Both Sides Now

Definition of a woman, Labour has some new policies and scrutiny week 20.06.2026 45min

This week on the podcast, we begin by discussing our episode with Q Opportunity Party leader. We then unpacked the government's proposed Definition of a Woman Bill and looked at the legal, political, and social debates surrounding it. We discussed what the bill would actually do, why it has generated so much attention, and whether it has any realistic chance of becoming law.We also took a look at Scrutiny Week in Parliament — one of the few times MPs get the opportunity to put ministers under sustained questioning about their performance, spending decisions, and policy outcomes. We discussed some of the standout moments and what they tell us about the government's priorities.On the opposition benches, Labour has been rolling out some new policy ideas. While the party is clearly beginning to position itself for the next election, not everyone on the podcast was convinced. Eve gave her verdict on the latest announcements and explained why she thinks some of Labour's proposals miss the mark.And of course, we wrapped up with our Social Media Moment of the Week, highlighting the post, clip, or political online drama that had everyone talking. See it here: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1DmJXMCBQb/?mibextid=wwXIfr Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Opportunity party leader Qiulae Wong on the new Opportunity Party, left v right divide and Mt Albert campaign 13.06.2026 51min

She's the woman hoping to pull off one of the biggest upsets in New Zealand's MMP history. Qiulae Wong — known as 'Q' — is the new leader of the Opportunity Party, and she joins us on Both Sides Now to talk about what needs to change in NZ politics, why the left-right divide is holding the country back, and her mission to get Opportunity into Parliament for the very first time.We talk about her career in sustainable business — from working with global brands overseas to consulting at KPMG — and how that shaped her political vision. She opens up about how becoming a mum inspired her to step into politics, what it's like running as a two-tick candidate in Mt Albert, and why she believes New Zealand is finally ready for something different. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stalking, climate change litigation and do polls really matter? 06.06.2026 50min

In this weeks episode we examine the Government's new stalking legislation, which will create a standalone stalking offence for the first time in New Zealand. We discuss why existing laws have often failed to adequately capture patterns of obsessive and threatening behaviour, what conduct the new offence will cover, and whether the proposed penalties and protections strike the right balance.We then turn to the Supreme Court's landmark decision in Smith v Fonterra. We break down what the Court actually decided, why the case is being viewed as a significant development in climate change litigation, and the implications of allowing novel climate-related claims to proceed through the courts. We also discuss the Government's response, including its decision to introduce legislation aimed at limiting or overturning the effect of the ruling, and the political debate that has followed. Alongside this, we unpack the lobbying controversy that has emerged around the proposed law change and what it reveals about the influence of interest groups on the policymaking process.Finally, we dive into the world of political polling. Polls can dominate headlines and shape political narratives, but what do they really tell us? We explore how polls are conducted, why different polls can produce different results, and whether polls merely reflect public opinion or actively influence voter behaviour. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Budget breakdown - what is it, why is it important and what's in it for you 30.05.2026 53min

It's Budget week, which means we've dedicated this episode to breaking down the Government's biggest announcement of the year.We talk through what the Budget actually is, why politicians and the media obsess over it every May, and what this year's decisions tell us about the Government's priorities. We look at the key spending announcements, where the money is going, and who stands to benefit.Of course, every Budget creates winners and losers, so we discuss who came out ahead, who missed out, and some of the criticisms already being levelled at the Government's choices.We also look beyond the Government benches and discuss how other parties might respond. What policies could Labour, the Greens, ACT and New Zealand First put forward as alternatives? And what does this Budget tell us about the political debates we'll be having over the next year?If you've seen the headlines but want to understand what it all actually means, this episode is for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Breakdown of Nicole McKee, changes to family carers law, public service cuts and more! 23.05.2026 56min

This week on the podcast, politics delivered another packed agenda and we covered it all — from our interview with Nicole McKee and what she had to say about ACT’s priorities in Government, through to the latest debates dominating Wellington.We unpacked the Government’s proposed changes to the family carers legislation and the difficult balancing act between recognising carers, managing costs, and ensuring support systems are sustainable. We also discussed the latest wave of public sector cuts, what they mean in practice, and whether the Government's made the right call. We also took a closer look at the ongoing debate around Treaty clauses in legislation, including the decision to remove or narrow references across a range of laws and why this issue continues to generate such strong political and public reaction.Plus, we chat about Christopher Luxon’s speech to BusinessNZ and what it shows about his approach to the rest of the year. A big week, plenty of debate, and lots to unpack. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hon Nicole McKee on firearms, family and her political career 16.05.2026 45min

In this episode, we sit down with Hon Nicole McKee to discuss the issues that have defined both her political career and her personal journey. From firearm reform and the aftermath of the Christchurch mosque attacks, to the realities of being a Māori woman in politics, Nicole shares candid insights into some of New Zealand’s most debated topics.We talk about why firearms matter to many New Zealanders, what the public often misunderstands about gun ownership, and whether the country’s firearm reforms have achieved what they set out to do. Nicole also reflects on her path from the Council of Licensed Firearms Owners to Parliament, and the challenges that came with stepping into the political spotlight.Beyond policy, this conversation explores identity, resilience, and family. Nicole shares how raising four children has shaped her approach to leadership and public service. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fees free, breakdown of Desley Simpson, grievance driven politics and birth rates 09.05.2026 49min

This week on the podcast, we covered a LOT — from the government’s surprise Fees Free announcement hot off the press, a breakdown of our episode with Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson and what the UK local council elections might signal globally as Reform makes major gains.We unpacked the new Helen Clark Foundation social cohesion report, including the striking finding that 28% of people feel alienated from society, and explored the growing divide between the “connected”, the “ambivalent”, and the “alienated”. We also looked across the Tasman at the rise of One Nation in Australia and the broader trend of grievance-driven politics and polarisation.We also touched on the scrapping of the Broadcasting Standards Authority and the resignation of Maiki Sherman. And finally, we had an honest discussion about why so many young women are hesitant about having children. Policies like paid parental leave and subsidised childcare matter, but they only scratch the surface. The mental load, career impacts, financial pressure, and expectations placed on women all shape decisions around family — at a time when birth rates continue to fall well below replacement level. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson on Leadership, Local Government, and Auckland’s Future 02.05.2026 50min

In this episode, we sit down with Deputy Mayor of Auckland Desley Simpson to unpack the realities of local government, leadership during crisis, and why local politics deserves far more attention especially from young people.A key theme throughout the conversation is the disconnect between people and local government. While councils shape everyday life from transport to infrastructure many voters remain disengaged. Simpson shares her thoughts on why voter turnout in local body elections is so low, and what needs to change to make people genuinely care about participating. We also dive into leadership under pressure. Auckland has faced multiple crises in recent years, and Desley reflects on what it takes to step up and lead in these situations. Throughout the episode, she shares how the role has reshaped her own perspectives, offering insights into the realities of governance that many people don’t see.We also look a what motivated her to step into local government and explore the political philosophy that shapes her decision-making and leadership style.Finally, we look ahead: with growing skepticism toward government at all levels, what does the future of local government look like and how can it rebuild trust? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Breakdown of Wayne Eagleson, Tova v the PM, FTAs and Shane Jones 25.04.2026 37min

Big episode this week. We unpack the Wayne Eagleson interview and what it reveals behind the scenes, then dive into the leadership confidence vote and what it signals for the party moving forward. We also break down Christopher Luxon’s call to pull out of his scheduled interviews with Tova O'Brien and what that says about his media strategy. On the policy front, we get into the India FTA — what’s actually on the table and why it matters — before wrapping with Shane Jones making headlines (again) for two comments that have people talking for all the wrong reasons. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Chief of Staff Wayne Eagleson on the machinery of government, being a political staffer and what makes a great PM 18.04.2026 44min

In this episode, we're joined by former Chief of Staff to the Prime Minister, Wayne Eagleson, for a behind-the-scenes look at how government really works.We get into his career at the centre of power, what separates good PMs from great ones, and the real role political staffers play (beyond the headlines). Wayne shares how decisions get made under pressure, what loyalty and judgment look like in practice, and why the “machinery of government” is more complex — and more human — than most people think.If you’re interested in politics, leadership, or how influence actually works behind closed doors, this one’s worth your time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Breakdown of Barbara Edmonds Episode, public sector grad roles, Eve has watched Prime Minister and the cabinet reshuffle 11.04.2026 47min

We unpack our takeaways from Barbara Edmonds’ latest interview, dive into the growing fuel crisis, and talk about the tough reality facing grads with fewer public sector roles available.Plus, Eve shares her thoughts after watching Prime Minister, and we break down the recent cabinet reshuffle — were the right calls made?Tune in for sharp insights and real talk on the issues shaping Aotearoa right now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hon Barbara Edmonds on family, election promises and working for National 28.03.2026 46min

We are so excited for you to hear this one, we chat with Barb for a refreshingly honest conversation about life inside and outside Parliament. She opens up about raising a big family, her time working for National, and why community has always been at the centre of everything she does.She shares why she's not making big promises about “fixing the economy” this election, what she thinks voters actually want to hear, and the kind of Finance Minister she hopes to be. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Breakdown of Nicola Willis' interview, petrol prices, COVID-19 Royal Commission and a super rugby update 21.03.2026 51min

We begin by reviewing our interview with Nicola Willis. We unpack the growing conflict involving the US, Israel and Iran, and how it’s starting to ripple into everyday life here — particularly through oil prices, petrol costs, and the wider cost of living in Aotearoa.On the domestic front, we go through the newly released Royal Commission COVID-19 Lessons Learned Phase 2 report. We also touch on the latest developments surrounding Chris Hipkins and of course give a super rugby update. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hon Nicola Willis on Pay Equity, Mum guilt and how her leadership style compares with Jacinda Ardern 14.03.2026 58min

Finance Minister Nicola Willis joins the podcast for a candid conversation about the pressures and priorities of political leadership. From the debate around pay equity to the reality of mum guilt while holding one of the country’s most demanding jobs, Nicola shares how she navigates family, finance, and public scrutiny.She also reveals the policy she believes every politician should be talking about this year and reflects on how her leadership style compares with Jacinda Ardern’s. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2026 Preview and Predictions 08.03.2026 40min

We are back and Eve is joined by a new co-host, Alex Martin.In this first episode, we share our predictions for the political year ahead and talk through stories and issues we think will shape the months to come. We also outline what we’re planning for the podcast this season and the kinds of conversations we want to have along the way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former White House Deputy Chief of Staff Chris Liddell Speed Round 24.04.2024 3min

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Former White House Deputy Chief of Staff Chris Liddell on his time working for Donald Trump, American politics and his work to help New Zealand 24.04.2024 58min

This was an epic chat with the kiwi who spent 4 years having daily meetings with the most powerful man in the world. He chats about his time in the White House, politics in the United States and how he's helping to shape the future of New Zealand. Chris has done very little media in New Zealand so don't miss the chance to hear directly from someone who was once the most influential kiwi in the world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Meager MP Speed Round 06.03.2024 2min

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New MP James Meager on his proudest achievement, his future goals in politics and his Maiden Speech 04.03.2024 51min

This was an epic chat with new MP James Meager where we chatted about everything from climate change, to the treaty, to what his proudest achievements are outside of politics and the impact his new career will have on his personal life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eve and Finn share their thoughts on the campaign 05.10.2023 21min

Catch Eve and Finn sharing how they think the campaign has gone and what we can expect in the coming weeks! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.