Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

There's renewed pressure on the Government to get the ball rolling on a social media ban for Kiwi teens. Last year, Australia banned social media for under-16s and it's inspired other countries to consider implementing similar measures. Triple P NZ manager Jackie Riach says it's too early to see the full impact of Australia's ban, but parents are reporting positive results so far. "The ban is one...

Over in the UK, a measles outbreak is impacting school-aged children and authorities are warning people to stay safe. Families are being warned to ensure their children are up to date with their immunisations in order to avoid serious health complications. UK correspondent Gavin Grey says doctors have warned people that the outbreak could worsen if proper measures aren't taken. LISTEN ABOVE See om...

US headline inflation rose by 0.2 per cent month on month and 2.4 per cent year on year - slightly lower than expected. Experts say this is a positive step forward for the US financial markets. Harbour Asset Management expert Shane Solly explained further. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New housing data shows the market hasn't quite matched the mood of the economy as of yet. The Real Estate Institute of New Zealand says housing sales are down 5.4 percent from January last year. Prices were also softer, with REINZ's House Price Index dropping 0.6 percent compared to December.  Property Investors Federation expert Matt Ball says it looks like the housing market will stay flat...

Tonight on The Huddle, Trish Sherson from Sherson Willis PR and broadcaster Mark Sainsbury joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more!  New Zealand is set to host its first State of Origin match at Eden Park next year. Do we think this is good news? What does this development mean for Auckland?  The FTA with India has sparked debate and discussion, with La...

On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Monday, 16 February, 2026, we dig into the $34 billion we're required to invest in India as part of the free trade deal. Former Warriors hardman Kevin Campion tells us why Australians are happy Eden Park will host a State of Origin match. The president of the Otago University Students Association explains the difference between Flo-week a...

Given how much of a tease we've had about the Eden Park news today, it's completely understandable if the excitement levels aren't where they should be.  But let's be clear - this is really big news on two fronts. The first, obviously, is the State of Origin game. This is the first time since 1987 that the Aussies have allowed a State of Origin match out of the country, and the first time eve...

Labour has raised some concerns over the FTA with India, but Finance Minister Nicola Willis is pushing back. The opposition says they want the un-redacted advice about the deal and greater protection for migrant workers.  Nicola Willis says there's strong aspirations in the agreement to promote investment. "What it's saying is - let's both agree to promote significant levels of investment in...

There's excitement among Auckland sports fans as New Zealand is set to host a State of Origin game. After more than a decade of speculation, it's been confirmed the country's first Origin fixture will be held here next year at Eden Park. Former Warrior Kevin Campion says this is great news - and it's an announcement that's long overdue. "The Origin is an Australian part of our game and if they get...

More evidence of an improving economy, based on the amount of freight hitting our roads. Freight company Freightways is reporting a 17 percent rise in half-year profit. Chief executive Mark Troughear says they're starting to see optimism return, slowly and steadily. "It's a good result, and that's a bit of market share gains - Australia is going really well for us. But in New Zealand, you're just...

A student representative says Otago University is being proactive around student safety during orientation week. A jam-packed calendar events kicks off in Dunedin today - including the famous toga party, DJs, movie nights, and an international food festival.  Students' Association President, Daniel Leamy, says students should have fun in a safe way - and with so many people out and about, loo...

Labour's issued a list of demands for the Government before it will sign up to the Free Trade Agreement with India. Chris Hipkins says the FTA needs stronger safeguards against exploiting migrants. He wants the full official advice on the deal released to Labour. He says the Party's particularly concerned around the expectation Kiwi businesses will invest $33 billion in India over 15 years. "I thi...

Auckland's Eden Park stadium's been picked as the host for New Zealand's first ever State of Origin game. The Government's also announced new rules kicking in from April, allowing night-time sport on any day, as long as games wrap up by 10.30pm. The new rules will also boost the number of concerts allowed without the need for resource consent - up from 12 to 32. Newstalk ZB senior political corres...

Over in Australia, protest laws could be in for a significant overhaul. Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s visit to Sydney last week inspired protests, which led to people getting into public altercations with police. Australian correspondent Oliver Peterson says police could get more powers over whether certain events go ahead - but this has inspired concerns from some. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio....

The New Zealand SailGP team have broken their silence on the crash that broke grinder Louis Sinclair's legs. Sinclair is in hospital, recovering from the horror smash with the French syndicate. Sportstalk host Jason Pine weighed in on the safety debate. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Airbnb rates in Christchurch have fallen for the first time in five years, as hosts flood the market before the new stadium opens. The Press reports average short-term rental income dropped to $105 a night last year - down $2 annually. Construction market analyst Mike Blackburn says multi-unit builds are dominating the city, with some apartments just 39 square metres with no carpark. "These are un...

Listen to the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Friday 13 February. Get the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast every weekday evening on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Immigration Minister Erica Stanford joins Heather to discuss the Golden Visa update. 573 applications have been received since changes were made to the Active Investor Plus visa in April. LISTEN ABOVE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sail GP is hitting Auckland this weekend. A thunderstorm has forced changes to the racing schedule. Co-CEO and Wing Trimmer of the Black Foils Blair TukejoinsHeather to discuss. LISTEN ABOVE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Australian Liberals have ousted leader Sussan Levy. Angus Taylor has been voted in with a 34 to 17 vote. Taylor had announced he would challenge her for leadership of the opposition on Wednesday, ending months of speculation. Nine News Chief political editor Charles Croucher joins Heather to discuss. LISTEN ABOVE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a major bust in pokie fraud, 23 people face more than 500 charges accused of obtaining millions of dollars in grants. A Department of Internal Affairs probe found six charities and incorporated societies obtained $3.2 million for personal gain. Gaming Machine Association of New Zealand spokesperson Peter Dengate-Thrush joins Heather to discuss. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for priva...

An investment company boss predicts New Zealanders will have to work into their 70’s for the country to afford superannuation. Milford's Blair Turnbull says it's inevitable the age for super will rise - and be means tested. Koura Wealth Managing Director Rupert Carlyon joins Heather to discuss whether it should be government or personal responsibility to make sure you have enough for retirement. L...

Minister Karen Chhour has confirmed she’s asked officials for a formal explanation over cultural leave being offered to Māori public servants. Senior political correspondentBarry Soper joins Heather todiscuss. Plus, it's been revealed Winston Peters did not ask for advice surrounding the new Reserve Bank Governor involving herself in US politics, despite suggesting she ask for advice. LISTEN ABOVE...

A trial date has been set for Donald Trump’s multi-billion-dollar lawsuit against the BBC. The date comes after a Florida judge rejected the BBC’s application to delay the process of discovery in the case. Trump is suing the BBC for defamation. Plus, the Trump administration has erased the government’s power to fight climate change. And, multiple gloves have been discovered in the disappearance of...

Sail GP returns to Auckland’s harbours this weekend. Jason Pine joins Heather to discuss whether the Black Foils will make it onto the water. Plus, should any upsets be expected in Super Rugby Round One? LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.