The Mike Hosking Breakfast
News & Politics
About
Open your mind to the world with New Zealand’s number one breakfast radio show. Without question, as New Zealand’s number one talk host, Mike Hosking sets the day’s agenda. The sharpest voice and mind in the business, Mike drives strong opinion, delivers the best talent, and always leaves you wanting more. The Mike Hosking Breakfast always cuts through and delivers the best daily on Newstalk ZB.
Episodes
- Richard Chambers: Police Commissioner says quality over quantity for NZ Police
Police Commissioner Richard Chambers speaks with Mike Hosking about New Zealand Police. He addresses the number of officers leaving for Australia, stating he is not concerned due to the high quality of New Zealand police and the current po…
- Mike's Minute: The superannuation debate has become boring
Mike Hosking discusses the superannuation debate, critiquing the political inaction and proposing alternative approaches to the system. He challenges the notion of superannuation as an entitlement and suggests a needs-based benefit system.
- Steve Price: Australia correspondent chats One Nation smashing Farrar by-election vote
Australia correspondent Steve Price chats with Mike Hosking about One Nation's recent by-election win. The victorious candidate, David Farley, attributed the win to people wanting change, while Pauline Hanson addressed supporters about fut…
- Full Show Podcast: 11 May 2026
This episode of The Mike Hosking Breakfast features discussions on police leaving for Australia with Commissioner Richard Chambers, and the Prime Minister on fees free, superannuation, and golden visa events. Also, Jason Pine and Andrew Sa…
- Christopher Luxon: Prime Minister chats fees free and retirement age changes
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon joined Mike Hosking to discuss policy changes regarding fees-free study and the superannuation age. Luxon stated these changes, though not politically popular, are important for the country.
- Tony Alexander: Economist and Property Commentator chats survey showing 44% of real estate agents see prices falling in their areas
Economist Tony Alexander shares findings from his latest survey of real estate agents, indicating that 44% observe falling prices, 51% note fewer attendees at open homes, and 50% see a decline in investors. He attributes these trends to fa…
- Guy Pascoe: Independent Schools of New Zealand CEO on more colleges than ever charging $30,000-plus in tuition
Independent Schools of New Zealand CEO Guy Pascoe talks about private school tuition fees. He notes that more colleges are charging over $30,000 in tuition, attributing the rise to increased living costs, while demand for enrollment remain…
- Euan McDonald: Editor of New Voice of Ukraine chats Putin saying he thinks Ukraine conflict 'coming to an end'
Euan McDonald, editor of New Voice of Ukraine, speaks with Mike Hosking about Vladimir Putin's claim that the Ukraine conflict is coming to an end. McDonald notes that despite Putin's statements, there is no evidence of the war ending, and…
- Mike's Minute: Should we tax big tech for our news?
Mike Hosking examines Australia's proposal to tax big tech for local news, comparing it to previous social media regulations and Canada's efforts. He questions the effectiveness of such interventions against global tech giants.
- Mark the Week: There's a lot of ideology floating about this week
Mike Hosking reviews the week's big-ticket items, offering his perspective on topics such as the Warriors, food scrap bins, and citizenship tests. He also discusses the Cuisine Awards and the Met Gala. This episode covers a variety of curr…
- Mike's Minute: We need more backbone from our leaders
Mike Hosking reflects on Sean Sweeney's critique of the City Rail Link (CRL), highlighting concerns about its escalating costs and project delays. He calls for greater accountability and courage from leaders in addressing such issues.
- Murray Olds: Australian Correspondent on the women linked with ISIS returning to Australia
Three women linked to Islamic State have returned to Australia and may face charges. Australian correspondent Murray Olds discusses the chaotic scenes at the airport and the challenges the children face.
- Simon Marks: US Correspondent on the peace proposals, strikes between Iran and the US
Simon Marks, US Correspondent, details the proposed peace memorandum between Iran and the US, aiming to end conflict, limit nuclear capabilities, unfreeze assets, and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. He also covers recent US strikes on Iranian…
- Wrapping the Week with Kate Hawkesby and Tim Wilson: Mike's fountain, weather, a special invitation
Kate Hawkesby and Tim Wilson join Mike Hosking to wrap up the week. They discuss Mike's fountain project, the weather, and a special invitation extended to a young fan.
- Mike extends a special invitation to one of his youngest fans
Mike Hosking received a gift and a note from 10-year-old fan Freddie, decorated by Freddie's 7-year-old sister Harriet. The show decided to call Freddie and extend a special invitation.
- Colin Mansbridge: Crusaders CEO on tonight's game against the Blues, selling out the stadium
Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge talks about the upcoming game against the Blues and the expectation of selling out their new stadium. He notes the positive impact of the new stadium for the club, following a strong attendance during its ope…
- Full Show Podcast: 08 May 2026
This episode features Finance Minister Nicola Willis on the OECD Superannuation report and NZR Chairman David Kirk discussing rugby's leadership and finances. Wrapping the Week includes Kate Hawkesby and Tim Wilson.
- David Kirk: NZ Rugby Chairman on the appointment of Steve Lancaster as CEO
NZ Rugby Chairman David Kirk discusses the appointment of Steve Lancaster as CEO after a global search. Lancaster had been serving as interim CEO and was previously general manager of community rugby.
- Alan Pollard: Civil Contractors NZ CEO on the Government's planned review of the City Rail Link's cost
Alan Pollard, CEO of Civil Contractors New Zealand, talks about the government's review of the City Rail Link's cost. He also discusses concerns about over-spending in infrastructure projects.
- Tama Potaka: Conservation Minister on the conservation law reform, plans to charge overseas visitors for access to certain sites
Conservation Minister Tama Potaka speaks on "The Mike Hosking Breakfast" about upcoming conservation law reforms. He discusses plans to charge overseas visitors for access to specific conservation sites, aiming to generate an estimated $60…
- Nicola Willis: Finance Minister on the OECD report looking at the impact of our current superannuation settings on the economy
Finance Minister Nicola Willis addresses an OECD report on New Zealand's superannuation, highlighting concerns about increased spending on healthcare, long-term care, and pensions by 2060. She notes the rising cost of superannuation and it…
- Mike's Minute: Good riddance to the BSA
Mike Hosking shares his thoughts on the abolition of the Broadcasting Standards Authority (BSA), arguing it was an outdated institution. He also expresses his concerns about the new NZ Media Council and its ability to effectively regulate…
- Mel Parsons: Kiwi indie-folk singer on her upcoming album 'Castle Hill', NZ tour
Mel Parsons, a Kiwi indie-folk singer, talks about her new album 'Castle Hill', recorded in the Southern Alps, and her upcoming seven-date New Zealand tour. She also discusses her strategy of releasing singles on streaming platforms and th…
- Jo McKenna: Italy Correspondent on the latest conflict between Donald Trump and the Pope
This episode of The Mike Hosking Breakfast covers the recent conflict between Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV. Italy Correspondent Jo McKenna discusses Trump's accusations and the Pope's response regarding nuclear weapons and the mission of…
- Full Show Podcast: 07 May 2026
This episode of The Mike Hosking Breakfast features discussions on the unemployment rate with EMA's Alan McDonald and citizenship tests with UVisa Director Tobias Tohill. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon discusses infrastructure and the fu…
- Alan McDonald: Employers and Manufacturers Association Advocacy Head on the unemployment rate dipping to 5.3% in the March quarter
Alan McDonald, Employers and Manufacturers Association Advocacy Head, discusses the unemployment rate dipping to 5.3% in the March quarter. He explains why employers are remaining cautious despite this and notes varying regional unemployme…
- Phil Mauger: Christchurch Mayor on the areas of the red zone deemed suitable for housing
Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger speaks about the City Council's decision to engage with parties regarding red-zoned land for housing. He explains that over 10 hectares across 11 quake-damaged areas have been identified as suitable for devel…
- Christopher Luxon: Prime Minister discusses the infrastructure costs and the City Rail Link, citizenship test
On The Mike Hosking Breakfast, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon discusses New Zealand's infrastructure costs, including the City Rail Link project. He also addresses the government's proposed citizenship test, outlining its format and rati…
- Tobias Tohill: UVisa Director on the Government's plan to impose a citizenship test from next year
UVisa Director Tobias Tohill speaks on The Mike Hosking Breakfast about the government's proposal for a new citizenship test. He suggests New Zealand should consider how other countries implement such tests, emphasizing the need for questi…
- Paul Goldsmith: Media and Communications Minister on the decision to shut down the Broadcasting Standards Authority
Paul Goldsmith, the Media and Communications Minister, discusses the government's decision to shut down the Broadcasting Standards Authority. He explains that it will be up to audiences to decide if they care whether broadcasters self-regu…
- Mike's Minute: How do you not have confidence in an event already sorted?
Mike Hosking discusses a poll revealing low public confidence in the government's handling of the fuel crisis, despite his view that the situation has been managed effectively. He questions the poll's methodology and what the respondents'…
- Pollies: National's Mark Mitchell and Labour's Ginny Andersen talk the handling of the fuel crisis and cost of living
Mark Mitchell and Ginny Andersen discuss the fuel crisis and cost of living. They cover a poll indicating low public confidence in the government's handling of the fuel crisis.
- John Edminstin: Bluff Oyster Festival Chair on low ticket sales, the chance this will be the final year
John Edminstin, Chairman of the Bluff Oyster Festival, discusses low ticket sales for this year's event, raising concerns that it might be the last. He addresses previous fears of an oyster shortage, noting that five boats are expected to…
- Full Show Podcast: 06 May 2026
This episode of The Mike Hosking Breakfast covers new unemployment data, government ultimatums to local councils, and a plan to save Moana Pasifika. Also featured is a political discussion with Mark Mitchell and Ginny Andersen.
- Nick Harper: US Correspondent on the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, status of the Strait of Hormuz
US Correspondent Nick Harper provides an update on the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, focusing on the Strait of Hormuz. He discusses the differing claims from the US and Iran regarding control of the strait and the current state of s…
- Tracy Atiga: Kanaloa Rugby CEO says rugby politics are blocking their bid to save Moana Pasifika
Kanaloa Rugby CEO Tracy Atiga claims politics are blocking their bid to save the Moana Pasifika Super Rugby franchise. She states that Moana Pasifika ownership is preventing their offer from reaching the company's directors.
- Chris Wilkinson: First Retail Group Managing Director on the ANZ card data showing how Kiwis are spending
Chris Wilkinson, Managing Director of First Retail Group, analyzes ANZ card data for April. The data indicates an increase in fuel spending and a decline in other retail areas, including supermarkets. Wilkinson notes a shift in grocery sho…
- Chris Bishop: RMA Reform Minister on the fast-track amalgamation process for local government and councils
RMA Minister Chris Bishop talks about the fast-track amalgamation process for local government. Councils have three months to submit proposals for merging with neighbours to form unitary authorities.
- Nick Tuffley: ASB Chief Economist on the expectation the unemployment rate will rise slightly
ASB Chief Economist Nick Tuffley speaks with Mike Hosking about the expectation of a slight rise in New Zealand's unemployment rate. He notes that job creation is not keeping pace with the number of people migrating to New Zealand.
- Mike's Minute: The economic damage caused by weather warnings
Mike Hosking argues that exaggerated weather warnings and media coverage, particularly around Cyclone Vaianu, led to substantial economic damage in various regions, with spending down significantly. He suggests this damage could be avoided…
- Catherine Field: Europe Correspondent on the talks between European leaders regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Middle East conflict
Catherine Field, Europe Correspondent, discusses European leaders' concerns over "Project Freedom" and the Strait of Hormuz. She also elaborates on how European countries are realizing the impact of the Middle East conflict on their econom…
- Peter Windsor: Former Team Manager at Williams and former GM at Ferrari on the Miami Grand Prix, tweaks to the new regulations
Peter Windsor discusses the Miami Grand Prix and changes to Formula 1 regulations, including driver backlash and potential future changes like a return to V8 engines. He believes while progress has been made, flaws remain that affect drive…
- Full Show Podcast: 05 May 2026
This episode of The Mike Hosking Breakfast covers immigration with Minister Erica Stanford, the "Freedom Project" in the Strait of Hormuz with Randy Manner, and Formula 1 changes with Peter Windsor.
- Randy Manner: Retired US Army Major General on likely escalations between Iran and the US and Project Freedom
Retired US Army Major General Randy Manner discusses the potential for escalation between Iran and the US due to Iran's rejection of claims regarding US naval ships in the Strait of Hormuz. He believes Iran may attack more ships and that t…
- Parul Sood: Auckland Council Deputy Director of Resilience and Infrastructure on less than half of homes and businesses using their food scraps bin
Parul Sood, Auckland Council Deputy Director of Resilience and Infrastructure, discusses the underutilization of Auckland's food waste collection program. Despite converting 62,000 tonnes of organic material, only 40% of residents use thei…
- John McWhirter: Wools of New Zealand CEO on the major deal with Turkish carpet manufacturer Kalida Hali
Wools of New Zealand CEO John McWhirter discusses a new partnership with Turkish carpet manufacturer Kalida Hali. This deal will enable New Zealand wool to be exported to 69 countries, with the value of wool projected to increase significa…
- David Keat: Energy Security Expert on the deal with Singapore to protect fuel supplies during economic shocks
David Keat, an energy security expert, analyzes New Zealand's agreement with Singapore for fuel supply during economic shocks. He suggests this deal may not have a significant impact on either supply or price. The agreement involves Singap…
- Erica Stanford: Immigration Minister on net migration falling from 135 thousand to 24 thousand
Immigration Minister Erica Stanford talks about the government's tightened immigration settings, noting a decrease in net migration and a shift towards high-skilled migrants. She also mentions increased deportations for overstayers and ind…
- Simon Marks: US Correspondent chats Spirit airlines closure and Iran war updates
US Correspondent Simon Marks joins Mike Hosking to discuss current events from the USA, including the closure of Spirit Airlines and updates on the Iran war, specifically Trump's reported rejection of Iran's peace plan.
- Karl Dean: Federated Farmers employment spokesperson on ACT's proposed daily surcharge on temporary work visas
Karl Dean, Federated Farmers employment spokesperson, joins Mike Hosking to discuss ACT's proposed daily surcharge on temporary work visas. They talk about how this policy could affect the farming and agricultural sectors in New Zealand.