Newstalk ZB serves up what you need to know, on all things politics at home, and abroad. The show reviews, previews, analyses and challenges the biggest political issues of the week, with all the big players.

Politics Central
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Newstalk ZB serves up what you need to know, on all things politics at home, and abroad. The show reviews, previews, analyses and challenges the biggest political issues of the week, with all the big players.
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
11/5/2018
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Recent Episodes

May 31, 2026
Simon Watts: Auckland Minister says Budget 2026 delivers for Auckland, despite Mayor's pessimism
<p>The Government says this year's budget especially strengthens Auckland's role as New Zealand's economic engine room.</p> <p>They point out that they're investing in health, including funding to purchase land for a future South Auckland Hospital, and a share of the Government's $5.5-billion health package.</p> <p>Additionally, they highlight plans for housing growth with a new $400-million fund for councils to enable more homes.</p> <p>Lastly, they're putting aside a billion for rail improvements, and another billion for school upgrades. </p> <p>But Mayor Wayne Brown says the devil is in the detail - and we'll need more clarity into a timeline of these initiatives, along with an explanation of how the Government's funding their share of the CRL.</p> <p>So what do these investments actually mean for Aucklanders - and how confident can we be in keeping a globally competitive city? </p> <p>Minister for Auckland Simon Watts talks to Tim Beveridge to discuss...</p> <p><strong>LISTEN ABOVE</strong></p><p>See <a href="https://omnystudio.com/listener">omnystudio.com/listener</a> for privacy information.</p>

May 31, 2026
Chris Penk: Defence Minister on increasing military spend to align with partners
<p>US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth says New Zealand is "freeloading" from the American military because of our low military spend.</p> <p>The remarks were made at an Asia-Pacific security conference in Singapore, attended by Defence Minister Chris Penk.</p> <p>The New Zealand Government has already announced plans to lift defence spending to around 2% of GDP over coming years — nearly double what we currently spend — but Hegseth says allies should really be aiming closer to 3.5%.</p> <p>That raises some big questions. At a time when New Zealanders are worried about the cost of living, hospitals and public services, why should defence move up the priority list? What are the risks if countries like New Zealand don’t step up militarily?</p> <p>Defence Minister Chris Penk joins Tim Beveridge to discuss.</p> <p><strong>LISTEN ABOVE</strong></p><p>See <a href="https://omnystudio.com/listener">omnystudio.com/listener</a> for privacy information.</p>

May 24, 2026
Cameron Bagrie: Economist says NZ Super reform is crucial but unpopular ahead of budget
<p>Finance Minister Nicola Willis will be presenting the 2026 budget on this coming Thursday. </p> <p>A number of pre-budget announcements have already been made including money directed to maths and literary in schools and maritime security, while social housing and the public sector have faced budget cuts. </p> <p>Founder of Bagrie Economics, Cameron Bagrie, spoke to Tim Beveridge about what he expects and what he thinks should be done. </p> <p>One change Bagrie believes is unpopular but crucial is reforming NZ Super saying 'the current system is unsustainable'.</p> <p><strong>LISTEN ABOVE </strong></p><p>See <a href="https://omnystudio.com/listener">omnystudio.com/listener</a> for privacy information.</p>
816 total episodes available
Recent guests on Politics Central
Guests from recent episodes — sign up to see every guest that has ever appeared on this show.
Jason Walls
Guest
Martin Glynn
Guest
Sandy Lau
Guest
Ruth Money
Guest
Tere Carr
Guest
Geoffrey Miller
Guest
Warwick Bagg
Guest
Helen Clark
Guest
Erica Stanford
Guest
Jordan Williams
Guest
Laura McClure
Guest
Police Minister
Guest
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Frequently asked questions
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- What is Politics Central?
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This podcast updates daily.
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This podcast is available on 10 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
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Yes, this podcast regularly features guests.
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