https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/rss NZME Fri, 17 Apr 2026 04:32:06 Z en https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-sport-kick-off-with-jason-pine-the-end-of-moana-pasifika/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-sport-kick-off-with-jason-pine-the-end-of-moana-pasifika/ This morning for Friday Sport Kick-off Nick is joined by Weekend Sport host Jason Pine to chat all about sports coming up in Wellington this weekend. But first Moana Pasifika, who are set to disband after this season. Piney and Nick talk the likelihood of investors swooping in, and what other teams could be at risk of the same fate?  Then what some are calling the first All Black trial: Hurricanes play the Chief on Saturday. Players are set to prove their positions in the top of the table clash, who will come out on top in Hamilton tomorrow. A-League Phoenix play Western Sydney in Christchurch tomorrow - could they still make the top six? And other Wellington teams take on Christchurch this week across multiple codes including the Pulse who play the Tactix on Sunday. Plus, the Saints play the Rams. How do our crew think it'll go? LISTEN ABOVE Thu, 16 Apr 2026 23:13:48 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-ird-says-we-need-to-change-our-tax-system-and-i-agree/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-ird-says-we-need-to-change-our-tax-system-and-i-agree/ EDITORIAL: We know there’s a growing gap in this country—and it’s not just between the rich and the poor.   It’s between what we say we want, and what we’re actually prepared to do to pay for.  Because right now, the numbers are starting to bite.  Treasury is warning—loudly—that we are heading into a future where fewer workers supporting more retirees. We know that - it’s fact.  And now, Inland Revenue is backing that up, saying quite clearly: if we don’t change course, the books don’t stack up. Debt will grow. Pressure will build. Something will have to give.  And here’s the uncomfortable truth—there are only two levers you can pull.  You either spend less… or you tax more.   Now look around.   We’ve got around 165,000 people on an unemployment benefit.  We’ve come through COVID with a massive debt hangover.   Infrastructure costs are blowing out. Health, pensions, everything—up, up, up.  So I’ll ask the obvious question: are we really going to save our way out of this?  I don’t think so.  And that’s why this conversation that politicians keep avoiding—we need to have it properly.  Because Inland Revenue has already laid it out.   They say GST should go up. Now think about that for a minute and don’t let it shock you too much.  They say capital gains should be looked at. They say the system needs to be more flexible so governments can pull in more revenue when they need it – like now.  And whether we like it or not… they’re probably right.  Let’s take GST.   We are at 15% in New Zealand.   Now compare that to Europe—where consumption taxes are often higher.   The United Kingdom runs a VAT of 20%. Germany? 19%. France? 20%.   The Nordic countries—Denmark, Sweden—around 25%.  So, the idea of moving GST from 15% to 17% or 17.5% here—it’s not radical internationally.   It’s actually pretty modest.  Yes, it hurts and it hurts everyone. But it’s simple. It’s efficient.   And if you pair it with targeted support—cash transfers or tax relief—for low-income earners, you can soften the blow where it matters most.  Then there’s the old capital gains tax.  Nobody wants to talk about the horrible old capital gains tax.  And I know—people hate hearing it. But Inland Revenue is blunt: not taxing capital gains creates distortions. It lets people shift income into areas that aren’t taxed, and that weakens the system.  So why not be surgical about it?  You don’t touch the family home. We don’t want to hit ordinary Kiwis.   But if you’re dealing in assets—property, investments—worth over $2 million, $2.5 million… then yes, maybe you should be paying capital gains tax.  Because here’s the reality—we’re in a hole.  And when you’re in a hole, you don’t get out by pretending everything’s fine.  Some people have done extremely well, even through COVID, even through recession. Meanwhile, others are barely hanging on.  So yes—maybe company tax edge up. Maybe high-end capital gains are taxed.   Maybe GST nudges higher.  None of it is popular.  But this is the point—there is no pain-free option anymore.  The real question is: are we prepared to take a bit of pain now, and alot of us have had that pain… to avoid a much bigger one later?  It’s coming, we can’t afford it, and we can’t get our spending down.  LISTEN ABOVE Thu, 16 Apr 2026 01:12:01 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/pharmacist-clive-cannons-on-the-government-expanding-power-for-chemists/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/pharmacist-clive-cannons-on-the-government-expanding-power-for-chemists/ Pharmacies will get more power to provide funded medication from June. Government is proposing to expand the role of community pharmacists, allowing them to assess patients and provide funded treatment for common conditions like infections, head lice, and minor illnesses. The move aims to make healthcare faster, cheaper, and more accessible while easing pressure on GPs. Nick speaks to co-founder/spokesperson for the Independent Community Pharmacy Group Clive Cannons. Cannon's also runs his own pharmacy Clive’s Chemist in Wainuiomata. Cannon's shares his insight onto the move - which his pharmacy has been trialling for the last few years.  He says while pharmacists have already been doing this, this is a win as they can provide the medication to patients - funded. Cannon also tells Nick about how he expects pharmacies to look like in the future, and if this power could expand. LISTEN ABOVE Thu, 16 Apr 2026 00:43:19 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/politics-thursday-with-ginny-andersen-and-tim-costley-on-capital-gains-tax/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/politics-thursday-with-ginny-andersen-and-tim-costley-on-capital-gains-tax/ This week on Politics Thursday Nick is joined by Labour MP Ginny Andersen and National MP for Otaki Tim Costley   Things get fiery over calls from the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) on increasing tax. Specifically IRD want to see an increase to the goods and services tax (GST) rate, offering a cash transfer to low-income earners and a Capital Gains Tax. The politicians face off over the best way to increase government funds, and which of their policies will help Kiwis? Then onto the crisis in Iran. Andersen and Costley give their thoughts on Trump's actions with Strait of Hormuz and on his social media Truth Social. Also, should politicians go after the Pope?  Also, the new Wellington Water entity Tiaki Wai's board pay is concerning Mayor Andrew Little and Minister Simon Watts. The politicians share what can be done, and their thoughts on the salary doubling in some cases.  Then they talk trust in the media, which has risen for the first time since 2020 and Winston Peters comments that the new ferries may not be operated by KiwiRail - who else could do it? LISTEN ABOVE Thu, 16 Apr 2026 00:30:21 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/wellington-cafe-considers-surcharge-to-deal-with-fuel-crisis/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/wellington-cafe-considers-surcharge-to-deal-with-fuel-crisis/ Rising fuel prices are starting to push up costs across the entire economy, not just at the petrol pump. Businesses are feeling the ripple effect, especially in hospitality, where suppliers are adding surcharges to cover higher transport and production costs. Popular Wellington café, Smith the Grocer, is now considering introducing its own fuel surcharge as expenses like meat, milk, and deliveries increase.  Nick speaks to co-owner Kirsten Saunders on the subject - where do they draw the line? How are they coping at the moment with high costs? LISTEN ABOVE Tue, 14 Apr 2026 01:57:45 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-would-you-pay-a-fuel-surcharge-on-your-coffee/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-would-you-pay-a-fuel-surcharge-on-your-coffee/ EDITORIAL:  Fuel prices are starting to quietly creep into everything… and I mean everything we do.  We always talk about it when we fill up the car — that’s the obvious one.   But what we’re starting to see now is the next layer of it… the ripple effect.  And it’s hitting hospitality, right where you notice it most — in your wallet, when you go out for a coffee or a bite to eat.  There’s a really interesting story out today from Radio New Zealand about a well-known Wellington spot, Smith the Grocer, down in the Old Bank Arcade. Been there or a long time, very successful, very well run cafe.   They’re not doing it yet — but they’re seriously considering adding a fuel surcharge to their prices.  And here’s why.  Their suppliers are already doing it to them.  One meat supplier has slapped on a 4 percent increase across the board.   Another is looking at about 5 percent temporarily. Eggs going up. Delivery costs going up. It all stacks up.  And when you look at the numbers, you can see why.   According to the fuel app Gaspy, 91 petrol is sitting around $3.48 a litre, diesel closer to $3.89.   These are real costs, and the flow is going right through the system — from the truck, to the supplier, to the café, and eventually… to you.  Now the café owner says they’d rather not do it — margins are already tight — but when everything goes up at once, they’ve got two choices: absorb it… or pass it on.  So here’s the question I’ve been thinking about.  If you walked into your local café tomorrow… and there was a 5 percent surcharge on the bill — not hidden, not sneaky, just clearly there because of fuel costs — would you pay it?  Or would you just walk out and go somewhere else?  Because I’ll be honest with you — I already do this in my own head. Every time before I start the show I go to 2 places to get my coffee  There are two coffee spots near me. One’s five bucks. The other one — the one I actually like — is $6.30. And every time I go there, I think, “why am I paying more?”… but I still do it. Why because I like the place and I think it’s better there.   So are we actually price sensitive… or are we habit sensitive?  If that surcharge becomes the norm — because let’s be honest, this isn’t going away anytime soon — do we just accept it?  Or does it start changing where we go, what we buy, and how often we go out?  That’s where it gets really interesting.  LISTEN ABOVE Tue, 14 Apr 2026 01:42:23 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-are-cyclone-vaianu-warnings-risking-a-boy-who-cried-wolf-situation/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-are-cyclone-vaianu-warnings-risking-a-boy-who-cried-wolf-situation/ EDITORIAL: Are we starting to overreact to the weather?  Now before anyone jumps on the phone — yes, I know what’s happened up north.   Yes, I know what happened with the cyclone and it caused real damage.   Flooding across parts of Northland, the Coromandel, Bay of Plenty and Hawke’s Bay. Yes I know that.   States of emergency declared. Power outages. Evacuations. Roads closed. People genuinely affected. Up north.  Those are the facts and they matter.  But here’s the bigger picture we’re being told now: New Zealand is entering what experts are calling a more defined “cyclone season.”   This isn’t just a one-off. We’ve already had multiple major weather events in 2026 — storms earlier this year that caused deaths and serious flooding.   Scientists are warning that while cyclones may not come more often, they could be more intense, last longer, and hit harder.  So yes — the risk is real.  But here’s the question I can’t shake this morning: are we starting to jump too quickly into full shutdown mode every time a system rolls through?  Because we know this is the time of year. We know we sit in a part of the world where these systems track down. This is not new anymore — this is becoming part of the pattern.  And yet — what are we seeing?  Batten down the hatches. Cancel plans. Stay home. Prepare for the worst.  Now again — authorities will say that’s exactly the point.   Early warnings save lives. And they’re right.   Since events like Cyclone Gabrielle, behaviour has changed.   People take warnings seriously. Emergency management acts earlier.  And in many cases that's the preparedness that we want and absolutely prevents tragedy.   That’s a good thing.  But is there a tipping point?  Because when every weather system is treated like it could be catastrophic, something else starts to happen.   People stop going out. Businesses take a hit. Events lose momentum. And slowly, quietly, the economy feels it.   And it starts to feel like it’s clickbait for media. It starts to feel like a build up days before.  And here’s where it gets tricky — because you don’t want complacency.   You don’t want people ignoring warnings when a genuinely dangerous system is coming.  But you also don’t want a country that freezes every time the forecast turns rough.  We’ve seen the impacts — infrastructure under pressure, insurance costs rising, councils facing huge bills to build resilience.   All of that is real, and all of that needs serious long-term thinking.  But day-to-day?  Are we getting the balance right?   Or are we starting to default to worst-case scenario thinking every time will be a catastrophe — just in case?  Because if this is the new normal… if this really is a “cyclone season” we’re going to live with…  Then the way we respond to it matters just as much as the weather itself.  So, here’s the question this morning — have we found the right balance between caution and overreaction?  Or are we, bit by bit, becoming a country that shuts down too easily?  Should we be more cautious of a boy who cried wolf situation in Wellington? Because that’s the part that really scares me.  Do we overreact too quickly?  LISTEN ABOVE Mon, 13 Apr 2026 00:29:03 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/chamber-of-commerce-ceo-hayley-horan-on-ultras-impact-on-wellington-city/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/chamber-of-commerce-ceo-hayley-horan-on-ultras-impact-on-wellington-city/ Ultra Music Festival was held in Wellington on Friday night and sold over 23,000 tickets, bringing people from all over the country into our CBD. Nick speaks to Wellington City Chamber of Commerce CEO Hayley Horan about the impact on the businesses from the influx of people. They also discuss the latest poll from RNZ which found nearly two‑thirds of business owners believe the current state of the economy is "bad" or "very bad" and 83% are stressed. Nick asks what can be done to deescalate the stresses for Wellington business owners. Horan shares her insider knowledge of how businesses are reacting to the times. Did Ultra Festival bring up business confidence in the CBD? Are events the thing that will bring back hope in the city? LISTEN ABOVE Mon, 13 Apr 2026 00:09:32 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-faceoff-with-nick-leggett-and-fleur-fitzsimmons/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-faceoff-with-nick-leggett-and-fleur-fitzsimmons/ Nick Mills wraps the week with Friday Faceoff with Chief Executive of Infrastructure NZ, and former Porirua Mayor Nick Leggett and National Secretary of the Public Service Association Fleur Fitzsimmons. Starting with the war - how long will the effects last for Kiwis? Fitzsimmons and Legget talk stability of the ceasefire,  They debate the fuel crisis, the government's response and how our country will survive.  Then onto electrifying NZ, with the wake up signal of the Strait of Hormuz closing - Is solar the answer to our countries problems? Christopher Luxon as a leader - is a CEO the leader we want? After his stumbles in the media lately, is he coping with the pressure of these highly unstable times? And who else could step up? After Nicola Willis has fronted the fuel crisis, our panel discuss the signs of a new National leader.  Tiaki Wai and Wellington's water woes - As former Chair of Wellington Water, Nick Leggett shares his insight into the transfer of the water entities to Tiaki Wai ownership. The panel discuss the high-water bills and the necessity for them. Fitzsimmons wants more transparency for the reality of household's rates rises.  Then the surge in drugs seizures at the border - can NZ win the war on drugs? Customs Minister Casey Costello says “We’re not winning, but I wouldn’t say we’re losing.”  Do our panel agree? Leggett and Fitzsimmons address the harms it's doing to our community, and the solutions. Plus, the panel give their hot and nots for the week. LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:45:39 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/finance-minister-nicola-willis-on-fuel-and-ceasefire-in-iran/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/finance-minister-nicola-willis-on-fuel-and-ceasefire-in-iran/ Nick is joined by Finance Minister Nicola Willis for her monthly chat in the studio.  The minister has been busy fronting the fuel crisis and with the announcement of a two-week ceasefire, Nick gets answers on how Kiwis will be affected. Is the tide turning? Is the Strait opening?  Also, Nick asks Willis about the delivery of fuel and diesel for farmers.  Willis speaks about her reaction to Trump's threating social media posts and says that we are in a better place today compared to two days ago. But how stable is the future and do we have any power as a little country at the bottom of the world?  And does Minister Willis have ambition to be Prime Minster? Nick asks about the PMs mistakes this last week, and is popularity that important as a leader? OCR and her relationship with Reserve Bank Governor Anna Bremen  Then into transport, and the talk around reducing work on Roads of National Significance LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:35:46 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/nick-mills-tours-the-ultra-music-festival-grounds/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/nick-mills-tours-the-ultra-music-festival-grounds/ The Ultra Music Festival hits Wellington tonight! Bringing international DJs and Electronic Music legends to our waterfront.  23,000 are expected to the sold-out festival - with four stages showcasing local and international talent.  Ultra Festival started in Miami and is a worldwide hit - this Wellington show is the first NZ edition.  Yesterday Nick took a tour around the festival set up with the man who bought the festival to NZ - Head of Audiology Touring Mitch Lowe.  Mitch and Nick look around the waterfront, which was full of workers setting up and getting ready for the thousands of fans. Go with Nick through Ultra and meet the team behind it. LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:26:13 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-sport-kick-off-with-jason-pine-hurricanes-vs-blues/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-sport-kick-off-with-jason-pine-hurricanes-vs-blues/ For Friday Sport Kick-off this week Nick is joined in the studio by ZB sport guru Jason Pine. Starting with Hurricanes alumni dinner tonight - the organization set up to help Hurricanes transition into the next phase of their lives celebrates tonight. It's been 10 years since they won their championship and 30 years since the team started. Onto the Hurricanes vs Blues - Hnry Stadium with a 7.05pm kick-off. They look at the odds, the team and is this the first real test for the Canes? And the rise of the Phoenix under Chris Greenacre. Could the team reach top 6? The A-League men play Melbourne City on Sunday in Melbourne. Wellington Saints are raising their 13th championship banner for their first game of the season - Sunday afternoon.  Plus, the Pulse open their season with a game against Magic on Saturday. Huge weekend for Wellington Sport - and you can hear about it all on Friday Sport Kick-off. LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:21:33 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/politics-thursday-with-mike-butterick-and-ginny-andersen-on-iran-us-ceasefire-deal/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/politics-thursday-with-mike-butterick-and-ginny-andersen-on-iran-us-ceasefire-deal/ For this week's Politics Thursday Nick is joined by National MP for Wairarapa and newly appointed Minister for Land Information Mike Butterick, and Labour MP and Spokesperson for Education and Police Ginny Andersen. With the announcement of the two-week ceasefire between the US, Israel and Iran, Nick asks our politicians how this will affect NZ and their thoughts on what has unfolded these last few days. Also, how fuel is being impacted - and why is the price of diesel hitting $4 if we still have 51 days left of supply. And how is Luxon coping with the pressure of leadership? During Butterick's minister appointment ceremony, he and Cameron Brewer were mistaken for ushers. Hours after Luxon appeared on Breakfast and stumbled around how many Māori MPs were in his cabinet - forgetting Tama Potaka.  They dissect his performance as Prime Minister - and how he is coping with the conflict. New Zealand is seeing a huge surge in drug imports at the border. In the first 4 months of 2025 at Auckland Airport the amount of drugs seized was more than the total from all NZ airports the year prior.   What will our politicians do to solve this issue, where do the problems lie? And the RBNZ has decided to keep OCR 2.25%, what does this mean for our economy.  LISTEN ABOVE Thu, 09 Apr 2026 00:05:51 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/comedian-stephen-k-amos-on-his-upcoming-wellington-comedy-show/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/comedian-stephen-k-amos-on-his-upcoming-wellington-comedy-show/ Nick is joined on the show today by British comedian and actor Stephen K Amos. Amos arrives in Wellington for his tour 'Now We’re Talking,' and will play Friday May 8th at Hannah Playhouse Nick and Amos talk his last experience in Wellington - including an earthquake and some classic turbulence. Also what to expect from his latest show and how comedy is adapting to the state of the world right now.  Amos was last in New Zealand in 2016 and is a regular guest on UK TV shows; Live at The Apollo, QI and Have I got News for You. He is also an accomplished BAFTA Award-winning actor. His stand up comedy show 'Now We’re Talking' is on Friday May 8 at Hannah Playhouse get tickets here. LISTEN ABOVE Wed, 08 Apr 2026 00:38:31 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/mayor-andrew-little-in-the-studio-for-his-april-catchup/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/mayor-andrew-little-in-the-studio-for-his-april-catchup/ Nick is joined in the studio today by Wellington City Mayor Andrew Little for their monthly catchup. Mayor Little takes questions from both Nick and our audience, on the progress in our city and council in April. Starting with pressures in the city from the Iran War. Mayor Little discusses the potential for public transport cost deductions, and the other ways the CBD has been impacted from the fuel crisis.  Then onto rates - Little takes calls from the audience on commercial, property and water rates.  And then cost of Tiaki Wai, Wellington's new water entity taking over from July 1st - Little says he stills has not seen the evidence that our water payments will need to be up to nearly $7000 per household within 10 years. Nick and Little discuss this, how the transfer of power works and what needs to be done considering the cost to ratepayers. Little gives an inquiry update for Moa Point, and elaborates on the cause - and that it still has not been fixed.  Plus, NZTA says Wellington will reach it's vision for Wellington in just 6 years. Nick asks Little whether he agrees and this could be reality - or is this still a vision? Then after the drama surrounding the new WCC office building we ask the Mayor what he thinks of his new office. LISTEN ABOVE OR WATCH BELOW Tue, 07 Apr 2026 02:51:57 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-is-the-handling-of-the-iran-war-worse-than-not-doing-anything/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-is-the-handling-of-the-iran-war-worse-than-not-doing-anything/ EDITORIAL: I don't even know where to start with this. Because I’m sitting here this morning, and I’m not asking for a clever political solution, I’m not asking for spin, and I’m certainly not asking for another escalation.  I just want it to stop.  Not a temporary pause. Not a 45-day window. Not a “significant step” that isn’t good enough for someone to sign.  I want the war to stop.  I want some sort of normality back in the world.   I want people to get on and live their lives. I want that simple idea — live and let live — to actually mean something.  And before anyone jumps in — this is not some soft, hand-wringing, anti-war rant. It’s not that.  This is just common sense in the world that we live in right now.  Because what we’re watching right now is getting completely out of hand.  You’ve got Donald Trump talking about how an entire country could be “taken out in one night.”   You’ve got threats to infrastructure, to power plants, to bridges — things that affect civilians, not just military targets.  And on the other side, you've got Iran saying no — rejecting ceasefires, vowing to keep fighting.  So where does that us, leave the rest of the world?  Stuck in the middle. Because this isn’t just “their war.” It never is.  You start talking about the Strait of Hormuz — one of the most critical shipping routes on the planet — and suddenly this hits everyone.   Fuel prices. Supply chains. Cost of living. Everything.  We’re already feeling it here.  And that’s what frustrates me.  Because while leaders posture, threaten, and dig in… the rest of the world pays the price.  Families pay the price.   Businesses pay the price.   Countries like ours — so far away — still get dragged into it through higher costs, uncertainty, and economic pressure.  At some point, someone has to step up and say: enough.  Make the ceasefire work.  Not “almost work.” Not “on the table.” Not “a step in the right direction.”  Actually make it work.  Because right now, it feels like the damage being done — economically, globally— it's massive.  And I’ll say this carefully… but honestly.  You’ve got to ask whether the way this is being handled is doing more damage to the rest of the world than the original problem ever would have.  That’s the uncomfortable question.  Has this has gone too far?  Does it feel like the world is being dragged along for the ride… whether we like it or not?  And is it time we pull together globally, whether that's a few leaders or the UN and say pull back the ego and look at the bigger picture here?  Do we, New Zealand have any kind of role with this? Winston Peters is there this week - does he have a role? Can we do anything? Or do we just keep paying? Tue, 07 Apr 2026 02:28:38 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/music-time-with-james-irwin-the-pogues-come-to-wellington/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/music-time-with-james-irwin-the-pogues-come-to-wellington/ James Irwin is back in the studio for this week's Music Time. James shares his travels to Hawaii and how much they know of NZ music overseas, what could he find in the record shops? Then The Pogues hit Wellington tomorrow at the St James - without Shane MacGowan. After MacGowan's passing 18 months ago James takes a look at the new band and what we can expect from their show.  For the latest on Wellington gigs and music - its Music Time with James Irwin LISTEN ABOVE Tue, 07 Apr 2026 00:19:11 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/aaron-young-and-jordan-mills-wellington-saints-coach-and-ceo-preview-the-2026-nbl-season/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/aaron-young-and-jordan-mills-wellington-saints-coach-and-ceo-preview-the-2026-nbl-season/ With a 13th championship and record crowds, the Wellington Saints celebrated an extremely successful 2025 NBL campaign on and off the court.  The team's title defence begins with a home game at TSB Arena on Sunday April 12th, hosting Manawatu.  To preview the season, Adam was joined by head coach Aaron Young and CEO Jordan Mills.  LISTEN ABOVE  Fri, 03 Apr 2026 21:17:02 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/bev-priestman-wellington-phoenix-women-coach-on-the-team-qualifying-for-the-a-league-playoffs/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/bev-priestman-wellington-phoenix-women-coach-on-the-team-qualifying-for-the-a-league-playoffs/ The Wellington Phoenix women have qualified for the A-League playoffs for the first time and will host a home playoff in May as part of a two-leg semifinal.  Their top two placing was confirmed after a 2-nil win against Adelaide United in their final regular season game.  Adam Cooper spoke to Phoenix coach Bev Priestman.  LISTEN ABOVE  Fri, 03 Apr 2026 21:14:43 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/jess-kerr-white-ferns-allrounder-reflects-on-second-odi-win-over-south-africa-previews-final-clash/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/jess-kerr-white-ferns-allrounder-reflects-on-second-odi-win-over-south-africa-previews-final-clash/ The White Ferns and South Africa square off in their third and deciding one-day match at the Basin Reserve on Saturday, after a thrilling opening two games.  New Zealand levelled the series on Wednesday, courtesy of an incredible unbeaten 179 from captain Melie Kerr, to chase down a record target of 347.  Adam Cooper joined White Ferns allrounder Jess Kerr to reflect on Wednesday's win and preview the deciding match.  LISTEN ABOVE  Fri, 03 Apr 2026 20:52:48 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/wellington-club-rugby-2026-april-4-preview/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/wellington-club-rugby-2026-april-4-preview/ Easter Weekend marks the start of Wellington men's premier club rugby for 2026, with round one of the Swindale Shield. Adam Cooper was joined by local rugby expert Adam Julian to look ahead to the season, and run through the round one fixtures. LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 03 Apr 2026 20:19:48 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/joe-serci-previews-round-two-of-the-2026-mens-central-league/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/joe-serci-previews-round-two-of-the-2026-mens-central-league/ Easter Weekend sees round two of the 2026 Central League. Joe Serci from the Tackld Podcast joined Adam Cooper to preview the weekend's action. LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 03 Apr 2026 20:17:26 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/thursday-faceoff-with-mayor-ken-laban-and-mark-sainsbury/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/thursday-faceoff-with-mayor-ken-laban-and-mark-sainsbury/ Nick Mills wraps the week for a Thursday edition of faceoff with Hutt City Mayor Ken Laban and journalist and broadcasting legend Mark Sainsbury.   Starting with the complaints from councillors' around their new office – Councillor Nicola Young says many boycotted the blessing as they are not pleased with the location of the Mayor’s office. Is this a show of entitlement or genuine concern about the perception of our leader?  Our panel share their thoughts on the inquiry into the FENZ fire truck fleet by Tim Costley. The board's answers to Costley are apparently “confusing and contradictory".    What do Mayor Laban and Sainsbury think of the 79% pay increase of some board members during the pay dispute for frontline workers – and what questions need to be answered by FENZ?  Can we expect our fire fighters to do their job with such limited pay and equipment?   Then Minister Winston Peters flies over to Rarotonga to seal a deal which clarifies our two countries relationship. But he flew over in an Airforce jet. Is this a bad look during the fuel crisis? Or are the optics of Peters in Rarotonga and putting in effort important enough?  And what do our panel think of the deal?  Then onto the David Tamihere case being quashed due to a miscarriage of justice. Our panel talk the likelihood of retrial and whether Tamihere should receive compensation.  The Green Party declined a candidate – a sex worker advocacy group says it’s due to the woman’s prior experience in that industry. Should someone be denied due to their career, or should we bring more diversity into the beehive?  Then the basin – our panel get heated on what should be done with the basin reserve, as the NZ20 cricket is set to play there.  Plus, our panel share their hots and nots from the week.   LISTEN ABOVE  Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:41:50 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/kieran-mcanulty-alcohol-restrictions-to-ease-over-easter-weekend/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/kieran-mcanulty-alcohol-restrictions-to-ease-over-easter-weekend/ Nick is joined by Labour MP Kieran McAnulty, who is fronting the new bill that will scrap the Easter alcohol rules.  Bars & restaurants (on-licence venues) will be able to sell alcohol normally on Good Friday & Easter Sunday. No more needing to buy a “substantial meal” just to get a drink. McAnulty shares why the rule change is necessary, saying it's silly and will make life easier for hospo visitors and workers.  Note: Since the interview this morning the bill has been signed off by the Governor General and will be active for Easter Weekend LISTEN ABOVE Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:25:14 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/wellington-president-nzp-firefighters-union-clark-townsley-on-fenz-enquiry/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/wellington-president-nzp-firefighters-union-clark-townsley-on-fenz-enquiry/ Firefighters, currently on strike, are getting support to upgrade their fleet from a new inquiry into FENZ. Parliament’s Governance and Administration Select Committee, fronted by Deputy Chair and National MP Tim Costley, has launched an enquiry into FENZ specifically on the state of their fire truck fleet.  Nick speaks to Wellington Local President of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union (NZPFU) and Senior Station Officer Clark Townsley to find out what the union think of the inquiry.  Townsley says they would like a general inquiry into FENZ, and Costley says their answer have been "confusing and contradictory". The board of FENZ received a pay increase yesterday - some members getting a 79% rise, while pay disputes for frontline firefighters have gone on for 16 months.  Townsley called this a "bombshell". LISTEN ABOVE Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:01:56 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-can-the-wellington-city-council-cope-with-their-new-office/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-can-the-wellington-city-council-cope-with-their-new-office/ EDITORIAL: I just want to talk about something this morning that, honestly, feels like a perfect snapshot of where Wellington City Council is at right now.  Office space.  Not rates. Not pipes bursting. Not businesses struggling. Not the Moa Point mess. No, no — they’re concerned about office space.   Who’s on what floor, who’s got the view, and who’s looking out at a car park.  Now, I’ve got to ask — who actually cares?  If you’re a city councillor, if you’re the mayor, aren’t you there to do a job? Getting paid for that job by us.  Aren’t you there to serve the city, make decisions, fix problems, and represent the people of Wellington?   Since when did the quality of your harbour view become part of your job description?  Because I’ve worked a long time, and I’ve never once walked into a workplace and thought, “Gee, I hope I’ve got the penthouse today.” You go to work to work. If you want a view get one at home.   And here we’ve got reports of councillors grumbling, talking of a boycott of a blessing ceremony, and frustration that council executives are sitting upstairs with the nice outlook while elected officials are on level one.  Level one!  It’s convenient.  One flight of stairs and you’re there. You’re accessible. You’re close to the public. You’re not hiding away at the top of a tower somewhere, disconnected from the people you’re meant to represent.  Are you supposed to look down and look down at your people?  And if the mayor’s looking out at a car park — frankly I don’t give a damn.   You should be out in the city – or if you're at your office you should be looking at your computer, your emails, your meetings, your city’s problems. That’s the job.  To me, this is a mountain out of a molehill.   But worse than that, it’s symbolic. It tells you something about priorities of our council.   Because while all this noise is going on about who sits where, Wellington still has massive issues that actually matter.  And I’ll give credit where it’s due — some councillors have said exactly that.   Turn up, do the job, don’t worry about the furniture. Do you care where your office is when you go to work? And should we expect more focus — and be a little bit more humble — from the people running our city?  Because right now, this just feels like a small, small deal, when we have bigger issues.  LISTEN ABOVE  Wed, 01 Apr 2026 23:59:16 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/wellington-city-councillor-nicola-young-on-tensions-over-their-new-office/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/wellington-city-councillor-nicola-young-on-tensions-over-their-new-office/ Wellington City Councillor Nicola Young joins the show to discuss the complaints over the new council building. Young was not present at the blessing for the new office building on the waterfront. She says although she doesn't usually attend early morning ceremonies, she wouldn't of gone anyway as part of a boycott among some councillors. The boycott is over complaints the office space is not sufficient, particularly the office of Mayor Andrew Little - nicknamed by Young as "the dungeon".  The office sits on the first floor and has two windows looking onto a carpark and a brick wall. Young says this is a bad look for visitors, while the executives and officials get the penthouse.  She says this shows where the power lies. LISTEN ABOVE Wed, 01 Apr 2026 23:46:18 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/dwell-housing-ceo-elizabeth-lester-on-their-new-campaign-and-move-on-orders/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/dwell-housing-ceo-elizabeth-lester-on-their-new-campaign-and-move-on-orders/ Nick is joined in the studio by Dwell Housing CEO Elizabeth Lester to chat about their new campaign 'It Starts With Home' and how the move on orders are effecting their community. Dwell Housing is a registered charity that provides housing through safe, affordable homes to individuals and families across the Wellington region. Their current campaign focuses on housing for local families.  With the new move on orders coming into effect - and forcing rough sleepers out of certain areas - Lester shares how this is effecting the homeless community Lester shares how the public can help the charity, what Dwell have done so far, and what they want to accomplish this year. LISTEN ABOVE Tue, 31 Mar 2026 23:11:12 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/architect-frano-bazalo-on-the-potential-of-a-basin-reserve-upgrade/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/architect-frano-bazalo-on-the-potential-of-a-basin-reserve-upgrade/ As NZ20 brings attention to the Basin Reserve talk is building about the potential for an upgrade.  Nick speaks to Wellington-born architect Frano Bazalo about the cost and likelihood surrounding a renovation building capacity, and bringing more sports into the reserve. The St Patricks old boy is currently working out of London designing some of the biggest stadiums in the world, including one costing over a billion dollars in Saudi Arabia. Nick finds out Bazalo's thoughts on the current structure, and the lack of other stadiums in Wellington - pointing to issues with Hnry stadium. LISTEN ABOVE Mon, 30 Mar 2026 23:17:07 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/wow-ceo-meg-williams-on-this-years-show-glo/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/wow-ceo-meg-williams-on-this-years-show-glo/ Nick is joined by World of WearableArt CEO Meg Williams to talk this years WOW show GLO! The annual show goes from 17 September to 4 October 2026 at TSB Arena, and brings tourists and pride to Wellington. Williams shares the plans for this year, and what makes the show such a colourful success.  She discusses the team - including Creative Director Brian Burke, and how they are prepping for their boldest year yet.  Williams and Nick get into the theme of GLO!, the comeback of the beloved Bizarre Bra and the new sections coming to the show this year.  Get tickets here. LISTEN ABOVE Mon, 30 Mar 2026 23:09:06 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-the-time-is-now-to-go-electric/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-the-time-is-now-to-go-electric/ OPINION: If there is ever a time where you think change might actually happen, I think that time is now.  You know when something really significant shifts.  Because every now and then, you get a crisis that doesn’t just hurt — it teaches and it questions.   And we may finally learn from this one.  We’ve got fuel prices climbing towards four dollars a litre.  We’ve got global instability, supply lines under pressure, and once again New Zealand is sitting here — exposed.  But what’s different this time…it’s the reaction.  Because when you start hearing voices — strong voices, credible voices — saying this is the turning point… we have to pay attention.  Take Mike Casey — Kiwibank Sustainable Business Leader of the Year 2026 — not some fringe thinker, not some dreamer — a guy running a fully electric cherry orchard in Central Otago, and a big one.  And here are the facts he’s putting on the table:  New Zealand has around 10 million machines currently reliant on imported fossil fuels.  But about 8.5 million of those could be electrified today — right now — with the technology we already have.  That only leaves about 800,000 that still need diesel long-term.  So the idea that we can’t do this is just not true.  And then look at behaviour — because behaviour tells you everything.  Last week was the biggest week for EV sales since the Clean Car Discount ended in 2023.  That’s not ideology — that’s people reacting to price and reality.  And here’s the big thing.  The average Kiwi drives about 230 kilometres a week.  Charging an EV off solar? Roughly works to be the equivalent of $1.15 per litre — even factoring in road user charges.  Compare that to nearly $4 a litre at the pump.  That’s not a small saving — that’s transformational.  And yet some of us are still hesitating.  We’re still treating solar and EVs like lifestyle choices instead of what they actually are — infrastructure.  Because here’s the part that really got me.   Casey’s running a system where about 80% of his entire operation is powered by his own solar — cars, machinery, production.  His neighbour is trying to borrow an electric tractor because diesel’s too expensive.  That’s not theory — that’s real, working change.  So I come back to this…  Is this the moment where the penny drops?  When even traditionally sceptical voices start saying, “hang on… maybe this is the way forward”?  Because if it is — then we need to act like it.  Every house in New Zealand should be looking at solar.  Not as a luxury — as a baseline.  And here’s where government comes in —I don’t want handouts, not subsidies — but smart financing.  Low-interest, long-term loans to get solar onto rooftops.  Because according to Casey, the savings alone could cover the repayments and still leave households $1,000 to $2,000 better off each year.  That’s not a cost — that’s an investment.  So if we’ve learned anything from every crisis we’ve faced — it’s this:  We don’t get many chances to pivot.  We don’t get many moments where the problem and the solution are sitting right in front of us at the same time.  This might be one of them.  LISTEN ABOVE Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:04:37 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/cubadupa-director-bianca-bailey-on-the-success-of-the-weekend/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/cubadupa-director-bianca-bailey-on-the-success-of-the-weekend/ CubaDupa hit Wellington last weekend and Nick chats to director Bianca Bailey to see how it all went down. Tens of thousands of people - local and visitors alike, joined the annual street party with over 200 performers, food trucks, performers, parades - everything was at CubaDupa. Bailey shares how the weekend went, what could've gone better and what does the city need to do next to bring more life to Wellington. LISTEN ABOVE Sun, 29 Mar 2026 23:49:05 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/ellie-walker-wellington-phoenix-defender-on-recommitting-to-the-team-ahead-of-the-a-league-premier-run/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/ellie-walker-wellington-phoenix-defender-on-recommitting-to-the-team-ahead-of-the-a-league-premier-run/ Despite a midweek loss to Central Coast, the Wellington Phoenix women remain a mathematical chance of clinching the club's first Premier's Plate in the women's A-League.  Currently second on the ladder, the club is guaranteed a maiden playoff appearance with two regular season matches remaining, starting with Sunday's match against Western Sydney at Porirua Park.  To preview the match, Adam Cooper spoke with American defender Ellie Walker, who this week re-signed for another season at the Phoenix.  LISTEN ABOVE  Sat, 28 Mar 2026 00:04:59 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/todd-byrant-cricket-wellington-ceo-on-the-nz20-and-what-it-means-for-the-blaze-and-the-firebirds/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/todd-byrant-cricket-wellington-ceo-on-the-nz20-and-what-it-means-for-the-blaze-and-the-firebirds/ New Zealand Cricket has confirmed its preference for the future of the domestic Twenty20 competition is a private franchise model.  Cricket Wellington CEO Todd Byrant joined Adam Cooper to discuss what involvement the local association is set to have in the new competition, and what it means for the future of the Blaze and Firebirds.  LISTEN ABOVE  Fri, 27 Mar 2026 22:29:53 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/tony-giles-wellington-rugby-ceo-on-the-lions-returning-to-hnry-stadium-for-the-npc-season/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/tony-giles-wellington-rugby-ceo-on-the-lions-returning-to-hnry-stadium-for-the-npc-season/ After a full season at Porirua Park, the Wellington Lions will return to the 34,000 capacity Hnry Stadium for their home NPC rugby matches in 2026.  Adam Cooper was joined by Wellington Rugby CEO Tony Giles to explain the move back to the region's largest stadium.  LISTEN ABOVE  Fri, 27 Mar 2026 22:23:40 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/hurricanes-v-reds-preview-with-clark-laidlaw-and-duplessis-kirifi/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/hurricanes-v-reds-preview-with-clark-laidlaw-and-duplessis-kirifi/ The Hurricanes head into round seven of Super Rugby at the top of the table, and seek to consolidate that position when hosting the Reds at Hnry Stadium on Saturday afternoon. Adam Cooper caught up with coach Clark Laidlaw, and co-captain Du'Plessis Kirifi counting down to the match. LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 27 Mar 2026 20:29:26 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/hannah-wignall-previews-round-one-of-the-2026-womens-central-league/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/hannah-wignall-previews-round-one-of-the-2026-womens-central-league/ Adam Cooper was joined by Hannah Wignall to discuss the season ahead, and the round one matches in the 2026 women's Central League. LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 27 Mar 2026 20:25:18 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/joe-serci-previews-round-one-of-the-2026-mens-central-league-football/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/all-sport-breakfast-wellington/audio/joe-serci-previews-round-one-of-the-2026-mens-central-league-football/ The 2026 men's Central League football competition begins this weekend. To preview the season, and the weekend's games, Adam was joined by new correspondent, Joe Serci from the Tackld Podcast. LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 27 Mar 2026 20:23:28 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/paige-performs-live-in-studio-and-chats-cuba-dupa-with-nick-mills/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/paige-performs-live-in-studio-and-chats-cuba-dupa-with-nick-mills/ Nick is joined in the studio with CubaDupa headliner Paige for a performance and a chat. Hailing for Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland, Paige is an award-winning pop/RnB singer who has gained international fame for her sound and honest songwriting.  Paige and Nick talk her career so far, being a NZ artist and how international fan attitudes differ from Kiwis.  Also, her upcoming performance at Cuba Dupa and her experience of Wellington.  Then we are treated to a live performance of her single 'why do we wanna be in love.' Hear the single and other hits off her new EP paigesspace at Cuba Dupa's Ngā Toi o Te Aro Stage on Saturday, March 28th, 05:45pm - 06:30pm. Cuba Dupa runs all weekend and is a free event.  LISTEN ABOVE Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:31:59 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-faceoff-with-phil-oreilly-and-jd-trask/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-faceoff-with-phil-oreilly-and-jd-trask/ Nick Mills wraps the week with Iron Duke founder and director of Aurecon Phil O’Reilly, and founder and CEO of Raygun JD Trask.   Starting with the reveal from NZ Herald that advice about the low risk of myocarditis in teenagers who receive the second covid vaccine was given to Chris Hipkins  O’Reilly share his fears over what this event will do to dispell more people from getting vaccinated – and the harm in that for New Zealand.  Is Hipkins’ brand intact? Can people trust him? Should he step down, or just stand up and front?  Then health insurance - are the high costs worth it? At what age does it become necessary?  What do our panel think of the governments fuel relief plan? Does it strike the right balance between support and overspending? Was the time right?  And we hear what they think of the oppositions response.   Plus diesel prices skyrocket past 91 at some stations. Is this being driven by supply or panic stashing?  Onto Tiaki Wai, the cost of the separate water bill has been announced and Wellingtonians are in for a shock. The standalone charge starts at roughly $2410 and will cost up to nearly $7000 for one household in a decade.  Are these outrageous prices the end of our city?  O’Reilly says the council expectation for population growth over the next decade has decreased from 50,000-80,000 down to 800. JD says he is only looking to hire in Auckland.  What can we do – our panel calls for our council to do something about the mess the city is in.   AI is forcing Massey University to go back to in person exams – is this inevitable? JD says university may be defunct in 5 years. Do the universities have the power to defeat AI cheating?  Then Trask and O’Reilly address the calls from the ambulance association for Dame Kerry Prendergast to step down as Chair of Wellington Free Ambulance.   Plus, our panel share their hots and nots from the week.   LISTEN ABOVE  Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:16:10 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-sport-kick-off-with-adam-cooper-and-jason-pine-hurricanes-vs-reds/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/friday-sport-kick-off-with-adam-cooper-and-jason-pine-hurricanes-vs-reds/ For this week's Friday Sport Kick-off, Nick is joined by Newstalk ZB’s sports hosts Adam Cooper and Jason Pine.  Starting with the Hurricanes game against the Reds tomorrow.   After just coming back from Hnry stadium, Adam gives his updates on how the team is looking, and shares CEO Malcolm Gillies call for support.   The game kicks off at 4.35pm tomorrow – tickets are available here. Brad Shields resigns with the Hurricanes for another season – this crew talk about this great news, and how it impacts the team on and off the field   All Whites play in Auckland tonight – what would it mean if they win tonight? And how likely are they to win against Finland?  They take a look at the line up for our team, and the world cup campaign.   Then the team play Chile on Monday – also at Eden Park.  And at Porirua Park on Sunday is the last of regular season game for the Phoenix Women, against the Western Sydney Wanderers.   Then they talk T20 – will they bring in an import player strategy? Where will it be held?  Nick wants a local t20 and team in the big bash, what do Jason and Adam think of it?  Find out on Friday Sport kick-off.   LISTEN ABOVE  Thu, 26 Mar 2026 23:01:07 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/politics-thursday-with-paul-goldsmith-and-ayesha-verrall/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/politics-thursday-with-paul-goldsmith-and-ayesha-verrall/ On Politics Thursday this week Nick is joined by National's Minister for Justice, Arts, Culture and Heritage, Media and Communications and Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Paul Goldsmith, and Labour MP and spokesperson for Health and Wellington Issues Ayesha Verrall. Wellington ratepayers have been slapped with a new water bill - which is drawing concern from the government. Nick ask our politicians what they think of this, and what needs to be done to help ratepayers already struggling with high rates.  Do we need a watchdog group to monitor Tiaki Wai? And Wellington ranked lowest on the ASB regional economic scoreboard. What is the answer to get Wellington back? Is it in investments, entrepreneurship or the public sector?  The fuel crisis continues and National has announced their relief package for low to middle income families. Should there be more support for others? Then onto the $10k table price for a dinner with the Prime Minister. The fundraiser for the National party is causing a stir - is it legitimate, fair fundraising or pay for access? Goldsmith and Verrall give their perspectives.  LISTEN ABOVE Thu, 26 Mar 2026 00:35:30 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/rocky-horrors-richard-obrien-chats-to-nick-mills/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/rocky-horrors-richard-obrien-chats-to-nick-mills/ Nick Mills is joined on the show today by musical legend Richard O'Brien. O'Brien is the creator of hit musical the Rocky Horror show, and played Riff Raff in the film - which has become a cult classic.  The show is currently touring in Wellington with a West End cast - O'Brien shares his thoughts on how the musical has lasted 50 years, and is still drawing in crowds all over the globe. He tells Nick about what New Zealand means to him and what bought him home after many years around the world. Nick asks where his inspiration is from, what he is up to now and what he wants his legacy to be. LISTEN ABOVE Thu, 26 Mar 2026 00:24:32 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/tiaki-wai-chair-will-peet-on-cost-of-wellingtons-water-bill/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/tiaki-wai-chair-will-peet-on-cost-of-wellingtons-water-bill/ The cost of Wellington's water bills has been announced - and starts with a standalone charge of roughly $2410 a year, expecting to reach $6831 within a decade. Minister for Local Government Simon Watts has expressed concern in the cost to Wellington ratepayers, saying he contacted Andrew Little for an explanation to a rise in the plans he initially saw.  Nick speaks to Chairperson of Tiaki Wai Will Peet to get his answer for Watts.  He said while he understands the concern, he isn't worried.  Peet shares what has gone into the price tag, saying we can't continue kicking the bucket and it's time we have to pay.  What will the new entity do differently to Wellington Water, and how can we trust them? LISTEN ABOVE Wed, 25 Mar 2026 23:48:27 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-it-is-becoming-impossible-to-afford-wellington/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-it-is-becoming-impossible-to-afford-wellington/ OPINION: This is the moments where the penny really drops.   Because for years, we’ve talked about infrastructure, we’ve talked about pipes, we’ve talked about underinvestment — but now it’s no longer theory.   It’s turning up in your email or letterbox.   In a matter of months — July 1 — Wellington households will start receiving a separate water bill.   Not buried in your rates anymore, not hidden in the background. Front and centre and the numbers are eye watering.  Right now, the average household is effectively paying about $2100 a year for water through rates.   Under the new model, that becomes a standalone charge of roughly $2410 a year — about $200 a month, $50 a week and that’s the starting point.  But here’s the reality check — and this is the bit people need to really hear.  That number is projected to rise significantly. The modelling shows annual increases of between 8.9% and 14.4% through to 2035.   If you compound that — and let’s just be clear how that works — you’re stacking increases on top of increases every single year — that $2100 becomes around $6831 a year within a decade.  That’s $566 a month, over $130 a week.  Now put that on top of everything else.  Rates are still going up.   Wellington City Council is already signalling another 7.4% increase.  Even with a projected reduction when water is split out — roughly 29% off the rates bill initially — once the increases are added back in, the average homeowner ends up worse off by about $1000 a year overall, $20 a week.  So let’s be very clear about this: you are not saving money. You are paying more for the same house, in the same city.  And this is where my concern sits.  Because I was talking to a very successful property developer yesterday — someone who knows the numbers inside out — and his words were simple: it’s becoming untenable to live and do business in Wellington.  And now you can see why.  You’ve got rising rates. You’ve now got a separate water bill that could hit $6,000–$7,000 a year within a decade.   You’ve got a shrinking population - an estimated increase of 800 over ten years - to spread those costs across.   And at the same time, we’re being told this is all because of decades of underinvestment in infrastructure — which, frankly, just pushes the cost straight onto today’s ratepayers.  Yes, of course we need to fix the pipes. No one’s arguing that.  But the system? The way this is being delivered? The compounding cost?  That’s where people are starting to say — hang on — this is becoming unaffordable. At what point does the cost of living in Wellington simply become too much?  LISTEN ABOVE Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:28:26 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/labour-leader-chris-hipkins-in-studio-with-nick-mills/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/labour-leader-chris-hipkins-in-studio-with-nick-mills/ Nick is joined in studio by Labour Leader Chris Hipkins for the first of their monthly chats for the year. Starting with the fallout from last week's events in Hipkins' private life being bought to the public eye. We get his thoughts on the line of privacy as a politician and how he and his family are handling the situation. Then into the fuel crisis. Yesterday the government launched their plan - starting from April 7, 143,000 low to middle income families will get $50 a week to cope with the rising cost in fuel.  Nick asks Hipkins what Labour would do in the situation, and whether this response from National is enough.  As Labour is up in the polls, we see what the vibe is in Labour at the moment. Are they comfortable or worried about potential coalitions?  He doesn't rule out NZ First plan to split up energy gentailers, is there hope for an agreement between the parties? Hipkins shares his thoughts on Deputy Act leader and Minister Brooke Van Velden's shock exit from politics, and are our promising young politicians being discouraged from the attitudes from the media and public? Plus, are there enough diverse working and education backgrounds inside parliament - particularly Labour. LISTEN ABOVE Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:10:18 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/director-of-infrastructure-commission-tim-brown-on-new-water-cost-for-households/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/director-of-infrastructure-commission-tim-brown-on-new-water-cost-for-households/ The cost for water is going up for Wellington households. Tiaki Wai - the new water entity looks after Wellington, Porirua, and Hutt Valley is coming into effect July 1 and the price is eyewatering.  The average household in the region currently pays about $2,100 a year for water through rates, but under the new model that would shift to a standalone charge of roughly $2,410 annually — about $200 a month — with costs expected to climb. Modelling projects yearly increases of 8.9% to 14.4% through to 2035, meaning compounding rises could push annual water bills to around $6,831 within a decade, or more than $130 a week. Former WCC spokesperson for the Regional Water Committee and current Director of the Infrastructure Commission, Tim Brown shares his thoughts on the cost announcement. Brown tell Nick of his experience dealing with water and the councils and how the forecasts are looking for their future.  He advocates for a Water Consumer Advocacy Trust to monitor Tiaki Wai. And shares his concern for Wellington making it through high rates and an extra bill for water. LISTEN ABOVE Tue, 24 Mar 2026 23:09:41 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/cubadupa-director-bianca-bailey-on-the-festival-this-weekend/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/cubadupa-director-bianca-bailey-on-the-festival-this-weekend/ The annual Cuba Dupa festival hits Wellington this weekend from 28-29th March.  Nick speaks to Director Bianca Bailey to see what we can expect from this year's event. The free event runs over Saturday and Sunday, and will feature over 210 acts, 70 food vendors, 220 performances.  The festival is expecting tens of thousands of visitors, Bailey shares how they are preparing and what to look forward to this year. LISTEN ABOVE Mon, 23 Mar 2026 23:58:48 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/justin-lester-on-the-last-place-economic-regional-ranking-for-wellington/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/audio/justin-lester-on-the-last-place-economic-regional-ranking-for-wellington/ The Wellington Region ranked lowest in ASBs latest regional economic scoreboard.  Nick speaks to Dot Loves Data Director and former Wellington Mayor Justin Lester on the issue. Lester says there are positives coming for Wellington, and is confident that our economy is recovering - just slowly. He talks through the causes and effects of our economic downfall and the comparisons to other regions - like Canterbury which is blossoming.  LISTEN ABOVE Mon, 23 Mar 2026 23:38:25 Z https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-is-the-government-giving-mixed-messages-over-fuel-supply/ https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/wellington/wellington-mornings-with-nick-mills/opinion/nick-mills-is-the-government-giving-mixed-messages-over-fuel-supply/ EDITORIAL: Let’s just call this out for what it is, because I think a lot of people are thinking the same as me here.  When I saw Nicola Willis standing there at Marsden Point—hard hat on, big fuel tanker behind her—telling us we’ve got seven weeks of fuel supply,  I thought, right… we get it. Message received.  But then it quickly turned from reassurance into something else entirely.   It started to feel like a staged photo opportunity at a time when the country should be in serious, disciplined mode.  Mixed messages, anyone?  Because here’s the reality—this isn’t business as usual.   We’ve got a very volatile situation in the Middle East, real disruption risks through the Strait of Hormuz, and global oil prices already climbing.  This can turn quickly. Especially tomorrow afternoon when Trumps deadline runs out.  And if/when it does, countries like New Zealand—at the end of the supply chain and fully reliant on imported refined fuel—are exposed. That’s not opinion. That’s fact.  And then I started thinking… could she have delivered that exact same message from Wellington? From her office? With the right backdrop?  Because think about it. Car to the airport. Flight to Auckland. Car to Marsden Point. Car back to the airport. Flight home. Car back home  Is that really the signal we want to send to New Zealanders right now? Be careful with fuel… while we burn it for optics?  Mixed messages.  So when the Government tells us we’ve got seven weeks’ supply, but in the same breath says that depends on ships continuing to arrive—that’s not comforting.   That’s conditional. That’s “we’re okay… as long as nothing else goes wrong.”  And in a situation like this, plenty can go wrong.  Which brings me back to the optics.   If fuel security genuinely matters—if we may need to prioritise who gets fuel and when—then every decision should reflect that seriousness.   Every litre should matter.  So why in the world are we flying ministers around the country for what looks like a PR exercise?   Why are we burning aviation fuel to stand in front of a ship and tell us what we already know?  Mixed messages.  It sends the wrong signal.   It tells people this is still about presentation, not preparation.   About being seen to be in control, rather than actually tightening the screws and planning for worst scenarios.  And look—I understand the need for people to be reassured.   Markets are jittery. Households are hurting. No one wants panic.  But reassurance has to come with backed by behaviour.  You can’t tell people to brace for higher costs, hint at fuel prioritisation, and then carry on with business-as-usual optics.  So here’s the real question—what happens in five or six weeks if nothing improves?   Are we still rolling out the same message? Still relying on ships turning up on time?  Or are we finally forced into the harder decisions we should be preparing for right now?  Because from where I sit, this moment demands absolute seriousness.  LISTEN ABOVE Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:14:35 Z