New Zealand Listener

New Zealand Listener is the country’s most respected general interest magazine, bringing you a wide variety of news, stories, columns, reviews, plus TV listings, every week.

Masthead

Beyond belief • The unwillingness to believe Jevon McSkimming’s alleged victim is no isolated incident.

In harm’s way

Poetry

Bright Lines

Quips & Quotes

10 Quick Questions

Recycling the family silver? • As election year looms, National is looking for ways to pay for its inevitable promises.

Last mouth talking

A feudal playground

Going nowhere fast

Ignorant no more

Nothing nebulous, Nicola

Top reads of 2025 • Our annual selection of the 100 most outstanding titles of the year, chosen by books editor Mark Broatch and Listener contributors.

Breaking the piggy bank • NZ’s compulsory retirement savings scheme, axed by Rob Muldoon 50 years ago, would by now have provided a $1 trillion nest egg.

When stars align • French Polynesians celebrate their version of Matariki, signalling the season of abundance, with an inaugural public holiday.

Salary sticks • Most discussions around pay equity involve raising women’s wages to the equivalent of men’s. But there is an alternative.

Down to earth diva • One of the great singers of our time, Joyce DiDonato is set to make her New Zealand debut with Berlioz.

Lee’s life through a lens • Director Lee Tamahori launched his career with a film that became a cultural landmark, and went on to achieve international fame.

Gateway to the stars • Highlights and lowlights in the career of a storyteller.

Failing to retire • More than 45 years in the business, Toody Cole brings her latest band Downunder.

Wood worker • Much-travelled singer-songwriter delivers mature, shape-shifting album.

That’s wizard • A strong cast and visuals make for a more thrilling sequel to 2024’s success.

Stumbling along • English film-maker disappoints in this adaptation of a Stephen King dystopian tale.

Creepy peeping • Sex, voyeurism and a great lead performance help make Watching You watchable.

Tv Picks of the week

Shuffle, play • Shake-up of Sky channels sees new and old content coming soon.

Tv Films

Saturday/Rāhoroi November 29

Sunday/Rātapu November 30

Monday/Rāhina December 1

Wednesday/Rāapa December 3

Thursday/rāpare December 4

Friday/Rāmere December 5

Radio November 29

The Don

Speak easy • Much is still unknown about the causes of stuttering but researchers are making progress on its genetic origins.

Mama’s blessings • Australian comedy trio Sooshi Mango celebrate their Italian food heritage.

View from the hilltop • A classy Hawke’s Bay syrah hits all the right notes to command a high price.

Thought bubbles

Caged hogwash • A ‘science summary’ contradicting our animal welfare advisory agency is being used to justify a law change.

The Singing Athlete

I’m a firestarter