The Trans Tasman Pol Pod Episode 19

Narendra Modi's visit went off without a hitch and he and Prime Minister Luxon appear to be the best of friends. They want to take the relationship to the next level, which includes a focus on maritime security which could put us offside with China. Another decision which could put us in China's bad book is potentially joining the new Ocean of Peace Alliance between Australia and Fiji. It is clearly anti China, and may necessitate further increases in defence spending in order to meet mutual assistance obligations. The major parties may have to start considering Opportunity as a coalition partner in November, with the fledgling party looking likely to pick up seats. This may put it in the Kingmaker role rather than NZ First. And a number of economic indicators suggest the economy was starting to come back to life - before Donald Trump intervened in Iran again. Joining us to look at some of the numbers is NZIER Deputy Chief Executive, Christina Leung.