Hosted by Phil Goff and Chris Finlayson with Sam Collins, Cross Party Lines unpacks the week in New Zealand and global politics so you don’t have too. Genuine cross-party debate — not point-scoring.

This week’s episode is recorded in the shadow of tragedy, sharing our condolences to those impacted by the tragic events in Bondi.

In Episode 7:

* America and the rule of law — Trump’s new National Security Strategy, intrusive ESTA visa proposals and military actions in the Caribbean raise serious questions about whether the US is abandoning the rules-based international order.

* RMA reform, again — The government unveils its replacement for the Resource Management Act. Is this genuine progress, recycled policy or a rare moment of near-bipartisanship — and real concern about unintended consequences.

* Electoral law changes under urgency — The move to end same-day enrolment sparks a sharp debate about disenfranchisement, democratic fragility and whether efficiency is ever a good reason to make voting harder. Should New Zealand go further — even to compulsory voting?

Cross Party Lines exists to lift political literacy and create space for thoughtful, good-faith discussion in an increasingly polarised world.

New episodes every Tuesday. If you value calmer politics, follow the podcast and share it with someone who might too.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit crosspartylines.substack.com