Duncan Garner - Editor In Chief

Petrol prices are climbing again and Kiwi wallets are feeling it. In this episode, we sit down with Finance Minister Nicola Willis as global instability starts pushing fuel costs higher and the pressure builds on the government to respond.

We dig into the so-called “rockets and feathers” effect where fuel prices shoot up fast but drift down slowly, leaving motorists wondering who’s really benefiting. Duncan puts the question directly to Willis. At what point does the government step in, and what could that relief actually look like?

The conversation ranges from fuel supply and the risk of global disruption through to borrowing, government spending, and the political pressure building ahead of the next election. It’s a straight talk about the balancing act between helping struggling households and keeping the country’s books under control.
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Duncan dives into the quiet explosion of co-governance at a local council level. While the national spotlight is elsewhere, Gore has spent five years and $6.5 million on a new district plan that critics say gives local iwi veto power over private land. We’re joined by Gore Mayor Ben Bell to discuss if these new cultural assessments are a necessary partnership or just more expensive red tape for farmers.
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The COVID inquiry phase two is out, and it makes for some pretty uncomfortable reading for Chris Hipkins. Duncan breaks down why ignoring expert advice is a massive failure of judgment. Plus, economist Ed McKnight joins us to talk about the Iran oil shock, soaring petrol prices, and why young Kiwis on six-figure salaries are still struggling to get on the property ladder.
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The promised economic recovery is looking shaky as conflict in the Middle East sends oil prices through the roof. Duncan breaks down the feedback from frustrated Kiwis and asks if Christopher Luxon can handle a crisis that has landed right on his desk. We also talk to Carolyn Young from Retail NZ about why the cost of everything is about to go up again.
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The latest Taxpayers’ Union poll is out and it is a total horror show for the National Party. At just 28 percent, we are looking at the very real possibility of a one-term government. Duncan breaks down why Christopher Luxon is digging his heels in despite the "death rattle" coming from the Beehive. We ask if the caucus has the guts to make a move before it is too late.

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