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The Government is considering its options if petrol prices keep rising, but the head of Freightways is warning people not to panic. The conflict in the Middle East has entered its third week, but the Finance Minister has ruled out measures like reducing the fuel excise. Freightways CEO Mark Troughear says there's plenty of fuel in the country and more on the way - and there's plenty of supply to keep things going.  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The conflict in the Middle East has entered its third week and there's concerns about what it could do to the markets. Iran's still restricting movement through the shipping strategic choke-point as part of its retaliation for the relentless bombing by the US and Israel. Harbour Asset Management expert Shane Solly explained further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tonight on The Huddle, Phil O'Reilly from Iron Duke Partners and Child Fund CEO Josie Pagani joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more!  Protesters gathered outside Wellington's High Court today, as a lawyers' group challenges Government climate moves. Do we think this is an over-reaction? As the crisis in the Middle East continues and concerns about fuel prices mount, Nicola Willis held a 1pm press conference to talk about the Government's plans. What did we make of this?  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Protesters gathered outside Wellington's High Court today, as a lawyers' group challenges the Government's climate moves.  Lawyers for Climate Action alleges the Government's emissions reduction plan doesn't add up - and wants the Court to order it back to the drawing board.  Executive director Jessica Palairet says this is the first case of its kind in New Zealand.  "These kinds of challenges have actually happened all around the world. So in the UK, the Government was challenged two times on its plan and had to go back two times and do a better job."  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Finance Minister says there's no bail-out on the cards for Air Zealand at this stage - as the conflict in the Middle East causes a surge in jet fuel prices. The national carrier has already raised fares, and cancelled about 1100 upcoming flights. Nicola Willis says she thinks there will be some shifts in airline patterns around the world - which will mean jet fuel remains available. "And I think Air New Zealand has every opportunity to compete for customers, we now look like a very safe country compared to a lot of other destinations where people might have wanted to have a tourist experience three weeks ago." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A night of glitz and glam at the 98th Academy Awards in LA . One Battle After Another's taken out Best Picture, pipping horror Sinners for the top prize. It won six awards across the evening.  Director Paul Thomas Anderson says all nominees could have won. People Magazine senior reporter Sean Mandell says it was a close race for the top prize between One Battle After Another and Sinners. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's hopes the war in Iran doesn't reverse gains in our retail sector by making shipping more expensive.  Stats NZ data shows back-to-back increases in electronic card spending for January and February.  Retail NZ chief executive Carolyn Young says it's not happened in a long time.  She says it would be a shame if the conflict dampens the upward trend. "Let's hope it's a short, sharp thing and we can get back to business as usual." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government's yet to make a call on whether New Zealand would ease sanctions on Russian oil, as the Iran war affects shipments. The US has eased some of its sanctions, as its barrage on Iran continues - alongside Israel. Crude oil prices have skyrocketed since Iran stopped ships traversing the Strait of Hormuz. Finance Minister Nicola Wills is urging Kiwis not to panic, as there's plans in place to keep households supported.  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over in Australia, fuel prices have surged, sparking debate over whether fuel needs to be rationed as the Middle East crisis continues. Prime Minister Albanese has reassured consumers that petrol and diesel supplies remain unchanged and there's no need for anyone to engage in panic buying. Australian correspondent Oliver Peterson says farmers are concerned about the fuel shortages ahead of the busy season. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Liam Lawson has claimed seventh in Formula One's Chinese Grand Prix. Starting 14th, he picked up seven places to finish as the best driver in the four-car Red Bull stable. 19-year-old Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli has secured his first race win with teammate George Russell second and Lewis Hamilton third for Ferrari. Sportstalk host Jason Pine recapped the action. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.