Author Simon Garfield's latest book, Dog's Best Friend, draws upon history, science art and the writer's own personal experiences with his black Labrador retriever Ludo, to dissect the enduring relationship between humans and dogs.

Astronomer Seth Shostak made a daring bet in his 2012 TED Talk: We'll find extraterrestrial life by 2036 or he'll buy you a cup of coffee. Nine years on, Shostak remains convinced that it's a matter of time before the bet gets called off.

For whom the bell trolls - cyclists; the NIMBY photo formula; Aussie China crisis report falls flat.

Joining us on the Panel this morning are Josie Pagani and Louis Houlbrooke. Among other topics, they'll be looking at Jake Bezzant and his purported behaviour online and Naomi Osaka's pullout from the French Tennis Open.

It's an end of an era in Oturehua this week as motorcycle enthusiasts gather for the 40th and final Brass Monkey rally. Radio NZ Board of Governors member Mike O'Donnell is attending his 24th Brass Monkey rally this year.

Research out of Coventry University shows that regularly soaking in a hot tub - or sitting in a sauna - can mimic many of the health benefits of exercise. PhD candidate Charles Steward is with us to discuss how hot baths can mimic exercise.

Wellington-born, Oamaru-raised Ireland rugby international Sene Naoupu is one of the most prolific and remarkable figures in the oval ball world. She's Calling Home from Dublin this morning.

Chris and Anne-Marie Allen have owned Anna Dale Farm for nearly 30 years. It's a 300-hectare farm at Ashburton Forks and was severely damaged by flood waters over the last week. Anne-Marie joins the show to discuss the damage.

While the world continues to struggle to contain Covid-19, scientists are warning of another coronavirus pandemic on the horizon -- one which is likely to come from a yeast-like fungus. Dr Tom Chiller joins the show to discuss.

A new documentary, Heaven and Hell - The Centrepoint Story - airs tonight. It's a gruelling but powerful watch - mainly from the perspective of some of the former children of the commune, including Christchurch GP Dr Caroline Ansley.