The Panel

Computers have cracked what makes a great pop song. After analysing more than half a million songs, an algorithm was able to sort out which were the successful songs with an accuracy of up to 86 percent. Sucessful songs were happier, brighter, more danceable and less sad. We ask the panelists what songs they like and whether they agree with the computer analysis. What the Panelists Ella Henry and Bernard Hickey want to talk about. The Royal Wedding is expected to inject millions of pounds into the British economy but is there as much hype as is being made out in the media? A new poll suggests neither Americans nor Brits are very interested. Also is the Markle family really ruining the wedding, as has been implied? The panelists give their views on the big occasion. Firewood sellers say online opportunists are taking advantage of the firewood demand by selling wet wood on social media. Retailers say buyers then have to buy ready to burn wood from them to replace it. The demand in the South Island is growing as winter approaches. We ask ?? whether wet wood can be burned and what consumers should be checking for. Tensions continue to rise over the Te Mata track at Craggy Range Winery. Iwi were angered when the winery built a track on the side of the maunga and are expressing disappointment about not bein consulted over ongoing developments. Meanwhile the protection of maunga in Auckland has raised the heckles of some locals, a listener angry that cars are no longer allowed to drive up One Tree Hill.

The Bank of England's Deputy Governor has apologised after he described the economy as 'menopausal'. Ben Broadbent's comment provoked anger, with critics arguing the use of the word was sexist and ageist. The government has delivered its first Budget. Political commentator Bryce Edwards joins the panelists to discuss what this means politically, what the reaction will be from the public and the opposition, and whether the government has delivered on its promises.

Your feedback, and a preview of the guests and topics on The Panel. Story of the day today is about the latest aural sensation, the Yanny vs Laural debate.

We find the answers to any queries you can think up. Today we answered Russell's question about the word "earthquake-prone", and Lorraine's query about her transistor radio.

More mums and dads are smoking weed, a new report has found. Cannabis use in parents has risen to 17 percent, the research says.

North Korea has suspended talks with South Korea over military drills the south and the US. North Korea has called the war games a provocation.

In response to a quick question regarding cycle lanes in Papatoetoe, we get feedback from a listener who says the lanes are not being used because people are too fond of their cars in the area.

The Civil Aviation Authority says tourists are the worst offenders when it come to launching drones illegally. So what are they doing about it?

It's been speculated the Meghan Markle's father might not make the royal wedding, with many debating whether he should go at all.

What the Panelists Tim Watkin and Penny Ashton want to talk about.