The Radical Middle Awaits in New Zealand's Political Debate Odyssey: Jack Tame, Moana Maniapoto and Damien Grant

The Working Group - NZ’s Best Weekly Political Podcast

New Zealand's political arena is more like a gladiator pit than a parliament, and we've got front-row seats to the latest skirmishes. My guests, Q+As Jack Tame, the ever-incisive Moana Maniapoto and the acerbically witty Damien Grant, join me to unpack the government's controversial plays. From the resurrection of high-octane firearms to the socio-economic chess game of tobacco taxation, we don't just throw punches – we analyze the impact of each policy swing. And when it comes to Winston Peters' media conspiracy theories, we're calling bluffs and taking names. But it's not all policy warfare; the home front is just as heated. As we navigate the housing crisis and pet bond propositions, we question the implications for Kiwi renters and homeowners alike. The appointment of Judith Collins draws scepticism and sparks debate, with the undercurrents of state-funded media and representation for Māori adding fuel to the fire. These conversations push us into the radical middle, where government intervention and free speech principles duel for dominance. We round out our session with a look ahead – and it's a horizon brimming with change. Public broadcasting's lifeline amidst a brutal advertising landscape, political shake-ups hinting at a Labour Party reshuffle, and the U.S. presidential race's potential for fresh faces all come under our microscope. And as we cast an international eye to Israel's strife, we find narratives of hope and resilience. This episode isn't just another political commentary; it's a call to engage, reflect, and challenge the status quo. So buckle up for a ride through the tumultuous yet hopeful terrain of New Zealand's political and social landscape.

It’s Politics done unlike anywhere else.

The podcast broadcasts from our purpose built studio bunker ADJACENT to Mediaworks studios on YouTube & The Daily Blog and posted up afterwards on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Rova & YouTube

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1. The Radical Middle Awaits in New Zealand's Political Debate Odyssey: Jack Tame, Moana Maniapoto and Damien Grant (00:00:00)

2. The week in one word (00:00:42)

3. Controversies Surrounding Politics and Media (00:14:02)

4. Child Care Oversight and Drug Policy (00:22:53)

5. Challenges of Free Speech and Media (00:34:01)

6. Challenges of Free Speech and Media (00:39:37)

7. Political Predictions and Israel's Escalation (00:50:13)