On Point: Recent Episodes
Simon O'Connor MP
Join Simon O'Connor and occasional guests as they engage with contemporary topics, both here in New Zealand and abroad.
Join me as I chat with Benedict Rogers of Hong Kong Watch, based out of London. We discuss the recently passed national security laws in Hong Kong and their chilling effect this has had on many basic freedoms. Ben and I also talk about a recent court case and why all of this matters for democracies such as New Zealand.
Join me as I talk with Joshua Kurlantzick, who is a Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR). We discuss his new book 'Beijing's Global Media Offensive' and how the CCP uses local media to influence events to its advantage, including here in New Zealand.
Join me as I sit down and chat with Maria English of Impact Lab to talk about how we support - by good measurement and analysis - the important work of charities, NGOs, and other organisations in our community.
Are you aware of the latest push to control speech and content in New Zealand? I sit down the Chief Executive of the Free Speech Union, Jonathan Ayling, to discuss what the Department of Internal Affairs is proposing along with the latest results of the Free Speech Union survey on free speech in our universities – spoiler alert, the results are very worrying.
We’re back! A King’s Birthday ‘On Point’ podcast special. I sit down with Dr Sean Palmer, Chair of Monarchy New Zealand, to talk about why a constitutional monarchy is good for New Zealand and a few thoughts on the Coronation.
Join me as I sit down with one of my human rights heroes, Benedict Rogers. He is the founder of Hong Kong Watch and author of The China Nexus, among many other roles. We discuss what has happened in Hong Kong and the many themes in his new book. If you have an interest in human rights and what it looks like to speak up, take the time to listen and hear what Ben has to say and also buy his book (a great read!)
How does the conflict in Ukraine end? For this latest episode of On Point – released on the first anniversary of the Russian invasion - join me and national security expert and journalist, Misha Zelinsky, as we discuss the war in Ukraine so far. Misha is an Australian, Fulbright Scholar, and also was in Kyiv as this stage of the war began. Together we discuss how this all started, what the West did and could have done, as well as discussing possible end scenarios.
With news that Labour’s obsession with so called ‘hate speech’ laws continues, it is very timely I sat down with Danish free speech advocate and author, Jacob Mchangama. He strongly argues for how societies across the globe have benefited from free speech, particularly the marganilised. He is the guest speaker at the upcoming Free Speech Union AGM, so check that out too as he will be here in New Zealand!
Security and cooperation in the Pacific. I sit down with Dr Charles Edel from the Center for Strategic and International Studies and former professor of strategy and policy at the U.S. Naval War College. We talk how the likes of the United States, New Zealand, and other likeminded countries can work together to ensure a peaceful democratic Pacific,
The killing of Mahsa Amini by Iranian authorities is deeply disturbing, as is the violence the regime is applying to its own citizens calling for freedom and change. I talk to two New Zealand-Iranian women about what is going on; how the fight for freedom is progressing; and the relative silence of New Zealand leadership.
I sit down with former TV and radio broadcaster Peter Williams. We talk democracy and media, freedoms and Three Waters and much more. Tune in, share, and let me know your thoughts.
A wide ranging chat with the head of the Maxim Institute, Tim Wilson, around how we better discuss idea ms here in New Zealand. Tim will also be known to many from his time on Seven Sharp, journalistic work, his books, and via his writings in the likes of Metro. Tune in for one very amusing and insightful chat
On the latest On Point, Jonathan Ayling from the Free Speech Union joins me to talk … well, free speech! We focus on recent guidelines put out by some aimed at limiting political debate during the local body elections and discuss the Union’s latest report on universities commitment to academic freedom (spoiler – the results are not good!)
Why did Boris resign; who are the Conservative MPs campaigning for his job; and who gets to decide? Check out this On Point podcast special with Sunil Sharma if the Conservative Friends of the Commonwealth 🇬🇧
Heard of the Invictus Games? You should have! Join me on this latest podcast as I talk with Kathy Cunningham about the Games, why we need them in New Zealand, and why Prince Harry is part of the programme.
How do we best help those in need in our communities? Where does the assistance of government help or hinder, and how to we better empower community providers? I sit down with Ronji Taneilu from the Salvation Army to hear his take and experience on these important questions.
Dr Bryce Edwards joins me on the podcast – talking media, freedom, and what is going wrong on the Left of politics. This is a podcast not to miss
In the latest On Point Podcast we are taken to the border of Ukraine. My friend Nicolai shares with us his experiences while working with Ukrainian refugees, lessons learnt along the way – and how you can support these efforts.
A prosperous society is one that values freedoms and rights. In recent years, countries like New Zealand have slipped in prosperity rankings according to London-based think tank, Legatum Institute.
Lagatum's Director of Policy, Dr Stephen Brien, joins me on the latest episode of On Point to discuss their latest research.
New Zealand is not immune from anti-semitism. I sit down with Juliet Moses from the NZ Jewish Council to discuss their recent report which shows a growth of anti-semitism here and a worrying lack of knowledge about the Holocaust by kiwis.
Every day we get bombarded with numbers and statistics, so I sit down with Ashley Church – a numbers man – and delve deeper into what we read in papers or see on television. We also discuss the other numbers and factors that need to be taken into account when managing covid and our country.
Join me with property commentator Ashley Church as we discuss the housing situation in New Zealand and hear why Ashley feels the issue is not quite as straightforward as often put forward by media and government
As the situation in Ukraine deteriorates, I talk with Tom Tugendhat - Chair of the UK’s Foreign Affairs committee - discussing what are Putin’s objectives; asking has the West and NATO done enough; and what more the likes of New Zealand should be doing.
How we all get along in a society filled with different views, cultures, beliefs, and outlooks is becoming increasingly relevant in New Zealand society. I sat down with Professor Sir Peter Gluckman, Director at The Centre for Informed Futures (Koi Tū), to talk through his think tank’s most recent report - Sustaining Aotearoa New Zealand as a cohesive society. We discuss the erosion of confidence in key authorities, the challenges in media, and some of the actions we can take to make positive change in New Zealand. With all that has been happening in recent days, this is a rather ‘serendipitous’ podcast
The attempt to silence Joe Rogan in recent days raises many more worrying questions of where our society is headed in terms of free speech and expression. In this podcast I discuss why it’s ok to be wrong and talk about what a more rational response looks like.
Former Deputy Prime Minister of Australia John Anderson joins me on the podcast 🇦🇺 🇳🇿 Join our discussion as we consider 'woke-ism', cancel culture, and freedoms and rights
Lots of people talk about the ‘separation of church and state’, yet very few actually seem to understand what this actually means. In this podcast, I delve into what this separation means, how it goes both ways, and how the phrase is often used to simply shut down debate. Tune in
Division is increasing in New Zealand. I discussed this in parliament, but in this podcast I dive deeper illustrating how division is being deliberately sought along with the scapegoating of certain groups. I also explain why I think this is happening – not just the current catalysts, but the end game being played.
Special episode: My speech in parliament on the government's use of emotionalism over reason – fear and not proportionality.
Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide is about to become a reality in a few days. I talk with Professor Rod MacLeod, one of New Zealand’s foremost experts in palliative care and medicine, about what this all means.
Join me as I talk with Canadian MP, Garnett Genius, as we talk China, AUKUS, and the recent Canadian elections. Garnett is making waves in foreign affairs so check out this latest podcast to find out why.
Join me as I talk with journalist and founder of The Platform, Sean Plunket. We talk about the state of the media today, the issues developing in reporting, and the critical need to have a wider range of voices and views.
I welcome back Sunil Sharma from Conservative Friends of the Commonwealth to talk through what is happening currently in the United Kingdom since ‘Freedom Day’. We also talk about the death of Sir David Amess and the happenings of the recent UK Conservative Conference.
An important podcast as we talk sex, gender, and modern feminism. Join me as I talk with Beth Johnson from Speak Up for Women – a podcast not to be missed.
Join National MPs Simon O'Connor and Christopher Luxon for a live discussion on the Government's controversial Three Waters reforms proposal.
Talking everything AUKUS with my friend Senator James Paterson. Join us for this special episode of On Point as we discuss why AUKUS has come about – what it means for Australia, New Zealand and the wider Pacific Region.
We hear a lot of about conservatism, but what do you really know about this world view? Media and others present it one way but show no real understanding. So join me and Brendan Malone as we discuss what genuine conservatism is and how it is a great philosophy to engage life and politics.
Join me and Denis Gianoutsos – host of the ‘Leadership is Changing’ podcast and business coach – to talk about what makes for effective leadership and teamwork in today’s challenging world.
Let’s talk blasphemy! A few years ago, New Zealand rightly removed blasphemy laws, but now we are seeing new forms of ‘secular blasphemy' developing – topics that cannot be discussed and words that cannot be used. Join me and Alex Penk, independent researcher and writer, as we discuss this and more thought provoking issues.
Bob Narev and his wife Freda are both survivors of the Holocaust. I sit down with Bob to hear their stories, including his time in Terezin (Theresienstadt) concentration camp. We discuss why memory of the Holocaust is important today and what lessons should we learn. Tune in to this very special and emotional podcast.
Join me as I talk with Bob McCoskrie from Family First New Zealand about the importance of parental rights. We discuss a number of recent examples of these rights being challenged – and ask the important question: why should the State decide what's good for your child, rather than yourself?
You won't want to miss my podcast with Professor Paul Moon – where we dive into current issues on hate speech, separatism, as well as the importance of learning from history, and much more.
Join me as I talk to the Chief Executive of Shakespeare Globe Centre NZ, Dawn Sanders ONZM QSM, about how Shakespeare in New Zealand is shaping and changing lives. You will also find out my favourite Shakespearian play and quote!
Three big topics in recent weeks, so tune into my latest podcast with National Spokesperson from Police and Corrections Simeon Brown MP for a discussion on what's happening – and reflections on the government’s inaction.
Join me as I talk with Sunil Sharma of Conservative Friends Of The Commonwealth. We discuss ‘Freedom Day’ in the UK, the growing issues with identity politics, and how the commonwealth brings countries together in an increasingly divided world. This and much more.
Join me as I talk with Australian Senator James Paterson the Chair of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security. We talk about his committee’s important work around foreign interference, including in the universities, and compare notes of what each of us has seen and experienced in Australia and New Zealand respectively. For good measure, we also discuss terrorist organisations in our countries, the strategic importance of Antarctica, and much more. Tune in
Would you believe it if I told you that during a recent meeting on counter terrorism and violent extremism in New Zealand – support was vocalised for terrorist groups such as Hezbollah? Or, that a representative of the Jewish community was shouted down by protestors? I talk with Juliet Moses – lawyer and spokesperson for the NZ Jewish Council about her experience and what this says about New Zealand today
Racism and control. Both can be seen as controversial topics these days – and therefore even more that we talk about them. In this podcast, I breakdown some of the dynamics in play by many crying ‘racism’ and seeking to develop more control of what we read, hear, and see.
In recent weeks, locals have been raising with me the issue of modern slavery in New Zealand – goods like clothes, toys, and electronics that come into our country made by forced or child labour. World Vision and Trade Aid, along with many New Zealand businesses, are calling for legislation to be introduced and this is something I am exploring. Join me as I talk with Grant Bayldon, National Director of World Vision, as we discuss what this issue means for all of us.
This latest podcast is for those interested in international intrigue, corruption, and how the good guys can fight back. Listen to my talk with Bill Browder – who someone once described as Vladimir Putin’s public enemy number one – and how New Zealand might be part of the Magnitsky movement.
Excited to share my latest podcast featuring my friend Tom Tugendhat MP – Chair of the UK Foreign Affairs Committee. We discuss a wide range of foreign policy issues; from the CCP to Russia, Climate Change to Covid – and many more. Listen below and let us know your thoughts.
Recently a young schoolboy was asked to stand to up in front of his peers and list his 'white privileges'. Meanwhile, some in the Ministry of Education consider education itself to be a form of 'symbolic violence' and are instructing its teachers to ask themselves what their own privileges are. In this episode I'll address these topics – particularly on how the concept of privilege itself contradictory and indeed, a tool used to mask one's own prejudices.
Some thoughts on language – specifically how it tends to be controlled by the left. Should some people, and not others, have rights over certain words – simply out of offence? And should these kinds of decisions be made on your behalf, without rational discussion?
Join me as I talk with Dr David Cumin of the Israel Institute of NZ about the ensuing conflict in Gaza, including its recent background. We also discuss how the conflict is playing out here in New Zealand.
Join me as I sit down with Simeon Brown MP for Pakuranga and National spokesperson for Police and Corrections to discuss crime, gangs, and law and order in today's New Zealand.
Brief reflections on the importance of language and how it can often be manipulated – particularly in the political sphere here in New Zealand.
Many would agree the Government's vaccination roll-out so far has been a bit of a shambles (to say the least). Constituents tell me they're experiencing mixed signals, long wait times – asking if Labour are simply 'making things up as they go' – and I'm inclined to agree, as we are falling behind the rest of the world Is this good enough?
Following a few interesting discussions on Anzac Day – two things in particular have been on my mind. The first being the importance of free speech, and what was faught for. And the second being more geopolitical in nature; and how we must 'stand with our mates' in these precarious times. Have a listen – and I'd love to know if you have any thoughts on this.