The Panel

The Pre-Panel for 5 March 2026

Wallace Chapman and producer José Barbosa preview tonight's instalment of The Panel.

Photo: RNZ / Jeff McEwan

The Panel with Deborah Hart and Steve McCabe, Part 1
 
Tonight, on The Panel, Wallace Chapman is joined by panellists Deborah Hart and Steve McCabe.
 
First up, a bombshell poll has put National at it's lowest point since the Judith Collins era, sinking to 28.4%. Labour is 6 points ahead. Political analyst Bryce Edwards breaks down the numbers.

Then, clean car standards which penalise importers for bringing in high-emitting cars could be on their way out. What could that mean for the cars New Zealand ends up with? Drive Electric chair Kirsten Corson joins the show.

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The Panel with Deborah Hart and Steve McCabe, Part 2
 
In part two, a lack of carparks in new townhouse developments in Auckland is causing frustration and chaos for some residents. Elaman Property is a developer that aims to include at least one carpark in every unit - director Ido Drent shares why.

Then, a Dunedin teacher is retiring after an exceptional 45 years of service. Judy Hawker tells the panel what she's in it for, and why hands-on activities like cooking and gardening are so important for learning.

Photo: Pat Shepherd - One Percent Collective / Facebook