World Politics
Midday Essentials for Thursday 2nd October 2025
In today's episode, the Global Sumud Flotilla that has been trying to get aid into Gaza has been intercepted by the Israeli navy, and some New Zealanders taking part are now on an Israeli vessel; The… Audio
Mayor regrets speaking at Charlie Kirk vigil after backlash
Andrew Tripe says he knew little about the assassinated US activist's views when he spoke at the event.
White House says firings 'imminent' as plan to reopen US govt collapses
Around 750,000 federal employees are expected to be placed on furlough - a kind of enforced leave, with pay withheld until they return to work.
US government shuts down
In the US, thousands of workers are facing unpaid leave, as a government shutdown hits key services. Correspondent Toni Waterman spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss. Audio
UK Peer to pay huge fine over PPE contract
A Conservative peer has been fined over breaching a covid PPE contract - Henry Riley has the story from London. Audio
Protests in Greece over 13-hour workday plans
A 24-hour general strike will take place across the country to oppose the reform advocated by the conservative government of Kyriakos Mitsotakis.
US government enters shutdown
It comes after lawmakers and Trump failed to break a budget impasse during acrimonious talks that hinged on Democratic demands for health care funding.
US govt lurches towards shutdown
A last-minute fix seemed all but impossible, as Republicans and Democrats have shown no sign that they can bridge their divides.
US defence leader slams 'fat generals' and 'beardos' in speech
Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News personality, told a rare gathering of commanders they should resign if they do not support his agenda.
Trump gives Hamas three days to respond to peace plan
Hamas is reviewing a 20-point Gaza peace plan announced by US President Donald Trump. Correspondent Blake Sifton spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss. Audio
Middle East reacts to White House peace plan
The Middle East reacts to the White House peace plan for Gaza, Alex Baird reports from Doha. Audio
Madagascar's government is disolved after protests
Madagascar's government has been dissolved after widespread protests, Nabil Ahmed Rufai has the story. Audio
US 'headed for shutdown' Vance warns after talks with Democrats
White House meeting aimed at heading off a government shutdown appears to have made little progress.
'Uncertainty and changing nature' of US tariffs making it hard for NZ exporters
NZ Trade Minister Todd McClay is confident New Zealand exports will still find markets, as the US continues to pile on the tariffs.
Why Trump makes a strong case to tariff foreign movies
The chief economist at a Wellington-based think tank believes the US president has a stronger than usual argument, but says he'll struggle to do it. Audio
Convoy carrying Ecuadorian president attacked during protests
Ecuador says President Daniel Noboa and foreign diplomats were attacked in Imbabura province at the weekend.
Trump repeats threat of 100 percent tariffs on foreign films
Donald Trump has repeated his threat to impose a one hundred percent tariff on foreign movies - a threat that economists say will be hard to follow through with. Economist Eric Crampton spoke to… Audio
Morning Report Essentials for Tuesday 30th September 2025
In today's episode, Labour leader Chris Hipkins has blasted the government's decision not to recognise Palestinian statehood, calling it "morally reprehensible" and a failure of leadership, US… Audio
Trump says Gaza peace deal is 'beyond very close'
US President Donald Trump says a Gaza peace deal is "beyond very close", after meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Toni Waterman spoke to Corin Dann. Audio
Hipkins slams govt over refusal to recognise Palestine
Labour leader Chris Hipkins has blasted the government's decision not to recognise Palestinian statehood, calling it "morally reprehensible" and a failure of leadership. Mr Hipkins spoke to Corin… Audio
