The Wire with Max

Proposed changes to New Zealand's hate speech laws have created controversy and debate throughout the political world over the past week. While the government argues the changes will stop individuals inciting violence against other groups, National and the ACT Party claim the proposals infringe on freedom of speech.

Noah Ferguson-Dudding spoke to Professor Paul Spoonley who has written extensively on hate speech and terrorism. They discussed what the proposals change to the current system, the relationship between hate speech and free speech, and whether New Zealand can regulate extreme content online.

On Tuesday, the government released its first public draft for replacing the 1991 Resource Management Act. The government says the draft aims to provide a clear plan for future environmental and urban development. 

Producer Louis spoke to the Environment Minister David Parker about the draft and its expected benefits. 

Justin spoke to Health and SIS Minister Andrew Little about the government planning to toughen up hate speech laws, updates on the Waikato DHB cyberattack, and a report from the Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security on the SIS using Auckland Transport CCTV to surveil people.

A report from the Classification Office found that a majority of New Zealanders are exposed and are concerned about the spread of misinformation, with it concluding half of New Zealanders have at least one misbelief.

The University of Auckland's Kate Hannah is the research lead of The Disinformation Project.  She said the foundings could be both positive and negative.  She spoke to Justin Wong.