Early Edition on Newstalk ZB

The OECD is pointing to an economic hangover in our economy in its biennial report. 

It's advising the Government to gradually get the books back into surplus, with economic growth still sluggish and productivity waning. 

The OECD also supports cutting government spending but warns of unintended consequences from doing so. 

Independent economist Cameron Bagrie told Mike Hosking that there was one issue in the report for the Government to be especially aware of. 

He says it's expected poor education outcomes will take a bit of an economic hit to our productivity over the coming years. 

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The Government's throwing $1.9 billion at Corrections with a pledge to restore law and order. 

It will add more than 800 extra beds at Waikeria Prison and recruit 685 more frontline Corrections staff. 

Criminal defence lawyer John Munro says more beds will result in more people in prison. 

He told Mike Hosking that we need to be careful we don't end up following in the footsteps of the United States. 

Munro says we still need to get the balance of rehabilitation and recidivism right, so the community is kept safe but people leaving prison don't go back to crime. 

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The Government has made its first move in itsLocal Water Done Wellreforms – the replacement for Three Waters. 

A deal has been brokered with Auckland Council which will allow Watercare to borrow 1.9 billion over the next ten years for long-term infrastructure. The deal will stop the proposed 25.8 percent water rates increase this year, bringing it down to 7.2 percent. 

Water NZ CEO Gillian Blythe tells Mike Hosking that ultimately, the challenge comes down to balancing local accountability with affordability. 

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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is facing down his critics after another set of poor election results. 

Europe correspondent Gavin Grey tells Mike Hosking the infighting has begun within Sunak’s party following local council, Mayoral and Police Commissioner elections as well as on by-election all delivering huge losses for conservatives. 

And, security is being tightened in Sweden ahead of the Eurovision song contest this week. 

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The Warriors have suffered their third defeat in a row, falling 14-8 to the Newcastle Knights. 

The men’s and women’s New Zealand sevens-teams have completed back-to-back victories to finish the world series regular season. The series-leading women defeated Australia 31-21 to win the Singapore leg, while the men pipped Ireland 17-14 to move into third in the standings. Both sides advance to a finale in Madrid. 

And, the Wellington Phoenix now know who they will face in their A-League semi final. 

ZB Sports Andrew Alderson tells Mike Hosking the latest in sport. 

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Auckland Council is launching a new campaign to drive down dog attacks. 

Research reveals around 2700 related injuries each year, with just under 300 of those to babies and children under 14 years old. 

The campaign will include radio advertising, street posters and community papers promoting ways people can keep themselves safe around dogs. 

Auckland Council’s Animal Management Manager Elly Waitoa tells Mike Hosking there has been a 28 percent increase in attacks in the past year – compared to the 6 percent increase to the dog population. 

Waitoa says the problem comes down to irresponsible dog owners being complacent. 

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UK Correspondent Vincent McAviney brings us the latest on the UK local elections and from London’s fatal sword attack. 

McAviney told Mike Hosking “If things are really bad for the Prime Minister, it could see a mutiny on his back benches.” 

McAviney said Rishi Sunak is expected to lose around half of their councillors in England and Wales. 

McAviney says the only thing that might stop his party from replacing him is that the British public don't want a sixth conservative Prime Minister in fourteen years. 

In other news, a man has been charged with murder for the sword attack on a fourteen-year-old boy. 

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Is it time to review the attitudes of MPs inside parliament? 

Political commentator Brigette Morten told Mike Hosking that in a week with MP pay rises and James Shaw’s exit - it has become all about her outburst. 

“It looks like there’s been a pattern of behaviour,” Morten said. 

House Speaker Gerry Brownlee said there’s a justice process, during which Genter can make representations to the Speaker by midday Monday. 

Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson told reporters that Genter was currently working from home. 

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Are kiwis uninterested in New Zealand Fashion? 

New Zealand Fashion Week has been cancelled this August and has decided to shift into a two-yearly schedule. 

Owner Feroz Ali says there weren't enough designers to commit to the weeklong event because they're focused on the survival of their businesses. 

Retail NZ Chief Executive Carolyn Young told Mike Hosking that it's not that people don't want to buy local. 

She says the biggest factor is that people don't have disposable income to spend on discretionary items. 

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There's hopes a new policy around education won't be a one-size-fits-all approach. 

The Government's committing $67 million in the upcoming Budget for teacher training and resources on what's called structured literacy. 

It aims to go 'back to basics', teaching kids how to read with sounds and phonics. 

Auckland Primary Principals' Association President Kyle Brewerton told Mike Hosking that this approach works well for underachievers but it's not helpful to those who already can read. 

He says we want to make sure we continue to extend and grow their performance. 

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Economic pain is being felt in the latest employment numbers. 

The unemployment rate is 4.3%, an increase of 0.3 percentage points from the December quarter. 

ANZ economist Henry Russell told Mike Hosking that we've come out of a period of intense labour shortages, with migration doing the heavy lifting. 

He says skill shortages remain and that's why we continue to import people into New Zealand. 

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Patience has run out for the authorities cracking down on student protests across the United States. 

Pro-Palestinian protests at multiple colleges have broken out into violence and property destruction. 

US correspondent Mitch McCann told Mike Hosking that police were called to clear out students in New York’s Columbia University. 

He says up to 300 people were arrested as a result. 

This morning there have been violent clashes between pro-Palestine and pro-Israel demonstrators at UCLA, with reports of fireworks, projectiles, and physical violence. 

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The Government's continuing discussions around potential future cooperation with AUKUS but it's still a long way off. 

Foreign Minister Winston Peters outlined New Zealand's position to the Institute of International Affairs at Parliament last night. 

He says we should be considering exploring Pillar 2 —the technology leg— but we'd first need to be invited to join. 

Former Defence Minister Wayne Mapp agrees, telling Mike Hosking that if we didn't join, we'd be turning our back on our traditional allies.

He said it's a pretty deep decision to make.

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It's been found the blame lies at NZQA’s feet for a number of digital exam assessment glitches. 

An independent review found last year's issues —which included trouble saving exam work and lagging— was down to a number of safeguards failing. 

Avonside Girls' High School Principal Catherine Law told Mike Hosking that it wasn't catastrophic from their perspective, but some students would've felt that way. 

She says the vision for going digital is great but current issues make it difficult. 

Law says she's unsure whether we're as prepared for it as previously thought. 

NZQA's accepted the findings and apologised. 

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Unemployment is continuing to rise. 

New figures from Stats NZ show the unemployment rate was 4.3% in the March quarter, up 0.3 percentage points from 4% in the December quarter. 

The unemployment rate has been steadily rising since reaching a record low of 3.2% in the December 2021 quarter. 

Business NZ Director of Advocacy Catherine Beard told Mike Hosking that the biggest problems businesses are seeing is a slowdown in demand from consumers as opposed to unemployment. 

It’s a bit of a crunchy time we’re going through, she said. 

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Questions are arising around the Police response to a fatal sword attack in London. 

A 36-year-old man has been arrested after a 14-year-old boy was killed in the incident near the suburb of Hainault. 

Four other people were injured including two officers. 

UK correspondent Gavin Grey told Mike Hosking that the Police's response time will likely be looked at. 

He says it took officers 22 minutes to arrive at the scene and taser the man.

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It’s unfortunate but hardly surprising. 

Around 10km of highway through Northland's Brynderwyn Hills has been closed since February for repair work. 

It had been due to reopen in a couple of weeks, but a slip has put paid to that. 

Whangārei Mayor Vince Cocurullo told Mike Hosking that delays had to be expected. 

He says around 40-thousand cubic metres of soil will now have to be moved, and it's currently moving as if it was sand. 

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It's looking like an MP pay rise is going ahead this time around. 

The Remuneration Authority's set to increase salaries 2.8% backdated to October, followed by further increases out to 2026. 

Ministers inside Cabinet will take home just over $304k a year and those outside Cabinet, nearly $257k. 

Newstalk ZB Political Editor Jason Walls told Mike Hosking there hasn't been a pay rise since 2017 - because Parliament can overrule it. 

He says the last time MPs were in line for a pay rise, former Prime Minister Dame Jacinda Ardern decided to freeze salaries due to the cost of living at the time. 

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Queensland’s abuse support services are receiving a financial boost. 

The state government has announced an additional $36 million in funding that will go to frontline domestic, family, and sexual violence support services over the next 12 months. 

Premier Steven Miles said the figure was an increase of 20% of the current funding, calling on the federal government to match it. 

Donna Demaio, Australian Correspondent, told Mike Hosking that the Prime Minister has called a national Cabinet meeting tomorrow to discuss the call to action. 

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Household spending seems to be rising faster than inflation. 

Data from Stats NZ showed that it rose an average of 6.2% in the year to March, reflecting the average person’s overall costs across the board. 

Infometrics Principal Economist Brad Olsen told Mike Hosking that part of the big difference between inflation sitting at 4% and this figure is that inflation doesn’t include interest rates. 

He said that interest rates have gone up about 28% over the last year, which households are seeing a lot more. 

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Pharmac's record funding-boost will fill a fiscal hole to ensure it can keep funding the treatments currently on offer. 

The drug-buying agency is being promised an additional $1.7 billion over four years in the upcoming Budget. 

Medicines NZ Chief Executive, Graeme Jarvis told Mike Hosking that without it, some patients would have lost out on medicines paid for by time-limited funding. 

He says while it sounds like a lot of money, it's being spread over four years and simply keeps things as they are. 

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The Government may need to re-consider its stance on healthcare in the upcoming budget. 

An OIA has discovered the current health minister’s initial surgery wait list targets are estimated to have a $723 million price tag, over two years. 

Christchurch colorectal surgeon Chris Wakeman tells Mike Hosking the biggest hurdle is the lack of people and facilities. 

“This is a much bigger picture problem than just a budgetary allotment.” 

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British troops could be deployed on the ground in Gaza to help deliver aid via a new sea route.

The US has said no American forces would go ashore from a floating pontoon – a “third party” will drive trucks along a causeway onto the beach. Britain has been closely involved in planning the sea-bourne aid operation. 

Europe correspondent Gavin Grey tells Mike Hosking the task is risky due to the accidental killings of aid workers by Israel Defence Forces. 

Meanwhile, the UK’s largest cider maker has chopped down a huge orchard, sparking fears for wildlife. 

Lower demand for cider meant Bulmer’s Cider, owned by Heineken, had an excess of apples and uprooted thousands of trees. 

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Super Rugby fans saw some high quality action over the weekend. 

The Blues v Reds clash was decided dramatically after the siren and the Hurricanes had their unbeaten streak ended, being smothered into submission by the Brumbies. 

Meanwhile, Scott McLaughlin took pole position for Monday morning’s IndyCar Grand Prix of Alabama. 

And, crowds are flocking to LIV Golf across the Tasman. 

ZB Sport’s Elliott Smith wraps the weekend in sport. 

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Professional driving instructors are suffering an unexpected consequence of last year’s change to free re-sits for driving tests. 

Since fees for re-sitting practical driving tests were scrapped in October, delays to licence booking times have grown as a result of a surge in demand. 

There were 2000 booked no-shows last month alone through VTNZ. 

President of the New Zealand Institute of Driving Educators Mark Revill-Johnson tells Mike Hosking that funding training gets better outcomes as people are well prepared when turning up for tests. 

Instead, people are using the test as an opportunity for a free lesson, affecting business for professional instructors across the country. 

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Horses and people are still hospitalised after a number of animals belonging to the Household Cavalry ran through the streets of London. 

Four of the seven horses threw off their riders after being spooked by a loud noise yesterday. 

UK Correspondent Vincent McAviney told Andrew Dickens that they were right by Buckingham Palace, running through some of the busiest streets in the city. 

He said that it frightened a lot of people, one horse crashing into a cyclist, another into a taxi, and a third into a double decker bus. 

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Some of New Zealand's biggest tech names have sent a letter to the Government as millions of public funding is set to expire in the cloud software sector. 

The letter sent to Tech Minister Judith Collins includes executives from Xero, Datacom, and Gallagher. 

Serko Chief Marketing Officer Nick Whitehead says they want "engagement' not just to talk "funding". 

He told Francesca Rudkin that they want to understand what the Government’s plans are for the sector going forward, so they don’t lose all the work put into growing the community. 

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The economic value of cruise-ships is on full-display as the season draws to a close. 

They've brought in 350,000 visitors, with an estimated value of $540 million. 

Newmarket Business Association Chief Executive Mark Knoff-Thomas told Francesca Rudkin they've seen a 30% rise in international visitor spending this season. 

But the bounce-back may be short-lived, a 20% decline in port visits is projected for next season as rising costs bite the market. 

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A barrister says the High Court's decision to overturn the Waitangi Tribunal summons of the Children's Minister was a good and clear decision. 

It ruled Karen Chhour could not be compelled to appear before the Tribunal over her plans to repeal part of the Oranga Tamariki Act. 

Treaty activist and lawyer Annette Sykes has lodged an appeal. 

Marie Dyhrberg KC told Francesca Rudkin it doesn't set a precedent, as there's already a law. 

She says the judge said had the evidence not been available in other forms, he would not have quashed the summons. 

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At least five are dead only hours after the passing of the UK’s controversial migrant deportation bill. 

Approximately 100 migrants were rescued while crossing the English Channel, placed abroad a French Navy ship to be taken to the port of Boulogne. 

The approved bill aims to deter situations like this, deporting illegal immigrants to Rwanda as a deterrent to those seeking asylum. 

UK Correspondent Gavin Grey told Mike Hosking that so far, some 52,000 people have been earmarked for deportation, Rwanda looking to take in only a few hundred. 

He said that if the deterrent works, this will be good for the UK, however, there is a backlog and time is running out for Rishi Sunak. 

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There are calls for harsher punishments for repeat distracted driving. 

New Ipsos research commissioned by AMI found 55% of drivers admit to driving distracted, with 21% admitting to driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol. 

The top distractions were mobile phones, other drivers, other passengers, and daydreaming. 

Road safety advocate Greg Murphy told Mike Hosking that fines have gone up for distracted driving, but it's still not enough to deter people. 

He says it's one of those things where a stiff penalty would prevent them from doing it again, but we don't have that. 

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A health recruiter is giving assurances that practices are in place to help migrant doctors. 

An Otago University study has found international doctors are struggling with cultural integration and New Zealand is at risk of losing them unless practices improve. 

Accent Health Recruiter Prudence Thomson told Mike Hosking that she's been recruiting for 25 years, and migrating is always a challenge. 

She says if a good orientation and induction are in place —which the Medical Council has in writing— people adapt pretty well. 

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Chinese business travellers are first priority Auckland tourism for a first-of-its-kind alliance. 

Since travel resumed last year, 6% of the 210,000 Chinese tourists were here for business. 

Tātaki Auckland Unlimited and Auckland Airport will work with China Southern Airlines to market their daily non-stop flights from their main hub in Guangzhou to business travellers. 

Auckland Unlimited Destination Director, Annie Dundas, told Mike Hosking that this is the first collaboration they've had with a Chinese airline. 

She says we hosted five thousand people from Amway China last year, and this is the kind of business they're looking for. 

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There are fears health worker strikes could become common place as conditions worsen. 

Two and a half thousand resident doctors will strike next month over pay and conditions. 

Former Health New Zealand chairman Rob Campbell told Mike Hosking that it could be the first of many more health worker strikes. 

He said workers are feeling increasingly disaffected and unheard. 

Campbell said that the agency needs to do better to prevent the strikes, it’s not good management for the issue to be hashed out in public. 

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An American comedian is defending his decision to kick a breast-feeding mother out of his Melbourne comedy show. 

Flight of the Concords star Arj Barker asked breastfeeding mother Trish Faranda to leave his Melbourne show on Saturday, claiming her baby was disrupting his performance. 

Faranda says it was humiliating to be publicly called out. 

Australia correspondent Donna Demaio told Mike Hosking that Barker "feels bad for any upset involved", but says he was thinking of the hundreds of other ticketholders hoping to hear his show. 

He says it was a 15-plus show, and the 700 others in attendance needed to be able to enjoy the event. 

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Women's Refuge says it will be a waiting game as to whether Three Strikes legislation is effective. 

The Government is preparing to reintroduce mandatory prison sentences for violent and sexual criminals committing a third offence, this time only applying to sentences above 24 months. 

Women's Refuge Chief Executive Ang Jury told Mike Hosking that in some instances incarceration is the one way to ensure safety. 

But she says they need to be getting help while they're in there to change their behaviour, and that's what's missing from this equation. 

Jury says there was no indication it worked last time, but something needs to be done. 

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A British lawmaker who allegedly used campaign funds to pay off people who were holding him hostage said Sunday that he wouldn't seek reelection after the governing Conservative Party found his behaviour fell below the standard expected of members of Parliament.

Mark Menzies' downfall is the latest in a series of scandals to hit the Conservatives, undermining support for a party that has been in power for the past 14 years as it prepares for a general election later this year.

The Times of London recently reported that Menzies called a 78-year-old aide at 3 a.m. in December asking for funds to pay off “bad people” who had locked him in an apartment and were demanding money for his release. Menzies' office manager ultimately paid 6,500 pounds ($8,100) from her personal bank account, which was reimbursed from funds donated by political backers, the newspaper said.

Menzies, who denies the allegations, has represented the seat of Fylde in northwest England since 2010.

“Due to the pressures on myself and my elderly mother, I have decided to resign from the Conservative Party and will not stand at the forthcoming general election," he said. “This has been a very difficult week for me, and I request that my family’s privacy is respected.”

Menzies' announcement came after the Conservatives announced the findings of an internal investigation into the matter.

The inquiry concluded that the payment had been authorized by two members of a local donors group that sits outside the Conservative Party, and therefore Menzies hadn't misused party funds.

“However, we do believe that there has been a pattern of behavior that falls below the standards expected of MPs and individuals looking after donations to local campaign funds which lie outside the direct jurisdiction of the Conservative Party,” the party said.

The opposition Labour Party has called for a police investigation into the matter. The Conservatives said they would share information with police if they decide to investigate.

The Conservatives have been in power since 2010, but they are trailing in opinion polls amid crumbling public services, high prices that are squeezing consumers and the corrosive effect of ethics scandals.

Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who led the party to a landslide victory in 2019, resigned from the House of Commons after an investigation found that he deliberately misled Parliament about parties held at his Downing Street offices during lockdowns imposed to control the spread of COVID-19.

Other scandals include a lawmaker who was caught looking at porn in the House of Commons, another who reportedly offered to lobby on behalf of gambling firms and another alleged to have drunkenly groped strangers at a private club in London.

But ethical questions are also being asked of opposition politicians as the country prepares for an election that must be called by the end of this year.

Conservatives accuse Labour's deputy leader, Angela Rayner, of dodging taxes on the sale of a house sale years ago by falsely claiming it was her primary residence. Police say they are investigating. Rayner denies wrongdoing and hasn't been suspended by her party.

- by Danica Kirka, AP

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The Government’s cutting more red tape in housing.

They’ve announced changes to ease lending criteria for home and other loans, including reforming financial services and updating the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act.

The time it takes to process loans will lessen and mortgages will be easier to access.

NZ Banking Association chief executive Roger Beaumont joined Mike Hosking.

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The Black Caps have responded in style, as Mark Chapman inspired New Zealand to a series-levelling seven-wicket victory over Pakistan in Rawalpindi.

Just 24 hours after being bowled out for 90 to lose by seven wickets at the same venue, a heavily depleted Black Caps side flipped the script on their hosts, and chased down their target of 179 runs with ease.

That chase was anchored by an unbeaten 87 from Chapman, who continued his love affair with Pakistan after being named man-of-the-series in New Zealand’s 2-2 draw just over a year ago.

Arriving at the crease at 53/2, Chapman scored a 29-ball half-century, and added a 117-run partnership with Dean Foxcroft (31 off 29) to all but get the Black Caps home.

New Zealand’s win was made all the more impressive by the fact the squad was depleted even further, as neither Ben Lister nor Josh Clarkson travelled to the ground after being struck by illness.

As captain Michael Bracewell won the toss and opted to field first, the stand-in skipper would have been forgiven for ruing his decision as Pakistan made 178/4 from their 20 overs.

While no Pakistan batter passed 50, partnerships of 55 between openers Babar Azam (37 off 29) and Saim Ayub (32 off 22) and 62 between Shadab Khan (41 off 20) and Irfan Khan (30 not out off 20) made up the bulk of the total.

Ish Sodhi was the pick of the Kiwi attack, and took 2/25 from his four overs, as the rest of New Zealand’s attack struggled to contain Pakistan. The pair of Zak Foulkes and Will O’Rourke both went wicketless in their first taste of the shortest format at international level.

In reply, New Zealand’s openers got off to their best start of the series, as Tim Seifert (21 off 16) and Tim Robinson (28 off 19) added 42 for the first wicket.

Once they fell, though, the pair of Chapman and Foxcroft took over.

In 42 balls, the pair added a 50 stand, but needed just 17 more to raise their century partnership as Chapman took over. The left-hander plundered nine boundaries and four sixes in his innings, and reached his seventh T20 international fifty in the process.

Once Foxcroft went, though, caught and bowled by Abbas Afridi, New Zealand needed just nine runs from more than three overs.

And after Jimmy Neesham found the rope with the final ball of the 18th over, Chapman sealed the win at the start of the 19th, and at the very least ensured the new-look Black Caps won’t leave Pakistan empty-handed.

Both teams will now enjoy three days off, as the series relocates from Rawalpindi to Lahore for games four and five.

Alex Powell is an Online Sports Editor for the NZ Herald. He has been a sports journalist since 2016, and previously worked for both Newshub and 1News.

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An expert says Ukraine needs more than just funding for weapons to get ahead in the war.

The US House of Representatives has voted 311 to 112, in favour of a US $61 billion aid package for Ukraine.

Taiwan and Israel will also receive foreign aid packages, totalling almost US $95 billion in aid for all three countries.

Senior Fellow at Defense Priorities in Washington, D.C. Gil Barndollar told Mike Hosking the funding will help with refilling artillery.

But he says it's not just about weapons.

“The other big piece is manpower and that’s a little bit of a black box because we don’t know the true numbers of Ukrainian and Russian casualties — especially Ukrainian.”

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The Supercar Sprints are kicking off in Taupo this weekend. 

The event is expected to bring up to 70,000 attendees, giving a significant boost to the city and surrounding region. 

Mayor David Trewavas told Mike Hosking that the town is absolutely buzzing. 

He said they had the parade through the CBD last night, and thousands of fans came out to see the cars. 

Taupo has a three-year contract to keep the race in the city Trewavas confirmed, and although Taupo isn’t quite large enough to handle to influx on their own, it’s become a major regional event. 

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Prince William has made his first return to royal duties since Kate's cancer diagnosis went public. 

Last month the Princess of Wales revealed she's been receiving treatment amid wild internet speculation. 

The family has been away from the public eye but the Prince has returned to show support for a homeless food shelter. 

UK correspondent Vincent McAviney told Mike Hosking the public have been showing him and the Princess support. 

He says someone gave the Prince a 'get well soon' card and told him to look after Kate, which he replied he would. 

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The turn of the economy could make it tricky for those on JobSeekers to find employment. 

New Social Development figures reveal just under 188,000 people are on JobSeeker, up almost 20,000 people from last year. 

Employment specialist Jennifer Mills told Mike Hosking that she's sure many on the benefit are ready to work. 

She says the new work check-in arrangement may sharpen the focus for those who are job ready, but the question is whether those jobs exist in this market. 

Mills says margins are squeezed, profits are down, and businesses are shedding staff. 

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Experts are forecasting more financial pressure for households, continuing into late next year. 

The Infometrics data expects the annual GDP to dip into the negatives mid 2024, meaning slower growth than had previously been expected. 

Infometrics Chief Forecaster Gareth Kiernan told Mike Hosking that with higher interest rates more properties are on the market with no buyers out. 

He says households are showing the signs of all the interest rate rises over the past few years. 

Kiernan says it'll be another 12 months before the worst of the downturn is behind us. 

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Seven jurors have officially been selected for Donald Trump’s ‘hush money’ trial, leaving eleven more still to come. 

Despite the trouble they’re facing, US Correspondent Mitch McCann told Mike Hosking that it is moving faster than people expected. 

He said it could have taken up to 22 weeks to select all 18 jurors, and they already have seven. 

The issue is finding people who don’t have bias for or against Trump, with 96 potential jurors entering court, 50 of which walked out within ten minutes, unable to be impartial. 

Manhattan, McCann said, is in some ways a democrat city as they always vote blue, so he’ll have to “find a few red needles in a blue haystack” as they said in the New York Times. 

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A Christchurch entrepreneur is attempting to break into the dating app market. 

‘Amor’ is trying to bring something fresh, only giving four matches a week and refusing to show profile photos for the first 2024 hours. 

Creator Emily Heazlewood told Mike Hosking that although the market is quite saturated, a lot of them are hook up culture apps. 

She said that they’ve gone down the compatibility route with matchmaking, helping drive people away from the app into meeting in the real world. 

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As inflation cools down, homeowners are starting to hold out for cuts to the OCR. 

The CoreLogic April Housing report shows 56% of new loans taken out in February were on one-year fixed terms compared to 36% in December. 

Chief Property Economist Kelvin Davidson says that's a pretty strong indication people don't want to lock in for too long in case rates fall. 

He says the report also contains a prediction of general cooling of the previously hot property market.

Davidson's expecting prices to be fairly subdued for the next couple of years, which will be good news for those struggling with affordability. 

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There are concerns the Government's new health guidance for children could impact employer attitudes towards parents. 

The guidelines say kids with a mild cough, headache, or runny nose should go to school, provided they don't have Covid-19 or other symptoms like a fever or vomiting. 

This move is in an effort to improve school attendance numbers. 

But NZEI President Mark Potter told Mike Hosking that parents may be pressured by their employers to go to work, despite their kids being unwell. 

He says there's a growing wave of mental health issues at play, which are often very difficult, and parents are struggling with how to help them. 

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Security guards have no more power than a regular citizen when it comes to a threat of danger. 

They're expected to be more visible in malls around Australia and New Zealand following the stabbing at Bondi Junction in Sydney on Saturday afternoon. 

Forty-year-old Queensland man Joel Cauchi stabbed six people to death, including a security guard. 

Security Association CEO Gary Morrison says they don't carry weapons of any sort. 

He says they're there to assist members of the public around how to escape when something like that happens and to make it as simple as possible. 

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Banks are picking inflation to continue falling. 

ASB is expecting today's figures to show annual inflation falling to 4.1%, the lowest since June 2021. 

ASB Chief Economist Nick Tuffley told Mike Hosking that things like rates, rents, and insurance are going the wrong way. 

But, he says, it's still likely to drop because we aren't spending as much on durables, so some of those behavioural impacts should come through. 

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Questions are now being raised after a fire has ravaged one of Copenhagen's oldest buildings. 

Its iconic spire collapsed during the fire, as emergency services and passerbys rushed to save priceless works of art inside and other valuables. 

The 17th century old Stock Exchange building was currently undergoing renovations. 

Europe Correspondent Gavin Grey told Mike Hosking the building was covered in plastic wrap and scaffolding. 

He says investigators are seeing if the efforts made to save the building are the very thing that caused its downfall. 

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Questions are being raised over how the salvaged Newshub 6pm bulletin will be pulled off in its new format. 

Stuff has signed on to produce and provide a daily bulletin on TV3 from July 6, following Newshub's closure. 

The Spinoff founder and media commentator Duncan Greive told Mike Hosking that the level of scrutiny and quality of performance required to produce 6pm TV news will be challenging.  

He says the Stuff staff he's spoken to were expressing this, adding they just don't have a lot of runway to get to the TVNZ or Newshub standard. 

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There’s hope more landlords will give people with pets a chance in the wake of government changes. 

Pet bonds are being introduced: tenants will be liable for all pet damage beyond fair wear and tear and landlords will only be able to withhold consent on reasonable grounds. 

Pet Refuge Founder Julie Chapman hopes this means people leaving family violence situations will be able to find places for them and their pets more easily. 

Subsequently, Pet Refuge will be able to help more people, sooner. 

She says they've been operating at capacity for the last nine months, on a one in, one out, situation for cats and dogs. 

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The father of the man who killed six people and injured 12 others in a stabbing at Bondi Junction in Sydney says his son was a tormented soul. 

Eight people remain in hospital after 40-year-old Queensland man Joel Cauchi went on a rampage through the mall on Saturday. 

Australia correspondent Donna Demaio told Mike Hosking that his father, Andrew Cauchi, said he did everything to help his son who was mentally ill. 

Meanwhile, four people are understood to have been injured in a second stabbing attack in Sydney. 

It's understood a teenager entered the Christ the Good Shepard church in Sydney's West before stabbing a bishop in front of his parish. 

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The Government is being advised to invest in immigration data gathering as record levels of arrivals and departures continue. 

In February more than 253,000 migrants arrived and about 122,000 left, putting net migration at almost 131,000. 

Business NZ Chief Executive Kirk Hope told Mike Hosking that where they come from isn't a problem as long as skills meet labour market needs. 

He says this is one the of the big data gaps the Government needs to look at, to find out exactly which people and skills are coming in versus who is leaving. 

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Donald Trump's 'hush money' trial has begun, and it’s the first time a US president has faced a criminal trial. 

He's charged with falsifying business records, accused of trying to cover up a $130-thousand hush-money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels ahead of the 2016 election. 

Trump has pleaded not guilty and denied the affair. 

LA's KNX news presenter Charles Feldman told Mike Hosking that Trump's already using it as a pulpit for his presidential campaign. 

He says that at rallies Trump talks about how he feels this trial —and others— are politically persecuting him. 

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Iran has launched more than 200 drone missiles on Israel. 

Neighbouring nations are calling for restraint, while Jordan, the US and UK military are intercepting attacks. 

International Relations and Strategic Analyst Paul Buchanan says the strikes are a direct violation of an agreement between the nations. 

Buchanan tells Mike Hosking hard liners want Israel to retaliate but the United States has told Israel they will not support offensive operations against Iran. 

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Five victims have now been identified as among those killed in a stabbing spree at a Sydney shopping centre, which left six dead. 

Australia correspondent Donna Demaio tells Mike Hosking 11 people remain in hospital. Many stories are emerging of near misses with the attacker, and of people who tried to protect others. Sydney lifeguard Andy Reid raced to give CPR to some victims. 

The attacker’s family have released a statement revealing the killer battled with mental health issues. 

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New Zealand golfer Ryan Fox has slumped out of contention at the US Masters, currently tied for 20thposition. 

Meanwhile, the Warriors made a lucky comeback in a dramatic golden-point draw against Manly. The Sea Eagles lead 22-20 with three seconds left on the clock, when a post-siren penalty denied Manly the victory. 

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This week, Minister of Trade Todd McClay visits China hoping to promote New Zealand business and exports. 

Executive Director of the NZ China Council Alistair Crozier tells Mike Hosking the two countries are very adept at having difficult discussions in the open.

NZ exports to China are double what is exported to the US or Australia, and prospects are bright for continued growth. 

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New Zealand is committing to working more closely with the United States. 

The countries have agreed to work more closely with each other and common allies like Australia, in areas like defence and intelligence. 

New Zealand's joining the US in financially supporting two initiatives in the Pacific to the tune of $16.4 million. 

Massey University defence expert John Battersby told Mike Hosking that we're now in a more uncertain Pacific region and things are changing. 

He says the one thing we don't want is a contest in our front patch between China and the US. 

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The Minister for Space has been working on our space image over in the US. 

Judith Collins spoke yesterday morning at the Space Symposium as New Zealand’s first Space Minister, putting us on the global stage. 

She told Mike Hosking that Rocket Lab has done an incredible job at putting New Zealand on the American space map with the work Peter Beck has done with NASA. 

In 2019 a survey was done on the NZ space sector, valuing it at $1.9 billion, but Collins thinks that by now it should be three or more times larger than that. 

She said that this is a sector with enormous growth and an extraordinary level of competency. 

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There’s concerns the Government's tenancy changes won't affect rent prices. 

A Bill being introduced to Parliament will bring back 90-day no-cause terminations for periodic tenancies. 

Labour removed them last term. 

Housing Minister Chris Bishop believes it'll push down rents. 

Aspire Property Management managing director Mike Atkinson told Mike Hosking that the Government skipped the removal of deductibility, which would've had more of an impact right now. 

He says landlords haven't been talking about 90-day notices and believes it wasn't needed at the moment. 

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The US state of Arizona is close to joining Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas in imposing a strict abortion ban. 

Arizona's conservative Supreme Court has decided an abortion law —first introduced 160 years ago— is now enforceable. 

US correspondent Mitch McCann told Mike Hosking that abortions are currently legal until 15 weeks of pregnancy. 

But he says this 1864 law —created before Arizona was even a proper state— would make abortions illegal except if the mother's life is in danger. 

McCann says it could be enforceable within two months, with Joe Biden calling the law cruel and extreme. 

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Ikea seems to be looking "big picture" as it enters the New Zealand market. 

The Swedish furniture giant is looking for a "people and culture manager", ahead of its opening at Auckland's Sylvia Park in late 2025. 

The successful manager will first be tasked with recruiting 400 people. 

First Retail Group managing director Chris Wilkinson told Mike Hosking that like other big retailers coming here, Ikea is playing the long game. 

He says they know things will be different in the future, and they're craving global expansion. 

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Health advocates say enforcement officers are needed to clamp down on the illegal vape trade. 

Reports suggest that the sale of vaping products that don't meet regulation is widespread. 

Asthma Foundation Chief Executive Letitia Harding told Mike Hosking that retailers selling illegal vaping products need more than a slap on the wrist. 

She says penalties like fines could help stamp out the dodgy market. 

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The mainstream media industry is shrinking, and television is leading the way out. 

Newshub has confirmed its closing on July 5th, while TVNZ is cutting four of major programmes. 

Media and Communications Minister Melissa Lee says the global market is facing the same difficulties. 

She's written a cabinet paper on the media sector but hasn't disclosed any details. 

Former TVNZ news boss and TV3 political editor Bill Ralston told Mike Hosking that the Government could step in and do something about it. 

He says Melissa Lee has no idea of what she's doing really and is basically saying her hands are tied. 

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European football fans may be seeing increased security at this week’s Champions League games. 

A pro-IS media channel has published several images calling for attacks at the stadiums hosting the quarterfinals. 

UEFA said it was aware of the threats, but the London, Madrid, and Paris games would go ahead as planned, and Ministers in Spain and France have confirmed enhanced security measures. 

UK and Europe Correspondent Gavin Grey told Mike Hosking that while the outlet who posted the images isn’t officially linked to the Islamic State group, it is thought that they liaise with them. 

He said that security has been upped across the board, and the London Metropolitan Police Commissioner is confident they have a robust policing plan in place. 

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The Official Cash Rate is likely to remain unchanged for at least the next few months. 

Most economists expect the Reserve bank to keep the Official Cash Rate unchanged at 5.5% when it comes up for review at 2pm. 

It's remained unchanged since May last year. 

Jarden Investment Strategist John Carran says it's 50-50 whether the Reserve Bank cuts the OCR in August or November. 

The primary focus is on inflation, he said, so that is where they’re looking for the OCR rate. 

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Rideshare company Ola is hitting the brakes in New Zealand. 

The Uber rival told Auckland customers they won't be able to book future rides from Friday but can still access their app until it shuts down next month. 

But First Union is worried the loss will give Ola's main rival Uber more control of the gig economy. 

Strategic project coordinator Anita Rosentreter told Mike Hosking that Ola played a key crossover role for those drivers. 

She says drivers would go to Ola when they couldn't get work at Uber and it also created competition between the platforms to offer them incentives. 

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Winston Peters has pulled no punches over the need for a two-state solution in Gaza. 

The Foreign Affairs Minister has reiterated his calls for an immediate ceasefire at the UN General Assembly in New York. 

He says the two-state solution is the only blueprint for peace, but Israel's seizing of Palestinian territory imperils that. 

Otago University international relations professor Robert Patman told Mike Hosking that's probably the general feeling among the international community. 

He says just because Israel is illegally taking territory doesn't mean that can't happen, and Israel has to consider its legal obligations. 

Meanwhile, Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu says a date has been set for Israel to invade Rafah. 

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A looming financial issue is being highlighted as the country works towards its next emissions budget.

The Climate Commission is recommending greenhouse gas is limited by 134-million tonnes between 2036 and 2040. 

But Victoria University Adjunct Professor Adrian Macey told Mike Hosking that there's still a massive issue if we are going to meet our Paris pledge. 

He says a government between now and 2030 is going to have to find about $20-25 billion to buy carbon credits. 

Macey doesn't see any government being able to feasibly do this. 

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An education expert says the Government's plan to improve students' learning has been successful overseas. 

Christopher Luxon's unveiled nine Government targets for delivery by 2030. 

They include increasing student attendance and getting more students to the expected curriculum level. 

New Zealand Initiative Education Research Fellow Michael Johnstone told Mike Hosking that getting them to turn up will be a challenge but overall, it's a sound plan. 

He says focusing on things like the science of learning and structured literacy have worked well in places like England. 

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The Government has brought in immediate changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa. 

There will now be an English language requirement for low skilled jobs, while fast-tracking will be removed for construction and the franchisee category will be disestablished. 

Owner and Principal Consultant at Into NZ Katy Armstrong tells Mike Hosking the Government was left with no choice but to make the changes as the high trust model did not work. 

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A new law in Scotland, designed to prevent hate crimes is being targeted by Neo-Nazi and far-right agitators. The groups are making vexatious complaints en masse in an attempt to overwhelm police systems. 

UK & Europe correspondent Gavin Grey tells Mike Hosking the definition of a hate crime is wide ranging, and an inundated system makes policing the reports difficult for authorities. 

Meanwhile, support for Ukraine is crumbling in the EU. 

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The Warriors showed their potential over the weekend, beating the Rabbitohs in an impressive 34-4 win. Andrew Alderson updates Mike Hosking on how the team looked. 

Meanwhile, the Sevens held at Hong Kong stadium for the last time. 

And, a man known as the ‘hardest geezer’ has run the length of Africa. Russ Cook covered 16,300km as the first person to run from the south to the northern tip of the continent. 

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AN OIA has revealed police abandoned almost 60 percent of cases reported to them last year. 

Of 962,521 emergency calls, 572,037 were abandoned. In 2023, reports were up 50 percent from 2019 and of cases reported, 179,957 were closed without any investigation at all. 

Police Association President Chris Cahill tells Mike Hosking that online reporting has driven up numbers. The Auror retail crime reporting app enables small low-level crime to be reported to police. Less than half of reports made are actual offences. 

Cahill says the app is fit for purpose. 

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The deaths of UK aid workers from an Israeli air strike has reignited debate in the UK over the level of support, military aid, and weapons they’re providing Israel. 

Over 600 legal experts, including three former Supreme Court Justices, have come forward in an open letter calling on the Government to end the sale of weapons to Israel. 

They say that the UK are risking breaching international law over a “plausible risk of genocide in Gaza”. 

UK Correspondent Vincent McAviney told Mike Hosking that the Conservative Party is currently have strong arguments over the letter, but Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is so far unwilling to heed the call. 

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There’s been a breakthrough in the rules governing whether people who've been scammed are eligible for compensation. 

The banking sector has launched a review around victim reimbursement. 

This comes after consumer protection criticism and the threat of regulatory intervention from the government. 

Consumer NZ boss Jon Duffy told Mike Hosking that although there's a level of personal responsibility, people need to stay alert. 

He says some of the scams are extremely sophisticated and those who are falling for them are everyday New Zealanders. 

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A Northland mayor is hailing the new law that requires Māori wards to be put to referendum as a win for democracy. 

The coalition Government is introducing a bill allowing communities to petition for binding polls on Māori ward decisions. 

It reverses legislation from the previous Government that ensured councils would not have wards overturned through public referendum. 

Kaipara mayor Craig Jepson told Mike Hosking he believes a lot of Māori would support the new bill. 

He says the previous laws were condescending to Māori and don't acknowledge them as hard-working people. 

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ASB Bank is sending the message their predicted infrastructure bill isn't an impossible figure. 

The bank's new research suggests a trillion dollars will be needed over 30 years. 

ASB's Senior Economist Mark Smith says it's a huge number and we need to tap into as many funding sources as possible. 

He says there needs to be greater alignment between providers and funders, the infrastructure has to be fit for purpose and deliver value for money, while meeting climate objectives. 

Smith told Mike Hosking that the list is huge and the challenges are massive, but he believes it can be done. 

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Bosses are finding Gen Z to be something of a nightmare. 

They’ve found that they have poor work ethic, miss meetings, and even ditch the company on their first day of work. 

In contrast, Gen Z workers say their employers don’t understand them. 

Angela Lim, Clearhead CEO, told Mike Hosking that there’s been a distinct cultural shift, boundaries blurring between personal and work lives. 

Another shift, she said, is in values. Lim said that young people want their employers to make a stand on social issues, to have more meaning or purpose in their jobs as opposed to just collecting a paycheck. 

This can cause a lot of friction, she told Hosking, unless both parties are trained in having difficult conversations and know how to incorporate those different work styles. 

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Students are learning more about our history but less about our place in the world. 

An Education Review Office report finds schools have been working hard to implement the new Aotearoa Histories Curriculum. 

It's being taught in three quarters of all schools up to and including Year 10, but to varying degrees. 

Education Evaluation Centre Head Ruth Shinoda says it takes up a lot of teachers' time making their own teaching resources. 

She told Mike Hosking that more off-the-shelf content would help support schools to teach the full range of the curriculum. 

Shinoda says those resources could help teachers have more time to teach other social sciences too, like geography and economics. 

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New Zealand's electric vehicle sales have taken another plunge.

In March, just over 9% of new passenger cars were EVs, falling from about 27% for all of 2023.

Drive Electric Chair Kirstin Corson told Mike Hosking she hasn't written it off, but the market has certainly stalled after losing the clean car discount.

She says it's disappointing to see new light diesel vehicles outselling EVs 10 to one, adding this is a massive difference compared to 2023. 

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A disability charity's launching an urgent appeal that it faces closure after more than 20 years.

StarJam provides music and dance workshops for young people with disabilities, designed to foster inclusion and wellbeing.

It's trying to raise $100,000 to keep the doors open to its 800 members.

CEO Gilli Sinclair told Mike Hosking that they've been hit by the escalating cost of living and reduced funding streams.

They put out the appeal yesterday and within the last 24 hours raised over $70,000.

Sinclair said they're incredibly positive about the opportunity and have full faith in their ability to see their way through.

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Finland's gun policy is under scrutiny after a school shooting north of Helsinki.

A 12-year-old boy has been detained after the shooting that left one dead and two others, all aged 12, seriously wounded.

Finland's education minister says that once the government has a complete picture, they're considering if further measures are needed to protect schools.

Europe correspondent Gavin Grey told Mike Hosking that it's believed the gun used was licensed to a close relative.

He says in Finland, anyone over 18 can own a gun after passing checks, but a child over 15 can have licences to use other people's firearms.

The 12-year-old thought to be responsible is in the care of social services.

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The ripple effect of Covid era policy choices are being highlighted as the country's meat industry takes a hit.

Silver Fern Farms is reporting a $24 million plus loss for the 2023 financial year compared to it's $189 million profit the previous year.

Meat Industry Association Head of Strategy Jason Krupp told Mike Hosking that it's very much an industry issue.

He says we're seeing the effects of policy choices in Covid play out in our international markets, hitting us on prices.

Krupp says other impacts include high domestic inflation and a weak Chinese market.

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The attack at Wairarapa Hospital is being seen as an example of the increasing violence being seen around the country's Emergency Departments.

A visitor was struck with a machete on Saturday night, suffering a fractured skull.

An incident team's reviewing what happened as a 62-year-old faces charges.

Association of Salaried Medical Specialists Executive Director Sarah Dalton told Mike Hosking that it's a real problem.

She says it's usually more verbal violence than physical, but members are saying physical violence is on the increase.

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Why use one plane when two will do? 

The Australian Energy Minister has defended the use of two separate Royal Australian Airforce jets to fly himself and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to a clean energy announcement in NSW. 

The announcement involved detailing a $1 billion programme to support solar panels, Albanese calling it one of the most significant announcements made during his term. 

Australian Correspondent Donna Demaio told Mike Hosking the Air Force made the decision that the airport they were flying into was not strong enough for one large jet, and as such, had to take two. 

She said the opposition has called it a scandal and is alleging that the PM and Minister were using taxpayer dollars to live the highlife. 

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The UK is taking harsher measures to hold social media giants to account. 

Media regulator ‘OFCOM’, the Office of Communications, plans to issue orders to social media firms that will unlock a child’s account if it’s suspected it played a role in their death or suicide. 

Failure to comply could see the company fined up to 10% of its global revenue. 

Social Media Commentator Vaughn Davis told Mike Hosking that there’s no doubt that social media plays a role in bullying and suicide, but it’s mostly the location that’s changing, not the behaviour. 

Davis said that while firms like to be seen as though they’re working collaboratively to solve the issue, when it comes to digging into the data and using it to understand and prevent suicide, they’re not as interested. 

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There’s a view that the Government's latest action plan is much more ambitious than the 100 Day Plan. 

The Government's laid out its check list, to be completed before June 30th. 

The plan features promises like restoring three strikes, creating an attendance plan, and implementing tax relief. 

Political Commentator Brigitte Morten told Mike Hosking that they will have to dig deeper to achieve this one. 

She says while the 100 Day Plan was a lot of repealing, the next step will involve making actual change. 

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There are fears nothing has been done to prevent another Loafers Lodge tragedy. 

An investigation into boarding house facilities was initiated after last year's fire killed five people. 

It's found only half the 37 buildings inspected had adequate smoke detectors. 

Wellington City Missioner Murray Edridge told Mike Hosking that more needs to be done. 

He says they're just waiting for this to happen again but isn't hopeful anything will change. 

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National's promise to keep tax cuts is being criticised. 

Finance Minister Nicola Willis has delivered the Budget Policy Statement and reaffirmed the party's commitment to tax relief. 

Willis says she's been humbled by how much recent forecasts have deteriorated. 

Labour Party Finance spokesperson Barbara Edmonds told Mike Hosking that instead of focusing on the previous Government, Willis should focus on the cards in front of her. 

She says when the half year fiscal update was worse than expected, she should have revisited them. 

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Challenging behaviours in New Zealand classrooms are at critical levels. 

Over the last 20 years student behaviour has been among the worst in the OECD but new research shows it's worsened over the past two. 

Education Review Office research has found a quarter of principals have seen students physically harm others and steal property at least every day. 

Education Hub Founder Nina Hood told Mike Hosking that it's important to draw schools' attention to behaviour. 

She says it's up to individual schools to create clear expectations, consistent rules, put structures in place, and uphold them. 

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A new trial to treat depression has been given the green light in New Zealand. 

Ketamine has been used as a treatment around the world in recent years, the drug showing short-term benefits. 

Otago University is running the trial, combining liquid, slower-release ketamine with psychotherapy in an effort to achieve long term results. 

The trial is eight weeks long, half the group receiving both ketamine and psychotherapy and the other half only receiving the drug. 

Senior Lecturer Dr Ben Beaglehole told Mike Hosking that this is a treatment, not a cure. 

He said that depression is a long term problem with factors that they won't be able to reverse with medication or short-term psychotherapy, but they’re looking to see if the short-term benefits of the drug can be prolonged. 

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The Government will today unveil its economic plan for how its priorities will be delivered in the Budget Policy Statement. 

Finance Minister Nicola Willis will give the speech at one this afternoon. 

ASB’s Chief Economist Nick Tuffley told Mike Hosking that it’s a bit too early for them to have the hard and fast numbers, and today is more about setting our expectations. 

We’re also likely to get a sense of how inflation is tracking in regard to the budget, though Treasury likely hasn’t finished their economic forecasts completely. 

He said that it’s a pretty tough balancing act the Government has to walk with this budget. 

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A search and rescue effort continues after a bridge collapse in Baltimore.  

A fully laden container ship rammed into one of the supports and the bridge crumpled into the water below. 

Those on board the ship had time to raise the alarm and the bridge was closed. 

At least six people remain unaccounted for. 

Those missing are believed to be construction workers who were working on potholes on the bridge at the time. 

US correspondent Mitch McCann told Mike Hosking that it could have a huge economic impact on the state. 

He says it's one of the biggest ports in the US, specialising in shipping motor vehicles and farming equipment and bringing in over US $1 billion last year. 

US President Joe Biden says around 850,000 ships go through the port a year and 15,000 jobs depend on it. 

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An expert says allegations of Chinese cyber-attacks in New Zealand have been at a lower level than our allies. 

Spy agency the GCSB has tied targeting of our Parliamentary entities in August 2021 to Chinese state-sponsored group APT40. 

China's ambassador to New Zealand has labelled the accusations groundless and irresponsible. 

International Relations Expert Geoffrey Miller told Mike Hosking that the UK and US accusations are on a different level. 

He says the UK alleged China had gotten the information of 14 million voters. 

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Millions of Australians are looking for a second job as the cost of living continues to bite. 

A survey by comparison website Finder has found that 32% of respondents, totalling approximately 6.7 million people, felt financially pressured to work more than one job. 

Australian Correspondent Lesley Yeomans told Mike Hosking that there are jobs available in cafes and retail stores, but it's unknown whether this will bring down the unemployment rate. 

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