group to prove they have "exclusively used and occupied it from 1840 to the present day without substantial interruption". The proposed changes would change the section 58 test to reduce the 100% of coastline subject to customary marine title to 5%. As a result, an urgent Waitangi Tribunal claim into the government’s proposed changes to the Act had its hearings this week.  This is the seventh urgent inquiry by the Tribunal into the coalition government’s policies.  Producer Sofia spoke to lawyer at Te Mata Law, Harry Clatworthy (Ngāti Ranginui, Ngai Te Rangi, and Ngāti Uenuku-Kōpako), about these proposed changes as well as the historical context of foreshore and seabed ownership in Aotearoa.

Last week while the Democratic National Convention occurred in Chicago, pro-Palestine delegates protested to get Palestine on the convention agenda. These protests follow weeks of pro-Palestine protests at Harris campaign events, demanding the Harris campaign call for a ceasefire in Gaza.  The United States has sent 50,000 tons of weapons to Israel since October 7, all under the Biden/Harris administration. Also this week, independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has dropped out of the presidential race to endorse Donald Trump. RFK Jr has drawn significant controversy throughout his campaign, including for his anti-vaxx views and claims that he has mistreated wildlife. For State of the States this week Wire Host Caedens catches up with Yale Daily News’ Andre Fa’aoso about what both these topics mean for young American voters.

Last week was the annual Local Government New Zealand conference.  Although Auckland Council voted to leave Local Government New Zealand in March last year, notably at the conference, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said he wants councils to “do the basics brilliantly” and not be distracted by “nice-to-haves” and that Cabinet was looking into limiting council expenditure as a result.  Additionally, Auckland Council is currently seeking public input on the future of coastal management in response to the climate crisis.  The Council’s Shoreline Adaptation Programme and Plans look at how Council responds to coastal hazards and climate change over the next 100 years. Producer Sofia caught up with Councillor Julie Fairey about both of these topics. 

For our weekly catch-up with the Labour Party’s Carmel Sepuloni, Wire Host Caeden asks about her being announced as a contestant on Celebrity Treasure Island. They also ask about the current Government reversing the ban oil and gas exploration that was put in place by the last government in 2018. For State of the States, our weekly kōrero on the United States election, Caeden speaks to Yale Daily News’ Andre Fa’aoso. They discuss Robert F. Kennedy Jr dropping out of the Presidential race to endorse Donald Trump, and the pro-Palestine protestors at the DNC and recent Kamala Harris campaign events.  For City Counselling this week Sofia caught up with Councillor Julie Fairey about the annual Local Government New Zealand conference last week as well as Auckland Council’s Shoreline Adaptation Plans. She also speaks to Greenpeace Aotearoa’s programme director, Niamh O’Flynn, about changes announced this week to the Fast-Track Approvals Bill.  And she also speaks to lawyer Harry Clatworthy from Te Mata Law about the government’s plans to restore a tougher test for Maori customary title claims in the foreshore and seabed and the urgent Waitangi Tribunal inquiry into this.

Show includes: ket music and an interview with Carla from Welly band Recitals! Michael Penn - Daisy (the piano track) Connan Mockasin - Les Be Honest, Conn Conn Was Impatient (no description needed) Los Zafiros - He Venido (dramatic cuban quartet) Meshell Ndgeocello - Vuma, Omnipus (omnichord meets Xhosa jazz) The Phoenix Foundation - Sea World (omnichord chronicles continued) Mea Uma - Leao (your fav summer song) FKA Twigs - EUSEXUA  (ifykyk) Recitals - Champion Runner (new release, its fun!) Magdalena Bay - Tunnel Vision, That's My Floor, Cry For Me (the supertramp meets abba meets synth pop with screaming)

On Sunday, the government announced changes to the Fast Track Bill.  Of the most notable of the changes, the Bill will no longer give three ministers sign-off powers, having now delegated that responsibility to a panel of independent experts. This comes after widespread public protest and submissions against the Bill.  Although these changes mean less power will be concentrated in the hands of three ministers than had been previously proposed, environmental groups continue to criticise the bill, saying these changes are not enough.  Producer Sofia spoke to Greenpeace Aotearoa’s Programme Director, Niamh O’Flynn, about these changes and Greenpeace’s response.

The cast of this year’s Celebrity Treasure Island New Zealand has been announced and includes Labour Deputy Leader Carmel Sepuloni, who Wire Host Caeden speaks to for our weekly catch-up with the Labour Party. They also ask Sepuloni about the Government’s decision to reverse the ban on oil and gas exploration off the coast of Taranaki.

Mōrena! Wake up with some queer punk, indie, and upbeat tracks!

💚 A three-hour journey on the quieter side of the spectrum, sit back and relax. Obtuse Tune of the Week: Bredren - Inferno (feat. T-Man) (DLR Remix) Live Before the Entertainment Guide: Portishead - Roads (Roseland NYC Live) playlist is also available here for streaming on spotify. (But if you listen and like, please consider supporting on bandcamp / otherwise See you angels next week 💚

Thanks to The Hempstore!

Thanks to the Beer Spot!

Amongst the numerous austerity measures the government implemented since coming into office are a variety of cuts that have impacted organisations and services for the disabled community of Aotearoa. Some of these measures include the scrapping of a programme that would pay disabled workers the minimum wage, the restructuring of Whaikaha, the ministry for disabled people, and general austerity cuts likely to have an impact on the disabled community such as public transport fare increases and minimum wage stagnation.  Oto spoke to Nicola Owen from Disabled People Against Cuts Aotearoa, who have been leading a number of rallies and campaigns across the motu advocating for the disabled community of Aotearoa and protesting against the austerity measures that directly impact them. If you're interested in following Disabled People Against Cuts Aotearoa and keeping up to date with their rallies and campaigns, you can follow their Facebook page here: 

Last Sunday, the Cabinet proposed five changes they would make to the Fast-Track Approvals bill, which they recommended to the Environment select committee.  Some of the changes included shifting the final say on fast-tracked projects from ministers to an expert panel, requiring an iwi authority representative to be present on the panel alongside experts in Māori development and the environment, and extending the timeframe for comments on fast-tracked projects. However, despite Reform Minister Chris Bishop and Regional Development Minister Shane Jones saying the changes were based off feedback from submitters to make the fast-tracking process more inclusive, many advocates and experts say the bill still poses a threat to the environment and that it still prioritises development over conservation.  For their weekly catch up, Oto spoke to the Green Party’s Ricardo Menendez-March about the party’s take on the changes to the fast-track approvals bill.  They also talked about the government's plans to remove natural gas import barriers, and arsenic contamination of the Ohinemuri river caused by mining

For their regular catch-up, Oto spoke to the Green Party’s Ricardo Menéndez March about the recent changes to the fast track approvals bill, as well as the government’s plans to remove natural gas import barriers and the contamination of the Ohinemuri river. He spoke to Kirsten Tilleman from the University of Auckland to talk about active bystanders and the role they play in reducing harassment on Auckland’s public transport. He spoke to Nicola Owen from Disabled People Against Cuts Aotearoa to talk about austerity measures affecting the disabled community. And he spoke to Dr Joel Rindelaub from the University of Auckland to talk about microplastics in human brain tissue. Sasha spoke to Samantha Marsh from the University of Auckland to discuss worsening language skills in preschoolers. He also spoke to Bill Kay Blake from NZ Institute of Economic Research about the rise of forestry farming over livestock farming

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of New Mexico in the United states revealed a high concentration of microplastics located in the brain tissue of a number of test subjects, as well as many other organs in the body. While experts are still evaluating the exact physiological impacts of microplastic contamination, higher concentrations of these substances have been found in the brain tissue of subjects suffering from conditions such as early onset-dementia. Oto spoke to Dr Joel Rindelaub, senior lecturer in the Faculty of Science at the University of Auckland, to discuss the presence of microplastics in human brain tissue and their potential impacts. If you'd like to catch Joel's science-comedy show “Science Is No Joke”, you can get your tickets here:

In a recent research paper funded by Our Land and Water National, the country will continue to see a significant shift away from livestock into pine forestry.   The implications this will have will not only be seen in nature, but also in the communities that rely on yearly income to support their families, rather than income that comes every twenty-five years. This paper also highlights the environmental issues that come with this transition, however neither are great for the environment.   Sasha spoke to Bill Kaye Blake, leading author of this paper on what’s driving the trend of replacing livestock farms with pine forestry.

A recent study involving commuters in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland, found that women and people of intersectional identities were more likely to avoid using public transport out of fear of harassment.  Anti-harassment strategies proposed in that study promoted the idea of encouraging members of the public to become “active bystanders” during situations of harassment, where they could intervene by helping to de-escalate situations, reporting harassment incidents to transport staff and directly confronting perpetrators as a last minute resort. Oto spoke to Doctoral candidate Kirsten Tilleman from the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Auckland, to discuss what active bystanders are and the role they could play in preventing harassment on Auckland’s public transport

A recent report from the education review office (ERO) and the New Zealand Medical Journal (NZMJ) has found that early childhood teachers are seeing more children than ever with poor language skills. This, in part due to Covid-19 and increasingly prevalent screen and device usage. Low language and speaking skills can have further implications down the line as children become older, this is quite jarring as New Zealand is a first world country with high access to healthcare and childcare. Sasha spoke to professional research fellow in the department of General Practice and Primary Care, Samantha Marsh, about the implications of early childhood screen use and impacts of Covid-19 on children.

  Featuring:  EGYPT VS SUDAN by Various Artists/Rap Shar3 as the Play It Out album for the week  ~

I'm slowly coming back from the dead, and boy you can tell with this one! The usual smorgasbord of music from yours truely. I also got to talk to Hannah Everyingham about her upcoming tour (you can check out the interview here).  Enjoy x

Oto and Jaycee interviewed Tāmaki Makaurau RnB/Hip-Hop artist Ray Leslie, of Filipino origin, to talk about her new E.P and short film "Fantasy and Future".  They also talked to fashion designer Zee (@qqpassionfruitgreentea) of Cambodian origin about her creative process and experiences both as a fashion designer and model.

Oto and Jaycee interviewed Ray Leslie, a local Hip-Hop/RnB artist of Filipino origin about her latest E.P, Fantasy & Future. They also talked about Ray's experiences working in the Tāmaki Makaurau music scene as a queer, Asian artist. 

Changes were recently announced to the Fast Track Approvals Bill - most notably removing the controversial ministerial override that would allow ministers to go past expert advice. These changes follow public protests and submissions regarding the bill, one of this government’s most discussed. Environmental organisation Forest and Bird says while the changes to the Fast Track Bill are appreciated, they don’t go far enough. Particularly, the bill’s prioritisation of project development over environmental protections is a core principle that hasn’t changed throughout the select committee process. Wire host Castor spoke to spokesperson from Forest and Bird, Geoff Keey, about the changes to the Fast Track Approvals Bill and what more Forest and Bird is looking for.

For Dear Science this week, our expert Professor Allan Blackman chatted with us about mosquitoes using infrared detection, paper versus digital testing, and waste from the production of whisky. 

New Zealand’s employment court recently rejected an appeal by taxi and delivery company Uber to reverse its earlier ruling regarding the status of Uber drivers. In 2022, the employment court ruled that Uber drivers should be classified as employees rather than contractors. Uber then appealed the decision, with the employment court reaching its final verdict this week. Alongside this decision are discussions by Workplace Relations and Safety Minister, Brooke Van Velden, surrounding potential changes to how workers are classified.  Wire host Castor spoke to national secretary of the E tū union, Rachel Mackintosh, about the appeal and potential upcoming legislation.

Last week, the New Zealand Defence Force, the NZDF, awarded a contract to defence company BAE Systems, to upgrade its VBS4 whole-earth virtual desktop trainer. BAE Systems has previously been found guilty of conspiring to defraud the United States and making false statements about its compliance with the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. The British company is currently under investigation in India for criminal conspiracy in the procurement and licensing of advanced jet trainers. Furthermore, BAE Systems has been the subject of criticism for its production of weapons components sold to Israel for its war in Gaza. The contract has drawn criticism from activist groups in New Zealand who say that the Defence Force should have more established standards regarding which companies it chooses to award contracts to. Producer Josef spoke to a representative from Peace Action Wellington, Valerie Morse, about the contract, and what it means in the wider context of the morality of the NZDF’s operations.

This week on the Tuesday Wire... For Dear Science we chatted with our expert Professor Allan Blackman about mosquitoes using infrared, digital versus paper tests, and potential uses for whisky waste.  In our weekly catchup with the National Party, Wire host Castor spoke to MP Katie Nimon about changes to the Fast Track Approvals Bill and potential amendments to the Marine and Coastal Area Act.  They also spoke to Forest and Bird’s Geoff Keey about the Fast Track Bill, both the announced changes and what more they say needs to happen.  And they spoke to Rachel Mackintosh from the E tū union about the recent Uber employment case.  Producer Josef spoke to Peace Action Wellington Representative, Valerie Morse, about the New Zealand Defence Force’s contract with BAE systems.

Changes were recently announced to the Fast Track Approvals Bill - most notably removing the controversial ministerial override that would allow ministers to go past expert advice. These changes follow public protests and submissions regarding the bill, one of this government’s most discussed. Wire host Castor spoke to Katie Nimon about the changes to the bill, and some of the criticisms that remain. We also spoke about the potential amendment of Section 58 of the Marine and Coastal Area Act. The amendment would require Māori to prove continuous, uninterrupted occupation of a coastal area in order to make a claim to it. The Waitangi Tribunal recently filed an urgent claim to discuss the amendment, particularly criticised for its impact on coastal iwi with fewer land claims.  In our weekly catchup with the National Party, Wire host Castor asked MP Katie Nimon about each of these issues, starting off with changes to the Fast Track Approvals Bill. 

Oto and Jaycee interviewed Tāmaki Makaurau fashion designer Zee (@qqpassionfruitgreentea) of Cambodian descent about her experiences working as a model and fashion designer.

Shine up your stereophonic shoes with 3 hours of olfactory oohs and aahs.

Last week, multiple flights were delayed, due to an eruption, dubbed by scientists as “minor eruptive activity,” of Whakaari / White Island. This comes as GNS Science discovered a new vent in the volcano, as the volcano has been experiencing ongoing volcanic activity since the beginning of this month. News and Editorial Director and Wire Host, Joel, spoke to Associate Professor in the Faculty of Science at the University of Auckland and Geologist, Phil Shane, about this new vent and the disruption Whakaari has caused to air travel, and whether this should be viewed as a concern.

The findings of the Understanding Policy Delivery report have recently been released, which has shown that the NZ Police found “bias” and “structural racism,” targeting Māori individuals. The report says that Māori are ELEVEN percent more likely to be persecuted compared to Pākeha, despite the same variables, and Māori are disproportionately more likely to be stopped and tasered by officers. News and Editorial Director, and Wire Host, Joel, spoke to Criminology Lecturer and the University of Auckland, and spokesperson for People Against Prison Aotearoa, Emmy Rākete (Ngāpuhi), about these findings, and what can be done to mitigate these statistics.

New data has shows that Māori health providers have provided over 30,000 vaccinations up to June 30th for serious illness such as polio, meningococcal B, tetanus and diphtheria, for both adults and children, significantly surpassing the government’s original intended goal of 10,000. For our weekly catch up, News and Editorial Director, and Wire Host, Joel, spoke to Te Pāti Māori’s Mariameno Kapa-Kingi about this increase, and why this is so significant. They also spoke to Mariameno about comments Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon said at the recent koroneihana, where he claimed Māori ceded sovereignty to the Crown, which has faced some backlash. Finally, they discussed the recent Understanding Police Delivery report, which highlights that Māori are disproportionately more likely to be persecuted and targeted by police.

For our weekly catch up with the ACT Party, Producer Evie speaks to Simon Court about the ACT Party's absence from the Māori King’s Koroneihana, questions about the ministry of regulation and changes to the the Fast Track Approvals Bill For our weekly catch up with Te Pāti Māori, News and Editorial Director and Wire Host, Joel, speaks to Mariameno Kapa-Kingi about the increase in Māori vaccination rates, comments PM Christopher Luxon had at Koroneihana at Tūrangawaewae, report into Māori being disproportionately targeted by police. Joel also spoke to Criminology Lecturer at the University of Auckland, and spokesperson for People Against Prisons Aotearoa, Emmy Rākete (Ngāpuhi) about the recently released Understanding Police Delivery report, which shows that Māori are disproportionately more likely to be persecuted by police. Evie speaks to Socio-Cultural Teaching Fellow in Physical Education, Sport and Exercise sciences at The University of Otago, Sebastian Potgieter about Israel’s place in international sporting competitions. And finally, Joel speaks to Associate Professor in the Faculty of Science, and geologist, Phil Shane, about a new vent being discovered at Whakaari / White Island, which has resulted in various flights being delayed, and what this means for the volcano.

Molly guest hosts Breakky on a sunny Rāhina morning! We were joined by Penelope Noir for the Fashun check-in - listen back to her take on Indie Sleaze. Jenna from Time Out talks The Mermaid Chronicles by Megan Dunn on Loose Reads. Listen back for all the goss and a bunch of excellent music. 

Whakarongo mai nei! Jim Nothing and friends joined Aneeka for a stripped back set last Friday - including a sneak peak at some tracks from the upcoming album Grey Eyes, Grey Lynn. How lucky are we? Thanks to McLeod's Brewery!

Break dawn on the B! Grab a coffee and tune in to a weekend debrief with Elle and Joel and some cracker tunes. Elle spends too much money on new records so have a wee listen to the new musical stylings from Louisa Nicklin, Fontaines D.C. and Hinds. We also had some live music from The Backseat Lovers live at the Troubadour and The Mockers from the live album 'Wellington Zone.' 

The International court of justice has found Israel guilty of implementing discriminatory racial segregation between Palestinians and Israelis in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. This year, Russia and Belarus were banned from the Olympics as a result of the ongoing war in Ukraine. Despite this International Court of Justice decision Israel didn’t receive the same consequence.  This sparked backlash and questions surrounding Israel's participation in future international sporting events.  Currently, FIFA is set to make a decision on whether Israel will be allowed to compete in international football by the end of this month.  Producer Evie spoke to Socio-Cultural Teaching Fellow in Physical Education, Sport and Exercise sciences at The University of Otago, Sebastian Potgieter about what he expects from this decision. As well as why Israel was allowed to compete in the Olympics - and why their participation in sporting events has such a big political impact.  

Jenna from Time Out Bookstore chats about the new book from Megan Dunn - The Mermaid Memoirs.

Last week the eighteenth Koroneihana of the Māori King took place, attended by all the political parties - minus one. The ACT Party was notably absent from the celebrations.  For their weekly catch up Producer Evie asked ACT MP, Simon Court, why this was.  They also talked about David Seymours Ministry of Regulation, which has been making headlines in recent weeks as it was revealed the average salary of its employees was $150 thousand dollars. Given the government has cut, or set to cut, over 6,500 public sector jobs the revelation has sparked some outrage.  And finally, she asked Court about the ACT party’s views on the changes to the controversial Fast-track Approvals Bill, in which decision powers have been removed from ministers.

This week's show featured new music from Fontaines DC, Flying Lotus, Troy Kingi, Geordie Greep and more.

For Stage Direction this week Alice Canton is in to chat with Keagan Carr Fransch about ANTi, a show about a family forced to meet at the intersection of queer love, religious expectations, tragic heroines and Black womanhood at Basement Theatre next week. You can get tickets here. 

Kodachroma is an exhibition by Whanganui-based artist Katherine Claypole. It weaves colour and handstitching to create a flash of vividness in the midst of winter. The title is a play on Kodachrome, a reference to Katherine’s interest in this medium and the aesthetic of the ’70s. Katherine advises the viewer to move around the work and experience it from different angles to enjoy its full optical potential. Beth spoke to Katherine about Kodachroma and her artmaking processes.

Milkstars: Sound Constellations is an exhibition currently on at Te Uru Gallery. It ‘draws on sound-oriented works in the Chartwell Collection to map relationships between artists across time and space.’ The exhibition also marks the 50th anniversary of the Chartwell Collection. Beth spoke with curator at Te Uru Gallery, James Gatt, about Milkstars and the process of curation.

Litia chats about "I saw the TV glow"

Travelling Tunes with the Amen Break, Litia chats film & a Fontaines D.C interview.

Te pōtiki o te ao is an exhibition by Shannon Te Ao (Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Ngāti Wairangi, Ngāti Te Rangi-ita, Te Pāpaka-a-Maui) on at Coastal Signs.  Exhibiting new photographs, the works are tender images of Te Ao’s children presented in sequences.  Sofia spoke to Shannon about the exhibition and his practice, as well as a work of his to be presented at the 15th Gwangju Biennale Pavilion later this year. 

A selection of works by the four artists nominated for Aotearoa's most prestigious art prize, The Walters, is currently being exhibited at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki.  The $50,000 Walters Prize - which is now awarded every three years - is being decided this year between artists Owen Connors, Juliet Carpenter, Brett Graham and Ana Iti.  Sofia spoke to Senior Curator of Global Contemporary Art at Auckland Art Gallery, Natasha Conland, about the prize and the candidates this year.  The winner will be announced in late September, so stay tuned for more coverage from us then! You can see the works of the finalists yourself at Auckland Art Gallery on until the 20th of October. 

Lots going on in the wide art world of Tāmaki Makaurau this week! Sofia had a kōrero with curator Natasha Conland about the Walters Prize candidates and exhibition at Auckland Art Gallery.   Beth spoke with Whanganui-based artist Katherine Claypole about her exhibition Kodachroma, currently on at Suite Gallery. Sofia also spoke to artist Shannon Te Ao about an exhibition of his at Coastal Signs, Te pōtiki o te ao.  And Beth had a kōrero with curator James Gatt about Milkstars: Sound Constellations, an exhibition currently on at Te Uru Gallery. For Stage Direction this week: Alice Canton is in to chat with Keagan Carr Fransch about ANTi, a show about a family forced to meet at the intersection of queer love, religious expectations, tragic heroines and Black womanhood at Basement Theatre from the 27th to the 31st of August.  And to round off the show, as always, we have your weekly Arts Guide!

The Democratic National Convention is taking place in Chicago this week. The event is where Minnesota Governor Tim Walz officialy accepts the nomination for Vice President.  Former Aotearoa Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern spoke on a side panel at the convention, organised by progressive think tank the Center for American Progress Action Fund. The panel also featured former prime minister of Sweden Magdalena Andersson, MPs from Germany and the Netherlands as well as some US political figures, including prominent Democratic strategist Patrick Gaspard. Republican candidate Donald Trump is under fire for posting AI generated images of pop star Taylor Swift on his social media platform “Truth Socials.” The images were of Taylor Swift wearing American red, white and blue while endorsing Trump for president. He captioned these photos “I accept.” Wire Host Caeden spoke to Andre Fa’aoso from the Yale Daily News about the DNC and Trump sharing AI images.

Joel had less that 2 hours sleep while hosting the show this morning! Tune in to see if they survive! A fun mix of queer punk, rock, and alternative songs!

For our weekly catch-up with the Labour Party Wire Host Caeden spoke to Carmel Sepuloni about Labour MP Greg Connor’s comments on benefit sanctions and the dismantling of parts of the Whaikaha.

Trigger warning: The following story deals with sexual violence. Earlier this month Moumita Debnath, a trainee doctor in Kolkata in India, was raped and murdered on her campus. Evidence suggested she was violently assaulted by several men after completing a 36 hour shift.  The murder has sparked protests across India.  The University of Auckland branch of Thursdays in Black, a student-led grassroots campaign against rape and sexual violence, are hosting a vigil for Dr Debnath. The candlelight vigil is being hosted at 5pm today, Thursday 22nd of August, outside the University of Auckland General Library. Wire Host Caeden spoke to organiser Layba Zubair about why they’re hosting the vigil.

For our weekly catch-up with the Labour Party Wire host Caeden speaks to Labour’s Carmel Sepuloni about Labour MP’s Greg O’Connor’s comments on benefit sanctions and the funding cuts at Whaikaha, the ministry for disabled communities. For States of the States, our segment focusing on the US election, they speak to Andre Fa’aoso from the Yale Daily News about the Democractic National Convention, including former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s panel, and Trump sharing AI generated images of Taylor Swift endorsing him on his social media. And they speak to Layba Zubair about the upcoming candlelit vigil Thursdays in Black at the University is hosting to honour Dr Moumita Debnath, who was murdered earlier this month.   For City Counselling, our weekly catch up with Auckland Council, this week, Sofia speaks to Councillor Shane Henderson about Auckland Council's Provisional Local Alcohol Policy and crime rates in central Auckland.

For our weekly catch-up with the Labour Party Wire Host Caeden spoke to Carmel Sepuloni about Labour MP Greg Connor’s comments on benefit sanctions and the dismantling of parts of the Whaikaha.

Dr Bryce Edwards chats about Darleen Tana, recent TVNZ polls & a recent Commerce Comission report on banking.

It's a weird roundabout of tunes. Wu-Tang before midday. What the heck.

A council-proposed alcohol ban after nine-pee-em will be voted on and most likely go through in December. The idea behind the ban is to prevent preloading of alcohol before events, and further reduce drunkenness on Auckland streets. Supermarket corporation Foodstuffs and Woolworths have been lobbying against the proposed ban for several years, spending millions of dollars to be able to continue to sell alcohol after nine-pee-em, however the council will be voting on this decision in December. Sasha spoke to professor of population health Peter Adams from the University of Auckland about the implications of the council-proposed alcohol sale ban.

Most scientific framings of sleep problems often disregard Maori perspectives on spirituality and wellbeing, however recent research by Deanna Haami from Massey University has shown wairua is an important link to having a more holistic approach to health. The implications for physiological, mental and spiritual health from this study are important as sleep plays an important role in our daily life, including dreams and their relation to our health. Sasha spoke to Deanna Haami from Massey University on her recent study linking Wairua, sleep and health.

Roll call. Where are you at listeners?

Steve Newall talks cinema with a review of Zoe Kravitz' new film and NZIFF We Were Dangerous on Flicks 'n' That. L.A. Mitchell hops on What's Cooking with absolutely primo selections and we hear her new single Slow Dancing.Thanks to the Beer Spot!

Lucia aka. local legend DJ SWEAT hosts Freak The Sheep this week! Listen back for emo tunes, moments of reflection, and chat about our local scene. Thanks to NZ On Air!

Last week, the Government announced a bill which they say will enable the development of time of use schemes, also known as congestion charges. Generally, time of use schemes charge motorists to use roads depending on time and location. This encourages motorists to adjust their travel time, and method of transport to reduce road congestion. Under the planned legislation, councils propose their own time of use schemes to the central government. Waka Kotahi, the New Zealand Transport Agency then provides strong oversight in the development of schemes to consider the impact on motorists and businesses. Under the plan, all final proposals will require the approval of the central government. Last year, Auckland Council voted in favour of a time of use scheme and has been planning to introduce it by 2025. However, there are concerns among experts that the proposed legislation may make it more difficult for the successful implementation of time of use schemes; by over-exposing councils to central government oversight. Producer Josef spoke to one such expert, Senior lecturer in Urban Planning at the University of Auckland, Dr Timothy Welch, about the legislation, congestion charges, and how Auckland’s own scheme might be impacted.

Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith recently confirmed the new Human Rights and Race Relations Commissioners: Dr Stephen Rainbow and Dr Melissa Derby. Following the announcement, the two were met with controversy for previous discriminatory comments. Dr Rainbow had previously criticised the platforming of transgender activist Shaneel Lal, and expressed anti-Palestine views. Dr Melissa Derby has similarly expressed anti-transgender views at events.  In our weekly catchup with the National Party’s Katie Nimon, Wire host Castor asked about the appointment of these two individuals and the alignment of their views with the government.  The government also recently announced one point three billion dollars of funding to address drink and drug driving. While the funding is appreciated by the NZ Police Association, there are worries that there aren’t enough police officers to meet the new targets.  Castor discussed each of these issues with Katie in their weekly catchup. 

Whaikaha, the Ministry of Disabled People, is set to be restructured, losing its responsibility to deliver support services, which will be moved to the Ministry of Social Development.  This has faced backlash by multiple political parties, such as Labour and the Green Party, as well as from disability activists. News and Editorial Director, Joel, spoke to the CEO of the New Zealand Disability Support Network, Peter Reynolds, about the reshuffling, and what will change about Whaikaha. They started off by asking Peter what this would mean for disabled New Zealanders.

Fonterra’s recently revealed ‘regenerative agriculture’ practices have been criticised for greenwashing. The announcement indicates that Fonterra believes existing practices, such as cows eating outside, constitute regenerative agriculture.  Greenpeace disagrees, pointing out Fonterra’s position as Aotearoa’s biggest climate and freshwater polluter. They accuse Fonterra of greenwashing - performatively claiming environmental friendliness while continuing to pollute or harm the environment.  Wire host Castor spoke to Greenpeace’s Sinead Deighton O’Flynn about greenwashing at Fonterra and the company’s environmental impact.

This week on Dear Science, our expert Professor Allan Blackman chatted with us about people aging in spikes, poisonous dyes used on books, and water found underground on Mars. 

Suri from Time Out Bookstore visits the studio to chat about Blackouts by Justin Torres!

Statistician Dr. Liza Bolton visits the bFM studio to shine a fresh light on the world of numbers and data ahead of her chat at Raising the Bar. Thanks to The University of Auckland

On the Tuesday Wire this week... On Dear Science, we chatted with our expert Professor Allan Blackman about spikes in aging, poisonous book covers, and underground water on Mars.  For our weekly catchup with the National Party's Katie Nimon, Wire host Castor asked her about the newly appointed Human Rights and Race Relations commissioners, and about new funding for more drunk driving tests. They also spoke to Greenpeace agriculture campaigner, Sinead Deighton -O'Flynn, about greenwashing in Fonterra's new regenerative agriculture policy.  Producer Josef spoke to Dr Timothy Welch about congestion charges and their implementation in Aotearoa. And News and Editorial director Joel Armstrong spoke to CEO of the New Zealand Disability Support Network, Peter Reynolds, about restructures in Whaikaha, the ministry for disabled peoples.   

For this week's epsiode of WALAO! Oto and Jaycee spoke to Tāmaki Makaurau alternative rock outfit, Grapehouse, about their musical process and experiences starting off in the wider music scene of Aotearoa as young, Asian musicians.

Tuesday tunesday

Recently, the World Health Organisation (WHO) Director-General, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesu, declared Mpox, formally known as monkeypox, a global health emergency for the second year in a row. This follows the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) experiencing its largest outbreak of the disease ever recorded, which has resulted in tens of thousands of infections. Joel spoke to Associate Professor of Infectious Diseases in the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences at the University of Auckland, Mark Thomas, about Mpox, and what this means for the country. They started off by asking him if we should be concerned about this outbreak in New Zealand.

The Auckland Council is set to decide when the Auckland Local Alcohol Policy will be put in place for the city. The policy details stricter measures in Tāmaki Makaurau, which means bottle shops won’t be able to sell liquor after 9pm, and would put a two-year freeze on new liquor licences in high priority areas. Joel spoke to Lawyer and Secretary of Communities Against Alcohol Harm, Dr Grant Hewison, about the policy, and what this will mean for Aucklanders.

On Friday the Waitangi Tribunal released an interim report which called for the ACT Party’s controversial Treaty Principals Bill to be scrapped.  Some of the tribunal’s findings said the bill "is a solution to a problem that does not exist, it is fashioned upon a disingenuous historical narrative ;its policy rationales are unsustainable ; and its current text distorts the language of the Treaty / Te Tiriti.”  Despite all of this, ACT Party leader David Seymour has welcomed the criticism, saying he’s open to encouraging ‘discussion and debate’ around the topic.  For the weekly catch up with the ACT Party Producer Evie spoke to Simon Court why the party intends to move forward with the bill, in light of these scathing findings.  They also discussed new sanctions for beneficiaries announced by the government last week, and why the ACT Party believes these should be even stricter than proposed.   

For our weekly catch up with Te Pāti Māori, News and Editorial Director, Joel, speaks to Mariameno Kapa-Kingi about Waitangi Tribunal calls for Treaty Principles Bill to be scrapped, and the controversial development of a cultural space, that shares the same attributes as a marae, in Sydney, Australia Producer Evie, for her weekly catch up with the ACT Party, speaks to Simon Court about the Waitangi Tribunal’s calls to scrap the Treaty Principals Bill, as well as the party’s calls for stricter sanctions on beneficiaries. Joel speaks to Lawyer and Secretary of Community Against Alcohol Harm (CAAH), Dr Grant Hewison, about Auckland’s planned alcohol restrictions. They also speak to Associate Professor of Infectious Diseases in the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences at the University of Auckland, Mark Thomas, about the new Mpox clade, and what this will mean for New Zealand. and Evie speaks to Professor in the Faculty of Education and Social Work at the University of Auckland, Peter O'Connor about the government’s stricter maths curriculum pushing arts and music education to the side.

The government recently announced that they’ll be moving forward with changes to maths teaching in schools a year earlier than intended.  Changes revolve around implementing stricter structure to the way maths is taught, and introducing more standardised maths assessments for children in years 0-8.  The Prime Minister has said that this may mean deferring the arts and music curriculum to allow for these changes.  In a Newsroom article, Professor in the Faculty of Education and Social Work at the University of Auckland, Peter O'Connor says that pushing the arts curriculum to the side would be detrimental for students.  Producer Evie spoke to O’Connor about why arts and music is so important for students, as well as having the ability to lift their maths and literacy results.  

For our weekly catch up with Te Pāti Māori, Joel spoke with Mariameno Kapa-Kingi about the Waitangi Tribunal’s interim report on the Treaty Principles Bill, and the reports calls to cut the bill. They also spoke to her about the development of a cultural space, which has the same attributes of a marae, in Sydney, Australia, which has faced backlash by the indigenous Australian group, Dharug Ngurra, over concerns the space has not received adequate consent to be built on native land.

This week's show featured new music from Troy Kingi, Moods, Nathan Haines and more.

Kirsten's picxks are "The Border" by Willie Nelson and "Empty Trainload of Sky" by Gillian Welch and David Rawlings - both wonderful.

Nathan Haines joins Hunter to break down 'Notes', their new album. ~ Thanks to NZ On Air Music ~

Modern Women: Flight of Time is a new major show at Toi o Tāmaki Auckland Art Gallery.  Combining over 80 paintings, prints, sculptures and textiles from public and private collections across Aotearoa from 1920 to 1970, the exhibition highlights the leading role women artists have played in shaping the development of modern art.  Including iconic figures such as Rita Angus, Frances Hodgkins, and A Lois White, the exhibition also aims to celebrate the significant contributions of lesser known women artists such as June Black, Flora Scales and Pauline Yearbury. The exhibition has been curated by Auckland Art Gallery Curator of New Zealand Art Julia Waite. Sofia spoke to Julia about the show, her curation process, and how the exhibition uncovers themes of women’s artistic practices in the 20th century.

For Stage Direction this week, Sofia and Beth speak to Acacia O'Connor about Asra - a documentary theatre piece as a part of Auckland Fringe festival about experiences of Palestinian prisoners and the importance of culture as practices of resistance and liberation. It's on at Basement Theatre from the 3rd-7th of September. You can get tickets here. 

A heap of NZIFF content & chats with Kirsten Zemke.

Kirsten Zemke chats Californian "Souldies". Tracks include: The Altons “When You Go (That's When You'll Know)” 2020 Thee Sacred Souls “Can I Call You Rose?” 2020 Adrian Carmine “Listen To My Heart Speak” 2021

Litia chats NZIFF and Janet Planet. Thanks to Mezze Bar!

Jonny chats with Paul Wolffram & Evelyn Kunda about Marimari. Thanks to Mezze Bar!

Artspace’s yearly group exhibition, This is the house that jack built, is currently on.  Featuring artists Andy Butler, Kerry Deane, Sara Gómez, Ming Ranginui, Ashleigh Taupaki, and X&Y, the exhibition brings together a fifty-year arc of works from local and international artists to answer the annual question of ‘do I need territory?’.  Through film, sculpture, and site specific drawings, the artists explore the complexity of dynamic geo-political conditions, asking the audience to confront its perceptions of value, class, labour and ownership in present day late capitalism. Sofia spoke to Kaitohu Director Ruth Buchanan and one of the artists in the show, Ashleigh Taupaki, about the themes of the show and Taupaki’s work. 

Flora Feltham is a writer from Pōneke Wellington. After completing her Masters in Creating Writing, she published Bad Archive, a book of essays, through Victoria University Press. The language of Flora’s essays is expressive and provides for rich creative scope. Author Rose Lu described it as ‘idiosyncratic, warm and wry, [moving] seamlessly across time and space.’ Beth caught up with Flora about Bad Archive and her processes as a creative non-fiction writer.

Lucinda chats baking without butter.

Thursday with David Slack, Lucinda Bennett & Natural Ange!

A funky, fun, upbeat way to start up your morning! Whakarango mai!

The Government has announced new sanctions for beneficiaries who do not meet their obligations. These include putting half a person’s benefit on a payment card and community work experience. Social Development Minister Louise Upston said this is to move people into work and provide tougher consequences for those who repeatedly fail to meet benefit obligations. The changes will be introduced alongside a new “traffic light” warning system for beneficiaries the government campaigned on. The move has been criticised from opposition parties, including Labour Leader Chris Hipkins who said the move would continue to push people into poverty. In other news, the Mayor of New Plymouth has called on the Labour Party to support oil and gas exploration until 2050. Neil Holdom states energy policies affected by constraints of the electoral cycle i not working and would like to see a bipartisan approach taken to energy policy. For our weekly catch-up with the Labour Party Wire host Caeden spoke to Labour Deputy Leader Carmel Sepuloni about both of these issues.

This week in States of the States, Presidential candidate Donald Trump joins a livestream on the streaming app with internet personality Adin Ross. Ross is known for his sometimes controversial videos of livestreaming apps “twitch” and “kick”.  Another celebrity streamer, Kai Cenat, has also claimed the Harris campaign reached out to him for the pair to do a livestream together. Amongst this, the FBI have launched an investigation in what seems to be a hack into the Trump campaigns computer systems. The campaign is blaming Iran-backed hackers, but this has not been confirmed. Wire host Caeden speaks to Andre from the Yale Daily News, on the candidates joining livestreams and the alleged Trump campaign hack.

The Government has announced new sanctions for beneficiaries who do not meet their obligations. These include putting half a person’s benefit on a payment card and community work experience. Social Development Minister Louise Upston said this is to move people into work and provide tougher consequences for those who repeatedly fail to meet benefit obligations. The changes will be introduced alongside a new “traffic light” warning system for beneficiaries the government campaigned on. The move has been criticised from opposition parties, including Labour Leader Chris Hipkins who said the move would continue to push people into poverty. In other news, the Mayor of New Plymouth has called on the Labour Party to support oil and gas exploration until 2050. Neil Holdom states energy policies affected by constraints of the electoral cycle i not working and would like to see a bipartisan approach taken to energy policy. For our weekly catch-up with the Labour Party Wire host Caeden spoke to Labour Deputy Leader Carmel Sepuloni about both of these issues.

Jonny speaks with David Slack while he's cycle touring in through Europe. What could the future of Auckland's cycleway network look like?

For our weekly catch-up with the Labour Party Wire Host Caeden speaks to Labour’s Carmel Sepuloni about the government’s new benefit sanctions and the New Plymouth Mayor’s call for Labour to continue oil and gas exploration until 2050. For States of the States Caeden speaks to Andre Fa'aoso on candidates joining, or potentially joining, livestreams. As well as the Trump campaign internal document hack, which they are blaming on Iran.  And they speak to Frankie Barclay from Amnesty Aotearoa on the recent alt-right riots in the UK, and their new report linking these riots to institutional racism. For City Counselling this week, Producer Sofia speaks to Councillor Julie Fairey about plans to reform council controlled organisations, rates, and Council paying out secret financial settlements. She also speaks to Principal Scientist at Plant & Food Research and Professor in the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Auckland, Dr Andy Allan, about the government announcing to end the ban on genetic modification and genetic engineering outside the lab.

Bits n bobs from Sofia's morning glory 🍓👹 Vincent Gallo - Was Machine Girl - Cyan Hardcore Oneohtrix Point Never - I Don't Love Me Anymore P.H.F. - SABBATH SHIRT, Clock To Kill, Ur An Excuse Amamelia - Gap Selection  Sandra De Sá, Tim Maia - Vale Tudo Baby Huey - Mama Get Yourself Together Little Beaver - I Can Dig It Baby HEX - It Begins With A Man Wednesday - Fate Is... MIKE - nuthin i can do is wrng Part Time - In This Life I Live 4 U

Natural Ange covers off a bunch of helpful tips and health remedies.

New Zealand is a first world country, and to be of such a presumption would require us to believe that electricity and heating should be basic right of life in our country. This, however, is not the case for all New Zealanders who endure power hardship, especially so during winter months. The cause for this is the privatisation of these power companies causing them to pursue money which in turn controls their policies and costs. Unfortunately a large portion of New Zealanders experience power hardship, which ultimately is a cumulative issue of inadequate housing on top of expensive rental prices. Sasha spoke to Jodi Gardner, professor of Law from the University of Auckland about power companies' unregulated control, as well as the problems lower and middle income New Zealanders face related to heating and electricity.

Algerian Boxer Imane Khelif was the subject of a widespread disinformation campaign during this year’s olympics, with commentators and netizens from right-wing spaces alleging that Khelif had been assigned male at birth and should not have qualified to compete in the women’s Olympic boxing tournament. No medical evidence has been given to suggest that Khelif had XY chromosomes or elevated levels of testosterone and the International Olympic Committee issued a statement saying that Khelif fulfilled all the requirements needed to compete in women’s boxing.  However, this did not stop our own Deputy Prime Minister, Winston Peters, from contributing to the disinformation campaign against Khelif, making a statement on X, formerly twitter, saying that Khelif had “failed a gender test”, which is why NZ first fought for gender rules in sports to be in their coalition agreement.  In response, concerned citizens and takatāpui, Louisa Wall and Samantha Green, launched a petition on our action station calling for Peters to be held accountable for his comments and for legislative framework to be established for officials who peddle disinformation.  For this week’s Get Action! Oto spoke to Louisa and Samantha about the petition and their calls to the government. To sign this petition, click here:

Nicola Willis + an Aural Emporium!

The government recently announced that they would be introducing a “traffic light” sanction system for people on the jobseeker support benefit who did not fulfil their obligations as beneficiaries. This includes a green level for compliant beneficiaries and an orange and red level for beneficiaries who haven’t met their obligations and who may face sanctions. For their weekly catch up, Oto spoke to Green Party MP Ricardo Menendez-March to discuss his thoughts on the newly introduced sanctions.  They also had a chat about job cuts at the Environmental Protection Agency and the party’s petition calling for Simeon Brown’s speed limit increases to be rolled back.

In the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle, there was widespread damage to homes across affected areas in the North Island, with the housing market across the whole country facing massive subsequent reductions.  Around 170 homes were deemed unsafe to enter, with almost 5000 others facing other infrastructural damages.  Oto spoke to Maude Loutsch, a lecturer and PHD candidate in the Faculty of Law at the University of Auckland, to discuss the impacts to housing caused by Cyclone Gabrielle and Aotearoa’s preparedness for housing impacts in the event of natural disasters.

For their regular catch-up, Oto speak to the Green Party’s Ricardo Menéndez March about the government’s new traffic light sanctions for beneficiaries, as well as cuts at the Environmental Protection Agency and the party’s petition to roll back speed limit reversals.  He spoke to Maude Loutsch from the University of Auckland about the impacts of Cyclone Gabrielle on housing in Aotearoa. And, for this week’s Get Action! He spoke to Louisa Wall and Samantha Green a about a petition of theirs calling on public officials to be held accountable for sharing disinformation. Sasha spoke to Professor Jodi Gardner from the University of Auckland to discuss government-funded energy deals for lower-income New Zealanders, including concerns surrounding heating and electricity

Jonny speaks with Auckland Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson about the recently released State of the City 2024 Report, and the Regional Historic Heritage Grants Programme being open.

Jonny speaks with Flamingo Pier while they're in Berlin, hot of the back of a US Tour. 

Dr Avi Vajpeyi visits the bFM studi oto chat about Gravitational Waves & Black Holes. Thanks to The University of Auckland!

Oto and Jaycee started their second session of WALAO! with a grungy start, before heading into an interview with Singaporean climate activist Phoebe Rae Tan.  While Oto had to leave halfway through the show, Jaycee entertained listeners with interesting topics such as video game consoles and the Southeast-Asian word of the day "Gising".

For Dear Science this week our expert Doctor Cushla McGoverin chatted to us about a parasite taking drugs to the brain, tarantulas making friends, and social groups of lions. 

The government recently announced increases to visa application fees across several groups, in some cases more than doubling the cost to applicants. These changes are due to increase revenue for Immigration NZ, and are said to make the organisation 100% self-sufficient.  On the 12th of August, the New Zealand Police Association released an open letter to the government calling out their exclusion from discussions around firearms legislation reform. The letter spoke to the necessity of existing legislation, and criticised the involvement of former and present gun lobbyists in the process, including the minister in charge Nicole McKee. According to the ACT party website, McKee was formerly the spokesperson for The Council of Licensed Firearms Owners, a gun lobbyist group.  In our weekly catchup with the National Party’s Katie Nimon, Wire host Castor asked about the changes to visa application fees and the involvement of police and gun lobbyists in firearms legislation reform. 

The government also announced increased visa application fees, some of them now more than double the previous cost. The government says this change will make Immigration NZ entirely self-sufficient, no longer at any cost to the taxpayer. However, the projected gain from this fee increase is four times as much as Immigration NZ currently spends annually. While the increased funding is expected to be reinvested in improving services, the actual impact or allocation is currently unknown.  Additionally, increased fees may deter potential applicants and increase costs to businesses looking to hire employees from overseas. The change may therefore reduce the number of overseas teachers and healthcare professionals, among other jobs.  Wire host Castor spoke to CEO of immigration advisory group Aims and chair of the New Zealand Association of Migration and Investment, Arunima Dhingra, about the changes and their impact on immigration. 

The New Zealand Police Association yesterday released an open letter to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon discussing firearms legislation reform. In the letter, the association called out the government for their exclusion from the policy making process, as the Police Association has been a key group calling for the introduction and continuation of a firearms registry. The Police Association also called into question the involvement of gun lobby groups in discussions of reform, particularly the history of Associate Minister and minister in charge of the reforms, Nicole McKee. Before becoming an MP, McKee had been the spokesperson for the Council of Licensed Firearms Owners, a gun lobby group. This has led some to call into question her impartiality and ability to assess evidence regarding firearms legislation reform.  Wire host Castor spoke to President of the New Zealand Police Association, Chris Cahill, about the letter, the firearms registry, and involvement of gun lobbyists in firearms legislation decision making. 

On the Tuesday Wire this week... For Dear Science this week, we chatted with our expert Dr Cushla McGoverin about a parasite carrying drugs to the brain, tarantulas with lots of friends, and lions changing social groups with age.  In our weekly catchup with the National Party, Wire host Castor spoke to MP Katie Nimon about changes to visa fees and police involvement in firearms law reform.  They also talked to president of the New Zealand Police Association Chris Cahill about the association’s open letter to the government about firearms legislation reform.  And they spoked to CEO of immigration advice organisation Aims Global and chair of the New Zealand Association for Migration and Investment, Arunima Dhingra, about the visa fee changes and how they’ll impact immigration to Aotearoa. 

For the second episode of WALAO! Oto interviewed Phoebe Rae Tan, a climate activist and creative from Singapore currently based in Tāmaki Makaurau .  Phoebe compared her experiences with climate activism in Aotearoa with the work she did previously in Singapore.

Last week, the newspaper, The Herald, showcased an advertisement by right-wing lobby group, Hobson’s Pledge, on the front of their August SEVEN issue. The advertisement calls to “restore the foreshore and seabed to public ownership,” insinuating that Māori own pretty much all coastal areas in Aotearoa. NZME, who owns The Herald’s choice to include the advertisement has faced significant backlash, notably by Te Pāti Māori, and Kawea Te Rongo - The Māori Journalists Association. Joel spoke to Professor at the University of Auckland Faculty of Law, Claire Charters (Ngāti Whakaue, Ngāpuhi, Tūwharetoa, Tainui) about the advertisement and the backlash it has received.

Local council’s in Aotearoa have been tasked with voting on the future of Māori wards from within their constituencies. Of the council’s that have voted so far, Gisborne and New Plymouth have voted to keep theirs, however, Kaipara has voted to disestablish theirs. For our weekly catch up, Joel spoke to Te Pāti Māori’s Mariameno Kapa-Kingi, about what this means for democracy for Māori voters moving forward. They also spoke to her about New Zealand’s largest iwi, Ngāpuhi, organising two hīkoi last week, over the government’s plans to reverse section 7AA of the Oranga Tamariki Act. They concluded our chat by speaking to her about Te Pāti Māori’s calls to boycott The Herald, following the newspaper’s decision to include a controversial advertisement by Hobson’s Pledge.

The post olympics special!

The New Zealand police association are calling for ACT MP, Nicole McKee, to be stripped of her responsibility in the firearms reform. The police union’s president, Chris Cahill, in an open letter to Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, says McKee had included 17 firearms interest groups in a targeted consultation process for the review, with only 8 of the groups who many differ in views. The police association was not included in the groups discussing the review. For our weekly catch up I spoke to the ACT Party’s Simon Court about Nicole Mckee, these calls for her to step down, and what this will mean for gun reform in Aotearoa.

Recently, the Ministry of Social Development changed its eligibility for those trying to access Emergency Housing. On top of having tougher eligibility, the policy also means that those caught breaking the rules of their Emergency Housing needs will have a stand-down period of 13 weeks for a housing grant. Kick Back, a youth development organisation, has condemned the government’s move, and is calling for the government to reassess the criteria, due to how the new criteria will significantly displace young people requiring access to Emergency Housing. Joel spoke to youth worker and co-founder of the organisation, Aaron Hendry, about the shift of eligibility, and what this will mean for vulnerable young people

For their weekly catchup, Wire Host and News and Editorial Director, Joel, speaks to the ACT Party's Simon Court, about calls from the New Zealand police association for ACT MP, Nicole McKee, to step down from her responsibilities in the firearms reform. Also for our week catchup, they speak to Te Pāti Māori's Mariameno Kapa-Kingi, around local council's voting on the future of Māori wards in their constituencies, the Ngāpuhi hīkoi over the government's plans to reverse section 7AA of the Oranga Tamariki Act, and Te Pāti Māori's calls to boycott the newspaper, The Herald. They spoke to Professor at the University of Auckland Faculty of Law, Claire Charters, around the controversial decision to include an advertisement by right-wing lobby group, Hobson's Pledge, in The Herald. The also spoke to Professional Teaching Fellow in Social Sciences at the University of Auckland, Chris McMillan, about whether the Olympics, as well as team New Zealand, are doing enough to lower their carbon footprint. Finally, they spoke to youth worker and co-founder of Kick Back, Aaron Hendry, about the Ministry of Social Development changing their eligability for Emergency Housing, and what this means for vulnerable youth.

Jenna reviews The Survivors by Steve Braunias. Thanks Time Out Bookstore!

The Paris 2024 Olympics games, which are set to end, have aimed to be the “greenest games in history,” implementing a lot of measures to attempt to decrease their carbon footprint. Despite clear aims to be more environmentally-friendly, the games are predicted to emit 1.5 billion tons of carbon, similar to the amount Fiji emits annually.  Alongside this, only two sporting bodies that make up the New Zealand Olympic Committee have developed their own sustainability strategies. Joel spoke to Professional Teaching Fellow in Social Sciences at the University of Auckland, Chris McMillan, about the Olympics, and team New Zealand’s aims to mitigate the effects of the climate crisis, and whether this is enough.

Mixed bag of a few classics, brand new stuff and something that I thought was gonna be cool but ended up being actually bloody awful. But hey, you might like it and Grief Cat is still a cool name for a band. Couple of serato/dust/needle mishaps to keep us honest in there as well. Radio. Live with humans and equipment.

This week's show featured new music from Greathsouth, Leon Bridges, Flamingo Pier, Nathan Haines and more.

Charlie (Cryer) joins Hunter to break down 'REMNANTS', the new album from NIISA; the legendary Tāmaki Makaurau trio with Adison Whitley (r.i.p.) and Reuben Winter (r.i.p.). ~ Thanks to NZ On Air Music ~   Where to find help and support: Need to Talk? - Call or text 1737 What's Up - 0800 WHATS UP (0800 942 8787) Lifeline - 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland Youthline - 0800 376 633, text 234, email [email protected] or online chat Depression Helpline - 0800 111 757 Suicide Crisis Helpline - 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) Music Helps - 0508 MUSICHELP

Joe Kaptein (The Circling Sun, Princess Chelsea, & more) joins Hunter to break down 'Eternal Afternoon', their new album. ~ Thanks to NZ On Air Music ~

For Stage Direction this week: Alice Canton is in to chat with Lee Smith-Gibbons and Florence Hartigan about Larybinth - a show at Pitt Street Theatre inspired by the beloved 80s fantasy movie, Labyrinth. You can get tickets here.

Birdboy Press is an independent publisher of poetry founded and run by poet Jamie Trower. Beth caught up with Jamie, and Birdboy poets Georgie Silk and Kathy Frantz, about their poetry collections, the process of collaboration and their experiences with independent publishing. You can pick up a copy of Georgie and Kathy’s respective new collections of poetry, Peel and Motherland, from Time Out Bookstore or an independent bookstore near you.

Quadraphonic Coats is a new exhibition by Wellington-born and Sydney-based artist Vita Cochran.  In exploring modernist forms and feminist histories, Cochran sources vintage coats from across decades, unpicks them, and repurposes them into something else.  In this way, Cochran describes this exhibition, Quadraphonic Coats, as a multi-generational gathering.  Sofia spoke to Vita about the exhibition and some of the feminist themes in her practice.

Beth has a kōrero with poets Jamie Trower, Georgie Silk and Kathy Frantz about their poetry collections and Birdboy Press, an independent publishing company founded and run by Jamie. Sofia has a kōrero with artist Vita Cochran about Quadraphonic Coats, a new exhibition of hers at Anna Miles Gallery.  And for Stage Direction this week: Alice Canton is in to chat with Lee Smith-Gibbons and Florence Hartigan about Larybinth - a show at Pitt Street Theatre inspired by the beloved 80s fantasy movie, Labyrinth.

Thursday with political commentary & Breakfast food.

Lucinda chats about great recent eats in the CBD.

A wild variety of random assortments, with a chat to the University of Auckland Rainbow Engineering Club about a Rainbow Stein they are holding! Whakarongo mai! 

Joel spoke to Chante de Villiers, Event Coordinator for the University of Auckland's Rainbow Engineering Club, who are hosting a Rainbow Stein event, which being held in in collaboration with Rainbow Engineering, Science, Law, Business, Education and Social Work clubs, and Trans on Campus.

Bryce Edwards unpacks the recent Natinal Party Conference.

Earlier this week, Aotearoa Justice Watch released a report detailing numerous testimonies of abuse, discrimination and alleged violations of human rights within New Zealand’s criminal justice system. Of the 62 submissions made between June 2022 and March 2024, 36 testimonies related to prisons, 20 to policing and 6 to both policing and prisons. Aotearoa Justice Watch is made up of People Against Prisons Aotearoa, Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand, JustSpeak and the New Zealand Council for Civil Liberties. Producer Sofia spoke to Senior Campaigner at Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand, David Vega, about the report and identifying areas for improvement in our criminal justice system. 

Milly takes you through a super duper chill three hours for your drive home. Featuring groovy beats and special guests such as Chris Fowlie for Marijuana Media, and James and Jesse from IVY speaking to Max about their music. Lay back and let it wash over ya!  Thanks to The Beerspot! 

Playlist includes: good tracks and zero cohesivity. Enjoy! Bonnie Dobson - Morning Dew Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Sheena Is A Punk Rocker Prince Fatty, Shniece McMenamim - White Rabbit/ Underwater Love Celesete Carballo - El Arbolito - Live Peaches - Search And Destroy Jonah Yano - Romance ESL Johnny Adams - Even Now  Justice, Connan Mockasin - Explorer DOOPEES - Auntie Kim Sings "Now That You've Gone"/ Love Songs The Yardbirds - For Your Love  Tim Maia - Ela Partiu Eaves Wilder - Are You Diagnosed Nina Miranda - água

The mantra of the current government is to ‘get the country back on track’, but Honorary Associate professor Avril Bell says the current government is looking at safeguarding Pakeha privilege at the expense of Maori. The removal of section 7aa, repealing the Maori Health Authority are some of the actions the government had taken which Avril claims are exclusively ‘anti-Maori’. Sasha spoke to Avril Bell from the University of Auckland about why what’s good for Maori is good for everyone.

For their regular catch-up, Oto spoke to the Green Party’s Ricardo Menéndez March about the government’s decision to dismiss 8 of the recommendations made into the Christchurch terrorist attack inquiry, the impact of Oranga Tamariki cuts on frontline services and the open letter to the Green Party of Germany. He spoke to Dr Neal Curtis from the University of Auckland to discuss the recent riots in the UK and the rise of the far right. And he spoke to Associate Professor Carrie Leonetti to discuss the family violence act reforms and coercive control. Sasha spoke to associate professor Avril Bell about the impact of the government’s policies towards Māori since coming into power. He also spoke to Kelly Burrowes from the University of Auckland to discuss her findings on a potential vape epidemic in Aotearoa.

New Zealand’s family violence act officially took effect on the 1st of July 2019. The act reformed previous legislation released in 2018 to update the definition of family violence and include references to controlling and coercive behaviour.  However, while certain coercive and controlling behaviours in abusive relationships are criminalised and covered by New Zealand law, coercive control itself is not illegal, with family courts in Aotearoa often failing to prosecute those responsible for coercion and non-physical forms of abuse in family violence situations. Oto spoke to Carrie Leonetti, associate professor in the Faculty of Law at the University of Auckland, to discuss how Family courts in Aotearoa often fail to properly address coercive and controlling behaviours.

On the 29th of July this year, three children were killed in a mass stabbing incident in the town of Southport in the United Kingdom. Following the killings, riots broke out across the United Kingdom, after the attacker was falsely identified as a Muslim refugee on social media platforms such as Facebook and X, formerly twitter.  The riots have been lead by members of Far-Right British organisations such as the English Defence League, who have targeted Mosques, Muslim owned businesses and members of the Muslim community.  Oto spoke to Dr Neal Curtis, a professor of media and political theory in the Faculty of Arts at the University of Auckland, to discuss the cause of the UK riots and the rise of the British far right.

Following the 2019 terrorist attacks on a number of Mosques in Christchurch that left 51 worshippers killed, A Royal Commission of Inquiry was launched to measure agencies responses to the attack, steps needed to prevent further attacks in the future and ways to safeguard marginalised communities in Aotearoa.  The initial inquiry was released on the 8th of December in 2020 and made 44 recommendations based on its findings. However, the government recently announced it had concluded its response to the inquiry and that it would dismiss 8 of its recommendations, particularly ones related to firearm law amendments and crackdowns on hate speech. For their weekly catch up, Oto spoke to Green Party MP Ricardo Menendez-March about the party’s take on the decision to dismiss 8 of the recommendations of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into the Christchurch terrorist attacks. They also spoke about the impact of funding cuts to Oranga Tamariki on frontline services, as well as the open letter to the Green party of Germany.

Following the government’s decision to halve the excise tax from tobacco products, lung and vaping research expert Kelly Burrowes and her team have been investigating the effects of vaping on the body. She will be heading to Wellington to present her findings today on the effects on airflow, blood flow and lung function. Sasha spoke to Kelly Burrowes from the University of Auckland on her findings to prevent a ‘potential vape epidemic’

Chris Hipkins on the phone to chat math, cuts to the Healthcare system and more!

A 'covers' special with a little chaos sprinkled on top - enjoy!  

The 95bFM Top Ten counts down the best tunes from the bFM playlist as chosen by you!

Tuesday with a Desley Simpson chat and yarns with Auckland University's Dr. Kiri West about data Maori sovereignty.

Backshotz is a 7 piece psychedelic indie rock outfit hailing from Tamaki Makaurau, Auckland, made up of a diverse group of brilliant musicians and lead by frontman Varit of Thai origin. For the first episode of WALAO! Oto and Jaycee interviewed Backshotz to talk about their origins, musical process and Asian representation in the musical landscape of Aotearoa.

The repeal of section 7aa of the Oranga Tamariki Act was announced earlier this year, and the government is reviewing submissions on the bill this week. In response, more than 200 members of Ngāpuhi gathered at parliament on Monday 5th August to protest the change, which they claim will continue the historical mistreatment of tamariki Māori in state care as outlined in the recent abuse in state care report.  The repeal of section 7aa also joins a raft of other legislation under this government, which has been criticised for its targeting of policies or institutions designed to uplift Māori voices or address Māori issues.  In our weekly catchup with the National Party’s Katie Nimon, Wire host Castor asked about the removal of section 7aa and how the government is responding to criticisms. They also asked about the government’s broader approach to Māori issues, and how they plan to address systemic inequalities through policy. 

On the Tuesday Wire this week... For Dear Science, we chatted with our expert Professor Allan Blackman about the 250th anniversary of the discovery of Oxygen.  In our weekly catchup with the National Party, Wire host Castor spoke to MP Katie Nimon about the removal of section 7aa of the Oranga Tamariki Act in light of Ngāpuhi members gathering at parliament, and how this reflects the government’s attitudes towards Māori issues.  They spoke to Senior lecturer in Education at the University of Auckland, Dr Ritesh Shah from the University of Auckland about humanitarian aid and ceasefire negotiations in Gaza.  And they spoke to Dr Lisa Darragh from the University of Auckland about the government's newly announced maths curriculum changes.  Producer Josef spoke to Sara Walton, Professor of Sustainable Business at the University of Otago, about Air New Zealand’s removal of its 2030 emissions reduction targets and withdrawal from the science-based targets initiative.

In a unique edition of Dear Science, expert Professor Allan Blackman spoke to us about the 250th anniversary of the discovery of oxygen, the history of the person who did it, and oxygen facts in the 21st century. 

The government recently announced changes and funding for maths education in primary and intermediate schools. The changes include requiring all primary and secondary teachers to have an NCEA level 2 qualification in maths and introducing standardised maths tests twice yearly.  The changes are the first major update in around twenty years, and are cautiously welcomed by those in the sector. Wire host Castor spoke to senior lecturer of mathematics education at the University of Auckland, Lisa Darragh, about the existing system and the potential changes.

Dr Kiri West chats with Jonny about the importance of Māori Data Sovereignty. Thanks to The University of Auckland!

Air New Zealand recently announced their withdrawal from the Science Based Targets Initiative and removal of carbon intensity reduction targets. The company says the move was driven by a lack of availability and affordability for new aircraft and sustainable aviation fuels. The announcement drew criticism from experts who say the original plan was unrealistic and that the target removal was unsurprising. Producer Josef spoke with Professor of Sustainable Business at the University of Otago, and Co-Director of He Kaupapa Hononga, Otago’s Climate Change Research Network, Sara Walton; about the announcement, and what it means for New Zealand’s emissions reduction target.

For the first ever episode of WALAO! Oto and Jaycee interviewed local Tāmaki Makaurau indie rock outift Backshotz for a chat about their musical process and asian representation in the music scene here in Aotearoa. They also had a chat about Budot music in the Philippines and it's spread through TikTok. And, of course, they played 2 hours of the best independent music from Southeast-Asia and the diaspora abroad.

As the conflict in Gaza continues, international calls for a ceasefire have also been highlighted. Along with calls for a ceasefire, talks between Israel and Hamas have continued for months, despite disruptions.  However, Dr Ritesh Shah says a ceasefire alone is not enough to address systemic issues within the region. Shah’s research is into the well-being and education of children and young people in Gaza.  Wire host Castor spoke to him about humanitarian efforts, ceasefire talks, and what else the international community could do to contribute to lasting peace in the region. He also spoke about a series he began at the University of Auckland, which is linked below with a description: Through guest speakers and films (including several Palestinian scholars), the intention is to provide a space for staff and students within our university to learn more about how contemporary struggles in Palestine are the product of legacies of settler colonialism, racism, capitalism, and imperialism. It is also an opportunity to question some of the orthodoxies that have held problems in their place in Palestine and begin to imagine alternative futures. The series also gives specific attention to the education project in all of this—and how it has been a source of oppression, liberation, and hope for Palestinians over time and in different forms.       The series starts on August 1 and runs over three successive Thursdays that month (August 1, 8, 15) from 4-6 pm (note, the first session runs until 6:30 pm). Those who are interested in attending can register for one or more of the seminars at this link, where you can also find more information about each seminar in the series. 

Frances Chan is inspired by Herbie Hancock and the OG Headhunters band ahead of attending their 50th anniversary concert at the Hollywood Bowl in August, plus Louis Cole’s album launch. There’s also Romani jazz, Latin flavours and local heroes. Setlist: Joe Kaptein – Eternal Afternoon Harvey Mason – Hop Scotch Bennie Maupin – Eternal Flame Bill Summers – Check it Out The Headhunters – Over the Bar Louis Cole – These Dreams Are Killing Me Corto.alto ft Rob McGuire – Longdays (11) United Future Organization – Tres Amigos Herbie Hancock ft Ceu – Tempo de Amor Johnny Raducanu – Blues Minor Dan Mandrila – Sonet Charles Mingus – Haitian Fight Song Mayumi Kijoma – Hard Bop Shirley Scott – Feeling Good Cal Tjader – Cucacao Thabani Gapara Project – Chisa Ghost-Note & Marcus Miller – Yellow Dan  

Cory Champion aka Borrowed CS joins Hunter to break down 'Creative Writing', their new album. ~ Thanks to NZ On Air Music ~

Cam Ballantyne joins Jonny on the phone to chat about the music on We Were Dangerous. Thanks to Mezze Bar!

Presenting a new body of work, Wrinkled Speech is Layla Rudneva-Mackay’s first solo exhibition at Melanie Roger Gallery.  In exploring themes of motherhood, healing, the subconscious, and womanhood, Rudneva-Mackay, through seemingly abstract paintings, plays with figurative elements and luminescence.  Sofia spoke to Layla about the show, its themes, and her practice.

Litia reviews The Beast as part of the NZ International Film Festival. Thanks to Mezze Bar!

Alice Canton is back! For Stage Direction this week, she speaks to Eden Webster about the programme for Kōanga Festival - an upcoming festival at Te Pou Theatre that celebrates Māori storytelling and new voices. 

Kith and Kin is a new group exhibition at Season Gallery with brunelle dias, Tony Guo, Levi Kereama, Claudia Kogachi, and the esteemed Jacqueline Fahey. Testifying to the importance of strengthening community, Kith and Kin comprises stylistically diverse figure-based paintings exploring notions of family and friendship, ancestry and diaspora, identity and belonging.  Emblems of faith, evocative interiors, fields seen from the sky, and items of food both everyday and symbolic can be seen as common elements in the works. Sofia spoke to Season Gallery co-curator, Francis McWhannell, about Kith and Kin, starting the interview asking him about the process for selecting artists.

Belonging: Stories of Contemporary New Zealand Asian Artists is a new group exhibition at Bergman Gallery.  Uniting 10 artists - Andrea Bolima, Louie Bretaña, Gavin Chai, Luise Fong, Wei Lun Ha, Rozana Lee, Rhea Maheshwari, Tanja McMillan, Bev Moon and Llenyd Price - curator Benny Chan describes the exhibition as a celebration of colour, diversity, and love.   As an ongoing series at Bergman, Sofia spoke to Benny about this show and his plans for future exhibitions.  She started the interview asking him what the key themes of the exhibition were.

A whole heap of NZIFF content, breakdancing and more!

Sofia had a kōrero with Francis McWhannell about a new group show at Season Gallery, Kith and Kin.  She also spoke to artist Layla Rudneva-Mackay about her new show at Melanie Roger Gallery, Wrinkled Speech.  And she spoke to curator Benny Chan about a new group exhibition at Bergman Gallery, Belonging: Stories of Contemporary New Zealand Asian Artists.  On Stage Direction this week: Alice Canton chats with Eden Webster about the programme for Koanga Festival, an upcoming festival at Te Pou Theatre that celebrates Maori storytelling and new voices.

Kirsten Zemke on break dancing!

Last week the government released the findings of the inquiry into abuse in care that was established in 2018. This inquiry was established to investigate abuse in faith and state-based care from 1950 to 1999. Māori, Pacific, and Disabled rangatahi were all overrepresented in this report. Now people are asking what to expect next when there is evidence abuse in state care remains ongoing, and while the government has promised an official apology and redress scheme. Wire Host Caeden spoke to the University of Auckland’s Stephen Winter about the report, how it compares to international standards, and what we can expect to come next as a result of the report.

Jonny speaks to David Slack about governments cuts to the health care system under the guise of efficiencies.

Wable, a social media networking app inspired by the television series ‘Love on the Spectrum,’ which has been designed specifically for neurodiverse individuals, is set to release in New Zealand in the coming days. Joel spoke with CEO and Co-Founder of the app, Holly Fowler, and Love on the Spectrum star and ambassador for Wable, Michael Theo, about what sets this social media platform apart from others, and the importance of designing applications in mind for people who are neurodiverse.

David Slack chats government cuts to the health care system. Plus tunes etc.

The health system in Aotearoa has experienced issues of overcrowding and underfunding since before the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. While the current government campaigned last year on increasing funding to the health sector, most of this funding went to Pharmac and providing new cancer drugs. Despite staff shortages in the health sector, the government has continually criticised what they claim is an overspend and poor budgeting. The new health commissioner, Lester Levy, went as far to describe the system as ‘bloated’, with similar criticisms from Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in his descriptions of ‘fourteen layers of bureaucracy.’  Tuesday Wire host Castor spoke to the executive director of the association of salaried medical specialists, Sarah Dalton, about staffing issues in the health sector and how the government can address them.

Do you like when people play piano, percussion, and wind instruments in Canada? Then this playlist is for you! Leland Whitty - Awake / Glass Moon / Windows Guido Basso - A Lazy Afternoon / My Foolish Heart Jonah Yano - the speed of sound! / always / so sweet BADBADNOTGOOD - White Light / Love Proceeding Matthew Tavares - worldo 100bpm / like the beatles 129 / something about birds

Sofia is stepping down from the Mothership! Listen in to Sofia's final show, as we play some nifty new numbers from Molly Payton, Peter Cat Recording Co, and Euan Blackman! Whakarongo mai!

Cuillin and Harlo from Big Fan's Ignite programme chat with Milly from Drive, speaking about their unique opportunity for young people to enter the New Zealand music landscape.

Breakfast with Jonny! Green MP Steve Abel phones into chat emissions trading. 

Earlier this week, a number of leaders în the Green party’s Pasifika Greens group announced their resignation. The now former MPs, namely: Marie Laufiso, Alofa Aiono, and Vasemaca (vah-seh-mah-tha) Tavola released issued a joint letter saying that they felt culturally disempowered by the party’s treatment of former MP Darleen Tana, who they say was treated too harshly during while under investigation for allegations of migrant worker exploitation at her husband’s business. The resigning MPs also said that they were not properly convened with or reached out to by Green Party leaders following the passing of late-MP Fa’anānā Efeso Collins, a prominent Pasifika member of the Greens and representative of the Pasifika community of Tamaki Makaurau. For their weekly catch up, Oto spoke to Green party MP Ricardo Menendez-March about the resignation and statements made by the Pasifika Greens members.  They also had a chat about the government’s changes to child poverty reduction targets and the Green Party's open call to the government on behalf of renters.

As a result of Israel’s war on Gaza, almost 2 million people in the Gaza strip are at risk of famine and disease and are in urgent need of food and medical aid, as a result of Israel’s mass destruction of civilian infrastructure.  This is on top of the 39,400 Palestinians who have been killed throughout the course of the conflict.  With the government set to implement it’s new tax cut policy today, a campaign was launched by organiser Hayden Eastmond-Mein calling for Kiwis to donate their tax cuts for to aid organisations in Gaza, aptly named “Give your tax cut to Gaza”.  Hayden came down to the station earlier today to tell us about the campaign and how Kiwis can donate their tax cuts. If you're interested, you can donate to the campaign here:

The final report in the Royal Commission’s Abuse in Care Inquiry, investigating incidents of abuse in state and faith-based institutions between 1950 and 2000, found that Māori had been largely and disproportionately mistreated while in state care.  Speaking to the wire today, Professor and Criminologist Emmy Rākete from the University of Auckland talked to us about how abuse in state care led to the further incarceration of rangatahi Māori later on in their lives, creating what she called a state-to-care prison pipeline.

The most recent figures from the Global slavery index estimated that there were 8,000 people in Aotearoa who were victims of some form of labour exploitation and who legally fit the definition of being modern day slaves. In spite of this, there are alarming gaps in providing victims of exploitation and trafficking with the resources they need to get assistance from organisations such as police, medical agencies and helplines.  For this week’s Get Action! Oto spoke to Synteche Collins, acting director of the NGO End Child Prostitution and Trafficking, talking to us about a petition of the organisation calling for the New Zealand government to establish an official helpline for victims of exploitation and trafficking. If you're interesed, you can sign the petition here:

For their regular catch-up, Oto spoke to the Green Party’s Ricardo Menéndez March about resignation of the party’s key Pasifika members following the investigation of former MP Darleen Tana, as well as the changes to the government’s child poverty reduction targets. He spoke to Hayden Eastmond-Mein, an organiser discussing a campaign of his calling for New Zealanders to donate their tax cuts to fund aid in Gaza He spoke to Emmy Rākete from the University of Auckland to discuss how the abuse in care inquiry unveiled a care-to-prison pipeline for Māori Rangatahi. And for this week’s Get Action! He spoke to Synteche Collins from End Child Prostitution and Trafficking, talking to us about a petition calling for a dedicated helpline for survivors of exploitation. Sasha spoke to Greg Waite of the Child Poverty Action Group to discuss the decrease of affordable rental shares and the need to develop more public housing.

The Child Poverty Action Group is calling for better monitoring of private rentals, as new research reveals the share of affordable rentals has decreased significantly over the last five years. However the national trend saw a consistent share of private rental housing in Auckland and Christchurch compared to other regions, this in part is due to increased home projects in those regions. The Child Poverty Action Group is advocating for the need to increase public housing builds in all regions, stating the government prioritises one and two bedroom housing over other rental housing. Sasha spoke to Greg Waite of the Child Poverty Action Group about the decrease of affordable rental shares.

Steve Abel joins Jonny to chat about emissions trading. 

Tuesday including a chat with Chuck D from Public Enemy! Plus Claire Beach from the University of Auckland discusses her research into sustainable tourism.

Jonny chats with Chuck D from Public Enemy ahead of their Auckland show.  Get your tickets here

The Republican party in the United States recently confirmed Donald Trump as the republican nominee in the US presidential election later this year. Alongside that confirmation, JD Vance was confirmed as his running mate.  Vance was previously known primarily for his work as an author, writing a book titled “Hillbilly Elegy”. More recently, during his time in the media spotlight, Vance has experienced several controversies. While the list is extensive, most notable were his comments regarding presumed Democrat presidential nominee, Kamala Harris, calling out ‘childless cat ladies’. Wire host Castor spoke to senior sociology lecturer at the University of Auckland, Doctor Carisa Showden, about JD Vance, his comments about women, and what they mean in the wider United States political context.

The recent government decision to halt classroom developments across the country has met opposition from those working in the education sector, who say new developments are both urgent and necessary, including in the locations the government has chosen to put on hold.  Additionally, the government has set aside $150 million for charter schools, which come with other controversies. Recently, the government announced changes to their charter school plans, which would give them access to the teaching resources given to public schools and prevent employers from negotiating a multi-employer collective contract with charter schools.  Wire host Castor spoke to the Post Primary Teachers Association’s junior vice president Kieran Gainsford about the allocation of education funding and the government’s prioritisation of charter schools. We also speak further about charter schools - whether they work and the issues with blocking collective bargaining.

The final report from the abuse in state care inquiry was published on Wednesday, 24th July. The report discussed historic and present issues of abuse in state care, particularly how it affects marginalised groups such as Māori, Pasifika, and disabled children and young people. The report then provided several recommendations to parliament on potential policy or funding changes.  In our weekly catchup with the National party’s Katie Nimon, Wire host Castor asked her about these recommendations and how the government would respond to the report.  The government also recently made the decision to put some new school developments on hold. These developments, initially proposed to address overcrowding in schools across the country, have been split into three groups, with some going ahead as planned, others going ahead with small changes, and others put on hold indefinitely.  This decision has met criticism from teachers and principals, particularly due to existing overcrowding issues. While the schools with the highest need will still receive the necessary developments, others slightly lower on the priority list will have to wait.  For our weekly catchup with the National Party Castor spoke to Katie Nimon about both of these issues, starting with the abuse in state care report.  

Bit of a strange Dear Science this week, as both of our regularly scheduled experts happened to be absent. In their place, regular Tuesday Wire host Castor and Thursday Wire host Caeden took us through a series of interesting topics new to both them and listeners! This week on Dear Science, we chatted about phone use while driving, potential life on Mars, and iron on the teeth of Komodo dragons. 

Jonny speaks with Doctoral candidate Claire Beach about her research into sustainability in tourism and the issues that arise as businesses transition toward more sustainable practices. Thanks to The University of Auckland

On the Tuesday Wire this week...  For Dear Science, both of our usual experts were away, so Tuesday Wire host Castor and Thursday Wire host Caeden took us through a range of self-selected science stories. Spectacular! These included a study on reducing phone use while driving, potential life on mars, and komodo dragons with iron on their teeth. In our weekly catchup with the National Party, Wire host Castor spoke to MP Katie Nimon about the abuse in state care inquiry and the government’s education funding allocations.  They also spoke to the Post Primary Teachers Association’s junior vice president Kieran Gainsford about this education funding, and the government’s decision to put some school developments on hold.  They spoke to Executive director of the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists, Sarah Dalton, about staff shortages in the health sector and how the government is responding.  And they spoke to senior lecturer of sociology at the University of Auckland, Dr Carisa Showden, about Donald Trump’s running mate, JD Vance, and his comments about single women. Producer Josef also spoke to the Chief executive for the Ngāti Manuhere settlement trust, Nicola Macdonald, about yesterday’s drop of seven million Kūtai into the Hauraki Gulf.

On the 29th July, 2024, Ngāti Manuhere Settlement Trust, in partnership with Revive our Gulf and the University of Auckland, dropped seven million kūtai, green-lipped mussels, into the Hauraki Gulf. This comes as part of an initiative to restore the depleted kūtai population in the Hauraki Gulf. It is hoped that restoring these reefs will have a significant positive impact in reversing human-caused damage to the gulf and it's ecosystems. Kūtai are vital in providing shelter, food, and protection to local species, but their resources have been depleted due to human activities such as dredging. Producer Josef spoke to the Chief Executive for the Ngāti Manuhere Settlement Trust, Nicola Macdonald, about the initiative, what it means for the Gulf, and how similar schemes can be implemented across Aotearoa.  

Following the foreshore and seabed controversy of the early 2000s the government introduced a system for Māori to make claims to coastal land.However Māori claimants had to prove they had exclusively used and occupied an area from 1840 to the present day without substantial interruption.  Last year the court of appeal made a decision that groups only needed to show they had enough control over the area that they could keep others from using it - making it substantially easier for Māori to claim their rightful land.  But one year on, the government now wants to overturn this, claiming the decision will affect other New Zealanders rights to the land.  I spoke Te Pāti Māori's Mariameno Kapi-Kingi about the government's backwards move and what it means for Māori.  We also talked about the recent findings of the Inquiry into Abuse in State Care, and the disproportionate representation of Māori. 

On Wednesday, 24th July, the final report from the Abuse in State Care Inquiry was made public, detailing abuse within and by Aotearoa’s state care system. Of particular note in the inquiry were the impacts on Aotearoa’s Māori, Pasifika, and disabled populations, who experienced on average further hardship than other groups.  The final report makes several recommendations to parliament to ensure meaningful change in Aotearoa’s state care system. Tuesday Wire host Castor discusssed the expectations, impact, and potential outcomes of the abuse in state care report on Pacific communities with Associate Professor of Criminology at the University of Auckland, Doctor Tamasailauu Sualii.

Last week, the Local Government (Electoral Legislation and Māori Wards and Māori Constituencies) Amendment Bill passed through its second reading. The bill would reverse changes made to increase Māori representation in local government by reverting the Māori ward rules to restore the referendum mechanism.  This would mean if any council wanted to establish a Māori ward, and a petition that had been signed by 5% of people was presented, a binding referendum would have to be held.  Wire host Sofia caught up with ActionStation Director, Kassie Hartendorp, (Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāti Tūwharetoa) about this and their campaign to keep Māori wards.

Producer Evie speaks to the ACT Party’s Simon Court about the government's findings from the abuse in state care report and the overturn of the court appeal on the Marine and Coastal Area Act.  She spoke to Te Pāti Māori’s Mariameno Kapa-Kingi about the same issues.  Wire host Sofia speaks to ActionStation Director, Kassie Hartendorp, about the Māori wards bill passing its second reading last week.  And Tuesday Wire host Castor speaks to Associate professor of Criminology at the University of Auckland, Dr Tamasailauu Sualii about the abuse in state care inquiry and its impact in Aotearoa’s Pacific communities. 

Tracklist: Sherpa - Samsong Rackets - Barracuda Massive Attack - Protection Starflyer 59 - 909 Princess Chelsea - We Kick Around all fall down - third in a series of sun songs MJ Lenderman - She's Leaving You The Mint Chicks - Opium of the People Lisa Crawley - Hey You Kimbra - Miracle (She's So Rad remix) Thagomizer - Tyrant Titan MEGAFAUNA - SH1 Arboc Ja - FLAWED Diaz Grimm - Pepeha feat. Diggy Dupé Leilani (Live at 151 Improv) - O oe o le Rosa Nathan Haines - Belo Dia SKILAA - Tiger in the River Kip McGrath - Clock Hands (Beach House Bachelor Pad Remix) LIPS - Everything To Me Provincial Spirit (Live at 151 Improv) - Alcopops (ferndub) Fruju Peak (Live at 151 Improv) - Waiting M4URI M4STA - TAP BAR CAR HORN FISH TANK PUREREHUA King Midas Sound - Blue Filthy Junk Traders (Live at 151 Improv) - I Got Chicken (written by Roger Manins, arranged by FJT)

Last week the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in State Care was released. It revealed that at least 250,000 people were affected by abuse in Aotearoa’s state care system from 1950 to 1999. Now the Government must move forward with redress, saying they will be issuing apologies to victims and survivors.  For our weekly catch up producer Evie spoke to the ACT Party’s Simon Court about how this redress will be approached, and how the government will ensure the system will avoid such dire outcomes in the future. We also talked about the government moving to overturn the court appeal on the Marine and Coastal Area Act.   

This week's show featured some britpop, funk, soul and more. Sam also paid tribute to British blues legend John Mayall and Four Tops OG Duke Fakir who died last week.

Kirsten's in the studio, she loved Appalachian Nightmare by Justin Townes Earle and Please Come On Inside by Madeleine Peyroux.

Easy Listening is a broad term for often despicably corny music wrapped in sleazy artwork. It’s also a genre that offers up some of the most incredible jazz-adjacent music you’ve never heard. Join guest host Sperber Dan and EZ expert Alan Perrott on a journey through the darkest mood-lit corners of our op shops and streaming services.

Beth spoke with Lindsey about hew upcoming exhibition Defining the Means and her workshop, Rip n’ Bitch, taking place at Window Gallery on July 29th. You can sign up for Rip n’ Bitch here. Sofia spoke to Tāmaki for Palestine’s Robin Wilson-Whiting and Dayenu’s Avigail Allan about Films for Falastin and the kaupapa of the initiative. Beth had a kōrero with Liam Gerrard about his new exhibition After the Garden, showing at Sanderson until August 4th. Arlo Green and Dawn Cheong joined us in-studio for a kōrero about Scenes from the Climate Era, a new show they’re in, showing at Q Theatre from the 2nd to the 24th August. You can get tickets from qtheatre.co.nz. And Sofia spoke to Rupert Travis about his practice, what inspires his work, and the themes of Indiscreet Tourist, his new exhibition.

Scenes from the Climate Era is a new show from Auckland Theatre Company and Silo Theatre playing at Q Theatre from 2 - 24 August.  For Stage Direction this week, Sofia and Beth spoke to two of the cast members, Arlo Green and Dawn Cheong, about the show.  You can get tickets here. 

Film reviews ahead of the NZIFF, Holly Arrowsmith & Kirsten Zemke on power pop!

Dr Kirsten Zemke looks into the work of Adam Schlesinger! Songs include. Fountains of Wayne "Stacy's Mom" Care Bears On Fire “Barbie Eat A Sandwich” The Wonders “That Thing You Do!”

Liam Gerrard is an artist from Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland. He is interested in the relationship between darkness and beauty, and often explores this in his work. The natural world – hydrangeas and moths in particular – has long been a point of artistic interest to Liam, whose latest exhibition, After the Garden, ‘ruminates on the inexorable passing of time, on societal concepts of beauty and desire, and on the endless variety and motion of the natural world’. Beth had a kōrero with Liam about After the Garden, which is showing at Sanderson until August 4th.

Litia reviews Tatami ahead of the New Zealand International Film Festival.  Thanks to Mezze Bar!

Amanda from the NZIFF jumps on the phone to talk about programming the festival & some of the films. Thanks to Mezze Bar!

Indiscreet Tourist is an exhibition by Rupert Travis opening at Föenander gallery.  All works painted during Travis’ time spent overseas in the South of France, Indiscreet Tourist is a response to what catches our attention as we travel and observations that might go unnoticed by locals otherwise.  Through the eyes of the tourist, it explores ideas of the familiar and the unfamiliar.  Sofia spoke to Rupert about his practice, what inspires his work, and the themes of Indiscreet Tourist. 

Films for Falastin is a new film series with Dayenu, New Zealand Jews Against Occupation, and Palestinian Youth Aotearoa. This Sunday at Academy Cinemas, Films for Falastin is screening the film, Israelism. The film follows two young American Jews, who were raised to unconditionally love Israel, witness the way Israel treats Palestinians, leaving their thoughts conflicted. Sofia spoke to Tāmaki for Palestine’s Robin Wilson-Whiting and Dayenu’s Avigail Allan about Films for Falastin and the kaupapa of the initiative.

Lucinda talks seasonal breakfasts. She takes a deep dive on how to zhuzh up your porridge.

Natural Ange visits the bFM studio to chat about periocular dermatitis, gut biomes, chesty coughs and how to look after your voice.

A pie delivery, political commentary with Bryce Edwards on the Royal Inquiry into abuse in state care, Porridge with Lucinda, and Natural Ange on dermatitis.

Sofía's Tunes 4 Thursday: The Brothers And Sisters - Lay Lady Lay  Marcía Griffiths - Feel Like Jumping Yung Lean, FKA Twigs - Bliss The Whatnauts - Message from a Black Man The Poets Of Rhythm - Path of Life Manu Dibango - The Panther Joe Bataan - What Good Is A Castle Lava La Rue - Push N Shuv, Aerial Head, Friendship's Death, FLUORESCENT, Shell Of You Liz Cooper - Motorcycle Blood Orange - Jesus Freak Lighter Deradoorian - Weed Jam Niecy Blues - Bones Become the Trees Greentea Peng - Bun Tough The Cleaners From Venus - The Artichoke That Loved Me

Jonny chats with Dr Bryce Edwards about the Government's shock changes in the Health system - the replacement of the Health NZ board by Lester Levy, and the intention to reform the hospital system and find $1.4b savings, and The Royal Commission Report into Abuse in Care.

For their regular catch-up, Oto speak to the Green Party’s Ricardo Menéndez March about the party’s executive summary of the independent investigation into former MP Darleen Tana. He spoke to Peter Reynolds, CEO of the New Zealand Disability Support Network to discuss staffing shortages in disability care in wake of the Disability Commissioners report on abuse in disabled care. He spoke to Edward Elder, Professional Teaching Fellow in the Faculty of Arts at the University of Auckland, to discuss the US general elections and the role of party branding in the potential outcome. And he spoke to John Minto from Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa to discuss the recent ruling by the International Court of Justice on Israel’s occupation of the Palestinian territories. Sasha spoke to Gehan Gunasakera from the University of Auckland about last week’s Global IT outage and the data sovereignty implications that should be expected of tech companies. And he spoke to Juressa Lee from Greenpeace about a recent study which confirms production of oxygen on the ocean floor from metallic nodules and the importance of ending sea mining.

Wednesday with the Jesus & Mary Chain on the line.

Former Green Party MP Darleen Tana has been under investigation and public scrutiny after allegations of migrant worker exploitation emerged at E Cycles, a business owned by Tana’s husband. After the allegations surfaced, Tana was dismissed from the Green Party, but maintained her innocence, saying she had limited involvement in her husband’s business and that the allegations made against her were false. In response, an independent investigation into the allegations and Tana’s involvement in her husband’s business was launched, which the Green Party released an executive summary of last week.  For their weekly catch-up, Oto spoke to Green Party MP Ricardo Menéndez-March to discuss the executive summary, it’s findings, as well as Tana’s response.

Just this week, US President Joe Biden announced his exit from the US general elections and abandoned his candidacy, amidst concerns from his own party regarding his age and cognitive abilities and a disastrous debate performance against his political adversary, republican nominee Donald J Trump.  After making the announcement, Biden announced his support for Vice-President Kamala Harris to succeed him as the democratic candidate and urged his contemporaries within the party to do the same.  But with a mere 3 months until the finale of the US general elections, many commentators are discussing the next steps for the democrats, and whether or not they have the ability to compete with Trump’s branding and unanimous support from the country’s right-wing. Oto spoke to Dr Edward Elder, Professional Teaching Fellow in the Faculty of Arts at the University of Auckland, to discuss the next steps for the democrats and the role of party branding in the outcome of the US general elections.

A recent report detailing complaints to the health and disability commissioner about disability support services revealed that the sector suffered from inadequate care standards, poor management of resources and the abuse of those in care.  One of the suggestions made in the report was that better funding and staffing was needed to improve standards in disability care, based on complaints from workers in the sector that understaffing was impacting their ability to provide adequate care. Oto spoke to Peter Reynolds, CEO of the New Zealand Disability Support Network to discuss staffing shortages in disability care, and the solutions needed to address it. 

A recent study has discovered that there is production of oxygen on the bottom of the ocean. Almost eight-hundred marine scientists have signed a petition highlighting the importance of the discovery and for a pause on seafloor mining. The oxygen is produced by metallic nodes underneath the ocean, containing metals which are commonly mined for batteries. This oxygen could potentially support fragile aquatic life. Sasha spoke with Juressa Lee, a deep sea mining campaigner from Greenpeace about the new discovery, as well as steps that are being taken to reduce ocean floor mining.

The United Nations' highest court, the International Court of Justice, recently issued an advisory opinion saying that Israel’s presence in the occupied Palestinian territories was illegal, that Israel needed to dismantle its settlements and pay reparations to the Palestinians and that all ICJ member states should cooperate  to bring an end to Israel’s occupation.  Oto spoke to John Minto, chairman of Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa, to discuss the ICJ ruling, as well as New Zealand’s responsibilities as a member state.

Following last week’s major IT outage which caused major disruptions for flights, banking and trading, questions were raised about whether cybersecurity should be concentrated in a few companies’ hands. The power outage highlighted governments’ overreliance on tech companies and concerns surrounding personal online information. Sasha spoke with Gehan Gunasekara, an associate professor of commercial law from the University of Auckland, to discuss the legal and liability implications that come from last week’s power outage.

This week the boys chat brittle... and the top 10. 

For Dear Science this week, our expert Professor Allan Blackman spoke to us about plants not holding as much carbon as we thought, tea tasting worse due to air pressure, and previously extinct giant millipedes.

On Wednesday the 17th of July, the government opened submissions on the second Emissions Reduction Plan. The Emissions Reduction Plan outlines the steps the government intends to take to meet its emission budgets. This second Emissions Reduction Plan will lay out the government’s climate plans from 2026-2030. The plan includes initiatives such as setting a target of 10,000 electric vehicle chargers by 2030, investigating carbon capture and storage, and improving organic waste and landfill gas capture. However, the draft has received criticism from climate experts for not being ambitious enough in it’s initiatives to reduce emissions. Producer Josef spoke with Ralph Sims, Professor Emeritus of Sustainable Energy and Climate Mitigation at Massey University, about the draft plan and how he thinks the plan will impact Aotearoa’s emissions reduction efforts. For more information on the plan and to have your say, you can go to consult.environment.govt.nz, submissions close on the 21st August 2024.

Hot techno against chill lo-fi

On July 1st, the excise tax on heated tobacco products (or HTPs) was dropped unannounced by fifty percent.  Speaking on the change, Associate Health Minister Casey Costello sez the reduction will help the government test the effectiveness of HTPs as a tool to help people quit smoking.  However, given Costello’s previous parroting of tobacco industry talking points, there are worries that this change could also be coming from industry backed research. In addition, the scientific research to support the use of HTPs is slim to nonexistent.  Wire host Castor to professor of public health at the University of Otago and co-director of the Aspire Aotearoa Research Centre, Janet Hoek, about heated tobacco products and the evidence to support them.

This week on The Wire... For Dear Science this week, we chatted to Professor Allan Blackman about plants not holding as much carbon as previously thought, low pressure making tea taste worse, and a giant millipede that was thought to be extinct.  In our weekly catchup with the National Party, Wire host Castor spoke to MP Katie Nimon about the abuse in state care inquiry and the government’s recent instructions to Pharmac.  He also talked to Associate Professor of Politics and International relations, Stephen Noakes, about New Zealand’s relationship with China.  And he spoke to Professor Janet Hoek from the University of Otago about the implications of reducing the excise tax on Heated Tobacco Products.  And producer Josef spoke to Professor Emeritus Ralph Sims about the newly released draft of the second emissions reduction plan.

The final report from the abuse in state care inquiry is due to be published on July 24th at 4pm. The report will discuss historic and present issues of abuse in state care, particularly how it affects marginalised groups such as Māori, Pasifika, and disabled children and young people. The report will then provide a recommendation to parliament on potential policy or funding changes.  Additionally, last week, associate Health Minister and minister in charge of Pharmac, David Seymour, issued new instructions regarding the organisation’s focus. Particularly notable in the instructions were discussions of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, with Seymour  In our weekly catchup with the National Party, Wire host Castor spoke to MP Katie Nimon about the abuse in state care inquiry and the government's advice to Pharmac. 

During Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s visit to the United States, he spoke to several leaders and figures about New Zealand’s relationship with the country. Particularly, he spoke about further aligning and the potential for Aotearoa to join AUKUS.  In response, former Prime Minister Helen Clark and her political rival Don Brash released statements criticising the move, particularly for its potential impact on Aotearoa’s relationship with China.   Wire host Castor spoke to Associate Professor in Politics and International Relations at the University of Auckland and Director of the China Studies Centre in the New Zealand Asia Institute, Stephen Noakes, about Aotearoa’s relationship with each of these countries, their value, and how it can be preserved moving forward.

Desley Simpson on Auckland Transport + Jon Toogood on his new album + Associate Professor Stephen Winter on abuse in state care.

Associate Professor Stephen Winter visits the bFM studio to speak about The Royal Comission's report into Abuse in State Care. Thanks to The University of Auckland