Nine To Noon

Shara Turner, author of IHC’s 'From Data to Dignity' report and disability analyst, outlines stark inequalities for people with intellectual disability in Aotearoa. She highlights shocking life expectancy and health gaps. She describes rising school suspensions, barriers to employment, higher victimisation and missing data that hides lived experience.

John Hellstrom, retired veterinarian and former chair of the National Animal Welfare Advisory, led a 57,000-signature push against resuming live animal exports. He recounts how the petition shifted political support and describes attempts to define a supposed "gold standard." He also highlights poor record-keeping, problematic trial voyages, and why viable export markets may no longer exist.

Sam Ackerman, sports commentator and journalist covering NZ sport. He talks about the Black Caps bouncing back after the T20 final loss. He covers Kane Williamson’s protective cricket box venture. He explains Ryan Fox’s withdrawal due to surgery. He previews a pivotal Super Rugby clash and discusses coaching links around the All Blacks and World Cup uncertainty for Iran.

Irene Pink, panel commentator known for comic cultural takes, and Pinky Agnew, writer and comedian with sharp local humour, trade playful banter. They spin childhood mishaps, a bogan wedding tale, inventive appliance-music stories and a spirited debate about AI-made art. Light-hearted, quirky and full of local colour.

Robin Martin, RNZ reporter in Taranaki who covers local stories and regional developments. He discusses WOMAD Aotearoa's planned return in 2027. He explains regional airlink cuts and travel frustrations. He outlines the unusual job-share where the regional CE is also interim New Plymouth CE and the resulting amalgamation tensions. He also notes hospital cats being restricted and a tourism boost from new hotel owners.

A review explores a novel set in Pakistan across the 1980s–2000s, highlighting political turmoil and shifting social norms. Family control, enforced marriages and violence shape one woman's early life. Her escape to the city, education and media influence ignite new ambitions. The narrative features a fast, edgy first-person voice and strong female characters.

Deborah Challinor, best-selling historical fiction author and historian, shares her research-driven approach to storytelling. She talks about historical language and swearing, dressing in crinoline to experience the past, and the novel's themes of motherhood, baby farming and women's struggle for independence. She also discusses body snatching, colonial exploitation and why she includes detailed author notes.

Ed White, Asia correspondent for the Financial Times based in Shanghai, gives a concise picture of regional reactions. He discusses China’s careful diplomatic balancing and energy stockpile moves. He covers coordinated emergency measures in Northeast Asia. He sketches India’s pragmatic stance and the economic pressures rippling through Southeast Asia.

Nick Atkinson, saxophonist from Supergroove turned boat-restorer, shares lively stories from classic yacht voyages and seasons in South Georgia. He talks about performing from a boat, restoring his 1935 mullet boat Melita, and the communal skills and culture behind wooden-boat revival. He also highlights racing roots and inclusive restoration efforts.

Lise Doucette, BBC chief international correspondent who reports from conflict zones, gives on-the-ground analysis. She breaks down the significance of the new supreme leader's statement and who really holds power in Tehran. She explains Iran's turn to asymmetric and economic warfare, the threats to the Strait of Hormuz, and the regional collateral damage.