Q+A

Interviews with Environment Minister Penny Simmonds, educator Welby Ings, think tank researcher Max Rashbrooke, and NZ First MP Jamie Arbuckle.

Full interview: According to the latest quarterly figures, unemployment is sitting at just over 5%. New research from new think tank The Institute for Democratic and Economic Analysis recommends a range of policies to get people off a benefit and into work, faster.

Full interview: Vocational Education Minister Penny Simmonds is overseeing huge changes to New Zealand's vocational education system. But after years of reform, could training providers stand alone as Te Pūkenga is dismantled? Q+A also asks Simmonds about her absence from major environmental policies — from freshwater management in farms to the fast-track approvals regime — as Environment Minister.

What counts as intelligence? Educator Welby Ings, labelled a "naughty" student all his life, could barely read and write until he was 15 years old. He went on to become a renowned speaker, filmmaker, teacher, and author. His new book Invisible Intelligence argues New Zealand's education system fails to recognise intelligence and ability beyond a narrow definition. Ings argues for a more "sophisticated" assessment system in an increasingly complex world.

Full interview: Community housing groups are sounding the alarm on increasing rates of homelessness. Q+A asks Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka if the Government's social housing policies have contributed to the issue.