Wellington Mornings with Nick Mills

OPINION

Anyone who knows me knows how important I think Victoria and Massey Universities are for our city. 

Wellington lights up when the students arrive at the beginning of the year, and the city dies down when they leave. 

Well today through to Thursday is graduation week for a lot of students from Victoria University. 

This is the highlight for not only the students graduating, but a highlight for family and whanau celebrating a lot of hard work. 

So when I first heard that a student group was planning to co-opt this week's graduation events with a pro-Palestine demonstration I said to myself no way. 

Now this is nothing to do with what they are protesting against; we can put that to the side. 

It's more the fact that some things in life have to be free of any form of political protest. 

Some things are special, some things are too important, some things are just completely inappropriate for a protest. 

To me, graduation parades should be left alone. Students should be left to be themselves; to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of their great work. 

Student Justice for Palestine Poneke organiser Hana Pilkington-Ching says students should use the celebrations to raise awareness of the war in Gaza by bringing Palestine flags or signs to the ceremonies. 

She says New Zealand students need to recognise that education is under attack in Palestine and there are no universities left in Gaza. 

Some would argue it is absolutely something to protest. 

I would say a graduation parade is the wrong place, and the wrong time. Some things should be left alone and one of them is graduation. 

You don't ask people to turn up to your nan’s funeral wearing a ‘Bring Back Buck’ t-shirt. 

You don’t go to a wedding holding a nuclear-free New Zealand banner. 

No. These things are special. 

Some things should be left alone and I strongly believe there should be no political aspect to a graduation.

There should be no pressure on these students to feel obligated to be involved. 

This is their day and their family's day. The thought of people trying to hijack this event angers me. 

It’s wrong. 

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Winston is off overseas yet again, this week on a trip to multiple Melanesian states. And a new poll was released last week, what do the numbers show?

Newstalk ZB political editor joined Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills for an update from the Beehive. 

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It was a chilly morning this morning... made worse by Transpower's request that Kiwis turned down their heaters to reduce their power use.

Former Wellington mayor Justin Lester and Iron Duke Partners director Phil O'Reilly joined Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills to dissect the news of the week, including the signed-off district plan, school lunches and the funding boost for Corrections.

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It's a top of the table faceoff tomorrow afternoon, with the Hurricanes taking on the Blues at Eden Park. 

All Sport Breakfast host Adam Cooper and Weekend Sport host Jason Pine joined Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills to talk that match, as well as the Phoenix first semi-final on Sunday, and the Saint's home game, also on Sunday.

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Finance Minister Nicola Willis had a big morning delivering her set piece pre-budget speech in Lower Hutt... so what can she tell us about the budget?

She joined Labour's health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall and Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills to talk the political issues of the week, including a muddied press conference, lunches in schools and Wellington's new district plan. 

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Actress Rula Lenska is known around the world as Claudia Colby from Coronation Street, but did you know she's also Polish royalty? 

The actress, also a Countess, joined Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills to talk about her stage show, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, which is playing at the St James Theatre in Wellington this week.

She was joined by Stewart MacPherson - a legendary Wellington promoter who has brought the show to New Zealand. 

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Kiwirail boss Peter Reidy flew to South Korea to meet with the company contracted to build the now cancelled Interislander - but its not clear exactly why.

NZ Herald Wellington Issues reporter Georgina Campbell joined Nick Mills to talk the Wellington stories of the week, including Julie Anne Genter and the closure of a Wellington birthing unit. 

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A Wellington budgeting service has had its government funding pulled, despite its manager saying they are "busier than ever" as people struggle with high interest rates and the cost of living.

It comes as the Ministry of Social Development reviews its contracts with budgeting services.

It’s understood other providers across the country have had their funding cut.

The Wellington Budget Service, run in conjunction with the Citizens Advice Bureau, is staffed predominantly by volunteers but requires funding to pay for a part-time manager and office and IT equipment.

It has been funded by MSD since 2017. Last year it received $77,000.

Manager David Cameron told Newstalk ZB Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills that without funding, it’s possible the service could close.

“We’re very disappointed, there is a lot of need out there at the moment.”

The service saw around 470 people last year, and demand has grown 60% since the beginning of 2024.

Cameron says clients are often deep in debt, or struggling with their mortgage.

The organisation helps clients create budgets and negotiates debt payments directly with creditors. All services are free.

“There are other budgeting services in Wellington, but we’re all very busy. Other services refer some of their clients to us.

“We expect we’ll start to see a few more people as the cuts to the public service start to kick in."

In a statement, MSD’s general manager safe strong families and communities Mark Henderson said the Ministry had recently completed a procurement process for budgeting providers across the country.

The total funding available was reduced as a result of a Covid-19-specific fund for budgeting services expiring.

But the Wellington Budget Service was funded prior to Covid-19. After further questions, Henderson referred to a general procurement process.

“Preferred providers have been identified following a robust procurement process and unfortunately Wellington Citizens Advice bureau were unsuccessful.

“We recognise there is a continuing need for support in Wellington and will ensure that [budgeting] services continue to be provided in the region.”

MSD confirmed the cuts were not part of the Government’s directive to reduce expenditure.

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Things are tough in Wellington at the moment, with unemployment biting and public service cuts and staff working from home affecting central city businesses. 

Retail NZ chief executive Carolyn Young and Trinity Group director and Hospitality NZ board member Jeremy Smith joined Nick Mills to talk business in Wellington. 

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Last week was another difficult one for the Greens, with an outburst followed by further allegations against MP Julie Anne Genter. 

Newstalk ZB's political editor Jason Walls joined Nick Mills to talk about the issue, as well as the long-awaited Darleen Tana report, political donations and Winston's spat with former Australian foreign minister Bob Carr. 

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Three waters us behind us and its time to look at how we can properly look after our water infrastructure, Porirua Mayor Anita Baker says. 

One answer is a Wellington Water mega entity, capturing Kapiti, Wairarapa and the central city.

Baker joined Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills to discuss the idea. 

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The Wellington Phoenix may have missed out on finishing at the top of the A League table, but we've still got a home semi-final to look forward to. 

Newstalk ZB's Weekend Sport host Jason Pine and All Sport Breakfast host Adam Cooper joined Nick Mills to talk all things sport. 

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It was two council foes reuniting on Friday Faceoff this week... but it turns out they're actually good mates. 

Wellington City Councillor Nicola Young and former councillor and now the PSA's assistant secretary Fleur Fitzsimons joined Nick Mills to dissect the news of the week. 

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The florist who's accused Julie Anne Genter of yelling at her says the confrontation could have been avoided. 

Laura Newcombe says the MP also pulled out her phone during a heated exchange over cycleways. 

The Green Party is not disputing the story. 

Newcombe told Nick Mills on Newstalk ZB Wellington Mornings that Genter didn't need to come into her shop. 

She says Genter didn't need to keep the argument going and could have left at any time.  

Genter is also in the spotlight for crossing the parliamentary chamber and waving a booklet in Associate Transport Minister Matt Doocey's face. 

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Both Nicola Willis and Ayesha Verrall say they've never seen anything like the outburst from Julie Anne Genter on the floor of Parliament last night.

The Finance Minister and Labour's Health and Wellington Issues spokesperson joined Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills to talk the political issues of the week.

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There's been another death on the rugby field, this time in Auckland.

33-year-old Cory Heather died at a game in Beachlands after a suspected knock to the head over the weekend. 

Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills asked what more needs to be done to ensure players' safety, and heard from caller Johnny who is soon to quit working after some poor dementia test results. In tears, he spoke of years of concussions as a young rugby player and how it has affected his life. 

Later in the show Earle Kirton, a former All Black turned dentist rang the show to talk about what needs to be done. 

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James Shaw signs off from Parliament this week after a 10-year career, much of it as co-leader, and at one point even the sole leader of the Greens. 

Newstalk ZB political editor Jason Walls joined Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills to talk about his legacy, as well as news the government will be signing off on the budget today and the details of a new Pharmac announcement. 

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Just a day after a Curia poll showed Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau has the lowest approval rating of any New Zealand mayor, she joined Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills for her monthly catch-up.

Also on the agenda was the failed Reading Cinema deal, the Golden Mile project and the renewal of her Green membership.

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Finance Minister Nicola Willis says Wellington City Council's now-collapsed deal with Reading Cinemas was "shady" and could have found the council in hot water with the Auditor General. 

She was joined by Labour's police spokesperson Ginny Andersen to talk the political issues of the week with Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills.

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Where to now for the derelict Reading Cinemas complex, and what has the failed deal cost the council? Those questions are yet to be answered, NZ Herald Wellington Issues reporter Georgina Campbell says. 

She joined Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills for her regular Capital Letter slot. 

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Wellington institution Cranfields is set to shut down, while the New Zealand Campus of Innovation and Sport is going from strength to strength as the training facility for the Hurricanes and the Phoenix. 

The leaders of those respective businesses joined Nick Mills to talk through how things are... and the pair had quite different outlooks. 

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Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has returned from a week long tour of South East Asia, aimed at improving New Zealand's relationships with Singapore, Thailand and the Phillipines. 

Newstalk ZB senior political reporter Sophie Trigger joined Nick Mills to talk about the trip, as well as the government's changes to lending regulations and the fast track consent bill. 

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On Friday Faceoff this week Nick was joined by political commentator Josie Pagani and former broadcaster Mark Sainsbury. 

On the agenda was Wellington's mega tunnel proposal, Tory Whanau rejoining the Greens, police pay and the Stuff/Newshub deal. 

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OPINION: Some disturbing news came across my desk yesterday.

I got a lovely email from Nicola Cranfield with the sad news that Cranfield’s on Johnson St near Lambton Quay is closing. 

Often shops close during a recession and unpredictable times. 

Shops close because they go broke. 

Businesses close when owners have just had enough. 

But Cranfield’s has been operating in Wellington for 33 years and reading Nicola Cranfield’s email really affected me. 

Nicola has fought endlessly against Let's Get Wellington Moving and the Golden Mile project. She's met with counsellors, she's met with businesses, she's gone to every meeting she possibly could have gone to, just to fight the cause to save Lambton Quay from both Let's Get Wellington Moving and the Golden Mile project. 

She's had the acrimony of presenting to Wellington City Council with councillors not even looking her in the eye, looking down at their devices not caring what she has to say.,not caring what she and her mother had done for our city over 33 years. Absolutely no respect whatsoever. 

But that didn't stop Nicola from fighting. 

That didn't stop Nicola from being a proud Wellingtonian wanting her successful family business to carry on against all the distractions and inconvenience that was thrown at her by those two major projects and our council. 

Things got so frustrating for her that she decided that she would not renew her long term lease and go month to month. 

Unfortunately for us in Wellington it didn’t work for Nicola Cranfield and her shop is closing. 

A Wellington institution gone, just like that. 

It’s interesting Nicola is not blaming or even bringing into the equation the public sector job losses due to government cuts. 

I've met Nicola a few times she's the most positive, bright, energetic and focused businesswoman you could ever expect to meet. 

She’s someone you talk to and say to yourself ‘gosh aren't we lucky to have a person like that running a business in our city’. 

Well no longer; she joins the long list of fabulous Wellingtonians who ran amazing businesses that got caught up in the downward spiral and are out… 

An article in the Herald today from Thomas Coughlan, outlining the effects and breaking down the job losses by numbers is very interesting.  

It shows it's more of a self-perpetuating downhill spiral than actual cash disappearing from the community. 

People that haven't lost their job still have the disposable income to spend - they’re just adjusting and being extremely careful. 

Even last night I met a couple who hadn’t lost their jobs, still had disposable income and they felt guilty for going out. It felt wrong to them, with everything going on.  

Our city is in a bad place, and no, it's not just because of these public service cuts, which much of us would agree are needed to some extent. 

No, its a wider issue. It’s an economy on the slump, it's a council that doesn’t seem to understand the big issues, its uncertainty over projects like the Golden Mile. 

I love this city, I love it a lot - but Wellington doesn’t feel like it did five, ten or twenty years ago. 

We’re in a slump, we’re in a spiral - and I think most of us know it. 

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On Politics Thursday this week Nick was joined by Housing Minister and MP for Hutt South Chris Bishop, and Labour's Hutt South list MP and police spokesperson Ginny Andersen.

On the agenda was the police's rejected pay offer, cuts to Oranga Tamariki, Wellington's mega tunnel proposal and new record immigration figures. 

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Wellington City Missioner Murray Edridge says the idea of banning begging in the city wouldn't solve the problem.

The issue of begging is back at the fore after a Rotorua and Christchurch city councillor called for a ban in their respective cities. 

But Edridge says people only beg because they are in need and we need to fix the source of the problem. 

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Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau's switch from independent to Green party member breaches the trust of her voters, Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills says. 

Newstalk ZB revealed yesterday that the Wellington Mayor had renewed her Green Party membership, after initially letting it lapse so she could form more constructive relationships with other councillors. 

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The zoo has hit Wellington, with Madagascar The Musical set to take over the St James Theatre this week.

The main cast and show producer joined Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills for an in-studio performance. 

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Labour leader Chris Hipkins says the government is rushing into signing up to pillar two of the AUKUS pact

"[The new government] is effectively saying yeah, we want in. I wouldn't say we want in until we know what we're signing up for," he told Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills.

"I don't think that's something responsible governments do." 

Also on the agenda was the proposal for a new 'mega tunnel' under Wellington city, the government's rental law changes and how NZ responds to the Iran/Israel conflict that came to the fore on Sunday. 

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Prime Minister Christopher Luxon landed in Singapore late last night, the first stop of a week-long trip to South-East Asia.

Luxon is also visiting Thailand - the first visit from a New Zealand Prime Minister in 11 years, and the Phillipines - the first visit in 14 years.

Newstalk ZB's senior political reporter Sophie Trigger joined Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills, where they also talked Winston Peters' overseas visit and a split of the coalition government over a Green MP's member's bill. 

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Transport Minister Simeon Brown says an idea to build a "mega tunnel" under Wellington City from The Terrace to Kilbirnie could be a better option than a second Mt Victoria tunnel, but there needs to be further investigation.

The NZ Herald revealed this morning that the government had asked NZTA/Waka Kotahi to investigate the feasibility of the mega tunnel, but so far there are no rough costs.

Brown joined Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills to discuss the proposal. 

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Friday Faceoff this week saw former Cabinet Minister Peter Dunne and Upper Hutt mayor Wayne Guppy join Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills. 

On the agenda was MPs pay, Upper Hutt's boy racing issue, the tragic Billy Guyton story and the relaxed rules of dogs in public. 

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It'll be a quick turnaround for the Sky Stadium groundskeepers this weekend with the Phoenix playing tonight and the Hurricanes playing tomorrow night in what's set to be a big weekend of sport. 

Weekend Sport host Jason Pine and All Sports Breakfast host Adam Cooper joined Nick Mills to talk the weekend's sport. 

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MPs pay is determined independently, but both the Finance Minister and the Opposition's health spokesperson say they don't need payrises. 

National's Nicola Willis and Labour's Ayesha Verrall joined Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills to talk MPs pay, the ferry advisory panel, the proposed no body no parole law, and concerns about a future census.

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The government received advice that cancelling Kiwirail's mega ferry deal could affect diplomatic relations with Korea, NZ Herald's Wellington Issues reporter Georgina Campbell says. 

She joined Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills for her weekly Capital Letter segment. 

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It's a musical ding-dong as James Irwin tries his best to convince Nick that the gig of the year is coming up and everyone should get along to see this musician who has millions of record sales.

Things get even murkier as we create the first-ever AI jingle for Wellington Mornings with a lot of help from www.suno.ai

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Covid-19, worker shortages, the growth in working from home and now public service cuts: Wellington's economy has had a tough few years, and it's still struggling, Wellington businessman and vice president of Hospitality NZ Paul Retimanu says. 

He joined Wellington Chamber of Commerce chief executive Simon Arcus and Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills to talk business, including a proposal for a new arena, 90 day trials, and how much good weather impacts retail and hospitality. 

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A pay rise for MPs would be politically damaging, Newstalk ZB Political Editor Jason Walls says.

He joined Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills for the Beehive Buzz, talking the possible increase for MPs salaries, Foreign Minister Winston Peters' overseas tour and public service cuts. 

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It may be a bye for the Hurricanes this weekend, but there's a huge fixture for the Wellington Phoenix against the Central Coast Mariners in Gosford on Saturday night to look forward to.  

All Sport Breakfast host Adam Cooper and Weekend Sport host Jason Pine joined Nick Mills. 

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On Friday Faceoff this week, Nick was joined by political commentator and lecturer Bryce Edwards and Wellington columnist and playwright Dave Armstrong. 

The trio talked Māori wards, road rage, the Reading Cinema deal, rates increases and the language of Gen Z. 

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Hutt City Mayor and Local Government New Zealand vice-president Campbell Barry says the government's decision to bring back binding referendums for Māori wards is government overreach. 

He joined Wellington Mornings Host Nick Mills to talk about the announcement yesterday. 

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On Politics Thursday this week, National deputy leader and Finance Minister Nicola Willis and Labour's police spokesperson Ginny Andersen joined Nick Mills. 

On the agenda was Gen Z slang, the cancelled mega ferry project, drug driver testing and the reintroduction of the three strikes legislation. 

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The NZ Herald's Wellington Issues reporter Georgina Campbell joined Nick Mills for her regular Capital Letter update. 

On the agenda was the long-awaited Miramar reserve, including an update on Sir Peter Jackson's plans for Shelly Bay, as well as womens' access to healthcare and an emotional court sentencing after a driver was killed on Dixon St. 

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Friday Sport Kickoff has been brought forward to Thursday, with a bunch of big fixtures taking place over the long Easter weekend. 

All Sport Breakfast host Adam Cooper and Christchurch sports editor Nick Bewley joined Nick Mills to talk all things sport. 

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This week on Politics Thursday Nick was joined by Finance Minister and National deputy leader Nicola Willis and Labour's health and Wellington issues spokeswoman Ayesha Verrall.

On the agenda was the upcoming budget, the tax take, whether we should ban greyhound racing, and if our Easter trading laws are past their use-by date. 

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A prominent philanthropist says he hasn't heard a peep from the Wellington City Council, after offering to bail out the Reading cinema deal.

Sir Mark Dunajtschik offered to pay 32 million dollars for the land under the Cinema, so the Council wouldn't have to.

But the City Council voted to go ahead with plans to buy it themselves.

Tory Whanau told Newstalk ZB on Monday they were still in discussions with Sir Mark about the offer.

But, three days on, he told Nick Mills on Wellington Mornings he hasn't heard anything.

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On the show today Labour leader Chris Hipkins joined Nick Mills to talk about Labour's opposition strategy and how the party plans on tackling tax. 

Also on the agenda were Wellington and its issues, the Green's increased presence in the city, and how Labour plans to manage its relationship with the party to its left. 

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Back in New Zealand after being stuck here during the Covid-19 pandemic, UK duo Good Habits are touring the length and breadth of the country. 

Ahead of their performances in Wellington, they stopped in to chat with Nick Mills and perform Sunday, a song from their new album out in July. 

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Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills says greyhound racing should be banned in New Zealand, and hopes that Racing Minister Winston Peters joins Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in advocating for a ban. 

"This is a sport that injures, mames and kills dogs each year," Mills said. "It's on borrowed time." 

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Nick was joined by Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau for her monthly slot. 

On the agenda was the Reading Cinemas deal, the district plan, the proposal to change noise control restrictions for licensed bars and religious venues, as well as the scrapping of Three Waters and Newtown's controversial parking proposal. 

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Cuba Dupa is taking over Wellington's CBD this weekend, with an estimated 100,000 people expected to visit over the course of the weekend. 

Festival Director Drew James spoke with Nick Mills about what's in store.

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This week on Friday Faceoff Nick was joined by Green MP for Rongotai Julie Anne Genter and Newstalk ZB Political Editor Jason Walls. 

On the agenda was Winston's state of the nation speech, whether the Reading Cinemas deal should be revisited and public sector job cuts - among other things. 

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This week on Politics Thursday Finance Minister and National's deputy leader Nicola Willis and Labour's Health and Wellington Issues spokesperson Ayesha Verrall joined Nick Mills. 

On the agenda was the government's new vaping regulations, Winston Peters and his Nazi comparison, the legacy of Grant Robertson, and National's promised tax cuts. 

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Alan is the owner of the home bordering Hutt Intermediate School, where a 5.5m climbing tower built by the school looks directly into his home. He says students yell and throw things, and peeping Toms look through at night. 

He spoke to Nick Mills about his fight to move the structure, first reported by the NZ Herald this week. 

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Nick Mills was joined by Bob Houston, the organiser of a gala dinner and debate raising money for the restoration of Sacred Heart Catholic Cathedral on Hill St. 

The high-profile debators, moderated by Speaker Gerry Brownlee, are battling for the Justin Du Fresne Cup - named in honour of the late Newstalk ZB host known as the "voice of Wellington".

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In this weeks Capital Letter, NZ Herald Wellington Issues reporter Georgina Campbell talks a proposal floated to merge some of the region's councils and Mayor Tory Whanau's meetings with Hollywood heavyweights. 

She also gives an update on Wellington's water emergency situation - and it's good news. 

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A massive ukulele performance will form part of the annual CubaDupa festival in Wellington on Sunday.

The festival's teaming up with NZ Ukulele to put on a ukulele extravaganza, featuring 23 school, university and community ukulele groups for a massive collaborative project.

Organiser Sean O'Connor and members of Victoria University's Vic Ukes joined Nick Mills in studio to preview in the event, and gave some of the Newstalk ZB team some ukulele tips.

O'Connor also runs a Porowhita community singing event on Instagram, and is also running a sing-along event next month.

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For the first time this year Wellington mega-landlord Matt Ryan joined Nick Mills to talk all things property. 

The pair talked prices, listings and the everpresent high interest rates. 

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Newstalk ZB political editor Jason Walls says Winston Peters' state of the nation speech was "classic Winston" - taking potshots at the media and the opposition. 

Jason joined Nick Mills for the Beehive Buzz.

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Wellington City Council is planning to make about 2500 Newtown car parks time-limited, sparking concerns from Mary Potter Hospice that some families won't be able to spend as much time with their families.

CEO Tony Paine, who told the council the plan would be "catastrophic", spoke to Nick Mills. 

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On Friday Faceoff this week Wellington City Councillor Ben McNulty and Greater Wellington Regional Councillor Simon Woolf discuss the state of the Green Party and Wellington city's new district plan. 

Also on the agenda was the possibility of the regional council buying more shares in Centreport and whether Ombudsman Peter Boshier should be allowed to continue in his role. 

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Former Cabinet Minister and political commentator Peter Dunne says the allegations against Darleen Tana are a serious credibility issue for the Green Party. 

He spoke to Wellington Mornings host Nick Mills about turmoil yet again engulfing the Green Party. 

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This week on Politics Thursday Labour's police spokesperson Ginny Andersen and Finance Minister Nicola Willis talk health targets, the Ruapehu bailout and the Ombudsman's age limit. 

Nick Mills also asks if Police Minister Mark Mitchell advocated for a stronger police pay offer in cabinet, and if he came against a brick wall in the form of the Finance Minister. 

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Wellington now houses the country's first community based Depression Recovery Centre.

Whakamātūtū : A place of recoveryoffers a therapeutic day programme for for people with moderate to severe mental health issues at purpose built premises on Cuba Street.

The director and driving force behind the new facility is mental health advocate and lawyer Brent Williams, who spoke to Nick Mills on site.

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On this week's Capital Letter, Nick and Georgina Campbell discuss the Transport Minister's refusal to commit to pedestrians and cyclists being able to use the new Mt Victoria Tunnel.

They also looked at the upcoming rates rise for Wellington residents, and fundraising efforts by Royal NZ Ballet.

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Today on music time, Nick and James celebrate the ninth album from multi Grammy winning musician Norah Jones, enjoy some humour metal from an A list Hollywood actor's band and just maybe you have this dusty old album from a New Zealand band in your attic that worth nearly $1000.

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On this week's Friday Faceoff, Dot Loves Data director and former Wellington mayor Justin Lester, and director of Iron Duke Partners Phil O'Reilly discuss the continuing public service cuts and how they're affecting the capital city.

They also assessed the new Government's first 100 days in office, the TVNZ job and programme cuts, whether the Hurricanes Poua should have made a political stand in their team haka and the Government's plans for a new Mt Victoria tunnel.

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In Politics Thursday this week, Finance Minister Nicola Willis and Labour's Health and Wellington Issues spokesperson Ayesha Verrall react to the news that TVNZ is proposing to cut up to 68 jobs.

They also discussed the government's plans with emergency housing, continued public service cuts, the grounded Air Force Boeing 757 plane, National's new roading plan and how we can stop health workers being lured across the Tasman.

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The Hurricanes Poua team performed a haka before its first game of the Super Rugby Aupiki season last weekend, which was critical of the coalition government.

They altered the haka, and referred to people being "puppets of this redneck government".

Many times, over many years, I've said that politics and sport have no place on the same grounds. I've also felt that the respect that the haka is held in is sometimes questioned.

I have seen some of the most amazing haka performed that would bring tears to your eyes, and I've also seen it used in places that a haka shouldn't be. And I'm sure, yesterday at the Wellington secondary schools McEvedy Shield athletics meet, there would have been some of the best haka in the nation.

For a sporting team to use the haka for personal, political gains, for me is despicable. And for a team to use it as a statement about a political situation I feel is totally inappropriate.

Hurricanes CEO Avan Lee initially said they were looking into it, but there was no intention for disciplinary action.

He made it clear they're not supportive of the language used in the haka and don't wait it used again.

Lee also said he would be apologising to the Government.

I feel for Avan Lee - he's in a position he didn't know he would be, the actions had nothing to do with him, and he's been pushed in front of a very loaded bus. How he's going to get out of this situation I don't know, and my thoughts are with him.

However, trustee for Women in Rugby Aotearoa Alice Soper backed what the players were doing.

Soper supported the players doing the same haka again in round two this weekend, because "women's sports have a history of their origins coming from protest."

Well, Alice, I hope you are in the stands and I hope you take a lot of friends, as there weren't many people in that stadium watching the haka the other day.

And if I was going to make a political stand in my haka, and I was in women's rugby, I'd be saying to people "Come on, the challenge is for you to come and support us, pack the stadium, pack the ground so we can get paid more money".

If this happened under my control, i.e. with the Saints basketball team, I'd have no hesitation in apologising quickly. I would say to all our stakeholders - our sponsors, our customers, people that pay to go and watch the game, and anyone that's associated with the club over all the years - I'm sorry.

And if players under my watch were involved in a political protest, using our Saints brand, that's been there for 40 years and with hundreds of players before them, and hundreds after them, they'd be given a severe speech.

I'd ask them if they wanted still to be involved in the organisation that was promoting them, promoting their sport, and paying them, and if you want to be political, go and be a politician.

Go and stand for a party and promote your personal thoughts and idealism.

We're a sporting team, and we're here to play sport and entertain. We're not a vehicle to promote your personal agenda.

Nick Mills is host of Newstalk ZB's Wellington Mornings show, and owner of the Wellington Saints NBL basketball team.

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In this week's Capital Letter, NZ Herald Wellington Issues reporter Georgina Campbell updates Nick on her investigation into whether the Wellington City Council's deal to by Reading Cinemas land is really fiscally neutral to ratepayers.

They also discuss a halt in some legal proceedings against those who built the Transmission Gully motorway.

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Former Wellington Mayor Andy Foster and political commentator Brigitte Morten joined Nick Mills on this week's Friday Faceoff.

They discussed the Wellington City Council's controversial Reading Cinema deal, the closure of Newshub, tougher laws announced on gangs, the staff still employed by Let's Get Wellington Moving and whether organisations should still provide bills on paper to those who want them.

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Wellington's controversial Reading Cinema deal has moved ahead, despite backlash and an eleventh hour twist.

The Wellington City Council's officially buying the land the boarded-up quake-prone site sits on - for $32 million.

A motion to block the deal from going ahead failed.

Philanthropist Sir Mark Dunajtschik offered to buy the site yesterday, but his philanthropic offer didn't come to fruition after the council pushed their own deal through.

Prominent Wellington property developer Eyal Aharoni joined Nick Mills with his thoughts on the deal.

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In the latest edition of Politics Thursday, Finance Minister Nicola Willis and Labour's housing and local government spokesperson Kieran McAnulty discuss the proposed closure of Newshub and if the Government should play a bigger role in supporting media.

They also discussed the Wellington City Council's possible purchase of Reading Cinema land, the repealing of smokefree laws, the government's crackdown on gangs and the ambitions laid by the new Government over housing affordability.

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The New Zealand Fringe Festival is underway in Wellington.

The New Blue is a unique performance showcasing the remarkable story and songbook of New Zealand's first recording pop star, Pixie Williams. Created by Williams' daughter Amelia Costello, it's the musical story of her life, crafted by people who knew and loved her. It's also a much wider story, exploring life in Wellington  at the time, and the music industry machinations of the 1940s and 1950s.

Performers Kirsten Te Rito, Lisa Tomlins and Jacqui Nyman joined Nick Mills in studio for a chat and a live performance about the show.

The New Blue is on at Hannah Playhouse on Cambridge Terrace, this Saturday March 2nd and Sunday March 3rd.

More information can be found HERE.

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In today's Capital Letter, NZ Herald's Wellington Issues reporter Georgina Campbell talks to Nick Mills about the $32m Reading Cinema deal dividing Wellington, ahead of it coming before the latest City Council meeting.

They also look back on the recent Wellington City Council by-election, and update the situation around apartment owners struggling to find affordable insurance.

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In this week's Music Time, Nick and James rave about a global superstar who has just released his first new music in over 30 years

They also pay tribute to Clinton Brown, a New Zealand musician and all-around good guy who has played in some our country's biggest acts.

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Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau has admitted the secrecy around the $32 million Reading Cinema deal went on for too long.

The deal is finally set to be discussed in public later this week after every councillor the Herald spoke to on Saturday indicated support for it to be aired.

The cinema building was closed in early 2019 after an earthquake risk was discovered and it has since become a symbol of the tired state of Courtenay Pl - a street that has traditionally been a key part of the nightlife and entertainment offering in Wellington.

The deal has always been discussed behind closed doors to protect commercial sensitivity but details were first leaked in October 2023 and have since been widely circulated in the public domain.

The council plans to buy the land beneath the building for $32m, money which the cinema chain would use to strengthen the building and reopen the cinema and later have the option of buying the land back at the sale price, the Herald understands.

Whanau discussed the latest during her monthly slot with Nick Mills on Wellington Mornings.

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On this week's Friday Faceoff, Nick Mills was joined in studio by Infometrics principal economist chief economist Brad Olsen and Wellington City Councillor Nicola Young.

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A twist in the Wellington City Council by-election.

Green Party candidate and renting advocate Geordie Rogers has won the Pukehinau-Lambton ward seat.

Final results show he beat businessman Karl Tiefenbacher by just 45 votes.

Provisional votes had Tiefenbacher ahead, before specials were counted.

Geordie Rogers says it looked like votes weren't going his way initially, but he's glad people have given him a shot, and it's important he doesn't waste it.

Tiefenbacher told Nick Mills the result is disappointing, but won't stop his work advocating for a better city.

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In today's Capital Letter, NZ Herald Wellington Issues reporter Georgina Campbell discussed her latest opinion piece on the Government's plans for the future of the Cook Strait ferries.

Georgina and Nick also chatted about the tight race in the By-election for the Wellington City Council's Lambton Ward, and where things stand on the Council's proposed cutbacks to pools and libraries.

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An organisation that provides a safe space and a friendly face for young people out on Friday and Saturday nights is extending its service from mid-February through to April.  

Take 10, with the support of Wellington City Council, has been parking up their mobile unit on the corner of Courtenay Place and Taranaki Street on Friday and Saturday nights since 2019.  

Run by the Vulnerable Support Charitable Trust (VSCT), volunteers engage with Wellingtonians to share water, lollies, play a game or two or just have a chat from 10pm to 3am on both weekend nights. 

From this weekend there will be additional support with a pop-up Take 10 going into the unoccupied site at 47 Courtenay Place.  

It's importance is showcased at this time of year, with an influx of students in the city along with a list of large events and festivals.

The pop-up will provide more kaitiaki presence during the busiest time of year – in late summer large events and festivals are coupled with an influx of students for the beginning of the academic year. 

Clint Schoultz from the VCST joined Nick Mills to talk about their service.

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St John isn't the only ambulance service under financial pressure.

The organisation's taking some ambulances off the road to save costs for when a worker is sick - or on leave.

Wellington Free Ambulance is also stretching the dollar further, and is asking government to take more of a responsibility to help and provide some security.

CEO David Robinson told Wellington Mornings they're having to ask more of their donors.

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On this week's Friday Faceoff, broadcaster Mark Sainsbury and political commentator and lecturer Bryce Edwards spoke at the murmurings that Annette King was approached as a possible option as Commissioner for the under-fire Wellington City Council.

They also discussed the latest budget cuts made by the Wellington City Council to fund water infrastructure upgrades, David Seymour's pledge to fine parents to fix truancy, the future of the Interislander ferries, whether rugby is dying after news the Wellington Rugby Union is selling its stake in the Hurricanes and why Wellington trains are constantly being replaced by buses.

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In this week's Music Time, Nick chats with James Irwin about a global Soul and R&B superstar coming to town.

They also introduce you to an ex-pat Kiwi in France making big "sound waves" in the film score and soundtrack world, and marvel how Artificial Intelligence can turn your shopping list into your favourite hit song.

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Former Director General of Health Sir Ashley Bloomfield joined Nick Mills to talk about his involvement in Sunday's Southern Cross Round the Bays event - a sporting staple in the capital for 46 years.

Sir Ashleyis an ambassador for Pause Breathe Smile – a mind health programme delivered in primary and intermediate schools – and his involvement in Round the Bays is also in support of increasing access and participation for children to participate through the Run and Become programme.

He also chatted to Nick Mills about leading the country through the Covid-19 pandemic, and life since then.

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For this week's Politics Thursday, National's MP for Otaki Tim Costley and Labour's Wellington Issues spokesperson Ayesha Verrall discussed David Seymour's plan to fine and prosecute parents whose kids aren't attending school.

They also discussed the prospect of more overseas landlords, the way ahead after Three Waters was axed, what's next for the Interislander Ferries and the ageing 111 system.

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In this week's Capital Letter, Georgina Campbell brings Nick Mills breaking news around the official end to Kiwirail's mega ferry project.

They also discuss where things are at with the secret deal to try and reopen the Reading Cinemas complex in Wellington, and the local reaction to the government's plans for water after Three Waters was dumped.

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New Zealand business leader Theresa Gattung's latest venture is a new professional matchmaking service - Compatico.

On Valentines Day, she joined Nick Mills to talk about the new service and who it tailors.

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Uncertainty around what lies ahead for the Wellington region with new water reforms coming into place.

The government is planning to axe its predecessor's Three Waters reforms, and make it easier for councils to establish council controlled organisations, for water delivery.

Hutt City Mayor Campbell Barry chairs the Wellington Water Shareholders' group, and told Nick Mills what the proposed changes could mean for the region, in light of the current water crisis.

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A football theme to this week's Business Panel on Wellington Mornings, with Nick Mills joined in studio by Wellington Phoenix general manager David dome and owner of Napoli restaurant & former All White Raf de Gregorio. 

They discussed the lower than expected crowds attending the Phoenix while top of table, the general feeling around business in Wellington, more businesses now using facial recognition software, and the new rule passed in Australia where workers now have the right to ignore communication from their bosses outside of work hours.

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On this week's Friday Faceoff Nick Mills was joined by two former Cabinet Ministers, Peter Dunne and Chris Finlayson.

They discussed the reception politicians received earlier in the week at Waitangi, and the ongoing discussion around David Seymour's Treaty Principles Bill.

Also discussed was the growing costs GPs are facing to run their practices, the increased time many are spending on benefits, and the future of the Interislander ferries.

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In this week's edition of Politics Thursday, Finance Minister Nicola Willis and Labour MP Ginny Andersen spoke with Nick Mills about the new data showing expected time on Jobseeker and other main benefits has risen sharply in the past four years.

They also addressed the rise in unemployment reported this week, how commemorations went at Waitangi Day, cutbacks to CCTV monitoring in Wellington and the future of the Interislander ferries.

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KiwiRail bosses will front a select committee meeting next week where they are expected to face pressing questions about the future of Interislander’s Cook Strait ferries.

Plans to replace the existing fleet of three ferries with two new purpose-built mega ferries were thrown into disarray before Christmas.

NZ Herald Wellington Issues reporter Georgina Campbell explained to Nick Mills what type of questioning the executives may face.

She also brought Nick up to speed on the likely new location for Wellington City Council staff, and why apartment owners in Wellington are battling with skyrocketing insurance premiums.

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Nick Mills was joined for the latest Friday Faceoff panel by former Wellington Mayor Dame Kerry Prendergast, and columnist & playwright Dave Armstrong.

They discussed the billion-dollar investment needed in Wellington's water network, a 15-percent rates rise for Wellington, a change in leadership at the Green Party, public service cuts and the safety of the waterfront crane.

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Nick Mills was joined for this week's political hour by Finance Minister Nicola Willis, and for the first time by Labour's Wellington issues spokesperson Ayesha Verrall.

They discussed the Wellington water crisis and how much support councils should expect from central Government, and how the public service cuts are starting to impact Wellington.

Also on the agenda, the confusion around the Government's numbers for new Police recruits, and the funding for RAT tests extended until June.

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From now until February 17 at Circa Theatre, you can find Supper Club, where chanteuse Ali Harper will transport you to a bygone era of glamour and elegance – with a twist.

Ali Harper joined Nick Mills in studio to chat about the show.

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On this week's Capital Letter, the Herald's Wellington Issues reporter Georgina Campbell brings Nick up to speed with the latest on the region's water crisis, and how close Wellington is to having tightened water restrictions.

She also discusses the latest death at the waterfront crane, and the new parking meters being rolled out around Wellington's streets.

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It's all about live gigs in Wellington for the first editing of Music Time of 2024.

Music guru James Irwin tells us what it was like being at Sky Stadium for the Foo Fighters concert on Saturday.

He also previews upcoming gigs by Fun Lovin' Criminals featuring Goodshirt, along with Hutt Sounds at Brewtown featuring Human League, Go West, Nik Kershaw, Choirboys and The Mockers.

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For the first business panel of 2024, Nick Mills was joined in studio by Wellington Beds Managing Director Patrice Green and broker at NZ Business Brokers Steve Smith.

They discussed the business year ahead and how the local business scene is feeling about the recent change in government.

Also on the agenda, inflation rates, an uptick in retirement-aged business owners looking to sell, the future of Wellington's golden mile and the boost to the city from big events like the Foo Fighters concert.

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