Nine To Noon

Dan Bloom, political editor at Politico UK, reports from Westminster and beyond. He covers the arrest of a Scottish MP's partner over alleged spying for China. He discusses the political fallout for Keir Starmer, US-UK tensions and pressure, and Britain's military and economic responses. Short, sharp analysis of a developing national security and foreign policy story.

Amo Yiriko, founder and organiser of the Siva Afi Festival and champion of Samoan fire and knife dancing, explains how the event began in 2019 and grew through community workshops. He discusses international competitors, tight funding and last-minute support. He also covers safety-focused training, scheduling around Pasifika, and the festival’s role in youth opportunities and careers.

Jake Lilley, Senior Policy Advisor at FinCAP, explains how buy-now-pay-later traps people with interest-free framing, late fees and limited affordability checks. He discusses why small debts spiral into larger unaffordable debt, gaps in current regulations, and how some withdraw KiwiSaver to cover payments. International moves toward stricter checks are also covered.

Dr Michael Buckley, Wellington GP specialising in ADHD, offers a clinical take on treatment and supply headaches. He talks about unpredictable prescriptions and pharmacy substitutions. He explains how differing tablet strengths and release profiles affect timing and behaviour. He outlines rising demand, manufacturing fragility, and risks of sourcing meds overseas.

It's not the easiest time for some Kiwi businesses right now. So what should you do if you're struggling? And what support is available?

Deep in the heart of Australia's Northern Territory is a small research station, surrounded by an array of seismometers and infrasound sensors. It's there to detect nuclear weapon tests.

Samantha discusses a study of Tasman river catchments aimed at protecting communities in extreme weather, the worries over the crew on the former Interislander, Aratere, which has been in NZ waters for 5 months.

Cynthia Morahan review Seed by Elisabeth Easther, published by Penguin Random house.

When it comes to scattering ashes, funeral director Andrew Malcolm as seen almost everything. But what's legal and culturally appropriate?

Recovering from a violent crime, a stolen baby and a near drowning: Australian journalist Louise Milligan's new novel leaves very few tough topics untouched as it recounts trauma and family secrets.