Nine To Noon Politics RNZ Radio

Neale and Tim join Kathryn for a preview of the Budget - what of the pre-Budget announcements so far, how bad might the state of the nation's books be and what does success look like for Finance Minister Nicola Willis?

Finance Minister Nicola Willis is promising 93% of households will benefit from tax relief in the upcoming Budget, as public agencies are tasked with drastic cost-cutting targets.

Sue Bradford and Liam Hehir discuss the allegations of inappropriate behaviour surfacing against Green MP Julie Anne Genter, following her outburst in the House - and the party's response. And the still unresolved question of New Zealand's participation in AUKUS Pillar Two. Sue Bradford is a community-based activist and former Green MP. Liam Hehir is a Palmerston North lawyer, political commentator and a National Party member.

Dale Husband is a long time broadcaster and Radio Waatea presenter hosting a Maori focused current affairs programme. Liam Hehir is a Palmerston North lawyer, political commentator and a National Party member.

The axe continues to fall over public service jobs as the Budget looms - can the cuts deliver the savings sought? Meanwhile Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announces his top priorities for the coming months. Gareth Hughes is a former Green MP and now works for the Wellbeing Economy Alliance Aotearoa. Tim Hurdle is a former National senior adviser, was the National Party Campaign Director in 2020. He is a director of several companies, including Museum Street Strategies, a public affairs firm.

Neale Jones and Tim Hurdle discuss the continued scrutiny on the Government's finances, as more jobs are cut from the public sector.