

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

Jun 15, 2025 • 24min
Van Velden steers WorkSafe toward a softer touch
A decade after major overhauls to health and safety in New Zealand, WorkSafe is getting a reboot. Critics aren't convinced it will save lives. With more that 70 workplace deaths in New Zealand every year, a WorkSafe reboot isn't surprising. But critics say the changes aren't likely to save lives.…Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Jun 13, 2025 • 25min
Chasing butterflies
Lepidopterists fear our butterfly and moth numbers are on the wane They're not just beautiful, they help pollinate our flowers and grasses. But are moths and butterflies starting to disappear?…Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Jun 12, 2025 • 22min
In its 57th year Fieldays is still a hit for farmers across the country
At Fieldays, exhibitors from around the country - and the world - come to show off the latest farming innovations…Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Jun 11, 2025 • 24min
New Zealand's predator-free future in peril
David Williams, Newsroom Environment Editor, and Kayla Kingdon-Bebb, CEO of WWF New Zealand, dive deep into New Zealand's Predator Free 2050 initiative. They discuss the recent budget cuts that threaten this ambitious goal and the government's management changes that could impact progress. Community engagement and the importance of volunteer efforts emerge as critical themes. Additionally, they explore the economic advantages of biodiversity recovery and the challenges faced in eradicating invasive species to protect the unique wildlife of Aotearoa.

Jun 10, 2025 • 25min
America's foreign student fiasco
In this insightful discussion, Eric Crampton, Chief Economist at the New Zealand Initiative and former international student, joins Chris Whelan, Chief Executive of Universities New Zealand. They delve into the implications of U.S. policies on international students, examining the struggles they face and the potential for New Zealand to attract them as an alternative. The conversation reveals how domestic challenges in the U.S. present opportunities for New Zealand, emphasizing the significance of international students in enriching educational environments and boosting the economy.

Jun 9, 2025 • 25min
The electricity evangelist spreading the solar message
Mike Casey, CEO of Rewiring Aotearoa and advocate for electrification, joins political and climate change reporter Mark Dulda. They discuss the crucial shift New Zealand must make from fossil fuels to electric solutions. Homeowners play a pivotal role in cutting emissions, and myth-busting around electrification of household appliances is key. The conversation also dives into the solar power landscape, addressing challenges and innovations in financing solar technology and promoting public education on the benefits of going electric.

Jun 8, 2025 • 24min
NZ's mean testing creep
The issue on how to save on superannuation is a political no-go, with one gallery editor describing the debate as 'uranium wrapped in barbed wire'Means testing is being introduced on a wide range of benefits. Questions are being asked over how long it will be before superannuation is targeted.…Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

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.