Commentator and NZ Herald columnist Jonathan Ayling joins Andrew Urquhart to unpack two late-campaign controversies: the earlier-than-usual electoral enrolment cut-off, and Labour's eleventh-hour Kāinga Ora rent-to-own housing policy. He pushes back on claims from Chlöe Swarbrick and Trevor Mallard that tightening enrolment deadlines amounts to "voter suppression," arguing genuine democracy requires citizens take responsibility for enrolling, and that enrolment numbers remain strong despite the change.




Ayling also challenges Labour campaign chair Kieran McAnulty's claim that there's "no pathway" for Kāinga Ora tenants to own homes, noting a rent-to-buy scheme already exists, and argues McAnulty's "bootstraps" dismissal reflects a worrying shift from empowering the working poor towards state dependency. Drawing on the Christian roots of New Zealand's welfare state under Michael Joseph Savage and Peter Fraser, he contends genuine care for the poor means expanding opportunity through education rather than assuming they can't help themselves.



Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.

For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.

Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Commentator and NZ Herald columnist Jonathan Ayling joins Andrew Urquhart to unpack two late-campaign controversies: the earlier-than-usual electoral enrolment cut-off, and Labour's eleventh-hour Kāinga Ora rent-to-own housing policy. He pushes back on claims from Chlöe Swarbrick and Trevor Mallard that tightening enrolment deadlines amounts to "voter suppression," arguing genuine democracy requires citizens take responsibility for enrolling, and that enrolment numbers remain strong despite the change. Ayling also challenges Labour campaign chair Kieran McAnulty's claim that there's "no pathway" for Kāinga Ora tenants to own homes, noting a rent-to-buy scheme already exists, and argues McAnulty's "bootstraps" dismissal reflects a worrying shift from empowering the working poor towards state dependency. Drawing on the Christian roots of New Zealand's welfare state under Michael Joseph Savage and Peter Fraser, he contends genuine care for the poor means expanding opportunity through education rather than assuming they can't help themselves. Tune into Thoughts &amp; Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz/listen-on-demand/video-podcast/thoughts-and-comments" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Thoughts &amp; Comments</a> page at rhema.co.nz.Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Election Enrolment Cut-Off: Suppression or Self-Government?

Grant Marshall from Christian Savings joins Andrew Urquhart to unpack the Reserve Bank's surprise decision to hold the official cash rate, despite widespread expectations of a rise amid inflation pressures from oil prices. The vote was unusually close at four to three, with annual inflation easing slightly to 3.7% from 4.1% in June, though the Bank warns it could climb back to 4.4% later.



Marshall weighs up what the hold means for mortgage holders, suggesting possible temporary relief but cautioning against reading too much into it given banks had already priced in an expected rise. He also reflects on the awkward timing of the decision so close to the election, noting the Reserve Bank insists it's politically neutral while acknowledging the optics are tricky either way, and urges voters to be wary of election promises offering quick fixes without weighing the longer-term trade-offs ([www.christiansavings.co.nz](https://www.christiansavings.co.nz)).



Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.

For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.

Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Grant Marshall from Christian Savings joins Andrew Urquhart to unpack the Reserve Bank's surprise decision to hold the official cash rate, despite widespread expectations of a rise amid inflation pressures from oil prices. The vote was unusually close at four to three, with annual inflation easing slightly to 3.7% from 4.1% in June, though the Bank warns it could climb back to 4.4% later. Marshall weighs up what the hold means for mortgage holders, suggesting possible temporary relief but cautioning against reading too much into it given banks had already priced in an expected rise. He also reflects on the awkward timing of the decision so close to the election, noting the Reserve Bank insists it's politically neutral while acknowledging the optics are tricky either way, and urges voters to be wary of election promises offering quick fixes without weighing the longer-term trade-offs ([www.christiansavings.co.nz](https://www.christiansavings.co.nz)). Tune into Thoughts &amp; Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz/listen-on-demand/video-podcast/thoughts-and-comments" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Thoughts &amp; Comments</a> page at rhema.co.nz.Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

OCR Hold: Reprieve Or Just Delayed Pain?

Helen Robinson, Chief Executive (Manutaki) of the Auckland City Mission, discusses the growing crisis of rough sleeping in central Auckland and the impact of new police "move-on" powers that took effect this week. She reveals that around 200 people sleep without shelter in central Auckland nightly, and that in her 13 years with the mission, street homelessness has never been worse.



Robinson argues homelessness stems from a combination of poverty, trauma and complex health needs - noting the average age of death at the mission's medical centre is just 55 - and calls for government to prioritise building more affordable housing alongside wraparound support. While acknowledging police have acted reasonably in applying the new move-on legislation, she urges New Zealanders to look past short-term political cycles and harness the country's underlying generosity and goodwill to ensure everyone has access to a home and healthcare (www.aucklandcitymission.org.nz).



Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.

For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.

Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Helen Robinson, Chief Executive (Manutaki) of the Auckland City Mission, discusses the growing crisis of rough sleeping in central Auckland and the impact of new police "move-on" powers that took effect this week. She reveals that around 200 people sleep without shelter in central Auckland nightly, and that in her 13 years with the mission, street homelessness has never been worse. Robinson argues homelessness stems from a combination of poverty, trauma and complex health needs - noting the average age of death at the mission's medical centre is just 55 - and calls for government to prioritise building more affordable housing alongside wraparound support. While acknowledging police have acted reasonably in applying the new move-on legislation, she urges New Zealanders to look past short-term political cycles and harness the country's underlying generosity and goodwill to ensure everyone has access to a home and healthcare (www.aucklandcitymission.org.nz). Tune into Thoughts &amp; Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz/listen-on-demand/video-podcast/thoughts-and-comments" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Thoughts &amp; Comments</a> page at rhema.co.nz.Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Homelessness: Beyond Politics, Into Relationship

Andrew Urquhart talks to Andrew Curtis who reflects on his series of election interviews with party leaders, recorded in the same studio for Shine TV. He reveals he has so far sat down with David Seymour, Marama Davidson, Winston Peters and Chris Luxon, while noting with a wry smile that a few other leaders have proven harder to pin down for Christian media.




Curtis argues the real value of the series has been probing each leader's view of government's role and their competence to deliver on policy, rather than simply their rhetoric about Christian values. He cautions against conflating any one party with Christian faith, insisting that genuine Christian witness is shown through everyday relationships rather than political allegiance, and urges voters to judge leaders on calibre and capability ([www.shinetv.co.nz](https://www.shinetv.co.nz)).



Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.

For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.

Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Andrew Urquhart talks to Andrew Curtis who reflects on his series of election interviews with party leaders, recorded in the same studio for Shine TV. He reveals he has so far sat down with David Seymour, Marama Davidson, Winston Peters and Chris Luxon, while noting with a wry smile that a few other leaders have proven harder to pin down for Christian media. Curtis argues the real value of the series has been probing each leader's view of government's role and their competence to deliver on policy, rather than simply their rhetoric about Christian values. He cautions against conflating any one party with Christian faith, insisting that genuine Christian witness is shown through everyday relationships rather than political allegiance, and urges voters to judge leaders on calibre and capability ([www.shinetv.co.nz](https://www.shinetv.co.nz)). Tune into Thoughts &amp; Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz/listen-on-demand/video-podcast/thoughts-and-comments" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Thoughts &amp; Comments</a> page at rhema.co.nz.Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Behind The Scenes Of The Party Leader Interviews

Jillaine Heather, Executive Director of the Free Speech Union, unpacks the case of a well-qualified GP who left New Zealand after a late-night joking email to a drug company rep spiralled into a full Medical Council investigation. Despite apologising, the doctor was branded "overtly racist" and told he risked worsening health inequities, triggering a compelled 12-month re-education programme on tikanga and structural inequity that he ultimately refused to complete, choosing instead to leave the country.




Heather argues this isn't an isolated case but reflects regulators like the Medical Council embedding contested ideological positions into professional standards, turning practitioners into activists rather than focusing on patient safety and clinical competence. She warns similar "capture" is occurring across nursing, psychology and physiotherapy regulators, and urges the public to push for neutrality statements via the Free Speech Union's License to Speak campaign and a proposed Professional Regulators Bill ([www.fsu.nz](https://www.fsu.nz)).



Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.

For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.

Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Jillaine Heather, Executive Director of the Free Speech Union, unpacks the case of a well-qualified GP who left New Zealand after a late-night joking email to a drug company rep spiralled into a full Medical Council investigation. Despite apologising, the doctor was branded "overtly racist" and told he risked worsening health inequities, triggering a compelled 12-month re-education programme on tikanga and structural inequity that he ultimately refused to complete, choosing instead to leave the country. Heather argues this isn't an isolated case but reflects regulators like the Medical Council embedding contested ideological positions into professional standards, turning practitioners into activists rather than focusing on patient safety and clinical competence. She warns similar "capture" is occurring across nursing, psychology and physiotherapy regulators, and urges the public to push for neutrality statements via the Free Speech Union's License to Speak campaign and a proposed Professional Regulators Bill ([www.fsu.nz](https://www.fsu.nz)). Tune into Thoughts &amp; Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz/listen-on-demand/video-podcast/thoughts-and-comments" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Thoughts &amp; Comments</a> page at rhema.co.nz.Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

GP Driven Offshore Over One Bad-Taste Email

Counsellor John Cowan joins Andrew Urquhart to unpack "parentification" - the role reversal where a child takes on inappropriate levels of responsibility within a family, whether caring for siblings, managing a disabled or unwell parent, or becoming a parent's emotional confidant (sometimes called "spousification").



Cowan warns that while short-term caregiving can build empathy, prolonged parentification - often falling to eldest daughters - can leave adults with a fragile "false self," chronic guilt at receiving help, and anxiety over never being perfect enough. He encourages those affected to recognise the pattern wasn't chosen, deliberately reclaim missed experiences like play and rest, and practise handing responsibilities back to family members rather than automatically stepping in as the fixer.



Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.

For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.

Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Counsellor John Cowan joins Andrew Urquhart to unpack "parentification" - the role reversal where a child takes on inappropriate levels of responsibility within a family, whether caring for siblings, managing a disabled or unwell parent, or becoming a parent's emotional confidant (sometimes called "spousification"). Cowan warns that while short-term caregiving can build empathy, prolonged parentification - often falling to eldest daughters - can leave adults with a fragile "false self," chronic guilt at receiving help, and anxiety over never being perfect enough. He encourages those affected to recognise the pattern wasn't chosen, deliberately reclaim missed experiences like play and rest, and practise handing responsibilities back to family members rather than automatically stepping in as the fixer. Tune into Thoughts &amp; Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz/listen-on-demand/video-podcast/thoughts-and-comments" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Thoughts &amp; Comments</a> page at rhema.co.nz.Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

When The Child Becomes The Parent

Ethicist and broadcaster Frank Ritchie joins Andrew Urquhart fresh from a week-long monastic retreat at Southern Star Abbey, reflecting on a renewed sense of the cross's weight after walking the Stations of the Cross. He uses that experience to frame how Christians should approach the approaching 7 November election, cautioning against the polarisation and relationship breakdowns he sees fuelled by political tribalism.



Drawing on Matthew 22 and the example of early Christian writer Justin Martyr, Ritchie argues believers should resist the urge to "rage" against political opponents and instead model respect and gentleness even amid sharp disagreement. He encourages Christians to still engage democratically - asking not just how but "would Jesus vote" - while keeping politics in its proper place, reminding listeners that salvation is found in the cross and resurrection, not in any party or policy.



Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.

For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.

Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Ethicist and broadcaster Frank Ritchie joins Andrew Urquhart fresh from a week-long monastic retreat at Southern Star Abbey, reflecting on a renewed sense of the cross's weight after walking the Stations of the Cross. He uses that experience to frame how Christians should approach the approaching 7 November election, cautioning against the polarisation and relationship breakdowns he sees fuelled by political tribalism. Drawing on Matthew 22 and the example of early Christian writer Justin Martyr, Ritchie argues believers should resist the urge to "rage" against political opponents and instead model respect and gentleness even amid sharp disagreement. He encourages Christians to still engage democratically - asking not just how but "would Jesus vote" - while keeping politics in its proper place, reminding listeners that salvation is found in the cross and resurrection, not in any party or policy. Tune into Thoughts &amp; Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz/listen-on-demand/video-podcast/thoughts-and-comments" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Thoughts &amp; Comments</a> page at rhema.co.nz.Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Would Jesus Vote? Faith Amid Election Noise

Lieutenant Colonel Ian Hudson of the Salvation Army discusses the organisation's eight-year partnership with the Notorious chapter of the Mongrel Mob on drug addiction and rehabilitation, responding to recent political controversy over government funding for gang-linked initiatives led by figures such as Harry Tam. He explains the programme began after gang members, tired of losing people to methamphetamine addiction and wanting better futures for their children, approached the Salvation Army for support delivered alongside them rather than imposed on them.



Hudson argues the results speak for themselves: a Ministry of Health-funded review found reduced drug use, lower crime and violence, and fewer children removed from gang families. He pushes back on the "funding criminals" critique by distinguishing gang leadership from community members genuinely working for change, and advocates that government should keep backing such grassroots, faith-aligned efforts (([www.salvationarmy.org.nz](https://www.salvationarmy.org.nz))) because, in his view, offering "life" and grace succeeds where negativity and exclusion have failed.




Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.

For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.

Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Lieutenant Colonel Ian Hudson of the Salvation Army discusses the organisation's eight-year partnership with the Notorious chapter of the Mongrel Mob on drug addiction and rehabilitation, responding to recent political controversy over government funding for gang-linked initiatives led by figures such as Harry Tam. He explains the programme began after gang members, tired of losing people to methamphetamine addiction and wanting better futures for their children, approached the Salvation Army for support delivered alongside them rather than imposed on them. Hudson argues the results speak for themselves: a Ministry of Health-funded review found reduced drug use, lower crime and violence, and fewer children removed from gang families. He pushes back on the "funding criminals" critique by distinguishing gang leadership from community members genuinely working for change, and advocates that government should keep backing such grassroots, faith-aligned efforts (([www.salvationarmy.org.nz](https://www.salvationarmy.org.nz))) because, in his view, offering "life" and grace succeeds where negativity and exclusion have failed.
 Tune into Thoughts &amp; Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz/listen-on-demand/video-podcast/thoughts-and-comments" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Thoughts &amp; Comments</a> page at rhema.co.nz.Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Gangs, Grace & Government Funding: A Case For Partnership

Geopolitical analyst Dr Jeffrey Miller, editor of the Gulf States Insight newsletter, unpacks Israel's first election since the Gaza war, which saw a record turnout near 80%, boosted by returning expatriates and a surge in Arab-Israeli voting. He explains that neither Benjamin Netanyahu's bloc (53 seats) nor challenger Gadi Eisenkot's bloc (48 seats) can form a government alone, leaving Arab parties holding 19 seats but unlikely to be courted by either side.



Dr Miller argues Netanyahu and former army chief Eisenkot differ more in style than substance, both backing the Gaza and Iran wars and opposing a Palestinian state, though Eisenkot presents himself as more strategic and wants to curb settler violence. He weighs up likely outcomes - fresh elections or a national unity government - noting Netanyahu benefits from the stalemate as caretaker PM, especially with further US-Iran escalation expected after the American midterms ([gulfstatesinsights.org](https://gulfstatesinsights.org)).



Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.

For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.

Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Geopolitical analyst Dr Jeffrey Miller, editor of the Gulf States Insight newsletter, unpacks Israel's first election since the Gaza war, which saw a record turnout near 80%, boosted by returning expatriates and a surge in Arab-Israeli voting. He explains that neither Benjamin Netanyahu's bloc (53 seats) nor challenger Gadi Eisenkot's bloc (48 seats) can form a government alone, leaving Arab parties holding 19 seats but unlikely to be courted by either side. Dr Miller argues Netanyahu and former army chief Eisenkot differ more in style than substance, both backing the Gaza and Iran wars and opposing a Palestinian state, though Eisenkot presents himself as more strategic and wants to curb settler violence. He weighs up likely outcomes - fresh elections or a national unity government - noting Netanyahu benefits from the stalemate as caretaker PM, especially with further US-Iran escalation expected after the American midterms ([gulfstatesinsights.org](https://gulfstatesinsights.org)). Tune into Thoughts &amp; Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz/listen-on-demand/video-podcast/thoughts-and-comments" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Thoughts &amp; Comments</a> page at rhema.co.nz.Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Israel's Election Deadlock: Two Right Blocs, No Winner

Political commentator Tash McGill joins Andrew Urquhart to unpack Labour's last-minute rent-to-buy housing announcement, revealed just as early voting opened. The scheme would let Kāinga Ora tenants build a deposit via a weekly credit (around $5000 a year) and raises the first home loan income cap to $300,000, letting more buyers in with a 5% deposit.



McGill questions whether the policy's shine survives contact with detail, noting the existing scheme it extends has seen poor uptake, construction costs remain prohibitive, and Labour's promise to build three houses for every state house sold may not stack up given rising prices. She warns of UK precedent where "right to buy" schemes saw public housing stock fall roughly 70%, and flags unanswered questions over who funds the weekly credit and whether a 5% deposit means the same in Auckland as Invercargill. Urquhart counters that, regardless of practicality, the policy offers renewed hope to those who'd given up on home ownership, while both agree the timing - two weeks before polling day, fronted by Kieran McAnulty rather than Chris Hipkins - raises questions about political strategy versus policy substance.



Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.

For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.

Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Political commentator Tash McGill joins Andrew Urquhart to unpack Labour's last-minute rent-to-buy housing announcement, revealed just as early voting opened. The scheme would let Kāinga Ora tenants build a deposit via a weekly credit (around $5000 a year) and raises the first home loan income cap to $300,000, letting more buyers in with a 5% deposit. McGill questions whether the policy's shine survives contact with detail, noting the existing scheme it extends has seen poor uptake, construction costs remain prohibitive, and Labour's promise to build three houses for every state house sold may not stack up given rising prices. She warns of UK precedent where "right to buy" schemes saw public housing stock fall roughly 70%, and flags unanswered questions over who funds the weekly credit and whether a 5% deposit means the same in Auckland as Invercargill. Urquhart counters that, regardless of practicality, the policy offers renewed hope to those who'd given up on home ownership, while both agree the timing - two weeks before polling day, fronted by Kieran McAnulty rather than Chris Hipkins - raises questions about political strategy versus policy substance. Tune into Thoughts &amp; Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz/listen-on-demand/video-podcast/thoughts-and-comments" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Thoughts &amp; Comments</a> page at rhema.co.nz.Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Labour's Late Housing Policy: Hope Or Hollow Promise?

Here you can catch up on all of the latest interviews from Thoughts & Comments with Andrew Urquhart.

Here you can catch up on all of the latest interviews from Thoughts &amp; Comments with Andrew Urquhart.

Thoughts & Comments Interviews

~Content warning, discretion advised~

A disturbing university sexual assault trial (details deliberately left vague) is redefining how we view predators and victims.

LifeNet director and podcaster Brendan Malone unpacks the gender-based groupthink now shaping public reactions to cases of crime and immorality. He posits that rather than asking "What is true?", society has split into tribal camps, echoing decades of campus tolerance —and promotion— of hedonistic behaviour among students.

The Christian anthropologist and Andrew Urquhart discuss how a libertarian "consent-only" ethic assumes a level playing field between men and women and that private character doesn't affect public life. He points out that true consent only makes sense within a Christian sexual ethic that upholds human dignity; whereas stripping out morality under the guise of absolute bodily autonomy has bankrupted Western culture, which is still in denial about the catastrophic effects of  the sexual revolution, much like the failed Soviet experiment ([lifenet.org.nz)

.
Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.

For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.

Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

~Content warning, discretion advised~
A disturbing university sexual assault trial (details deliberately left vague) is redefining how we view predators and victims.
LifeNet director and podcaster Brendan Malone unpacks the gender-based groupthink now shaping public reactions to cases of crime and immorality. He posits that rather than asking "What is true?", society has split into tribal camps, echoing decades of campus tolerance &mdash;and promotion&mdash; of hedonistic behaviour among students.
The Christian anthropologist and Andrew Urquhart discuss how a libertarian "consent-only" ethic assumes a level playing field between men and women and that private character doesn't affect public life. He points out that true consent only makes sense within a Christian sexual ethic that upholds human dignity; whereas stripping out morality under the guise of absolute bodily autonomy has bankrupted Western culture, which is still in denial about the catastrophic effects of&nbsp; the sexual revolution, much like the failed Soviet experiment ([lifenet.org.nz)
. Tune into Thoughts &amp; Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.
For more from the show, visit the <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz/listen-on-demand/video-podcast/thoughts-and-comments">Thoughts &amp; Comments</a> page at rhema.co.nz.
Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Blurred Lines: Consent, Regret & The Collapse Of Campus Morality

Public theologian Dr Craig Heilman joins Andrew Urquhart to unpack the unrest sweeping French cities, where protests over crumbling schools and spiralling public debt have spilled into street violence. Dr Heilman warns France's debt, now around 120% of GDP, is a "wake-up call" for all heavily indebted Western nations, including his own Australia, as governments struggle to tax or spend their way out of trouble.




Beyond the economics, Dr Heilman argues the unrest exposes a deeper loss of social cohesion, with disparate and sometimes opposing groups - from genuine protesters to Free Palestine activists and agitators - converging on the same streets. He contends Western governments are likely to respond with increasing authoritarianism and online censorship, and reflects that the real "revolution" of recent generations has been cultural rather than political - played out through the sexual and gender revolutions. He concludes that the most countercultural act available to Christians today is simply to live faithfully, marry, and raise a family.




Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.

For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.

Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Public theologian Dr Craig Heilman joins Andrew Urquhart to unpack the unrest sweeping French cities, where protests over crumbling schools and spiralling public debt have spilled into street violence. Dr Heilman warns France's debt, now around 120% of GDP, is a "wake-up call" for all heavily indebted Western nations, including his own Australia, as governments struggle to tax or spend their way out of trouble. Beyond the economics, Dr Heilman argues the unrest exposes a deeper loss of social cohesion, with disparate and sometimes opposing groups - from genuine protesters to Free Palestine activists and agitators - converging on the same streets. He contends Western governments are likely to respond with increasing authoritarianism and online censorship, and reflects that the real "revolution" of recent generations has been cultural rather than political - played out through the sexual and gender revolutions. He concludes that the most countercultural act available to Christians today is simply to live faithfully, marry, and raise a family. Tune into Thoughts &amp; Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz/listen-on-demand/video-podcast/thoughts-and-comments" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Thoughts &amp; Comments</a> page at rhema.co.nz.Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

France Burns: Revolution, Debt & Social Fracture

Matt Perry, executive director of the Far East Broadcasting Company (FEBC), updates Andrew Curtis on the deepening crisis in Ukraine as the war enters its fifth year. He reveals that FEBC's roughly forty Kyiv-based staff are now being evacuated westward to Chernihiv amid a relentless new Russian bombing campaign targeting bridges, roads and transport infrastructure, causing severe sleep deprivation and psychological strain across the civilian population.




Despite the hardship, Perry highlights a striking spiritual response: Pentecostal leaders report fifty-four new churches planted in the Kyiv region since the invasion began, many made up of 60-80% new believers from Orthodox backgrounds. He explains how FEBC's down-to-earth, non-denominational broadcasts - including programmes like "Wounded by the War" and "Embrace" for strained marriages and widows - have become a key discipleship tool, as listeners seek authentic, hope-filled content rather than constant crisis talk ([febc.nz](https://www.febc.nz)).



Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.

For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.

Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Matt Perry, executive director of the Far East Broadcasting Company (FEBC), updates Andrew Curtis on the deepening crisis in Ukraine as the war enters its fifth year. He reveals that FEBC's roughly forty Kyiv-based staff are now being evacuated westward to Chernihiv amid a relentless new Russian bombing campaign targeting bridges, roads and transport infrastructure, causing severe sleep deprivation and psychological strain across the civilian population. Despite the hardship, Perry highlights a striking spiritual response: Pentecostal leaders report fifty-four new churches planted in the Kyiv region since the invasion began, many made up of 60-80% new believers from Orthodox backgrounds. He explains how FEBC's down-to-earth, non-denominational broadcasts - including programmes like "Wounded by the War" and "Embrace" for strained marriages and widows - have become a key discipleship tool, as listeners seek authentic, hope-filled content rather than constant crisis talk ([febc.nz](https://www.febc.nz)). Tune into Thoughts &amp; Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz/listen-on-demand/video-podcast/thoughts-and-comments" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Thoughts &amp; Comments</a> page at rhema.co.nz.Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Ukraine: Church Grows Amid Kyiv's Darkest Bombing Yet

Thu 8 Oct ~ Geopolitical analyst Dr Jeffrey Miller, editor of Gulf States Insight, reflects with host Andrew Curtis on the two years since Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel, which killed around 1200 people and took 250 hostages before triggering a devastating war in Gaza. Dr Miller notes the conflict reshaped global attention away from Ukraine, hardened divisions over who counts as victim or aggressor, and has since spread into Lebanon, Syria, Yemen and Iran, with Hamas and Israel now locked in a stalemate over disarmament and occupation.

 

Dr Miller argues Benjamin Netanyahu's hardline military response was driven partly by domestic political survival after Israel's intelligence failure, and warns there is no military solution to the region's problems, only difficult diplomatic ones that neither side currently wants to pursue. He also discusses the deepening polarisation seen even in New Zealand around the conflict, and points to the renewed war in Yemen as a growing, under-reported flashpoint now contributing to high global oil prices.

 

Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.

For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.

Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Thu 8 Oct ~ Geopolitical analyst Dr Jeffrey Miller, editor of Gulf States Insight, reflects with host Andrew Curtis on the two years since Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel, which killed around 1200 people and took 250 hostages before triggering a devastating war in Gaza. Dr Miller notes the conflict reshaped global attention away from Ukraine, hardened divisions over who counts as victim or aggressor, and has since spread into Lebanon, Syria, Yemen and Iran, with Hamas and Israel now locked in a stalemate over disarmament and occupation.
&nbsp;
Dr Miller argues Benjamin Netanyahu's hardline military response was driven partly by domestic political survival after Israel's intelligence failure, and warns there is no military solution to the region's problems, only difficult diplomatic ones that neither side currently wants to pursue. He also discusses the deepening polarisation seen even in New Zealand around the conflict, and points to the renewed war in Yemen as a growing, under-reported flashpoint now contributing to high global oil prices.
&nbsp;
Tune into Thoughts &amp; Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.
For more from the show, visit the <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz/listen-on-demand/video-podcast/thoughts-and-comments">Thoughts &amp; Comments</a> page at rhema.co.nz.
Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

October 7th: Two Years On, No End In Sight

Simon O'Connor of Family First joins host Davina to discuss New Zealand's retirement income landscape, covering the rising cost of superannuation, proposed KiwiSaver hikes, and the five-year anniversary of the End of Life Choice Act. He warns the country is heading towards a fiscal "cliff" as an ageing population drives up the superannuation bill, arguing successive governments of both colours have avoided the politically unpopular step of raising the pension age.



O'Connor opposes lifting KiwiSaver contributions to twelve percent, saying the extra cost burdens businesses and locks away money New Zealanders could otherwise use to pay down mortgages, while criticising Labour's proposal letting employees pause contributions while employers keep paying. On euthanasia, he cautions that financial and social pressure on the elderly will likely drive further expansion of the law, pointing to Canada's experience and recalling a chilling comment from a nurses' group suggesting euthanasia could cut health costs, and urges voters to use Family First's "Value Your Vote" tool to check MPs' conscience-vote records ahead of the election ([www.valueyourvote.nz](https://www.valueyourvote.nz)).



Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.

For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.

Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Simon O'Connor of Family First joins host Davina to discuss New Zealand's retirement income landscape, covering the rising cost of superannuation, proposed KiwiSaver hikes, and the five-year anniversary of the End of Life Choice Act. He warns the country is heading towards a fiscal "cliff" as an ageing population drives up the superannuation bill, arguing successive governments of both colours have avoided the politically unpopular step of raising the pension age. O'Connor opposes lifting KiwiSaver contributions to twelve percent, saying the extra cost burdens businesses and locks away money New Zealanders could otherwise use to pay down mortgages, while criticising Labour's proposal letting employees pause contributions while employers keep paying. On euthanasia, he cautions that financial and social pressure on the elderly will likely drive further expansion of the law, pointing to Canada's experience and recalling a chilling comment from a nurses' group suggesting euthanasia could cut health costs, and urges voters to use Family First's "Value Your Vote" tool to check MPs' conscience-vote records ahead of the election ([www.valueyourvote.nz](https://www.valueyourvote.nz)). Tune into Thoughts &amp; Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz/listen-on-demand/video-podcast/thoughts-and-comments" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Thoughts &amp; Comments</a> page at rhema.co.nz.Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Retirement Reckoning: Super, KiwiSaver & Euthanasia Risk

Professor Robert Patman, Professor of International Relations at the University of Otago, joins Andrew Urquhart to assess the state of the Ukraine war as it heads into another winter. He describes the Donbas front as bordering on stalemate, with Russia making grinding, costly gains until a recent Ukrainian breakthrough near Lyman, while both sides escalate drone and missile strikes on infrastructure and cities in a bid to break morale.

Prof. Patman warns that diplomatic efforts, including recent Kushner-Witkoff visits, have achieved little since Putin will only accept a Russian-dictated "land for peace" deal, and flags growing fractures in European support as pro-Russian populist parties (AfD, National Rally, Reform UK) gain ground. 

He argues New Zealand has a direct stake in Russia's defeat given the precedent it sets for China over Taiwan and the Pacific, and notes rare cross-party domestic consensus, from David Seymour to Winston Peters, against Putin's invasion despite differing political persuasions.

 

Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.

For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.

Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Professor Robert Patman, Professor of International Relations at the University of Otago, joins Andrew Urquhart to assess the state of the Ukraine war as it heads into another winter. He describes the Donbas front as bordering on stalemate, with Russia making grinding, costly gains until a recent Ukrainian breakthrough near Lyman, while both sides escalate drone and missile strikes on infrastructure and cities in a bid to break morale.
Prof. Patman warns that diplomatic efforts, including recent Kushner-Witkoff visits, have achieved little since Putin will only accept a Russian-dictated "land for peace" deal, and flags growing fractures in European support as pro-Russian populist parties (AfD, National Rally, Reform UK) gain ground.&nbsp;
He argues New Zealand has a direct stake in Russia's defeat given the precedent it sets for China over Taiwan and the Pacific, and notes rare cross-party domestic consensus, from David Seymour to Winston Peters, against Putin's invasion despite differing political persuasions.
&nbsp;
Tune into Thoughts &amp; Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.
For more from the show, visit the <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz/listen-on-demand/video-podcast/thoughts-and-comments">Thoughts &amp; Comments</a> page at rhema.co.nz.
Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Ukraine War: Stalemate, Drones & Why NZ Has A Stake

Commentator Brendan Malone joins Andrew Urquhart to dissect the media storm around Nicky Hager's latest election-season book, questioning whether it represents genuine investigative journalism or a recurring pattern of politically timed hit jobs targeting the right. Malone draws a parallel with America's "October surprise" tradition, arguing Hager's repeated conspiracy framing ironically mirrors the very "undue influence" he accuses groups like the Taxpayers Union of wielding.



Malone goes on to challenge the Enlightenment assumption that voters are purely rational, arguing emotion, tribal loyalty and media trust (or distrust) shape political choices more than policy analysis. He points to Stuff's fact-check double standards as evidence of uneven media scrutiny, and urges voters to prioritise a candidate's character and virtue over claims to expertise, while ultimately placing trust in God above any media institution.



Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.

For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.

Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Commentator Brendan Malone joins Andrew Urquhart to dissect the media storm around Nicky Hager's latest election-season book, questioning whether it represents genuine investigative journalism or a recurring pattern of politically timed hit jobs targeting the right. Malone draws a parallel with America's "October surprise" tradition, arguing Hager's repeated conspiracy framing ironically mirrors the very "undue influence" he accuses groups like the Taxpayers Union of wielding. Malone goes on to challenge the Enlightenment assumption that voters are purely rational, arguing emotion, tribal loyalty and media trust (or distrust) shape political choices more than policy analysis. He points to Stuff's fact-check double standards as evidence of uneven media scrutiny, and urges voters to prioritise a candidate's character and virtue over claims to expertise, while ultimately placing trust in God above any media institution. Tune into Thoughts &amp; Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz/listen-on-demand/video-podcast/thoughts-and-comments" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Thoughts &amp; Comments</a> page at rhema.co.nz.Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Nicky Hager's Book: Journalism or Election Ambush?

Nathan Seiuli, founding head of civil liberties group Pillar, reviews the outgoing Parliament's three-year term as politicians head into campaign mode. He grades the National-led coalition a "B at best", crediting them for shrinking a bloated public service inherited from Labour's expansion years, but criticizing moves like move-on orders, gang patch bans, proposed social media restrictions and talk of reviving blasphemy laws as civil liberties concerns that cut across political lines.

 

Mr Seiuli also unpacks the coalition's contested shift away from ancestry-based service allocation towards needs-based support, arguing genuine Kiwi identity rests on shared values of responsibility, innovation and service to neighbours rather than heritage, while acknowledging fierce external opposition to these changes. He reflects on ACT and NZ First's influence in restraining National, suggests real reform typically takes more than one term, and predicts the coming election will be fought more on opposing rivals than distinct policy visions ([www.nzpillar.com](https://www.nzpillar.com)).

 

Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.

For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.

Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Nathan Seiuli, founding head of civil liberties group Pillar, reviews the outgoing Parliament's three-year term as politicians head into campaign mode. He grades the National-led coalition a "B at best", crediting them for shrinking a bloated public service inherited from Labour's expansion years, but criticizing moves like move-on orders, gang patch bans, proposed social media restrictions and talk of reviving blasphemy laws as civil liberties concerns that cut across political lines.
&nbsp;
Mr Seiuli also unpacks the coalition's contested shift away from ancestry-based service allocation towards needs-based support, arguing genuine Kiwi identity rests on shared values of responsibility, innovation and service to neighbours rather than heritage, while acknowledging fierce external opposition to these changes. He reflects on ACT and NZ First's influence in restraining National, suggests real reform typically takes more than one term, and predicts the coming election will be fought more on opposing rivals than distinct policy visions ([www.nzpillar.com](https://www.nzpillar.com)).
&nbsp;
Tune into Thoughts &amp; Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.
For more from the show, visit the <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz/listen-on-demand/video-podcast/thoughts-and-comments">Thoughts &amp; Comments</a> page at rhema.co.nz.
Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Parliament's Term Report: Does National Deserve a B?

Andrew Urquhart speaks with Professor Grant Schofield, an expert in preventative medicine, about New Zealand First's health policy which draws on work from the Make New Zealand Healthy trust. Schofield explains he was part of a scientific advisory team that offered comprehensive health reform policy to all political parties, focused on shifting spending from treating sickness to preventing disease; and rejects claims of plagiarism since the policy was openly offered and only New Zealand First engaged meaningfully with it.

 

The discussion covers bodily autonomy and informed consent in medicine, the influence of government dietary guidelines on institutions like hospitals, prisons and schools, and whether taxpayers should subsidise healthy food choices similar to existing subsidies for pharmaceuticals and big food. Schofield also raises concerns about Big Pharma's heavy marketing influence within medicine, particularly around weight-loss drugs, contrasting this with the comparatively weak lobbying power behind whole-food and lifestyle-based approaches to health.

 

Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.

For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.

Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Andrew Urquhart speaks with Professor Grant Schofield, an expert in preventative medicine, about New Zealand First's health policy which draws on work from the Make New Zealand Healthy trust. Schofield explains he was part of a scientific advisory team that offered comprehensive health reform policy to all political parties, focused on shifting spending from treating sickness to preventing disease; and rejects claims of plagiarism since the policy was openly offered and only New Zealand First engaged meaningfully with it.
&nbsp;
The discussion covers bodily autonomy and informed consent in medicine, the influence of government dietary guidelines on institutions like hospitals, prisons and schools, and whether taxpayers should subsidise healthy food choices similar to existing subsidies for pharmaceuticals and big food. Schofield also raises concerns about Big Pharma's heavy marketing influence within medicine, particularly around weight-loss drugs, contrasting this with the comparatively weak lobbying power behind whole-food and lifestyle-based approaches to health.
&nbsp;
Tune into Thoughts &amp; Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.
For more from the show, visit the <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz/listen-on-demand/video-podcast/thoughts-and-comments">Thoughts &amp; Comments</a> page at rhema.co.nz.
Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Preventative Medicine, Politics and Big Pharma Debate

TUE 15 SEP ~ Are political bias, bureaucratic stalling and buried incompetencies the hallmark traits of the civil service?




Arian Tashakkori from civil liberties group PILLAR joined Andrew Urquhart to discuss recent examples of clashing loyalties and conflicts of interest, including public service unions handing out "change the government" stickers during strikes; and the tension between service continuity versus accountability to elected ministers and the taxpayer. (www.nzpillar.com)




Do you think institutional knowledge held by career bureaucrats outweighs the need for integrity and neutrality in serving the government of the day? 




Text 8168, keyword 'Comments' to share your thoughts.

~~~~

Thoughts & Comments will also be live on Shine TV from Monday 28 September



Tune into Thoughts & Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.

For more from the show, visit the Thoughts & Comments page at rhema.co.nz.

Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

TUE 15 SEP ~ Are political bias, bureaucratic stalling and buried incompetencies the hallmark traits of the civil service? Arian Tashakkori from civil liberties group PILLAR joined Andrew Urquhart to discuss recent examples of clashing loyalties and conflicts of interest, including public service unions handing out "change the government" stickers during strikes; and the tension between service continuity versus accountability to elected ministers and the taxpayer. (www.nzpillar.com) Do you think institutional knowledge held by career bureaucrats outweighs the need for integrity and neutrality in serving the government of the day? Text 8168, keyword 'Comments' to share your thoughts.~~~~Thoughts &amp; Comments will also be live on Shine TV from Monday 28 September Tune into Thoughts &amp; Comments from 10:00am - 2:00pm on the Rhema Media App.For more from the show, visit the <a href="https://www.rhema.co.nz/listen-on-demand/video-podcast/thoughts-and-comments" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Thoughts &amp; Comments</a> page at rhema.co.nz.Produced using AI tools under human supervision.

Rubberstamp Bias: Who Do Public Servants Really Serve?

Thoughts & Comments brings social commentary to current issues and a faith perspective to the latest news. Hosted by Andrew Urquhart, a seasoned broadcaster with over three decades of experience. In each episode, Andrew chats with a wide range of guests and experts who bring their wisdom and insight to a huge variety of topics, including politics, psychology, societal trends, theology, geopolitical analysis, social policy, and spirituality. We’ll give you something worth thinking about! Thoughts & Comments with Andrew Urquhart, wherever you get your Podcasts.

Thoughts &amp; Comments brings social commentary to current issues and a faith perspective to the latest news. Hosted by Andrew Urquhart, a seasoned broadcaster with over three decades of experience. In each episode, Andrew chats with a wide range of guests and experts who bring their wisdom and insight to a huge variety of topics, including politics, psychology, societal trends, theology, geopolitical analysis, social policy, and spirituality. We&rsquo;ll give you something worth thinking about! Thoughts &amp; Comments with Andrew Urquhart, wherever you get your Podcasts.

Thoughts & Comments Podcast

Thoughts & Comments brings social commentary to current issues and a faith perspective to the latest news. Hosted by Andrew Urquhart, a seasoned broadcaster with over three decades of experience, chatting with a wide range of guests and experts who bring their wisdom and insight to a huge variety of topics, including politics, psychology, societal trends, theology, geopolitical analysis, social policy, and spirituality. We’ll give you something worth thinking about! Thoughts & Comments with Andrew Urquhart, wherever you get your Podcasts.

Thoughts &amp; Comments brings social commentary to current issues and a faith perspective to the latest news. Hosted by Andrew Urquhart, a seasoned broadcaster with over three decades of experience, chatting with a wide range of guests and experts who bring their wisdom and insight to a huge variety of topics, including politics, psychology, societal trends, theology, geopolitical analysis, social policy, and spirituality. We&rsquo;ll give you something worth thinking about! Thoughts &amp; Comments with Andrew Urquhart, wherever you get your Podcasts.

Thoughts & Comments

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