The Wire with Caeden

Neighbourhood Watch reports on the federal government being criticized for barely increasing benefits after ending a Covid-19 supplement scheme, Facebook reversing its news ban, and further fallout from the rape allegations of former parliamentary staffer Brittany Higgins.

Warning: Parts of the interview disscusses sexual assault

NASA’s Perseverance Rover landed on Mars on February 19th (NZ) to search for signs of ancient microbial life. The objective of the mission is astrobiological as scientists aim to characterise the planet’s geology and past climate. News and Editorial Director Jemima Huston speaks to Haritina Mogoșanu, the Executive Director of the New Zealand Astrobiology Network, about the Perseverance mission and why it is significant for astrobiology and human understanding of life as we know it.  

On today's Wire with Felix:

Dear Science: Felix and Marcus talk about Perseverence, magnetic fields, and "Planet Nine"

Felix talks to Brooke from the ACT Party about Matariki and Immigration NZ

Jade talks to Emilie Rākete from People Against Prisons Aotearoa about the Mihi Briggans court case.

Jade also talks to President of Abortion Rights Aotearoa, Terry Bellamar, about the new bill to create safe spaces around clinics.

Lastly, Felix brings an update on synthetic fertilizer, which we covered two weeks ago.

Two years after the publication of He Ara Oranga, the national inquiry into mental health and addictions, community groups, healthcare providers, and those interfacing with services report little material change. Report after report and headline after headline lamenting New Zealand's provision of mental health care raises the question of whether more should be done about the issue beyond just talking about it.

Hanna speaks to Mental Health Foundation CEO Shaun Robinson about He Ara Oranga, the government's progress (or lack thereof) on its recommendations, and what action should be taken instead.