The Wire with Caeden

Last week it was reported that over 8500 people had become beneficiaries since the beginning of the Delta outbreak. Nevertheless, the government is yet to provide any additional support for people on benefits. Auckland Action Against Poverty, an advocacy group on wellfare and poverty, is calling for government support for beneficiaries to help people get through lockdown but also address generations of government neglect for vulnerable communities. 

News and Editorial Director Jemima Huston talks to AAAP's coordinator Brooke Pao Stanley about how lockdown has impacted beneficiaries, what AAAP's response was to the government’s Level 3 extension announcement yesterday and what work the group has been doing in the community during the Delta outbreak.

This week is all about cybersecurity and staying safe online. CERT New Zealand has launched their Cyber Smart Week initiative which looks at how we can stay safe and protect ourselves from harmful viruses and malware, as well as how we can uphold our privacy and combat the growing threat of cyberattacks. Joe talks to Rob Pope, the Director of CERT New Zealand about how Aotearoa can ‘Cyber Up’ and do their part to keep themselves safe online.

The Government has announced a major review of Aotearoa's electoral laws, and lowering the voting age is one of the main issues being considered.

An independent panel of experts recommended by political parties, universities, youth and Māori organisations, and the law society will be appointed to conduct the review by the 2023 elections. 

The youth-led campaign to Make it 16, has been advocating to lower the voting age to 16 in Aotearoa since 2019.

Jessica Hopkins talks to year 13 student, and Auckland member, Sanat about this announcement, and what the panel should consider in their decision. 

Here is that interview....

This morning, Ilena had her regular catch up with Pippa Coom. They talked about the Super Saturday national vaccination drive that is happening tomorrow, and how those who are unvaccinated or need another dose can take advantage of the day with its greater accessibility and added incentives. They talked about how those who have had two shots can encourage whānau and friends to be a part of the day.

Pippa also touched on what Auckland’s targeted rates are and how successful they’ve been. Lastly, she spoke about the upcoming, little known, but greatly important Entrust elections and why they matter.