https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/rss NZME Fri, 05 Jun 2026 03:36:42 Z en https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-sports-kick-off-with-brad-shields-jason-pine-and-adam-cooper/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-sports-kick-off-with-brad-shields-jason-pine-and-adam-cooper/ Its Friday Sports Kick-off and it's a Hurricanes special as Brad Shields joins the show today! Tonight is the quarter final at Hnry Stadium for Hurricanes and Brumbies, and the fight for the home semifinal. Shields shares an inside look coming up to the challenge of finals.  Shields compares the current line up to the 2016 team, and says the boys are excited and working hard to win tonight. Then back with ZBs sports gurus Jason Pine and Adam Cooper.  They talk our chances, analysing our last game against the Australian team where we won 45-12. And what lies ahead for the Canes - if they win or lose tonight. LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:48:10 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-faceoff-with-polly-gillespie-and-nick-tansley/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-faceoff-with-polly-gillespie-and-nick-tansley/ The radio gang is back together - Nick Mills is joined for Faceoff this week by legendary broadcasters Polly Gillespie and Nick Tansley. Starting with arming police, should they be able to carry guns on their hip? They faceoff on gun safety and how this would affect Kiwis. The law only allows for 3 days bereavement leave. The panel discuss the balance between dealing with grief but considering the employer. Is there a time limit to overcome something like the death of a loved one? The panel also faceoff on solar panel homes, frequent ambulance call outs, house prices, council amalgamation deadlines and which is better Wellington or Christchurch? Plus, with the increase of 49% for liquidations of hospitality businesses the panel dissect the changes in trends with dining out? And Gillespie and Tansley share their hot or nots from the week. LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:40:09 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/heathers-the-musical-star-calista-nelmes-joins-nick-mills-in-studio/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/heathers-the-musical-star-calista-nelmes-joins-nick-mills-in-studio/ Cult hit "Heathers the Musical" has taken Wellington by storm.  The edgy comedy based off the 1988 film Heathers is touring Aus and NZ, finishing it's Wellington run this Sunday at the Opera House. Lead "Heather" Calista Nelmes joins Nick in the studio to teach him a thing or two about being a 'heather' and the success of the globally renowned musical. If you're in the mood for show stopping voices, dancing and snappy comedy grab tickets here.  This weekend is your last chance to see the worldwide phenomenon at the Opera House before they wrap their tour in Auckland.  LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:15:45 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/l%C5%8Demis-festival-director-andrew-laking-joins-the-show/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/l%C5%8Demis-festival-director-andrew-laking-joins-the-show/ The latest festival to hit Wellington is Lōemis, a celebration fo both local and international music and art. Nick is joined in the studio by Lōemis director Andrew Laking to find out what the festival is all about.  Laking shares what acts to look out for and why this festival is perfect for a Wellington winter. Bringing in acts from all over the world including Japan and New York City, the festival is a mix of music, food, immersive art, spoken word and film. The festival is all over the city and runs from 9th-21st June. Check out the programme and get tickets on their website - Lōemis.nz Thu, 04 Jun 2026 01:14:29 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/politics-thursday-with-ginny-andersen-and-tim-costley-should-bereavement-leave-be-extended/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/politics-thursday-with-ginny-andersen-and-tim-costley-should-bereavement-leave-be-extended/ It's Politics Thursday, Nick is joined by Labour MP Ginny Andersen and National MP for Otaki Tim Costley to debate the hot political issues of the week.  Starting with the TVNZ situation - is the public entitled to transparency around the resignation of their political editor?   And the heartbreaking story of Sheena Hemens who lost her daughter and is now fighting for bereavement leave to be extended from three days to ten. Costley and Andersen debate if the law should be changed.  Then the changes to local government, both to stop unelected members from voting on council decisions and Mayor Andrew Little's concern on the amalgamation deadline. Will Upper Hutt be dragged into something they don't want? A lobbyist influence was hiding from the OIA in the personal email of the Prime Minister's chief policy advisor. Has enough been done to prevent this happening again?  LISTEN ABOVE Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:37:18 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/hurricanes-and-all-blacks-prop-tyrel-lomax-sits-down-with-adam-cooper/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/hurricanes-and-all-blacks-prop-tyrel-lomax-sits-down-with-adam-cooper/ All Blacks prop Tyrel Lomax has extended his time with New Zealand Rugby for another three years. Despite reported overseas interest in the 48-test tighthead, Lomax has recommitted to the All Blacks, Hurricanes and Tasman to the end of 2029. With a World Cup next year, and Lions tour in 2029, the 30-year-old told Newstalk ZB's Adam Cooper he had no reason to up sticks. Lomax also discussed his recent frustrating run of injuries, taking to the field just twice since last September. LISTEN ABOVE Wed, 03 Jun 2026 23:01:06 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/mayor-andrew-little-joins-the-show-after-his-amalgamation-speech/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/mayor-andrew-little-joins-the-show-after-his-amalgamation-speech/ Wellington City Mayor Andrew Little spoke to constituents and officials this morning outlining the way forward for council amalgamation, as only ten weeks remain for the government's deadline.  Mayor Little joins Nick on the show this morning to discuss his thoughts and plan as the deadline looms.  With talks of a referendum, Little says if he had to decide today, he would go through with the amalgamation of the "core four" - Porirua, Hutt City and Upper Hutt.  Nick finds out the latest on Upper Hutt's involvement, the effect on rates, what WCC have learnt from the Auckland Supercity merger and the possible structures that could sustain local voices. Little shares what the next steps look like, including potential of a referdendum. LISTEN ABOVE Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:43 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/brad-cooper-hurricanes-assistant-coach-on-their-loss-to-the-crusaders-potential-u-turn-on-fineanganofos-uk-contract/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/brad-cooper-hurricanes-assistant-coach-on-their-loss-to-the-crusaders-potential-u-turn-on-fineanganofos-uk-contract/ An under-strength Hurricanes team has been defeated 47-14 by the Crusaders to open Super Rugby's final round - a result that has no implications on the Hurricanes' top spot ahead of next week's playoffs. But the biggest talking point is the future of the Super Rugby's leading tryscorer Fehi Fineanganofo. The Hurricanes wing has signed to join Newcastle at the end of the season, but there is growing speculation in the UK that New Zealand Rugby may look to block his offshore move in a bid to keep the 23-year-old in New Zealand, and eligible for the All Blacks. Following the loss to the Crusaders, Adam was joined by Hurricanes assistant coach Brad Cooper. LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 29 May 2026 23:43:54 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/chelsea-whittaker-petone-fc-striker-talks-investment-in-the-womens-game-kate-sheppard-cup/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/chelsea-whittaker-petone-fc-striker-talks-investment-in-the-womens-game-kate-sheppard-cup/ After a historic 2025, which included an appearance in football's National League for the first time, Petone FC have made an impressive start to 2026.  Petone top the women's Central League after eight rounds, with just one defeat to their name.  Their focus on the Kings Birthday long weekend now turns to round two of the national Kate Sheppard Cup, where Petone host Kapiti club Te Kotahitanga on Saturday.  Adam Cooper was joined by Petone's top goalscorer from the Central League this season, Chelsea Whittaker, who's netted seven goals.  Whittaker talked about the flourishing women's programme at Petone, and previews the Kate Sheppard Cup contest.  LISTEN ABOVE  Fri, 29 May 2026 22:55:47 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/joe-serci-previews-round-two-of-footballs-chatham-cup/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/joe-serci-previews-round-two-of-footballs-chatham-cup/ Round two of football's Chatham Cup features a mouth-watering contest between the two leading teams in the Central League, Wellington Olympic and Miramar Rangers. Joe Serci from the Tackld Podcast joins Adam Cooper with his thoughts on the weekend's action. LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 29 May 2026 21:27:53 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-faceoff-with-nick-leggett-and-hayley-horan/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-faceoff-with-nick-leggett-and-hayley-horan/ It's Friday Faceoff and this week Nick is joined in the studio by Infrastructure NZ CEO Nick Leggett and Wellington's Chamber of Commerce CEO Hayley Horan. It's a post-budget day special. Yesterday Nicola Willis released her much anticipated budget, the panel dissect the winners, the losers and what they think is missing from this year's "sugar-free" budget.  We hear what Horan has heard from businesses, does the budget lack vision? And what does it do for Wellington? Then onto Wellington City Council who had a week of ups and downs. A lower-than-expected rates rise was announced at 5.9%, yet a day later it was released they spent 600 thousand on a promotional website for the new library.  They share their thoughts on the 600k pay cheque and sending the job out to Auckland. And what is hoing on with the spending culture on the council? Horan and Leggett also talk Takina - are we getting the best use out of it? And the panel share their hots and a not of the week. LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 29 May 2026 00:27:48 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-sports-kick-off-with-adam-cooper-and-jason-pine-phoenixs-tim-payne-goes-viral/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-sports-kick-off-with-adam-cooper-and-jason-pine-phoenixs-tim-payne-goes-viral/ It's time for Friday Sports Kick-off with Jason Pine and Adam Cooper joining Nick on the show. Starting with The Hurricanes game tonight against the Crusaders in Christchurch.  With many injuries in the team, are the panel concerned about a loss of the game and momentum towards the final? And the incredible story of Tim Payne who yesterday had under 5,000 followers, has gone viral and just cracked 1 million. The power of social media hit Payne when an Argentinean influencer called him the least known player at the upcoming FIFA world cup - a statement certainly not true today.  And what is happening with the Pulse? LISTEN ABOVE Thu, 28 May 2026 23:58:51 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/politics-thursday-with-ginny-andersen-and-tim-costley-budget-day/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/politics-thursday-with-ginny-andersen-and-tim-costley-budget-day/ It's Politics Thursday and it's Budget Day, Nick is joined by Labour MP Ginny Andersen and National MP for Otaki Tim Costley. The panel talk the political issues of the week - starting with the budget due for release at 2pm today.  Costley says it's certainly no lolly scramble, but it is a budget for real Kiwis. Andersen shares her worries for the people who need support most - particularly from what we have already seen from pre-budget announcements.  How has collaboration and compromise been with the coalition partners while crafting the budget? And onto the Ipsos survey, where Kiwis trust Labour to deal with 7 out of the top 10. What do our politicians think have caused these results? Are people voting on hope? Then, the government's new loan scheme to transition large companies off gas, should this be expanded? LISTEN ABOVE Wed, 27 May 2026 23:48:17 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/nick-mills-visits-nzpaa-upper-hutts-new-sports-charter-school/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/nick-mills-visits-nzpaa-upper-hutts-new-sports-charter-school/ The New Zealand Performance Academy Aotearoa (NZPAA) opened earlier this year out in Upper Hutt, and yesterday Nick was able to tour around the new sports charter school. Follow Nick as he goes through the facilities and classes and speaks with CEO Karen van Gemeren, Principal Ryan Clark and some of the students. Students Emily and Ben share how their experience has been here, compared to their old schools. And tell Nick what the school has been able to do for their budding sports careers.  NZPAA has around 85 students and is the country's first dedicated elite sports charter school. LISTEN ABOVE Wed, 27 May 2026 01:59:15 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/labour-leader-chris-hipkins-in-the-studio-for-the-eve-of-budget-day/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/labour-leader-chris-hipkins-in-the-studio-for-the-eve-of-budget-day/ Labour Leader Chris Hipkins joins Nick Mills in the studio, on the eve of one of the biggest days in the political year: Budget Day. With the budget looming, Nick asks if we can finally expect policy from Labour for this coming election. Hipkins shares his predictions for the budget, Labour's priorities and his thoughts on the pre-budget announcements so far.  With the 8700 jobs cut announcement, we find out if Labour would reinstate some of these and what difference he thinks AI can make in the public sector. Hipkins says Labour will look into regulation and the future of AI, and he wants to focus on growing productivity of employees, not replacing them.  Also, does Hipkins think that New Zealand is ready to trust a Labour government and he gives his thoughts on the leaked "duck faced horse" audio from the Labour conference. LISTEN ABOVE Wed, 27 May 2026 00:37:45 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/deputy-mayor-ben-mcnulty-on-lowest-wcc-rates-rise-in-years/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/deputy-mayor-ben-mcnulty-on-lowest-wcc-rates-rise-in-years/ Wellington City Council has proposed their lowest rates rise since 2020, at 5.8%. Deputy Mayor of Wellington Ben McNulty joins the show to discuss the news and how the council managed to cut the rise down from 7.4%, after an already substantial decrease from the last prediction. Nick asks how this adds up with the inclusion of separate water bills and how this compares to Auckland. McNulty says there are still "ghosts in the walls" that need shaking out, so we should expect more poor spending announcements before cost cutting becomes consistent. And he shares how the spending culture has changed since Mayor Andrew Little has come into power. LISTEN ABOVE Tue, 26 May 2026 21:56:30 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/music-time-with-james-irwin-nz-music-month-comes-to-an-end/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/music-time-with-james-irwin-nz-music-month-comes-to-an-end/ Its Music Time and the last week of NZ Music Month! Nick and James continue to debate the greatest New Zealand singles of the 1980s and 90s. Give big ups to a New Zealand record label who discovered one of our biggest international success stories and cover off all the happenings of gigs you can attend before the end of May! LISTEN ABOVE Tue, 26 May 2026 00:20:26 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/rewiring-aotearoa-ce-mike-casey-in-the-studio-with-nick-mills/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/rewiring-aotearoa-ce-mike-casey-in-the-studio-with-nick-mills/ Nick is joined in the studio by Rewiring Aotearoa CE Mike Casey, the company aims to electrify NZ. The government announced yesterday they would fund a $1.2 billion loan scheme to help large businesses transfer away from gas to renewable energy. Casey is calling for this to expand to everyday people - households and small businesses. He shares his own experience electrifying his own orchid.  Casey says NZ will not have enough gas by 2032 and it is imperative to move to electric. LISTEN ABOVE Tue, 26 May 2026 00:14:51 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/citizen-advice-bureau-considers-future-after-budget-cuts/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/citizen-advice-bureau-considers-future-after-budget-cuts/ Wellington's Citizen Advice Bureau (CAB) is facing an unpredictable future, as the Wellington City Council cuts their funding by 60%. The council announced CAB will go from receiving around $230,000 to $100,000.  CAB General Manager Carin Sundstedt joins Nick Mills on the show to discuss the impact this will cause to not only CAB but all of Wellington, The service helped around 11,000 people last year alone and has three full time staff who support around 125 volunteers.  LISTEN ABOVE Mon, 25 May 2026 00:26:28 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/emergency-services-refuse-to-send-ambulance-to-frequent-caller/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/emergency-services-refuse-to-send-ambulance-to-frequent-caller/ An ambulance for an unconscious man on Cuba St was rejected by emergency services. Two separate calls were made by bystanders to 111. But when the man was identified and recognised by Wellington Free Ambulance, they told the callers he was a "frequent caller" and informed them no paramedics would be sent.  An ambulance was eventually called after two police officers arrived to the scene radioed for one. Nick is joined on the show by the man who called the ambulance - David Cormack. Cormack shares his experience and concerns with the conduct over dealing with frequent callers. LISTEN ABOVE Mon, 25 May 2026 00:15:13 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/shaun-gill-wellington-phoenix-director-of-football-on-the-womens-historic-a-league-season-planning-for-next-season/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/shaun-gill-wellington-phoenix-director-of-football-on-the-womens-historic-a-league-season-planning-for-next-season/ Planning has already begun for the Wellington Phoenix women's 2026-27 season, after the side fell short in its maiden grand final appearance last Saturday. Director of football Shaun Gill joined Adam Cooper to discuss recruitment, and the implications of the side's memorable season. LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 22 May 2026 23:44:38 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/duplessis-kirifi-hurricanes-co-captain-previews-the-home-clash-against-the-highlanders/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/duplessis-kirifi-hurricanes-co-captain-previews-the-home-clash-against-the-highlanders/ After the Crusaders' win over the Chiefs to open the penultimate round of Super Rugby, the Hurricanes need just two competition points in their final two matches to cement the top qualifying spot for the playoffs. They will also guarantee themselves top position with a win over the Highlanders in Wellington on Saturday. Adam Cooper was joined by Hurricanes co-captain Du'Plessis Kirifi ahead of the home match. LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 22 May 2026 23:40:16 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-faceoff-with-greg-oconnor-and-ben-thomas/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-faceoff-with-greg-oconnor-and-ben-thomas/ This week for Friday Faceoff, Nick Mills is joined by Labour MP for Ōhāriu Greg O'Connor and Political Commentator Ben Thomas. Our panel faceoff over the future of Wellington. As 8700 jobs cuts are coming the public sector's way Wellington needs to swerve. O'Connor and Thomas analyse the cuts, how we got here and how we can bounce back as a city. And they debate Nicola Willis' suggestion much of these roles will be replaced by AI. How do they use it and do we actually have the AI infrastructure and capabilities to do similar tasks to these public services.  Then onto the social housing reform announced yesterday. Is it fair to suggest a time limit for those in the homes? Onto the arrests made in corrections, our panel dive into the reasons and issues in our correct system that have allowed this to happen. Also on the agenda is the Moa Point report, trust in the Wellington council, the unofficial "WCC Rich List", and their hots and nots for the week.  LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 22 May 2026 00:50:56 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/barry-soper-joins-nick-mills-in-the-studio/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/barry-soper-joins-nick-mills-in-the-studio/ Legendary political journalist and broadcaster Barry Soper joins Nick Mills in the studio for the launch of his new book 'One Last Question, Prime Minister.' Soper takes your calls and Nick's questions about his time with the 12 Prime Ministers he has observed during his career.  Hear about his experiences in Parliament, including the 2022 Wellington protest, changes over his career and insight into the leadership of Robert Muldoon, Helen Clark, Jacinda Arden and Chris Hipkins.  His book is out now at most retailers including Paper Plus, Whitcoulls and Unity Books. LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 22 May 2026 00:32:52 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-sports-kick-off-with-jason-pine-and-adam-cooper-hurricanes-vs-highlanders/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-sports-kick-off-with-jason-pine-and-adam-cooper-hurricanes-vs-highlanders/ It's time for Friday Sport's Kick-off, Nick is joined in the studio by our resident ZB sports gurus Jason Pine and Adam Cooper. Starting with the Hurricanes, who play the Highlanders this Saturday - kick-off is 7.05pm. The crew talk our (high)  chances of a win. And the success of Hurricanes assistant coach Jamie Mackintosh - can they keep him? Plus, the Wellington Saint's loss against the Southland Sharks last night. They also rate the performance from the Phoenix Women's season, after losing the grand final last weekend. Will next year be our year? And Auckland FC Grand Final at home in Auckland tomorrow against Sydney FC. Piney will be there on gameday - what are the crew's score predictions? And who are us Phoenix fans rooting for? LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 22 May 2026 00:21:43 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/politics-thursday-with-tama-potaka-and-ayesha-verrall/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/politics-thursday-with-tama-potaka-and-ayesha-verrall/ For Politics Thursday this week Nick Mills is joined by National Minister Tama Potaka and Labour MP Ayesha Verrall. The panel starts with the biggest news of the week - 8700 public service jobs will be gone by 2029. They discuss what this means for our city? Has anywhere been hit as hard as Wellington? Nicola Willis says her office is experimenting with artificial intelligence, Nick asks our panel if they too are using AI and how can it reduce government work.  Potaka and Verrall also dissect security and cost concerns of government workers using AI. 14 corrections staff were arrested yesterday smuggling items - including methamphetamine - to prisoners. Our politicians share their thoughts on the state of corrections, and how to assist this issue in corruption. And Winston Peters buying BNZ, is it a pipe dream? Is there validity when we talk about bringing more competition to NZ? LISTEN ABOVE Thu, 21 May 2026 00:46:33 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-how-do-we-get-wellington-back-on-its-feet/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-how-do-we-get-wellington-back-on-its-feet/ EDITORIAL: If you listened yesterday, you heard it coming.   We knew the Government was preparing to swing the axe again through the public service.   What we didn’t know was just how deep the cuts were going to be.  Now we know.  Nearly 9,000 public sector jobs gone by 2029.   A 14 percent reduction.   Public service numbers down from just over 63,000 to around 55,000.   Government departments merged.   AI and digital tools replacing roles.   Nicola Willis says it’ll save $2.4 billion.   David Seymour says it’s “just what the doctor ordered.”   The Greens are calling it New Zealand’s version of DOGE.  And Wellington? Wellington wakes up this morning feeling like it’s gone another round in the ring with Muhammad Ali.  Bang. Bang. Bang.  In quick succession.  No time to recover. No time to breathe. No chance to get back on your feet before the next hit comes.  But here’s what really struck me out of all this news:  If anyone thinks it’s strange the Government is doing this before next week’s Budget — think about it for a second.  This is the soft blow before the big blow comes.  This is the mowing of the lawn before they land the plane.  Governments don’t soften people up before good news.   They soften people up before harder news.   And maybe the reality is the Budget next week is going to be tougher than many Wellingtonians are ready for.  Now look — I’m not going to sit here this morning and pretend the public service was never going to change.   It grew massively after COVID.   Technology and AI are changing every industry in the world.   Every sector is having to adapt. Everyone has to.  But what worries me is this city’s confidence.  Because every time one of these announcements lands, spending stops instantly.   People stop buying coffees. Stop going out for dinner. Stop booking weekends away. Stop replacing clothes. Stop taking risks.  And Wellington businesses feel it immediately.  But at some point, we’ve got to stop sitting around asking what Wellington used to be — and start asking what Wellington is going to become.  Because if the old model of Wellington being powered almost entirely by government jobs is changing, what’s the new model?  How do we fix Wellington?  Seriously.  Do we double down on hospitality, events and culture? Do we become the creative capital again?   The tech capital? The startup capital?  Do we back tourism harder?   Do we make this city easier to invest in, easier to build in, easier to open businesses in?   Do we stop fighting growth and actually encourage it?  Do we make it easier to do business in Wellington?  Because sitting around waiting for another ministry to lease another office floor on The Terrace probably isn’t the future anymore.  And I know this is a shock for a lot of people this morning. I genuinely do. There’ll be families scared about mortgages, jobs, rents and what comes next.  But Wellington cannot afford to become a city that only talks about decline.  At some point we’ve got to shrug our shoulders, get on with it, and work out how we and this city succeed again.  What the hell do we do to make Wellington great again?   LISTEN ABOVE Wed, 20 May 2026 01:06:18 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/nz-music-month-chair-of-nz-music-commission-greg-bonnett-joins-the-show/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/nz-music-month-chair-of-nz-music-commission-greg-bonnett-joins-the-show/ Its NZ Music Month, and to celebrate Nick is joined on the show by the Chairperson of the NZ Music Commission Greg Bonnett.  NZ Music Month is in it's 26th years and aims to promote our talented local artists - of which our country has many. Comparing NZ music to the international market, Bonnett says we punch above our weight.  We were the lead country partner in Bristol's Great Escape Music Festival - a worldwide leader in supporting emerging artist. Bonnett says they were able to bring 11 artists over to UK.  Bonnett speaks about the success overseas, and how we are reaching these new markets.  Then find out who to look out for from our homegrown talent. LISTEN ABOVE Wed, 20 May 2026 00:20:51 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/nz-music-month-with-james-irwin-gold-nz-hits/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/nz-music-month-with-james-irwin-gold-nz-hits/ To celebrate NZ Music Month - James Irwin is in the studio every week of May for Music Time. This week Nick and James listen and debate the top hits pf the 60s and 70s. And talk the beginnings of NZ's rich music history and record labels. And what gigs are on this week? Get more info on NZ Music Month on their site linked here. LISTEN ABOVE Tue, 19 May 2026 00:32:17 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/capital-football-ceo-richard-reid-on-wcc-recreation-cuts/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/capital-football-ceo-richard-reid-on-wcc-recreation-cuts/ Wellington City Council is set to cut $650,000 of social and recreation funding, impacting community services and locations like swimming pools, library, arts and culture events and sports fields. Capital Football CEO Richard Reid is concerned more costs will be put on local families if the cuts go ahead.  Reid also suggests payments to the Wellington council from using sports fields is much more than other NZ cities. He says someone has got their facts wrong "and it ain't us".  Tue, 19 May 2026 00:26:07 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-even-if-it-hurts-wellington-public-service-cuts-have-to-be-done/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-even-if-it-hurts-wellington-public-service-cuts-have-to-be-done/ EDITORIAL: Look, this one’s not going to make me popular in Wellington today, but sometimes reality doesn’t care whether we like it or not.  Finance Minister Nicola Willis is right.  And deep down, I think a lot of New Zealanders know she’s right.  We cannot keep running a country where the answer to every problem is another ministry, another department, another communications team, another layer of management, another policy advisor, another taxpayer-funded office somewhere in Wellington.  At some point, we all have to wake up and say: enough.  Because the numbers don’t lie.  Back in 2017, when Jacinda Ardern became Prime Minister, the public service had around 48,000 employees.   By the end of last year, that had climbed to more than 63,600 fulltime staff.   That’s an increase of more than 15,000 public servants in under a decade.  And here’s the key question: are we New Zealanders genuinely getting better outcomes?  Are the roads dramatically better? Is healthcare dramatically better? Is education dramatically better? Is productivity dramatically better? Do you and I feel government is faster, leaner, more efficient?  Or does it feel bigger, slower, more bureaucratic and more expensive?  Because that’s what many New Zealanders think.  Now I understand why Wellington gets nervous when these conversations happen.   This city has lived off the back of government growth for years.   Thousands of jobs, entire apartment blocks, cafes, bars, retails, hair dressers, car sales, businesses, office buildings just for the public sector.  But we cannot employ people simply to prop up the Wellington economy.  That’s not sustainable economics. That’s avoidance.  And the reality is, New Zealand has been living beyond its means for too long.   We borrow too much. We spend too much. We create agencies for everything.   We duplicate work. We layer management on management.   Meanwhile, the private sector — the people actually generating the tax revenue — are under enormous pressure and have already slimmed down to bare bone.  At some point the country has to slim down too.  And yes, it will be painful.   And yes, there will be more pain.  Nicola Willis is reportedly preparing to reduce the number of ministries and agencies from the current 42, while also driving public service numbers back closer to the historical norm of 1% of the population. Under the Labour government it was pushed to 1.2%.  Frankly, that idea sounds reasonable to me.  Australia has 16 departments. The United Kingdom has 24. Finland has around a dozen. We’ve got 42.  We have forty-two.  And the other reality nobody wants to say out loud?   AI and digitisation are coming whether we like it or not.   The private sector is already changing rapidly.   Law firms, banks, consultancies — they’re all using AI to improve productivity and reduce repetitive work.  Government won’t escape that.  The Government should not escape that.   This isn’t about attacking public servants personally.   Most are hardworking people doing their jobs.   But the system itself has become too large, too expensive and too inefficient.  If we genuinely want the books under control, improve productivity and rebuild the country’s finances, then this is part of the medicine.  And tell me, have you ever taken medicine that tastes good. It doesn’t it tastes horrible.  LISTEN ABOVE Tue, 19 May 2026 00:24:25 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/business-panel-with-phoenixs-david-dome-and-rembrandts-david-lyford/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/business-panel-with-phoenixs-david-dome-and-rembrandts-david-lyford/ For this week's Business Panel Nick Mills is joined in the studio by Wellington Phoenix General Manager David Dome and Rembrandt's Managing Director David Lyford. They look at decision making in business - how to keep Rembrandt excelling after 80 years, and growing the Phoenix with coaching choices and the academy. Is business doing better this year as a result? Dome and Lyford talk the old partnership between the Phoenix and Rembrandt, and their respective histories of doing business in Wellington. Would they recommend doing business in the city?  Do we need to amalgamate to compete with the Auckland? Particularly after the government's event fund going to the supercity for the Chelsea football game. The panel discuss building business confidence in this city. In times of turmoil - what is the good happening in the city and it's businesses at the moment. Dome shares how ticket sales have been going, their goals and what do we do about venue - could the Phoenix Men move out of Hnry Stadium and to Porirua Park? And Lyford shares how his business is dealing with the upcoming election and fuel crisis. For an interesting discussion on two sides of business in the capital: LISTEN ABOVE Mon, 18 May 2026 00:19:31 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/cory-jane-hurricanes-coach-on-career-milestone-clash-against-the-blues/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/cory-jane-hurricanes-coach-on-career-milestone-clash-against-the-blues/ A milestone at the Hurricanes in Saturday's Super Rugby derby against the Blues in Auckland.  Cory Jane becomes the first person to both play and coach 100 matches for the franchise.  He speaks to Adam Cooper about his transition from player to coach, and how the Hurricanes are preparing for the business end of the season.  LISTEN ABOVE  Sat, 16 May 2026 00:25:57 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/ethan-fransen-yellow-fever-member-on-the-fan-group-flying-to-melbourne-to-support-the-wellington-phoenix-women/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/ethan-fransen-yellow-fever-member-on-the-fan-group-flying-to-melbourne-to-support-the-wellington-phoenix-women/ Dozens of members of the Welington Phoenix fan group, Yellow Fever, have flown to Melbourne to support the team in the club's maiden A-League grand final. The Phoenix women meet Melbourne at AAMI Park on Saturday night. Adam Cooper spoke to Yellow Fever member Ethan Fransen about making the trip over, and how the team plans to cheer the Phoenix to a first trophy in its history. LISTEN ABOVE Sat, 16 May 2026 00:22:51 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/lily-alfeld-former-wellington-phoenix-women-captain-on-the-teams-journey-to-the-a-league-final/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/lily-alfeld-former-wellington-phoenix-women-captain-on-the-teams-journey-to-the-a-league-final/ The Wellington Phoenix women's side is one win away from securing the club's first silverware.  They meet Melbourne City in the A-League grand final on Saturday night.  The club has faced a number of challenges and tough on-field results since launching in 2021.  To look back on where it all started, Adam Cooper spoke to the Phoenix women's first signing, and the inaugural captain Lily Alfeld.  After retiring in 2023 due to injury, Alfeld is now the Phoenix's community and culture officer.  LISTEN ABOVE  Sat, 16 May 2026 00:20:52 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/ellie-walker-phoenix-defender-on-preparing-for-grand-final/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/ellie-walker-phoenix-defender-on-preparing-for-grand-final/ The Wellington Phoenix play for a first club A-League trophy when meeting Melbourne City in Saturday's A-League women's final. To preview the match, Adam Cooper caught up with Phoenix defender, American import Ellie Walker. LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 15 May 2026 20:18:00 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/joe-serci-previews-the-weekends-central-league-action/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/joe-serci-previews-the-weekends-central-league-action/ Adam Cooper is joined by Joe Serci from the Tackld Podcast looking ahead to the weekend's action in football's men's Central League. Fri, 15 May 2026 19:12:00 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-faceoff-with-dame-kerry-prendergast-and-mark-sainsbury/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-faceoff-with-dame-kerry-prendergast-and-mark-sainsbury/ It's Friday Faceoff - Nick Mills is joined by former Wellington City Mayor Dame Kerry Prendergast and broadcaster and journalist Mark Sainsbury. Prendergast discusses the success of the Phoenix Women's team who are preparing for their first grand final ever against Melbourne City tomorrow night. Then the panel debate shutting the Kāpiti Airport. Would it be better if property developers took over?  Mayor Wayne Brown says we've spent $3 million bringing "tattooed pom" Robbie Williams to our shores for two concerts - the Eden Park show is not selling well. Should we be more selective with acts using the fund? Golden Mile review panel is costing ratepayers $400,000 and have fronted the council to share their methodology.  What do we do with the Golden Mile? Should the review be scrapped? And onto immigration. Paul Spoonley says it is not a political priority for everyday Kiwis. Prendergast and Sainsbury list their election priorities and how we should plan for successful immigration policy. Then we hear the panel's hots and nots. LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 15 May 2026 00:37:15 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/minister-chris-bishop-on-ngauraunga-to-petone-path-opening/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/minister-chris-bishop-on-ngauraunga-to-petone-path-opening/ The Ngauraunga to Petone Shared Path, Te Ara Tupua, officially opens to the public tomorrow. Transport Minister Chris Bishop joins Nick Mills to talk about the opneing. The project will provide a new walking and cycling route between Wellington and Lower Hutt and improve transport reliability and resilience along SH2 and the Hutt Valley rail line.  Bishop says the project is100 years in the making but serious planning began in 2013/2014, and cost $350 million.  Te Ara Tupua formally opens at 2pm today, and tomorrow May 16th the public open day Plus, Nick gets an update on Wellingtons SH1 improvements. Bishop says although we will not see diggers for "some time", the government is committed to the tunnels and fast track applications are on the way.  LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 15 May 2026 00:29:27 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-sports-kick-off-with-jason-pine-and-adam-cooper-phoenix-grand-final/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-sports-kick-off-with-jason-pine-and-adam-cooper-phoenix-grand-final/ For Friday Sports Kick-off Nick is joined in the studio by Adam Cooper and Jason Pine, who is in Brisbane for the Magic Round. Wellington Phoenix play their grand final tomorrow night in Melbourne. They look back on the success at the semifinal in Porirua Park last weekend.  And the impact of coach Bev Priestman - who has taken this team to the first A-League final in the clubs history. Hurricanes vs Blues - tomorrow night at Eden Park, competing for  The canes have not won in Eden Park since 2019. Will this be the season? And Luke Metcalf leaving the Warriors and joining the Dragons during his contract.  And will the Warriors win against the Broncos? LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 15 May 2026 00:17:43 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/tim-costley-on-saving-k%C4%81piti-airport/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/tim-costley-on-saving-k%C4%81piti-airport/ The future of Kāpiti Airport is in the air as property developers are looking to buy the land - only if the airport is closed. Otaki MP Tim Costley joins the show this morning to discuss what is going on with the deal, and how he is trying to stop it. The airport is identified in civil defence plan as a key operational hub in a disaster. Costley says we must keep the airport open as it is a necessity for the whole Wellington region. LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 15 May 2026 00:14:11 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-can-the-golden-mile-review-now/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-can-the-golden-mile-review-now/ EDITORIAL: Let’s be honest now — when is enough actually enough in this city?  How long have Wellingtonians been listening to the words “Let’s Get Wellington Moving”?   Seven years? Eight years? Longer? The project was officially launched back in 2017.   Nearly a decade ago. Nearly a decade of workshops, consultations, artist impressions, reviews, counter-reviews, delays, blowouts, political infighting and endless promise for us.  And what do we actually have to show for it?  Seriously — what do we have to show for it?  Because I walk through the start of the so-called Golden Mile redevelopment near the Embassy Theatre almost every day, and if you told a visitor from out of town that millions of dollars had already been spent there, they would laugh at you.   They’d say, “Where? How? A few plants? Some shifted paving? A slightly rearranged pedestrian area? A cycleway?”  That’s the transformational city-shaping project we’ve been arguing about for the best part of a decade?  Meanwhile the city struggles.  Retailers are struggling. Businesses are struggling. People are worried about rates. Roading’s a mess. Water infrastructure is collapsing.  Construction costs have exploded.  The council can barely afford what it already has on its plate.  And now we’re spending another FOUR HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS on another review.  Another review.  Not fixing anything. Not building anything. Not deciding anything. Just another group of people sitting around discussing whether previous groups of people were right or wrong.  I’m with Andrew Little on this one.   At some point politicians have to actually make political decisions. If you were elected to lead, then damn well lead.   Stop outsourcing every difficult decision to panels, consultants, independent reviews and strategic assessments.  The original Golden Mile budget was in 2020 was $78 million. Then it became $160 million. Now it’s sitting around $220 million. And even Andrew Little is saying the council simply cannot afford another $60 million blowout.  Hello! You wouldn’t need a degree to work that one out.  So here’s the simple question: If we can’t afford it, why are we pretending we can?  Because what’s happened in Wellington is death by consultation.  Death by process. Death by indecision. We have become a city addicted to talking about things instead of actually doing them.  And here’s the worst part — this uncertainty has hung over central Wellington businesses for years. Years.   People trying to invest, lease buildings, open restaurants, run cafés, survive construction disruptions, they want to employ staff — all while the city keeps changing the plan every six months.  Enough.  Either do the project properly, fully funded, with certainty and timelines — or pull the plug and let us move on with our lives.  And now. Not in 6 months' time – now.  But this endless middle ground of reviews, pauses, re-scopes and consultant reports is draining the life, confidence and energy out of Wellington. Forget it  Nearly a decade in, Wellingtonians deserve an answer and now.  Not another workshop, not another panel.   LISTEN ABOVE Thu, 14 May 2026 01:38:35 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/karen-oleary-joins-nick-in-studio-to-celebrate-poneke-house-party/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/karen-oleary-joins-nick-in-studio-to-celebrate-poneke-house-party/ Comedian Karen O'Leary joins Nick in the studio to chat "Poneke House Party", a comedy music mashup show raising funds for the Mayoral Relief Flood Fund. The NZ International Comedy Festival and NZ Music Month partner to bring you Pōneke House Party, a night of jokes, songs and surprise special guests at Wellington’s Opera House, Sunday 17 May, 6pm. Karen joins the heavy hitting line up of stars including Tofiga Fepulea'i, Tami Neilson and host James Nokise. Buy tickets here for a night full of comedy and music, while helping for a great cause. Thu, 14 May 2026 00:56:34 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/politics-thursday-paul-goldsmith-and-ayesha-verrall-on-immigration/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/politics-thursday-paul-goldsmith-and-ayesha-verrall-on-immigration/ It's Politics Thursday and this week Nick is joined in the studio by National Minister Paul Goldsmith and Labour MP Ayesha Verrall. They debate the top political issues of the week, including concerns around Wellington project priorities. After the second Auckland harbour crossing is looking likely to go through, there is still no word on our second Mt Vic Tunnel - is Wellington being slighted? Then onto immigration, as the government launches more immigration policy, polling shows it is not actually a top 10 issue to Kiwis. The panel debate if Kiwis should be more concerned and what the priorities are for their parties come election time. And cutting fees free, is this a broken promise for students currently enrolled in our universities? LISTEN ABOVE  Thu, 14 May 2026 00:35:18 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/music-time-with-james-irwin-nz-music-month-continues/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/music-time-with-james-irwin-nz-music-month-continues/ Its Music Time with James Irwin! It's another week of NZ music month, James and Nick chat a new record label based in Wellington - check it out at strawberryjampromotions.com. Then they talk Tom Scott of Homebrew fame who blew Wellington away last Friday and the opening of musical & Juliet on Saturday. Plus, what are the most recognisable Kiwi songs? James shares his office survey results. LISTEN ABOVE Wed, 13 May 2026 00:44:50 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/phoenix-coach-bev-priestman-in-the-studio-with-nick-mills/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/phoenix-coach-bev-priestman-in-the-studio-with-nick-mills/ Wellington Phoenix Women's team is on their way to the airport for their A-League final against Melbourne City. Coach Bev Priestman joins Nick Mills in the studio on the way, to chat about what this means for the team. Since joining the club last year Priestman has revamped the team to get to first A-League final for any Phoenix team in their history.  The club play Melbourne City on Saturday night. LISTEN ABOVE Wed, 13 May 2026 00:27:32 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/comedian-samantha-hannah-in-the-studio-with-nick-mills/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/comedian-samantha-hannah-in-the-studio-with-nick-mills/ This morning Billy T nominee, mother and comedian Samantha Hannah joins Nick in studio. Her new show Peekaboo! starts tonight at Bats for the NZ International Comedy Festival.  Currently 7 months pregnant with an 18-month-old, Samantha has bought her experience with motherhood into her stand up.  Samantha and Nick talk identity, preshow rituals and anxiety, and balancing parenthood, having a full-time job and stand up. And how does it feel getting nominated for a Billy T Award?  The NZ International Comedy Festival brings live comedy to Wellington till May 24th. Samantha's show runs from tonight to Sat 16th May. Get tickets here.  LISTEN ABOVE Tue, 12 May 2026 00:30:46 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/mayor-andrew-little-in-the-studio-for-his-may-catchup/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/mayor-andrew-little-in-the-studio-for-his-may-catchup/ Wellington City Mayor Andrew Little joins Nick Mills in the studio for May's monthly chat and takes your calls.  After multiple news stories about unrest between council executives and the council, Nick asks Mayor Little for his insight into the debates at the moment. Mayor Little says a change of culture is needed and he is concerned officials don't realise that they aren't spending their own money, but that of the taxpayers. Then onto amalgamation, Mayor Little shares the latest in talks and suggests eight councils could be involved.  Also on the agenda was Tiaki Wai water meter cost, the latest in chats between council and the entity and Golden Mile and Moa Point updates. LISTEN ABOVE Mon, 11 May 2026 01:21:08 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/porirua-mayor-anita-baker-on-potential-for-eight-councils-to-amalgamate/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/porirua-mayor-anita-baker-on-potential-for-eight-councils-to-amalgamate/ The Wellington Amalgamation could grow into eight councils instead of the previously expected "tight" four. Nick speaks to Porirua Mayor Anita Baker, who is very strongly for the amalgamation. Mayor Baker shares her preferences for amalgmation and addresses concerns that Porirua rates are among the highest in the country.  She says people are hesitant as jobs may go, but she "doesn't care" if her job goes if it means amalgamation for the betterment of the city.  LISTEN ABOVE Mon, 11 May 2026 00:44:39 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/k%C4%81piti-mayor-janet-holborow-on-amalgamation-plans/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/k%C4%81piti-mayor-janet-holborow-on-amalgamation-plans/ A Wellington amalgamation could potentially go wider than expected to the Kāpiti Coast, Wairarapa and Horowhenua after a mayoral meeting last Friday disclosed by the Wellington City Mayor on the show today. Nick chats to Kāpiti Mayor Janet Holborow, who is on her way back from a meeting with Horowhenua Mayor Wanden. Mayor Holborow shares how talks have been going with the other councils and if this merger could be a reality. The logistics of a Wellington wide one appear to be disadvantageous at this point to Kāpiti, but they are open to conversations that could prove otherwise.  Could the amalgamation just be between Horowhenua and Kapiti? LISTEN ABOVE Mon, 11 May 2026 00:22:51 Z