New Air New Zealand CEO Nikhil Ravishankar has suggested a “situational subsidy” to support regional routes when the economy is not doing well and demand is low.

Ravishankar officially took over as CEO on 20 October 2025, replacing Greg Foran who stepped down after six years.

Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour tells Heather du Plessis-Allan that the implementation of a subsidy could allow for too much Government control over the agency which would be a 'complete disaster'. 

Seymour also addresses the legalisation of melatonin for those aged under-55.

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