Politics
Trade Minister McClay responds to Winston Peters on India FTA
Winston Peters has intensified his attack on his own government's Free Trade Agreement with India, claiming that about 20,000 Indians will be able to come into New Zealand under the provisions of the… Audio
Quarter of New Zealanders report little or no trust in police
However, a new poll also shows most people's positions were not rattled by the recent Jevon McSkimming scandals. Audio
MPs told bill assumes 'unfettered political control' can replace schools' expertise
Submissions to Parliament's Education and Workforce Select Committee nearly all spoke against the Education and Training (System Reform) Amendment Bill.
Pushing back on Auckland's housing intensification plans
Ever since the plans for greater housing intensification in Auckland were revealed less that six months ago, there has been outrage. Audio
Polling shows a quarter of Kiwis have no trust in police
A quarter of New Zealanders say they have little or no trust in the police, new polling shows, but most people's positions were not rattled by the Jevon McSkimming scandals. Political reporter Lillian… Audio
Labour's focus for the election year ahead
Willow-Jean Prime makes her first appearance on First Up for the year - she talks education and political polls Audio
Civil Defence payments wanted for storm-hit communities
The payments were activated following flooding in various parts of the country from 2022 to 2024, but are yet to be stood up for this year's weather events.
Peters wrong about India Free Trade Agreement, Luxon says
Winston Peters is concerned the Agreement will put pressure on the labour market.
Adrian Rurawhe delivers his valedictory speech
Speaking off-the-cuff, Rurawhe says one of his biggest honours was to serve as Speaker.
Earnest speeches delay the first politics in Parliament's year
Before the typically combative debate on the Prime Minister's statement, the parliamentary year began on a sombre note, with MPs acknowledging recent weather tragedies.
What voters think about Labour's options after election
Leader Chris Hipkins has so far refused to say which parties Labour would or would not work with in a future government. Audio
Curtains down for Crusher Collins, one of politics' leading players
Analysis: Perhaps now we'll get a Judith Collins' memoir that actually 'Pulls No Punches'.
Well wishes across political spectrum as Collins resigns
"I've seen Judith and I know she's got a great intellect, she's got a great sense of humour, but most important she's cared a lot for our people and our staff," Christopher Luxon says.
Judith Collins announces retirement from politics
Senior Cabinet Minister and National Party stalwart Judith Collins is returning to law after a 24-year career in politics. Ms Collins - one of the more familiar faces in politics - announced her… Audio
Nearly 40% of voters think Treaty has too much sway
Voters also had their say on whether the Prime Minister should be in Waitangi for Waitangi Day commemorations, in the latest RNZ-Reid Research poll.
Fire and Emergency faces tough questions over decision to ground watercraft
Many of the questions directed at FENZ focused on the organisation's banning of all powered watercraft during water emergencies.
Majority agree PM should go to Waitangi
The public has had their say on whether the Prime Minister should be going to Waitangi - with a majority thinking it's important he does. The RNZ-Reid Research Poll asked New Zealanders their thoughts… Audio
Judith Collins retires from politics
First elected in 2002, Collins is one of the most experienced politicians in the government, and is taking up the role of President of the Law Commission.
Midday Report Essentials for Wednesday 28 January 2026
Attorney General and Defence Minister Judith Collins, a former leader of the National Party, will retire from politics and not stand again aver the November election; Judith Collins was first elected… Audio