
The Detail
Join The Detail team six days a week as they make sense of the big stories with the country’s best journalists and experts.
Latest episodes

Jun 6, 2025 • 24min
Synthony rocks the world stage
David Higgins, the mastermind behind Symphony, shares his journey from boxing to transforming a small Auckland event into a global sensation. He reveals the unique fusion of electronic dance music and live orchestration that captivates audiences worldwide. Higgins discusses the challenges of navigating international performances, including legal complexities and cultural nuances. He also sheds light on innovative projects like the Full Metal Orchestra, emphasizing the future of music events and the impact of local talent on Symphony's growth.

Jun 5, 2025 • 23min
The science sector sounds the alarm
Researchers brace for an uncertain future and warn of lasting damage after a funding shake-upScience has been sidelined by the Budget, despite the Government saying they back the sector, and insiders expect a deep impact of funding cuts…Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Jun 4, 2025 • 25min
New Zealand's invisible children
Jill Bonnet, RNZ's immigration reporter, and Alistair McClymont, an immigration lawyer, delve into the deeply concerning issues surrounding undocumented children born in New Zealand. They discuss how these youths face dire challenges when they turn 18, including lack of citizenship rights and access to education. Personal anecdotes illustrate the emotional toll on families, as children grapple with the fear of separation and deportation. Together, they advocate for vital reforms to citizenship laws, emphasizing the urgent need to address this overlooked plight.

Jun 3, 2025 • 25min
B416 group is parenting in action
The push to get under-16 year olds off social media is a cause that's united some high-powered women from all walks of lifeSocial media is already off limits for under 13 year olds - but it isn't enforced. A new campaign aims to not only change that but to life the age to 16…Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Jun 2, 2025 • 23min
Diamonds and their pearls moment
There are pros and cons ethically with mined and lab diamonds, but one certainly gives you more sparkle for your dollarDiamonds may be forever but at the moment they're not holding up in value. Prices are sinking as a major disruptor floods the market.…Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

May 30, 2025 • 25min
The revival of a genre that never went away
Boots, banjos, and big crowds - country music finds its voice in New ZealandHeartfelt and homegrown, country music is enjoying a Kiwi revival, with two dedicated stations and a boom in artists…Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

May 29, 2025 • 23min
Opening the door to more addiction
Gambling regulation is moving to take online operators into account, but doubts are being expressed as to how effective it will beThe Problem Gambling Foundation fears the details we don't know about when it comes to licencing online casinos will be the devil that trips up addicts…Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

May 28, 2025 • 23min
The headwinds facing regional airlines
The small plan routes that keep our country connected are becoming increasingly fragile links…Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

May 27, 2025 • 25min
Climate solution all but buried before it begins
Climate fix, or fossil fuel lifeline - the truth behind the country's first carbon capture and storage projectThe country's first carbon capture and storage project raises hard questions - like whether it's over before it begins…Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

May 26, 2025 • 25min
Trump's South African spotlight
Donald Trump's claims of a white genocide in South Africa betray the influence of his billionaire expat friends, including Elon Musk The US President was at his undiplomatic worst when his South African counterpart turned up at the Oval Office, but the ambush did swing the spotlight on what's happening there…Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details