Nine To Noon

In this insightful discussion, Amy Williams, a senior reporter at RNZ, dives into Auckland's pressing issues. She addresses the controversial proposal to ban homelessness in the CBD, highlighting the complexities and lack of alternatives. Amy shares the City Mission's stance on prioritizing supported housing over night shelters, discussing safety concerns. She also reviews the new committee structure of Auckland Council and the deadline for the flood buyout scheme. Lastly, she unveils an exciting interactive Christmas art installation set to brighten the city center.

Stella Chrysostomou, a keen book reviewer and cultural commentator, dives into Marlen Haushofer's The Loft, a psychological exploration of trauma set in 1960s Austria. She discusses how the protagonist's receiving letters reignites past pain and psychosomatic issues. The importance of art as redemptive is highlighted, revealing the narrator's intense need for perfection in her drawing. Stella connects the narrator's personal struggles with Austria's national trauma, making the book a profound reflection on history and creativity.

Craig McCulloch, Acting Political Editor at RNZ, dives into the tumultuous expulsion of Te Pāti Māori MPs Mariameno Kapa-Kingi and Takuta Ferris. He explains the internal conflicts that led to this decision and discusses the potential for these MPs to navigate a future as independents. Legal challenges and statements from the expelled MPs add a layer of intrigue, while McCulloch highlights how this split could fracture party support and echoes past Māori Party divisions, raising questions about the party's future.

Charlotte Davie, the Director of Wellington City Gallery Te Whare Toi, shares exciting details about the gallery's upcoming reopening and a significant outdoor sculpture competition. She elaborates on the specific site for the sculpture, highlighting the challenges of durability and visibility. Davie emphasizes the search for skilled sculptors who can tackle these technical demands. With a timeline leading to a 2027 unveiling, this ambitious project promises to enhance the iconic Civic Square, reflecting the city's vibrant art scene.

Temuera Morrison, a veteran New Zealand actor known for his roles in Once Were Warriors and the Star Wars franchise, discusses his new travelogue series, Earth Oven. He shares the origin of the show, sparked by a hangi demonstration, and the importance of cultural connections through food. Temuera reflects on the vulnerability of presenting himself, highlights the shared traditions of earth-oven cooking across cultures, and discusses his collaboration with director Mike Jonathan. He also touches on preserving language and culture in the series and how this experience may influence his future roles.

In this engaging discussion, Seamus Kearney, a Europe correspondent based in Lyon, shares insights on Europe’s latest political developments. He delves into Denmark's controversial plan to ban social media for those under 15, raising questions about its enforcement. Seamus also explains Rob Jetten's challenge in forming a coalition after his narrow win in the Dutch elections. Additionally, he sheds light on rumors concerning tensions between Putin and Lavrov, and updates on the audacious Louvre heist, revealing a blend of intrigue and security failures.

Michaela Von Sturmer, an Auckland primary school teacher and grandmother, shares her inspiring journey of overcoming acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. She emphasizes the critical need for blood and plasma donations, calling plasma 'liquid gold.' Michaela recounts her experience receiving blood from 54 different donors, highlighting the immense need per patient. Her story focuses on the importance of donations for recovery and encourages others to join the bone marrow registry. She reflects on the joy of returning to teaching and family life, all thanks to donors.

Rick Rudd, a veteran ceramicist and founder of the Quartz Museum, shares insights about the museum's closure, citing funding and health issues. He discusses its impressive collection of over 4,600 works, highlighting its importance to New Zealand's art scene. Professional potter Paul Masique elaborates on how the museum benefits local artists and emphasizes the need for community support to ensure its future. Together, they underline the museum's role in preserving New Zealand's ceramic heritage and its potential for public engagement.

Simon Bridges, Auckland Business Chamber Chief Executive and former National Party leader, shares insights on Auckland's economic challenges and recovery prospects. He discusses the essential role of Auckland in driving national growth and highlights recent government measures improving business sentiment. Simon advocates for targeted fiscal stimulus to create jobs and calls for reforms in energy costs to boost manufacturing. He also addresses compassionate strategies for managing homelessness in the CBD to revitalize the city, blending optimism with practical solutions.

Our comedians Te Radar and Elisabeth with humour to round off the week.