Focus on Politics

Fuel crisis forces rationing plan revisions - just in case

The fuel crisis has forced responses from the government on supply and cost, but the problem must be handled with care - and perceptions of a lack of support could see National's own support suffer. Labour is refusing to help by offering solutions, a strategy that may backfire. Political Reporter Russell Palmer gauges the parties' handling of a hot-button issue. Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Fuel fears rise as government shifts tone

The coalition is urging calm in face of the war in the Middle East, insisting New Zealand has ample fuel supplies, while quietly exploring targeted cost-of-living relief. But as the price at the pump climbs, so too are the political stakes. RNZ deputy political editor Craig McCulloch breaks down the government's response in this week's Focus on Politics. Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Peeni Henare farewells Parliament after 12 years

Former Labour MP Peeni Henare has called time on his 12 year career in Parliament. He sits down with political reporter Lillian Hanly to discuss his resignation, and the balancing act of "being Māori" and "being a politician." Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Prime Minister flubs his lines as Iran conflict reignites

As the government "acknowledges" the US-Israeli strikes on Iran, opposition parties are questioning their legality. Political reporter Giles Dexter looks at the response to the latest conflict, and the Prime Minister's struggle to articulate the government's position.Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Move-on powers move safety nets into the spotlight

Police will be able to tell rough sleepers and 'disorderly' people to move on, with the government announcing new powers and penalties. But move on to where? Political reporter Giles Dexter looks at how these powers would work in practice, whether the government has adequately resourced the safety nets, and what a 'reasonable distance' looks like.Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details