
Q+A
NZ's leading politics programme.
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Latest episodes

Jul 12, 2025 • 54min
NZ heading toward US-style health system
Join Dr. Philip Bagshaw, a general surgeon and founder of the Canterbury Charity Hospital, alongside Bowen Pan, a director at NZME and tech innovator, and Karen Boyes, executive director of the Major Electricity Users Group. The discussion unveils troubling shifts toward a US-style healthcare model in New Zealand, exploring the implications of privatized healthcare and its impact on public services. They also delve into the evolution of NZ's tech scene and necessary reforms in the energy market amidst rising electricity prices. Engage with these pressing national issues!

Jul 5, 2025 • 55min
Paul Goldsmith: Will tough on crime actually work?
With Paul Goldsmith, Haehaetu Barrett, David Wilson and Cameron Luxton

Jun 28, 2025 • 55min
Local govt: Huge rates rises, crumbling infrastructure, and why people should care
With Rohan O'Neill Stevens, Tina Nixon, Paula Southgate, Campbell Barry and Nīkau Wi Neera

Jun 14, 2025 • 54min
Ruth Richardson: Super age should rise, assets sold
With Ruth Richardson, Ben Picton, Steve Abel and Cameron Brewer

Jun 7, 2025 • 54min
Road cone tipline: Brooke van Velden unsure of possible results
With Brooke van Velden, Willie Jackson and Tākuta Ferris

May 24, 2025 • 54min
Did Coalition agreements undermine 'targeted' Budget spending?
With Nicola Willis and Stan Grant

May 17, 2025 • 55min
Why Chlöe Swarbrick wants taxes on wealthy, more debt
Chlöe Swarbrick, co-leader of New Zealand's Green Party, champions tax reform to tackle inequality. Andrew Coster, former Police Commissioner, emphasizes data-driven social services. Political scientist Marcel Dirsus discusses the thin line between democracy and authoritarianism, reflecting on historical tyrannies. The conversation explores innovative solutions for housing and healthcare, challenges in wealth taxes, and the role of long-term social investments. Ultimately, they argue for valuing lives beyond mere economics while addressing the societal implications of policy reform.

May 10, 2025 • 54min
Meth, gangs, recruitment and racism
Richard Chambers, New Zealand's Police Commissioner, tackles the alarming 96% rise in meth use and its impact on communities, while John Ryan, the outgoing Auditor-General, focuses on restoring public trust in government. They discuss the urgent need for collaboration between law enforcement and health services to combat drug trafficking. The conversation highlights the influence of gangs on public safety perceptions and calls for transparency in public healthcare, emphasizing the importance of trust in the community and ethical standards in governance.

May 3, 2025 • 55min
Brian Roche: Public service too risk-averse
James Meager, the Rangatata MP and Minister for Youth, joins Brian Roche, the Public Service Commissioner with extensive government experience, for an insightful discussion. They delve into the need for a cultural shift in public service to enhance efficiency and trust. The conversation tackles the tension between public ethics and private sector innovation, particularly regarding air travel costs. They also explore strategies to retain young talent in New Zealand and emphasize the importance of effective regional representation in government.

Apr 26, 2025 • 55min
Inside Kiwi drone company with $66m UK defence contract
With Shaun Hendy, David Seymour and Malcolm Turnbull