Q+A with Jack Tame

With Minister for Building and Construction Chris Penk, Race Relations Commissioner Melissa Derby, and global tax expert Michael Keen.

A year into her role as Race Relations Commissioner, Melissa Derby reflects on the threats to social cohesion and race relations in New Zealand. She says social media tends to amplify extremist content, and she worries about people becoming radicalised online. . As an academic, and before her appointment as Commissioner, Derby had publicly questioned the impact of notions of systemic racism, particularly with regards to Māori. Q+A asks her about these views and her opinions of affirmative action. . She also says the Government's approach to the Treaty Principles Bill debate "probably wasn't helpful" given "the unilateral nature of that". . Join Jack Tame and the Q+A team and find the answers to the questions that matter. Made with the support of NZ on Air.

Chris Penk, New Zealand's Minister for Building and Construction, shares insights on major reforms to earthquake-prone building regulations. He outlines a new, proportionate approach aimed at enhancing safety while addressing financial barriers for building owners. The discussion covers the complexities of risk management, the implications of insurance and financing, and the importance of consumer protection measures. Penk also touches on aligning health and safety with these new rules and the government’s broader energy and manufacturing strategies.

Michael Keen, former Deputy Director of the Fiscal Affairs Department at the IMF, discusses crucial tax issues in New Zealand. He advocates for a comprehensive Capital Gains Tax, arguing it promotes equity and aligns with income tax principles. Keen praises New Zealand's GST system while cautioning against high corporate tax rates that could hinder productivity. He also explores the practical challenges of wealth taxes and emphasizes the need for fair tax systems that address inequality.

With former Permanent Representative of New Zealand to the United Nations Colin Keating, and Auckland mayoral candidates Wayne Brown and Kerrin Leoni.

Kerrin Leoni: Why I'd be a better Auckland mayor than Wayne Brown by Q+A with Jack Tame

Incumbent Auckland mayor Wayne Brown says his priority, if re-elected, is to "fix" Auckland Transport. . Q+A asks him about his record, how effective he's been influencing central government, and why he has been avoiding some mayoral candidate debates. . Join Jack Tame and the Q+A team and find the answers to the questions that matter. Made with the support of NZ on Air.

The decision not to recognise a Palestinian state puts New Zealand out of step with the likes of Canada, the UK and Australia. . Colin Keating is New Zealand's former permanent representative to the UN and was outspoken on its Security Council as the Rwanda genocide unfolded. He gives his assessment about what New Zealand's position could mean for its standing internationally. Keating says New Zealand could have made a difference in the longer term had it decided to recognise a Palestinian state. . Meanwhile, the Government argues the time is not right as fighting continues in the Middle East. “With a war raging, Hamas still in place, and no clarity on next steps, we do not think that time is now,” Foreign Minister Winston Peters said in his address to the UN General Assembly. . Join Jack Tame and the Q+A team and find the answers to the questions that matter. Made with the support of NZ on Air.

Paul Bloxham, HSBC's Chief Economist for Australia and New Zealand, discusses the surprising GDP drop in New Zealand and its implications for future growth. Sara Templeton and Phil Mauger, competing for the Christchurch mayoralty, debate their visions for the city's development, focusing on transport and housing. They tackle crucial issues like emissions from transport and financial strategies for the local council. Plus, there's an eye-opening look at the booming Antarctic tourism sector and its environmental challenges.

Fifteen years on from the Christchurch earthquakes, the city's population is growing. The city's new stadium, Te Kaha, is set to open, and residents describe a vitality and energy that has been missing for way too long. . But a growing population means new pressure over housing, transport and infrastructure. Q+A speaks to incumbent Mayor Phil Mauger, and challenger Councillor Sara Templeton about their vision for Ōtautahi. . Join Jack Tame and the Q+A team and find the answers to the questions that matter. Made with the support of NZ on Air.