Waatea News: Māori Radio Station

A new health report has highlighted increasing pressure on healthcare services in Te Kūiti, warning that growing demand, workforce shortages and barriers to accessing care are placing significant strain on one of the central North Island’s key rural health hubs.

The findings are contained in the Te Kūiti Hauora Report, released by Te Tiratū Iwi Māori Partnership Board, which examines the health needs of the region and identifies priorities for improving outcomes for whānau across the wider district.

Speaking to Waatea, Te Nehenehenui Chief Executive and Te Tiratū Board member Sam Mikaere will discuss why the report was commissioned and what it reveals about the challenges facing rural healthcare.

The report identifies Te Kūiti as more than a small rural town, describing it as a critical healthcare hub supporting communities across the wider Waitomo and Maniapoto rohe. That role has placed increasing pressure on local general practices, community health providers and hospital services as demand continues to grow.

Among the issues highlighted are limited access to GPs, ongoing health workforce shortages, transport difficulties for rural residents and the rising cost of healthcare, all of which can make it harder for whānau to receive timely treatment.

For many people living in rural communities, travelling long distances for appointments or specialist care adds further challenges, particularly for kaumātua, people with disabilities and families already experiencing financial hardship.

The report also points to the need for stronger investment in rural health infrastructure and workforce development to ensure services can meet future demand while improving health equity for Māori and other rural communities.

The interview will explore what practical changes could have the greatest impact, including expanding access to primary healthcare, strengthening local services and improving transport options for patients.

Ngāti Maniapoto is expected to play a central role in shaping future solutions, with the report emphasising the importance of Māori-led approaches, local partnerships and community-driven planning to improve long-term health outcomes.

As rural health continues to emerge as a significant national issue, the Te Kūiti Hauora Report adds to growing calls for sustained investment that recognises the unique challenges faced by communities outside New Zealand’s main urban centres.

#TeKūiti #Hauora #RuralHealth #NgātiManiapoto #TeNehenehenui #MāoriHealth #HealthEquity #PrimaryCare #GPAccess #RuralCommunities #Aotearoa #RadioWaatea #WaateaNews

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Green Party candidate and Te Tiriti advocate Tania Waikato is set to discuss the changing face of political campaigning, the power of social media and the challenges of navigating online political attacks in an upcoming interview with Waatea.

A lawyer and former legal adviser to Te Pāti Māori, Waikato has become widely recognised for her advocacy on Te Tiriti o Waitangi and for establishing the Rārangi Rangatira, a public list recognising schools committed to giving practical effect to Te Tiriti principles.

Her online presence has attracted significant attention, with digital campaigns combining educational content, humour and commentary on contemporary political issues. The interview will explore how social media has become an increasingly important tool for engaging audiences and encouraging civic participation.

A key focus will be the role authenticity plays in modern political communication, particularly among Māori audiences. Waikato has frequently used humour and popular culture to discuss complex constitutional and political issues, reflecting a broader trend toward more conversational and accessible online engagement.

The discussion will also examine how public figures can respond to coordinated online criticism. Waikato recently drew national attention after turning criticism directed at her on social media into a fundraising campaign by producing merchandise inspired by the online attacks.

The interview will explore what lessons other candidates, campaigners and community advocates can learn about responding constructively to online harassment while maintaining focus on their kaupapa.

Another topic will be the political communication technique commonly referred to as the “dead cat strategy.” The phrase describes a tactic where attention is deliberately redirected toward a provocative or controversial issue, shifting public debate away from more substantive policy discussions.

The conversation will examine how voters can recognise when political controversies may be serving as distractions from broader issues such as housing, health, education or the economy, particularly during an election campaign.

Waikato will also reflect on whether she believes elements of the criticism directed at her fit that description, and how political discourse can remain focused on meaningful debate rather than personal attacks.

With social media continuing to reshape election campaigns, the interview highlights the growing influence of digital platforms in informing public debate, mobilising supporters and shaping political narratives in the lead-up to the 2026 General Election.

#Election2026 #TaniaWaikato #GreenParty #TeTiriti #DigitalCampaigning #SocialMedia #Politics #Māori #Advocacy #Democracy #RārangiRangatira #Aotearoa #RadioWaatea #WaateaNews

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Concerns are mounting that proposed move-on powers for Police could be driving rough sleepers out of central Auckland before the legislation has even been passed, with frontline organisations warning the policy risks displacing vulnerable people rather than addressing the causes of homelessness.

The issue will be explored in an interview with Lifewise Chief Executive Pam Elgar, who says outreach teams are witnessing changes in where people are sleeping and increasing anxiety among those experiencing homelessness.

The Government’s proposed move-on orders would give Police greater authority to direct people to leave public spaces in certain circumstances. Supporters say the measures are intended to improve public safety and respond to concerns from businesses and the wider community about anti-social behaviour.

However, homelessness advocates argue the proposals could simply shift rough sleepers from one location to another without providing the housing and support services needed to help people permanently leave homelessness.

Lifewise says there are indications some people are already moving away from Auckland’s central city, fearing they may face increased enforcement if the legislation is enacted.

The organisation is concerned that displacement could make it more difficult for outreach workers to maintain contact with vulnerable people, many of whom rely on established relationships with health providers, social workers and support agencies based in the CBD.

The interview will explore what Lifewise is seeing on the ground, including the concerns being expressed by people experiencing homelessness and the practical challenges created when rough sleepers become harder to locate.

The discussion will also examine the broader impacts on communities if homelessness is simply redistributed into surrounding suburbs rather than addressed through long-term housing solutions.

Lifewise argues that stable housing, mental health support, addiction services and coordinated social services remain essential to reducing homelessness, rather than relying solely on enforcement measures.

The organisation is expected to call for greater collaboration between central government, local authorities, community organisations and housing providers to tackle the structural issues contributing to homelessness, including housing affordability, income insecurity and access to support services.

As debate over the proposed legislation continues, the discussion highlights the wider question of whether public policy should focus primarily on managing visible homelessness or investing in the long-term solutions needed to prevent it.

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New Zealand First leader and Minister of Foreign Affairs Winston Peters is expected to outline the party’s vision for New Zealand’s place in an increasingly uncertain world as the election campaign gathers momentum.

The discussion follows Peters’ recent diplomatic mission to Singapore and Japan, where he met political and business leaders to strengthen New Zealand’s relationships with two of its most important partners in the Asia-Pacific region.

In an interview with Waatea, Peters will discuss the outcomes of the visit and the role international partnerships play in supporting New Zealand’s trade, economic resilience and regional security.

Singapore and Japan remain key strategic partners for New Zealand, with strong ties across trade, investment, defence cooperation and regional diplomacy. The conversations come at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions, evolving security challenges and continued uncertainty in the global economy.

The interview will also examine New Zealand’s position in an increasingly complex international environment, including how the country balances its longstanding partnerships while maintaining an independent foreign policy.

Closer to home, the conversation will turn to the issues dominating the election campaign, including the cost of living, economic growth, employment and opportunities for New Zealand families.

New Zealand First is expected to outline the policies it believes distinguish the party from both its coalition partners and the opposition, while highlighting its priorities for economic development, regional investment and national sovereignty.

The discussion will also explore what success would look like for the party at the upcoming General Election and the role Peters sees New Zealand First playing in shaping the country’s direction over the next parliamentary term.

As campaigning intensifies, the interview offers voters an opportunity to hear how the party intends to combine its focus on international engagement with domestic priorities affecting households and communities across Aotearoa.

With foreign affairs, economic resilience and national security becoming increasingly interconnected, New Zealand First is positioning its experience in government as part of its case for continued representation in Parliament.

#Election2026 #NewZealandFirst #WinstonPeters #ForeignAffairs #Singapore #Japan #Politics #Economy #CostOfLiving #Trade #Geopolitics #Aotearoa #RadioWaatea #WaateaNews

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Kaipātiki Hot Springs is preparing to enter a new chapter with the launch of the Kaipātiki Ora wellness redevelopment, a project designed to transform the historic destination into a modern wellness and recreation hub while creating new opportunities for the surrounding community.

The vision for the redevelopment will be discussed by Te Poari o Kaipātiki Chairperson Mihi Blair, who says the investment is about much more than upgrading facilities—it is about creating a long-term asset that supports the wellbeing of whānau, strengthens the local economy and celebrates the unique natural resources of the area.

The project aims to build on Kaipātiki Hot Springs’ longstanding reputation as a destination for relaxation and healing by expanding the visitor experience with enhanced wellness facilities and contemporary amenities.

A key component of the redevelopment is a partnership with Belgravia Leisure, which will help manage and deliver the new wellness offering while supporting the long-term operation of the facility.

The collaboration is expected to combine international expertise in leisure and aquatic management with the aspirations of Te Poari o Kaipātiki to create a destination that reflects the cultural, environmental and community values of the region.

The redevelopment is also expected to deliver broader economic benefits for Parakai and the wider Kaipara region by attracting more visitors, supporting local businesses and creating employment opportunities during both construction and ongoing operations.

For local whānau, the project aims to provide improved recreational facilities and greater access to health and wellbeing experiences while strengthening community connections to one of the area’s iconic attractions.

The interview will also explore the long-term aspirations for Kaipātiki Hot Springs, including how the redevelopment can contribute to sustainable regional tourism and create opportunities for future generations through investment, employment and cultural engagement.

As wellness tourism continues to grow both nationally and internationally, the Kaipātiki Ora redevelopment positions the hot springs as an important destination that combines recreation, health, culture and regional development.

The project reflects a broader vision of creating a place where visitors and local communities alike can reconnect with the healing qualities of wai while supporting the social and economic future of the region.

#KaipātikiOra #KaipātikiHotSprings #Parakai #Kaipara #Wellness #Tourism #RegionalDevelopment #MāoriLeadership #BelgraviaLeisure #Hauora #Aotearoa #RadioWaatea #WaateaNews

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The Government’s proposal to reshape local government by encouraging the creation of larger unitary authorities is facing increasing scrutiny, with councils questioning both the pace of the reforms and whether communities have been given enough opportunity to have their say.

Among those voicing concern is Whakatāne Mayor Nándor Tánczos, who says the proposed restructuring could impose significant costs on ratepayers while asking councils to develop complex amalgamation proposals within a relatively short timeframe.

The reforms are intended to reduce duplication between regional and territorial councils by creating larger unitary authorities responsible for delivering a wider range of services. The Government argues the changes could improve efficiency, streamline decision-making and strengthen long-term infrastructure planning.

However, many local leaders are asking what evidence underpins the reforms and whether structural change alone will solve the financial and service delivery pressures facing councils across New Zealand.

A key issue is the compressed timeline given to councils to investigate and submit proposals. Critics say meaningful consultation with communities, iwi and stakeholders requires considerably more time if residents are to understand the implications of major governance changes.

Questions are also being raised about the overall cost of restructuring, including transition expenses, integration of staff and systems, and whether any long-term savings would outweigh the immediate financial burden on ratepayers.

Supporters of the reforms argue larger authorities could eliminate duplication, simplify planning processes and improve coordination across transport, environmental management and infrastructure investment.

Opponents, however, warn that creating larger organisations could come at the expense of local representation, with smaller communities potentially losing influence over decisions that directly affect their rohe.

Another area of concern is the future role of regional councils. If they are merged into larger unitary authorities, questions remain over who benefits most from the changes and whether local voices will continue to be heard in decisions involving environmental management, water, transport and regional development.

The debate also has particular significance for Māori communities, as any restructuring will need to consider existing partnerships with iwi, Treaty obligations and mechanisms for Māori representation within local government decision-making.

As councils continue assessing the proposals, pressure is mounting on the Government to demonstrate that any reforms are backed by robust evidence, broad public support and a clear pathway to delivering better services without weakening local democracy.

#LocalGovernment #CouncilReform #Whakatāne #RegionalCouncils #UnitaryAuthorities #LocalDemocracy #Ratepayers #Governance #Infrastructure #MāoriRepresentation #Aotearoa #RadioWaatea #WaateaNews

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The passing of Henare Whitu Kingi marks the end of an era for Māori broadcasting, with tributes continuing to acknowledge a man whose voice, leadership and commitment to te reo Māori helped shape the modern Māori media landscape.

His legacy will be remembered in an interview with Māori broadcasting pioneer Piripi Walker, a founding figure at Te Upoko o Te Ika, who worked alongside Kingi during many of the station’s formative years.

Henare Kingi spent 25 years behind the microphone at Te Upoko o Te Ika, becoming one of the country’s most respected broadcasters and a familiar voice for generations of listeners. His calm presence, deep cultural knowledge and unwavering commitment to te reo Māori earned him the trust of whānau throughout Aotearoa.

Beyond his broadcasting career, Kingi played a significant role in the revitalisation of te reo Māori through radio, helping establish Māori broadcasting as a platform for language, culture, news and identity during a period of major change.

His influence extended well beyond the studio. He was widely regarded as a mentor, kaumātua, interviewer and cultural adviser, supporting countless emerging broadcasters while ensuring Māori values remained at the heart of journalism and storytelling.

The discussion with Walker reflects on Kingi’s contribution to Te Upoko o Te Ika and the wider Māori media movement, examining how his leadership helped lay the foundations for today’s network of iwi radio stations, Māori television and expanding digital Māori media.

As Māori broadcasting continues to evolve across radio, television, podcasts and online platforms, Kingi’s career offers enduring lessons about integrity, service to community, respect for tikanga and the responsibility of protecting and promoting te reo Māori.

His work demonstrated that broadcasting could be far more than entertainment, serving instead as a powerful vehicle for language revitalisation, cultural transmission and strengthening connections between whānau, hapū and iwi.

For many within the industry, Henare Whitu Kingi will be remembered not only as one of Māori broadcasting’s finest voices, but also as a leader whose generosity, humility and dedication helped inspire generations of journalists and broadcasters to follow in his footsteps.

His contribution leaves an enduring legacy that continues to shape Māori media today and will remain part of its history for generations to come.

#HenareWhituKingi #PiripiWalker #TeUpokoOTeIka #MāoriBroadcasting #TeReoMāori #MāoriMedia #RadioWaatea #WaateaNews #Whakapapa #MāoriJournalism #Aotearoa #Legacy

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New Zealand’s growing reliance on overseas recycling markets is prompting fresh debate about what really happens to the country’s waste after it leaves the kerbside and whether Aotearoa is becoming too dependent on offshore processors.

The issue is expected to be explored in an interview with Waste & Recycling Industry Association Executive Director Barney Irvine, whose organisation represents many of New Zealand’s largest private waste and recycling operators.

Recent industry figures show the proportion of New Zealand’s recyclable material processed overseas has increased from 23 percent to 36 percent in 2025, reflecting major changes in the domestic recycling sector.

The shift follows the closure of several large-scale paper and cardboard processing facilities, leaving fewer options to process recyclable materials within New Zealand and increasing reliance on international markets.

One of the key questions is what assurances can be provided that recyclable materials exported overseas are being properly processed rather than ending up in landfill or contributing to environmental problems in other countries.

For many households, placing items in a recycling bin comes with the expectation they will be transformed into new products. However, the journey from kerbside collection to final processing can involve multiple stages of sorting, transport and export before materials are ultimately recycled into new products or rejected because of contamination.

The growing dependence on offshore processing has also raised concerns about the resilience of New Zealand’s recycling system. If global demand for recycled materials weakens or importing countries tighten environmental regulations or restrict waste imports, New Zealand could face significant challenges in managing its recyclable materials.

Industry experts say these developments reinforce the need to strengthen domestic recycling capability while improving the quality of materials collected through kerbside recycling.

Beyond recycling itself, attention is also turning to reducing the amount of waste generated in the first place. While household waste volumes have remained relatively stable despite ongoing economic pressures, there are increasing calls for New Zealanders to rethink purchasing habits, product packaging and opportunities to reuse and repair items before they enter the waste stream.

The discussion also highlights the importance of building a more circular economy, where materials remain in use for longer, creating greater environmental benefits while reducing dependence on international markets.

As New Zealand continues to navigate changing global recycling markets, questions remain about how the country can balance environmental responsibility, economic sustainability and long-term resilience in its waste management system.

#Waste #Recycling #CircularEconomy #Sustainability #WasteManagement #Environment #RecyclingNZ #WRIA #ClimateAction #Aotearoa #RadioWaatea #WaateaNews

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Labour is sharpening its message to voters ahead of the General Election, promising a platform focused on easing cost-of-living pressures, tackling inequality and rebuilding essential public services as it seeks to return to government.

The party’s vision will be outlined by senior Labour MP Willie Jackson in an interview with Waatea, where he is expected to discuss the policies Labour believes set it apart from the governing National-led coalition.

With recent opinion polls suggesting Labour is once again competitive, the party faces the challenge of convincing voters it offers more than simply an alternative government. Central to that argument is Labour’s commitment to addressing economic inequality, improving opportunities for working families and investing in public services.

Housing is expected to feature prominently in the discussion. Recent figures from the Salvation Army estimate more than 33,000 children are living in severe housing deprivation, while more than 112,000 New Zealanders are experiencing severe housing hardship.

The interview will examine what practical steps a Labour-led government would take within its first 100 days to reduce child homelessness and improve access to safe, secure and affordable housing.

Another key election issue is the role of smaller political parties on the centre-left. Labour leader Chris Hipkins has encouraged progressive voters to consider the risks of supporting parties that may not secure representation in Parliament under the Mixed Member Proportional voting system.

The discussion will explore why Labour believes it should receive the party vote ahead of other progressive parties, including the Greens, Te Pāti Māori and TOP, and how it intends to build a government capable of delivering lasting change.

Economic pressures remain front of mind for many households, with rising housing costs, food prices and financial uncertainty continuing to shape the political landscape.

The interview will also focus on Labour’s broader vision for New Zealand, including how the party believes families would be materially better off after three years under a Labour-led government, and what priorities would define its programme if elected.

As campaigning intensifies, the conversation highlights the growing focus on affordability, housing, economic opportunity and public services, all of which are expected to be major issues influencing voters when they head to the polls later this year.

#Election2026 #Labour #WillieJackson #ChrisHipkins #CostOfLiving #Housing #ChildPoverty #PublicServices #EconomicGrowth #MāoriDevelopment #Politics #Aotearoa #RadioWaatea #WaateaNews

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